Hi friends, welcome to The Ronicle, my monthly newsletter built around one simple idea: living well on and around the Grand Strand. Each issue is split into two quick parts: Lifestyle Living (what to do, where to go, what to try) and Real Estate Advisor (plain-English market updates and practical tips). I’m aiming for a 3–5 minute read that gives you a couple of good ideas, and hopefully a reason to smile.
Missed an issue or want to share The Ronicle with a friend? You can browse past editions anytime here:
What's happening this month
February is a great month to get out and enjoy the Grand Strand without the crowds. It’s the perfect time for live entertainment (see below), relaxed dinners out, waterfront happy hours, and weekend brunch spots you’ll actually get into. And if we get any of those warm February days, take advantage and go for a walk on our beautiful beach.
Did you know:
February has, on average, 13 days over 60 degrees, and 3 of those are over 70! Hard to believe considering the winter weather we are having.
Other things to do
Feb. 14: Tell Me Lies, The Fleetwood Mac Experience - House of Blues
Feb. 15: Magical Mystery Doors - Beatles, Zeppelin, Doors Tribute - Opry Feb. 17: Marshi Gras on the Marsh Walk - Murrells Inlet
Feb. 21: Neil Diamond Tribute - Alabama Theatre
Feb. 21 - 22: 12th Annual Taste of the Marsh Walk - Murrells Inlet
Feb. 22: Winter Parrot Head Festival - Little River
Feb. 27: Abba Tribute - Alabama Theatre
Feb. 28: Amy Grant - Carolina Opry
Mar 1: Rhythm of the Dance, Irish Step Dancing - Carolina Opry
This Month's Lifestyle Spotlight
Community Living (HOA Neighborhoods)
Community living isn’t for everyone, and that’s exactly why it’s worth talking about in this month's Lifestyle Spotlight. For a lot of buyers, an HOA neighborhood means a more predictable, well-kept lifestyle with shared standards and (sometimes) really nice amenities. For others, the rules can feel like too much. Bottom line: it’s not “good or bad". It’s about whether that community fits the way you want to live.
Why people choose community living
It stays looking sharp. Standards help protect curb appeal and keep the neighborhood feeling cared for.
Amenities without the work. You get the lifestyle (pool, clubhouse, trails, fitness, pickleball) without owning the maintenance.
Fewer surprises next door. Guidelines around parking, noise, exterior changes, and rentals can help keep things predictable.
It can feel more connected. Some communities really do create a stronger sense of neighborhood with events, shared spaces, friendly faces.
What to look for before you buy
What the HOA fee actually covers. Landscaping? irrigation? amenities? gates? trash?
Rules that affect your day-to-day. Fences, paint colors, sheds, pets, parking, outdoor storage, etc.
Rental restrictions. Even if you don’t plan to rent, it matters for resale and flexibility.
Special assessments. Not always common, but you want to know if anything is planned or likely.
How strict it is. Some HOAs are laid-back. Others are very by-the-book. Knowing the vibe upfront avoids headaches later.
10 Standout Communities People Often Ask About
Every community has its own vibe — golf, Intracoastal, walkability, gated privacy, low-maintenance living, and more.
Grande Dunes (Myrtle Beach) — upscale, master-planned community close to the ocean and Intracoastal, with a polished “resort-lifestyle” feel.
The Dunes Club area (Myrtle Beach) — classic, established coastal living near The Dunes Golf & Beach Club area, known for location and long-term appeal.
Market Common (Myrtle Beach) — for buyers who love convenience: restaurants, shops, beach, parks, and a more walkable “town center” lifestyle.
Carolina Forest (Myrtle Beach area) — a broad master-planned area with a great variety of neighborhoods and home styles, popular for everyday convenience and newer options.
Barefoot Resort (North Myrtle Beach) — a large resort-style golf course community offering a wide range of choices, from condos and townhomes to single-family neighborhoods.
Tidewater Plantation (North Myrtle Beach) — gated golf course community with a strong neighborhood feel and amenities, often favored by buyers who want a more private setting.
Prince Creek (Murrells Inlet) — multiple neighborhoods surrounding TPC Myrtle Beach Golf Course, and lifestyle options near Murrells Inlet, great for buyers who want “community living” with variety.
