Buy a home at a reasonable rate with a VA loan in Beaufort, SC
VA loans were established prior to the end of World War II and have since assisted numerous veterans, service members, and military families in fulfilling their dream of owning their a home. In recent times, the program has become increasingly significant, with VA loan volume skyrocketing and offering substantial financial advantages that enable countless veterans to purchase homes, thereby making homeownership a possibility for those who may not have qualified otherwise.
If you sacrificed comfort and security to help protect our great nation, Mission One Mortgage thanks you for your service. We believe that there's no greater honor than to serve those who have served our country. We're not afraid to go above and beyond for our veterans because that's exactly what they did for us.
Service Areas
What is a VA Loan in Beaufort, SC?
A VA loan is a mortgage option that is backed by the government and available to Veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. It is offered by private lenders such as banks and mortgage companies and not directly by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
VA home loans come with competitive interest rates and terms and can be used to purchase a variety of properties, including:
- Single-Family Homes
- Condominiums
- Multi-Unit Properties
- Manufactured Homes
- New Construction Homes
One of the great benefits of VA loans is that eligible Veterans can buy a home with no down payment, no mortgage insurance, lenient credit requirements, and the lowest average fixed rates in the market.
This program was created by the federal government to make it easier for those who have served our country to become homeowners, and it is widely considered the strongest benefit program available for this purpose.
The VA has a guarantee program that ensures the government will pay back the lender a portion of a VA loan if the borrower fails to make payments. This guarantee reduces the risk for lenders, and as a result, they can offer more favorable terms and require no down payment.
Compared to conventional loans, VA loan rates are typically lower. The rate could either be fixed, meaning payments will remain the same, or adjustable, meaning that payments could change over time. However, keep in mind that adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) come with some risk, as you'll pay more if rates rise.
If you are eligible for a VA loan, you can complete the VA mortgage application process through lenders like Mission One Mortgage. While many lenders offer VA loans, not all of them do, and some lenders specialize in serving VA loan borrowers. Generally speaking, it's best to apply with multiple lenders in order to compare rate offers and find the best deal.
Debbie Haberny, the proud broker-owner of Mission One Mortgage, is a certified Vetted VA Professional. The main objective of her team is to simplify the mortgage process for veterans by providing them with relevant tools and knowledge. Debbie and her team of mortgage experts base their expertise on the VA Handbook and are committed to showing veterans all the options and opportunities available to them with their VA benefits. They also connect veterans with qualified lenders and resources to ensure their VA loan process is seamless.
Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned homeowner, we'll help you understand the differences between financing programs so you can select the one that's best for you.
What are the Biggest Benefits of Having a VA Loan in Beaufort, SC?
At Mission One Mortgage, we work with many Veterans who know that VA loans exist but don't quite understand the full range of benefits they provide. If that sounds familiar, keep reading. This section was written especially for you.
01
Benefit:
No Down Payment Needed
One of the standout benefits of the VA Loan program is that qualified borrowers can purchase a home without having to make a down payment up to the conforming loan limit of their county. This is a significant advantage over conventional and FHA loans, which typically require minimum down payments of 5 percent and 3.5 percent, respectively.
For example, on a $400,000 mortgage, a conventional loan would require a $20,000 down payment, while an FHA loan would require $14,000. Saving up that kind of cash can take service members and veterans years, but with the VA Loan, they can pursue homeownership without having to scrape and stockpile for years on end.
03
Benefit:
Less Strict Credit Requirements
It's important for military buyers to stay informed about credit score requirements when considering home financing options. Although credit score requirements have eased up a bit, it's still necessary to meet certain benchmarks set by conventional and FHA lenders. However, even meeting these benchmarks can be a challenge for many buyers.
Most VA lenders require a credit score of at least 620, which falls in FICO's "Fair" credit score range. Borrowers will typically need to meet a higher threshold for conventional mortgages, particularly if they want to secure a low-interest rate. It's worth checking out VA Loan rates to learn more about financing options.
Despite common misconceptions, military buyers don't need a perfect credit score to obtain financing. While a higher credit score can certainly help, it's important to remember that VA loans in Beaufort, SC are designed to help military members and veterans access affordable housing.
