Lowcountry

Lowcountry

Charleston, South Carolina is the USA’s best city to be an Airbnb host

August 4, 2021 by 2 Comments
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  • Analysis reveals that Charleston, South Carolina offers the best combination of low house prices and high Airbnb revenue.
  • It would take just over 4 years of Airbnb income to pay off a property purchase in Charleston, South Carolina compared to just under 24 years in Newark, New Jersey.
  • Newark, Los Angeles, and Honolulu are the USA’s least profitable cities to be an Airbnb host.

A new study has revealed that Charleston, South Carolina is the most profitable city in the USA to be an Airbnb host. 

The research by international payment experts XendPay on the 50 biggest metropolitan cities in the USA analysed data from AirDNA and Zillow to find which USA city offers the best combination of low property prices and high revenue from renting out via Airbnb.

It revealed that it would take just 4 years to pay off the median house price in Charleston, South Carolina ($193,491) based on the average monthly revenue of $3,693 an Airbnb in the city generates. As a result, the South Carolina city tops the list, offering the best combination of low property prices and high revenue.

Virginia Beach came in second, with an average of $4,568 in monthly Airbnb revenue taking 5 years to pay off the city’s median property price, which is $293,818. In addition, a high occupancy rate of 77% over the past 12 months makes the popular beach city highly cost-effective for hosts. 

Holidaymakers can expect to pay on average $325 per night for a stay in a Virginia Beach Airbnb, the country’s priciest city, compared to $103 a night in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the lowest rate in the USA. As a result, Virginia Beach is the second most profitable city in the US to be an Airbnb host. 

Nashville in Tennessee was the third most profitable city to be an Airbnb host. With a monthly revenue rate of $2,758 it would take almost 6 years to pay off the city’s median property price of $192,275. 

Albuquerque has the highest occupancy rate per year (83%), followed by Portland and Denver both on 81%, and Salt Lake City with a 79% occupancy rate.

In the last year, Airbnb gained 193 million bookings despite the pandemic, highlighting how useful private rentals are for holidaymakers. The rental giants also earned $3.4 billion in 2020 in revenue as a result.

Commenting on the study, a spokesperson for XendPay said: “The demand for domestic travel has risen dramatically in the last year amid the pandemic, showing that the private holiday rental business is an area of interest for investment. With the relaxation of restrictions in the USA, it will be interesting to see how USA Airbnb bookings compete with the option of travelling abroad.”

Top five best cities to be an Airbnb host, by XendPay

Overall rankCITYMONTHLY REVENUE (AIRDNA)OCCUPANCY RATE PER YEAR (JUN. 2021) (AIRDNA)MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE DEC. 2020 (ZILLOW)ACTIVE RENTALS (AIRDNA)Years of Airbnb revenue required to cover property price
1Charleston, SC$3,69371%$193,4911,9594
2Virgina Beach$4,56877%$293,8182,0145
3Nashville$2,75855%$192,2755,9936
4Little Rock$1,62571%$131,8373047
5Louisville$1,85758%$150,9181,5457

New York City has 19,301 active rentals, making it the city with the most Airbnb’s in the USA. This is more than double of Los Angeles, the city with the second highest active rentals of 9,563. Despite the high number of rentals, New York City ranks 43rdof the 50 cities for profitability.

Whilst Honolulu offers beautiful scenery for Airbnb’s, it has 5,204 active rentals – the tenth highest on the list, along with a relatively low daily rate of $180 it becomes the 3rd least profitable city in the USA to own an Airbnb.

Newark ranks as the least profitable city to buy an Airbnb in the United States. It would take a host 24 years to earn the money covering the cost of their property. The Airbnbs in the city have an occupancy rate of 50% and the median house price is $346,368 – the ninth highest price on the list.

The analysis was conducted by XendPay, which is one of the leading international payment providers, helping businesses and individuals to streamline their bank-to-bank transfers with smart global payment solutions. 

Top five worst cities to be an Airbnb host, by XendPay

Overall rankCITYMONTHLY REVENUE (AIRDNA)OCCUPANCY RATE PER YEAR (JUN. 2021) (AIRDNA)MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE DEC. 2020 (ZILLOW)ACTIVE RENTALS (AIRDNA)Years of Airbnb revenue required to cover property price
46Boston$2,01056%$439,5411,46518
47Seattle$1,80074%$431,4874,53520
48Honolulu$2,39577%$646,7335,20423
49Los Angeles$2,04263%$579,3329,56324
50Newark$1,21850%$346,36874924

 Story Credir: www.xendpay.com

Lowcountry

The Traveling Country Club Expands into Charleston, South Carolina

July 31, 2021 by 0 Comments
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North Carolina and Alabama Become the Second and Third state for TCC Members to Grow 

Their Golf and Networking Experiences 

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Traveling Country Club (TCC), an innovative club for modern golfers, announced that it is expanding its unrestricted golf course access to Charleston, SC along with Charlotte, NC and Birmingham, AL.  