Litchfield Plantation (Pawleys Island area) — Low-country charm in a scenic setting with a quieter pace and a distinct coastal-Carolina feel.
Heritage Plantation (Pawleys Island) — gated and established, known for a private, traditional neighborhood vibe in the Pawleys Island corridor.
Del Webb (Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach) — 55+ Active Adult Living — 2 locations with amenity-rich, social community living designed for active adults who want low-maintenance and connection.
To search these communities or any other community in the Grand Strand, simply click the search button below, then select CITY and HOME SUBDIVISION and the SEARCH button
Click on any lifestyle below to start your Lifestyle search
Ron’s Spotlight: Crave Italian Oven and Bar
If you’re craving Italian with a little “wow” factor, a place that feels comfortable and welcoming, Crave is a great pick. It’s family owned and operated, the menu puts a modern twist on Italian classics, with fresh Italian ingredients, and the service is consistently strong. And I have to say that both Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach locations are absolutely beautiful.
The selection of starters, entrees and desserts is outstanding, and just about guarantees there is something for everyone.
The Brick-oven pizzas are made by Eleanor (IYKYK), they have a solid cocktail and wine lineup, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
Try this: the veal chop is a fantastic alternative to veal parmesan (get one if you can).
Locations
7401 North Kings Highway Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
202 US-17 North North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Looking for alternatives to Italian, try their other restaurants, all top notch!
Sol y Luna - Latina Cantina
4270 River Oaks Dr Suite 5
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
357 Raw Social Bar
8205 Marina Pkwy
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Ronicle Fun Fact
On April 30, 1954, a group of Time-Life executives met at Pine Lakes Country Club in Myrtle Beach and conceived a new weekly sports magazine — the publication we know as Sports Illustrated, which debuted on August 16, 1954. The cover of the inaugural issue is shown below.
This section is where I’ll put on my “advisor hat” and share practical, real-world insight to help you make smart decisions, whether you’re planning a move now or just keeping an eye on the market. Throughout the year, you’ll see quick market snapshots, buyer and seller tips you can actually use, what I’m seeing out in the field, and simple checklists that take the guesswork out of the process.
Market Update
The Market Temperature is essentially steady at 64 (last month 65), which means we’re still in a seller-leaning market with only a slight cooling. In practical terms, well-priced homes that show nicely are continuing to attract strong interest and can move quickly, especially in desirable neighborhoods. Buyers should still be ready to tour promptly and write clean offers when the right home hits, but may see a touch more breathing room than last month. Sellers: the strategy hasn’t changed: smart pricing and great presentation are what generate the best results, and homes that feel move-in ready tend to stand out immediately.
The Market Temperature moved to 26 (last month 32), signaling a stronger buyer-leaning market than we saw in December. In practical terms, buyers may have more leverage, especially on units that have been on the market longer and competing with multiple similar listings. Well-positioned properties can still sell, but sellers should expect buyers to be more selective and value-conscious. Sellers: this is a market where pricing, condition, and total monthly cost (HOA + insurance + taxes) matter a lot, and being proactive on presentation can make the difference. Buyers: it’s a good time to compare options carefully and negotiate smartly on price and terms.
Today, buyers shop online first, long before they ever set foot in a house. That’s why digital presentation matters so much. Great photos are just the starting point. The goal is to make your home look as strong online as it does in person, you get more eyes on your property, more buyers schedule a showing, and you create better offers.
The digital presentation should include:
A floor plan - buyers love understanding the layout upfront
Drone footage - especially helpful for lots, views, and neighborhood context
A virtual tour - so out-of-town buyers can truly “walk” the home
A property video - the best way to tell the story and build excitement
Quick takeaway: If your home doesn’t “stop the scroll,” you lose buyers before they ever book a showing.
To see examples of what professional real estate photography looks like, click on my preferred photographer's site at Lift Photography Services below.
Before you fall in love with a home, make sure your financing is ready. A pre-approval letter (or proof of funds if you’re paying cash) makes your offer stronger, helps you move faster, and reduces surprises once you’re under contract. Most sellers will want to see this before they accept any offer since it’s how they know you can actually get to the closing table.
Quick takeaway: Get the letter before you start touring seriously and update it if your budget or down payment changes.