05
Benefit:
Help with Closing Costs
Closing costs are an inevitable part of the home-buying process, no matter what type of mortgage product you choose. However, if you're a veteran, you may be pleased to know that the VA places limits on the fees and costs you're required to pay at the time of closing. Additionally, homebuyers have the option to ask sellers to cover all loan-related closing costs, as well as up to 4 percent of the purchase price for other expenses like prepaid taxes, insurance, and collections.
02
Benefit:
No Need for Private Mortgage Insurance
Coming up with a down payment can be challenging for both conventional and FHA homebuyers. In addition, they are required to pay for mortgage insurance unless they can make a sizable down payment, usually 20% of the purchase price. For instance, on a $400,000 mortgage, this would be a staggering $80,000 in cash.
FHA loans carry an upfront mortgage insurance premium and annual mortgage insurance. The latter now lasts for the life of the loan. On the other hand, conventional homebuyers will pay this monthly cost until they have built up enough equity, which can take several years.
Fortunately, VA loans do not require any mortgage insurance. However, there is a mandatory funding fee that goes directly to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Borrowers with a service-connected disability are exempt from paying this fee, which helps keep the program going for future generations.
04
Benefit:
Bankruptcy and Foreclosure
If you've experienced a financial setback such as a foreclosure, short sale, or bankruptcy, you may be worried about your chances of securing a VA home loan. However, don't lose hope just yet. With VA loans, it's still possible to be eligible for a home loan just two years after a foreclosure, short sale, or bankruptcy. In some cases, veterans who file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection can be eligible for a VA loan just a year after the filing date.
It's worth noting that the waiting periods for conventional or FHA financing can be significantly longer than those for VA loans. Additionally, even if you've lost a VA-backed mortgage to foreclosure, you may still be eligible for another VA loan.
So, if you're a veteran who's experienced a financial setback but still dreams of owning a home, don't give up hope. Explore your options and see if a VA loan with Mission One Mortgage could be the solution you need.
06
Benefit:
DTI Ratio Flexibility
It's important to keep in mind that VA lenders typically prefer borrowers to spend no more than 41 percent of their gross monthly income on major debts, such as mortgage payments or student loans. However, it's possible to get a VA home loan even if you have a higher DTI ratio. Some lenders may offer up to 55 percent or more depending on your credit score and ability to meet additional income requirements. This can give homebuyers more flexibility and greater purchasing power when it comes to finding their dream home.
Remember - if you have any questions about the benefits you just read about - like what credit score Mission One Mortgage requires for a VA loan - contact our office today. It would be our pleasure to help you navigate the VA loan process, one step at a time.
(843)822-5685How to Determine Your VA Loan Eligibility
One of the most common questions we get at Mission One Mortgage revolves around VA loan eligibility. Who is actually eligible for this type of loan? What are the requirements for getting a VA loan? If you meet the following requirements, chances are you'll be eligible for a VA loan.
- If you have completed 90 days of service during wartime or 181 days of service during peacetime, you may qualify as an active-duty military member or veteran.
- If you have served in the National Guard or Reserve for a minimum of six years, or have completed 90 days of active duty under Title 32 orders, with at least 30 of them being consecutive, you may be eligible for a VA loan in Beaufort, SC.
- If your spouse was a service member who passed away while on active duty or due to a service-connected disability, and you haven't remarried, you may be eligible for a VA loan. In some cases, surviving spouses who remarried after the age of 57 and after Dec. 16, 2003, may also be eligible. Spouses of prisoners of war or service members missing in action may also be eligible for VA loans, as well.
- You meet the necessary requirements for credit and income to be eligible for a VA loan. It's important to note that while the VA doesn't set a minimum credit score for VA loans, individual lenders may have their own standards. In addition to credit, your lender will also evaluate your income and debts to assess your ability to repay the mortgage.
- The property you're interested in purchasing complies with the necessary safety standards and building codes. It's also worth mentioning that in most cases, the borrower is required to make the residence their primary home within 60 days of purchase. However, there are certain circumstances in which this timeline can be extended up to 12 months.