TCC and local managing partner, Bob Moquin, are bringing this one-of-kind golf membership club to the Charleston area.  Moquin stated, “It’s now possible for any golfer, of any skill level, to play a wide variety of quality courses at multiple locations for less than a traditional golf club membership at only one course. TCC members receive unmatched privileges and value to improve their game while having fun on and off the course.”   

“We are excited for our members because as we grow, they continue to explore more golf courses, both locally and regionally, they might not normally play,” said Ross VanDyck, President, Sales for TCC. “The markets we have strategically chosen create new opportunities for our membership base, and also allows us to expand our network in adjacent markets.” 

In only the third year since its inception, TCC has helped connect golfers across the Carolinas, building its community to 30 golf courses and more than 150 members and counting. With North Carolina and Alabama added, TCC members have an even broader horizon to expand their own golf experience with a community of passionate golfers.  

For more information about the modern golfer’s country club and to sign up today, visit travelingcountryclub.com

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About the Traveling Country Club – More Golf / More Fun / More Affordable 

Traveling Country Club is the innovative membership model for modern golfers looking for a passionate community of players without the limitation and commitment of traditional country clubs. Membership in TCC affords special playing privileges at more than 30 courses (including a 

cart) each time you play. Further extending the club lifestyle, golfers have access to member exclusive events, social networking opportunities, deals at local eateries and retailers.  Making the most out of golf and life, that is what the Traveling Country Club is all about. For more information, find us on the web at travelingcountryclub.com.

Lowcountry

Charleston Minority and Women-Owned Business Spotlight – Nominate a special business in your community

July 30, 2021 by 0 Comments
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The M&WBE Spotlight Program was created to recognize local entrepreneurs who are vital to the City of Charleston’s economic growth and award them for their achievements in developing both their businesses and supporting their communities.
Eligible businesses must be registered with the City of Charleston’s M&WBE Program to be nominated.

Nominate your business here: M&WBE Spotlight Nomination Form

The City of Charleston is honored to recognize EDRUSHas our July 2021 Business Spotlight.

  1. Ruth JordanMinority Business Enterprise ManagerEmail Ruth Jordan Phone: 843-724-7434More Information

Lowcountry

Munkle Brewing Company and Taco Boy’s Cerveza Contigo – A Delicious Collaboration

July 29, 2021 by 0 Comments
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Munkle Brewing Co. has announced Cerveza Contigo, a Vienna lager brewed in collaboration with Taco Boy.

This is Taco Boy’s first can brewed locally. Half pours, full pours and six-packs are available at Munkle (located at 1513 Meeting Street), and cans + six packs are also sold at Taco Boy’s three locations (downtown, Folly Beach and Summerville).

Lowcountry

The Natural Splendor of Seabrook Island

July 25, 2021 by 0 Comments
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Guest submission by Traci Magnus

If you’re looking for a place that offers serene, natural beauty, look no further than Seabrook Island. Located just 30 minutes away from historic Charleston, this private barrier island offers miles of uncrowded beaches, stunning marshes, and ancient maritime forests that have been well-preserved by the island’s vibrant coastal community.

Nature and luxury normally don’t mix, but Seabrook is an exception. Since development first began in the 1970s, the town has worked hard to create a spectacular place to live while also taking care to preserve the island’s ecosystems.

The result is a laid-back coastal town that offers luxurious amenities and a quiet place to surround yourself with nature.Whether you are searching for a home on Seabrook or merely wish to vacation here, you will have no difficulty achieving total relaxation on this unique island.

The Seabrook Island Experience

As you make your way into Seabrook Island, you will find yourself driving on winding paths that are lined with live oaks and hanging Spanish moss, giving a sense of serenity and exclusivity.

Seabrook is a gated island, full of rental properties and full-time residents. You won’t find any hotels or high-rise condominiums here; only private homes and villas that are designed to complement the majestic, natural beauty of the island.

In each Seabrook Island neighborhood, you will find homes that bring their own unique charm to the laidback community. From the private and spacious lots in Jenkins Point to the Lowcountry patio-style homes in Village at Seabrook, the homes here are surrounded by natural beauty. 

Though Seabrook Island is known for being a nature lover’sparadise, it also offers a wide range of luxurious amenities.Vacationers and residents have access to two championship golf courses, a tennis center, a large-scale equestrian center, award-winning oceanfront dining, a fitness center, swimming pools, and other world-class amenities that will enhance your stay at Seabrook Island.

