Those knowing Linda O’Neill best describe her as a dedicated Hilton Head real estate professional, a talented artist and a compassionate animal lover. Linda O’Neill is a rare individual whose caring and compassion are the guiding light for all her actions. She is actively affiliated with several animal organizations and volunteers her time by regularly fostering pets through local rescue programs. Linda’s handsome horse, beautiful cat and adorable dog are all rescues. She has given her pets a life they would not have known without her. 

If you are trying to make sense of the condition in the real estate and mortgage industries these days, don’t bother referring back to your old Economics 101 textbook where you first read about the laws of supply and demand. You’ll remember the side of the equation that says when the price of a product goes down, the demand for that product goes up.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the median U.S. home price was $201,000 in January of this year, down 4.6 percent from January 2007. The S&P/Case-Shiller National Home Price Index for the fourth quarter was down 8.9 percent from a year earlier, the biggest drop in 20 years. Furthermore, there was a 10-month supply of existing homes for sale in January, up from just under five months during boom times. The supply is up so prices are down.

The experience of renting out a home can be both rewarding and challenging. If you’re pondering on the idea of renting out an existing residence or purchasing a property for the purpose of renting it out, there are a few things to know before you get started.

Choosing the right property

The popularity of investing in a home as a rental property has increased over the years. Right now is an ideal time to purchase a home for investment. With interest rates low and a multitude of homes on the market, many homeowners are choosing to purchase a home solely for the purpose of renting it out. Investors are looking to sell the home later to make a bigger profit.

(Amos Bronson Alcott, father of Louisa May Alcott) 

Ten precious and private Edens are on display for your pleasure on May 17, the traditional third Saturday in May, during the annual All Saints Episcopal Church Garden Tour, now in its 21st year. Since Hilton Head Island is described by some as “paradise,” it is only fitting that a church should invite you to experience so many versions of Eden.

Wells Road. This year, gardens are grouped largely in the two areas of Sea Pines and Port Royal Plantations, making it easier and more efficient to navigate the entire tour. Gardens will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Have you been enticed by the latest in modern furniture and the uncluttered approach to decorating? The popularity of modern designs in furniture is growing, as can be seen in most retail furniture showrooms. This sleek and sophisticated look may be very appealing, but often creates a somewhat cold, even stark, appearance in your home. The entire room does not have to be modern. Using accessories and accent pieces that are more traditional or completely opposite in style is a great solution.

Take the things you love and give them a little space. With a little time and some elbow grease, any room in the home can become your spot to unwind, entertain or have fun!

Living rooms. Family rooms. Sitting rooms. It seems sometimes like there’s a room in the house for everything but the things we love. We stuff our passions into boxes and keep them in the upstairs attic. We do the activities we enjoy in the same places where we fold laundry or cook dinner. But why? Why not take the things you love to do and all of your prized possessions, and give them a place to call their own? For inspiration on giving your passions some space, please enjoy our guide to cool rooms.