Follow These 5 Steps to Begin the VA Home Loan Process
Curious what the general steps are for purchasing a home with a VA loan? You're not alone. Keep reading to get a feel for what you have to do to enjoy the wonderful benefits of homeownership.
When applying for a VA home loan benefit, the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is an important document that verifies your eligibility to your lender. If you have already used your VA loan benefit in the past, a current COE can help you determine how much remaining entitlement you have. Additionally, it can ensure that your entitlement has been restored for previous VA-backed loans that were paid in full.
After you've applied for your COE, it's a good idea to examine your finances. We're talking about items such as income, expenses, credit profile, and your monthly budget. That way, you know for sure that you're ready to purchase a home.
As a veteran, you have the choice of going through a bank, credit union, or a private VA mortgage company like Mission One Mortgage. Most lenders will have different loan interest rates and fees, so it's important to shop around. Remember - Mission One specializes in VA loans in Beaufort, SC. Other lenders, such as large corporations and banks, often can't match the expertise and attention to detail that Mission One provides to veterans.
During this phase, it's a good idea to meet with a range of real estate professionals. Try to choose an agent who has experience processing and overseeing VA loans. Once you select an agent, you can bring your lender's pre-approval letter to their office and begin shopping.
This is the best part of the VA loan process, other than getting the keys to your new home. When looking for a house, remember to look at homes within your price range and budget. Lean on your real estate agent, friends, and family for help in your search.
A Word of Advice from Mission One Mortgage
If you're thinking about buying a home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of homeownership. While renting can provide flexibility and less responsibility for maintenance, it comes with the risk of rent increases, potential property sales, and uncertainty about security deposit refunds.
On the other hand, owning a home can offer relatively stable mortgage payments and an opportunity to build long-term wealth for you and your family. Before making a decision, it's crucial to determine your priorities, such as your monthly budget for mortgage payments and other expenses like transportation and childcare. Ultimately, only you can determine what's best for your housing and financial needs.
The Key to Homeownership Starts with a VA Loan in Beaufort, SC
At Mission One Mortgage, we take immense pride in simplifying the mortgage process and ensuring that our clients experience minimal stress. We understand that navigating the world of mortgages can be daunting, which is why we are committed to making it as smooth as possible.
By choosing to work with us, you're not just getting a mortgage broker - you're selecting a partner who is devoted to your financial well-being and dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of homeownership. By working together, we can work through the VA loan process one step at a time.
That rings true for all of our clients, but especially the U.S. Veterans we serve. In fact, we specialize in VA mortgages and are proud to offer them to US Veterans, those on Active Duty, and their spouses. VA Loans are one of the best mortgages available, offering no down payment requirements, no PMI, and some of the most favorable rates and terms.
If you're ready to take the next big step in your life and provide stability for your family with a place to call home, contact our office today. You're closer to the dream of home ownership than you might think.
Want to know more?
Clarify your Queries Call Us Now! (843)822-5685
Latest News in Beaufort, SC
Gary Sinise honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at Beaufort Film Festival
Explore Beaufort -https://explorebeaufortsc.com/gary-sinise-honored-with-lifetime-achievement-award-at-beaufort-film-festival/
Actor Gary Sinise was honored on Saturday night at the 18th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival for his acting career, as well as his work with veterans and their families; receiving the Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award.“We are honored to have Gary Sinise back in Beaufort where the character of Lt. Dan first appeared nearly 30 years ago. His body of work as an artist and humanitarian is worthy of celebration,” said Ron Tucker President of the Beaufort Film Society.Gary Sinise’s stage, television a...
Actor Gary Sinise was honored on Saturday night at the 18th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival for his acting career, as well as his work with veterans and their families; receiving the Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award.
“We are honored to have Gary Sinise back in Beaufort where the character of Lt. Dan first appeared nearly 30 years ago. His body of work as an artist and humanitarian is worthy of celebration,” said Ron Tucker President of the Beaufort Film Society.