Enjoy the Quiet Beaches of Seabrook Island 

The beaches of Seabrook Island are some of Charleston’s best-kept secrets. The barrier island has nearly four miles of secluded and pristine beaches for visitors and residents to enjoy, and the town of Seabrook is dedicated to supporting its natural coastline.

Thanks to the town’s dedication to beach restoration, Seabrook Island was named one of America’s Best Restored Beaches in 2016 by The American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. Seabrook Island’s conservation efforts include adding additional sand to the coastline, which has not only widened the beaches but also helped provide a better habitat for the turtle nursery, strengthened protection of the island’s maritime forests, and improved the natural habitat of shorebirds.

Those who stroll the peaceful beaches of Seabrook are now enjoying the full benefits of this successful restoration project.On Seabrook’s majestic beaches, you can see breathtaking foliage, as well as a variety of species native to the Lowcountry.

Natural Habitats and Wildlife

Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts will be delighted to experience the abundant wildlife that inhabits Seabrook Island.Though the island has many resort-style amenities, the community is dedicated to preserving the natural habitats of seaside community and ensuring that businesses don’t negatively impact the wildlife.

Wildlife native to Seabrook Island includes marsh rabbits, gray fox, bottlenose dolphins, alligators, tree frogs, loggerheadturtles, chameleons, piebald deer, and a variety of bird species.In fact, there is a group dedicated watching and protecting the abundance of bird species here, called the Seabrook Island Birders (SIB).

Seabrook has many wildlife conservation groups that are trained to protect the island’s amazing creatures. The community feels strongly about preserving these habitats and have ordinances in place that all visitors and residents must follow. Following these rules, you can witness the natural behavior of these animals and safely enjoy the Seabrook Island experience.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Seabrook Island

There are many ways to take in the natural splendor of Seabrook Island, but an eco-tour of the island is stunning and informativeway to enjoy the bounty. With an insightful eco-tour, you can experience Seabrook Island by way of kayak, bicycle, horseback riding, boat, and much more. You will learn about the island’s natural resources and the creatures that call Seabrook Island home.

Once you have had a satisfying day of exploring, you can venture into the welcoming town center of Seabrook and enjoy fresh seafood from award-winning restaurants. Depending on the property you rent or own on Seabrook, you may have a Club Amenity Card that grants you access to the finest amenities on Seabrook, including dining opportunities at Pelican’s Nest and The Island House.

After a good night’s rest, you can get ready for another relaxing day of golf at a championship golf course, spend a few hours boating and fishing at Bohicket Marina, or shop at Freshfields Village. No matter how you decide to spend your days here, Seabrook’s calming vibe will help you reach total relaxation.

Conclusion

Seabrook Island is much more than a quiet coastal community in South Carolina. It’s a place of natural beauty that can be admired throughout the island by way of horseback riding, kayaking, bicycling, and more.

The island’s abundant wildlife and foliage offer visitors and residents a secluded place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of urban living, without sacrificing convenient amenities. If you decide to visit the island of Seabrook, be warned that you may never want to leave this coastal paradise.

Author Bio:

Traci Magnus is a realtor for Dunes Properties located in Charleston, SC. She was born and raised on the Charleston coast and attended the College of Charleston before obtaining her real estate license. When she’s not working, you can find her writing, spending time with her husband Glenn and son Max or wandering the historic streets downtown.

Lowcountry

Carolina Youth Development Center Hosts Community Event to Support Homeless Youth

July 23, 2021 by 0 Comments
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CHARLESTON, SC — Carolina Youth Development Center (CYDC) is teaming up with local organizations, 180 Place and Lowcountry Continuum of Care, to support youth ages 12 – 24 who are experiencing homelessness.

A series of drop-in events will be held at CYDC’s North Charleston campus on Thursday, July 15, July 29 and August 12 from 1 – 4 pm. Youth who attend will receive free snacks, free personal hygiene products, as well as referrals for services. The drop-in event will also provide the youth with information about obtaining necessary identification and housing documents, locating affordable housing, and additional information on community resources.

“CYDC serves numerous youth experiencing homelessness in our Charleston Emergency Shelter but we know there are more living in our community we’d like to help,” said Beverly Hardin, CEO of CYDC. “Youth may experience homelessness for a variety of reasons, including aging out of foster care, family disruptions or economic reasons. Giving youth access to support and services at this critical time in early adulthood can help put them on the path to leading successful lives. Through our partnership with 180 Place and Lowcountry Continuum of Care, we are able to open our campus to reach more youth in need of support.”

CYDC currently serves youth experiencing homelessness through the Charleston Emergency Shelter (CES). Youth ages 12 to 17 are provided a safe and stable place to stay for up to 21 days with the goal of reunifying with a parent/guardian or family member or securing permanent housing.

About Carolina Youth Development Center:

Founded in 1790 as the Charleston Orphan House, Carolina Youth Development Center’s mission is to empower and equip our community’s children by providing a safe environment, educational support, and career readiness, in collaboration with families and community partners. Our vision is that all children have loving and stable families and a nurturing community that empowers them to lead successful lives. For more information visit CYDC.org.

Lowcountry

CARTA EXPANDS SERVICE AREA FOR “CARTA OnDemand” RIDESHARE PARTNERSHIP

July 23, 2021 by 1 Comment
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PROGRAM GROWING TO MEET HEALTHCARE NEEDS BEYOND THE PENINSULA 

NORTH CHARLESTON (July 22, 2021) — The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) has expanded the service area for CARTA OnDemand, a first-in-the-region partnership with transportation network companies Uber and UZURV.

The expanded program now offers same-day, door-to-door service for seniors age 55 and up and current Tel-A-Ride customers throughout the designated CARTA service area to and/or from specified healthcare facilities in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and on the Peninsula.

“The expansion of CARTA OnDemand means one thing for seniors: access to healthcare on demand,” said CARTA Board of Directors Chairman Mike Seekings. “Since the pilot program debuted earlier this year, we have received many requests from seniors outside of the Peninsula. We’re excited to roll out this expanded service so whether you live near the Medical Center in North Charleston or reside on the Peninsula – you will now have access to transit on demand for essential trips to and from your healthcare providers.”  

The newly enhanced service increases healthcare access for seniors by adding an additional 10 hours of operations per week, now operating from 7 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Trips with both UZURV and Uber cost $4 each way and rides can be scheduled as much as 30 days in advance or with as little as 1-hour notice. 

“Transportation continues to be one of the top issues facing seniors throughout South Carolina,” said S.C. Representative Mark Smith. “As more and more members of our senior community continue to ‘age in place’ in their own residences or with their families, transportation and many other wrap-around services will be a very important factor to achieving an enhanced quality of life for seniors, their families and caregivers.”

Registration for CARTA OnDemand is open for anyone 55 and older at RideCARTA.com/OnDemand or in person at the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, 5790 Casper Padgett Way in North Charleston. Current Tel-A-Ride customers are pre-qualified for the program. Find the list of eligible healthcare here and the Tel-A-Ride service application is available here. 

CARTA OnDemand is offered in addition to the existing Tel-A-Ride paratransit service to provide more options and greater flexibility to customers to access healthcare. Riders in need of wheelchair accessibility will be required to use UZURV in order to access CARTA OnDemand and must request a ride through the CARTA OnDemand customer service center at 843-592-3505. As part of its door-to-door offering, UZURV’s credentialed and certified drivers are able to assist riders to and from vehicles upon request.

“UZURV is grateful for the opportunity to help provide increased access to specified medical centers to the CARTA community, so that eligible riders gain access to the medical care they need to live happier and healthier lives,” said UZURV CEO John Donlon.

Uber is app based, requires a voucher and a smart device to use the service and  provides the convenience of service within minutes. Seniors will receive their voucher upon approval and Tel-A-Ride customers will need to request their voucher by emailing publiccomment@bcdcog.com or calling 843-529-6284.  

“Whether it’s helping seniors regain their independence or providing newfound mobility options to those living in underserved areas, Uber has changed the way people live their lives in many unexpected ways,” said Javier Correoso, Senior Manager for Public Affairs, Uber. 

Registered seniors and Tel-A-Ride customers can schedule rides as much as 30 days in advance or with as little as 1-hour notice and will often receive service within minutes through the Uber app or by calling the CARTA OnDemand call center powered by UZURV at 843-592-3505. Cash is not accepted for the service; a debit or credit card is required.

Under the program, CARTA will subsidize the difference between the $4 rider fare and the total trip cost, up to $21. Customers will be responsible for any cost beyond the $21 value of the subsidy. When using Uber, the total cost of the trip will be provided before the trip is taken and when using UZURV, a customer service representative will confirm if the trip is eligible and supply the total cost of the ride in advance as well. Tips are not included in the price of the ride and are given at the customer’s discretion.

Personal care attendants can be approved as part of the Tel-A-Ride application. If approved, PCAs would be part of the ride request and will not be charged. 

Masks are required while using CARTA OnDemand. 

For full details regarding the expanded CARTA OnDemand program, visit RideCARTA.com/OnDemand. 

ABOUT CARTA
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is a public transportation system dedicated to providing affordable transit in the Charleston, S.C., community through local fixed routes, on-demand paratransit and express commuter service. For the latest on CARTA, visit ridecarta.com, like us on Facebook or follow on Twitter at @RideCARTA. All customers are encouraged to plan rides and track buses with the CARTA-endorsed Transit app.