Gary Sinise’s stage, television and film career has spanned nearly fifty years. Beginning in 1974, he co-founded Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre Company then twenty years later for his performance as Lt. Dan Taylor in the blockbuster film Forrest Gump, he received nominations for Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and Academy Awards, and earned Best Supporting Actor Award from the National Board of Review and the Commander’s Award from the Disabled American Veterans. Other film credits include Apollo 12, Ransom, The Green Mile and The Human Stain.
For over forty years Gary has stood as an advocate on behalf of America’s service members, but following the attacks of September 11, 2001, Gary’s dedication to our nation’s active duty defenders, veterans, first responders and their families has become a tireless crusade of support, service and gratitude for all those who protect our freedom and serve our country.
The evening’s ceremony started with a video of Sinise’s fellow actors, including Tom Hanks, congratulating the actor before he was invited on stage for a discussion with Tucker.
In 2003, after several USO handshake tours, he formed the Lt. Dan Band and began entertaining troops serving at home and abroad. Over the years, the 13 piece cover band has performed hundreds of shows for charities and fundraisers supporting wounded heroes, Gold Star families, veterans and troops around the world.
The Lt. Dan Band performed live in concert at MCAS Beaufort on Friday night, a show that was attended by thousands, adding a huge bonus to his two day visit to Beaufort for the Festival.
Sinise started the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011 and has since formed R.I.S.E., which builds homes for veterans, and the Snowball Express, which brings gold star families to Disney World.
“(The decision) wasn’t difficult at all, you know, when you think of lifetime achievement, Gary has been in the film business for 50 years, that’s a lifetime to a lot of folks,” Tucker said to WJCL. “Thinking about retirement, Gary is still going strong, and I think he’s got a lot more to give, and I think he wants to give more.”
It was an award well-deserved by Gary Sinise.
Enjoy a few photos of the evening, by Amber Hewitt/Amber’s Eye Photography.
Track Covid-19 in Beaufort County, S.C.
New York Timeshttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/us/beaufort-south-carolina-covid-cases.html
Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Beaufort County areaAbout the dataData is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalization data is a daily average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Beaufort County, an area which may be larger than Beaufort County itself.The number of daily hospital admissions shows how many patients were admitted to hospitals for Covid and is one of the most reliably reported indicators of Covid’s impact on a commun...
Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Beaufort County area
About the data
Data is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalization data is a daily average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Beaufort County, an area which may be larger than Beaufort County itself.
The number of daily hospital admissions shows how many patients were admitted to hospitals for Covid and is one of the most reliably reported indicators of Covid’s impact on a community.
Total population
Ages 65 and up
Total population
Ages 65 and up
An updated vaccine is recommended for adults and most children. Statewide, 7% of vaccinations did not specify a home county.
Nearby hospitals
Share of I.C.U. beds occupied
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: The hospitals map shows the average I.C.U. occupancy at nearby hospitals in the most recent week with data reported. The data is self-reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by individual hospitals. It excludes counts from hospitals operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service. Numbers for hospitalized patients are based on inpatient beds and include I.C.U. beds. Hospitalized Covid-19 patients include both confirmed and suspected Covid-19 patients. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023.
How trends have changed in Beaufort County
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: Weekly county death data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. Hospitalization data is a weekly average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Beaufort County. Hospitalization numbers early in the pandemic are undercounts due to incomplete reporting by hospitals to the federal government.
Historical trends in Beaufort County
The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated.
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated. Weekly county case data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023. Test positivity data is based only on test results reported to the federal government and is a seven-day average.
By Jon Huang, Samuel Jacoby, Jasmine C. Lee, John-Michael Murphy, Charlie Smart and Albert Sun. Additional reporting by Sarah Cahalan, Lisa Waananen Jones, Amy Schoenfeld Walker and Josh Williams. See a full list of contributors to The Times’s Covid-19 data reporting here.
About the data
Data on this page is reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Population and demographic data is from the U.S. Census Bureau. Hospitalization data is reported by individual hospitals to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and it includes confirmed and suspected adult and pediatric patients. The C.D.C. does not provide complete vaccinations data for some counties and caps its vaccination rate figures at 95 percent.
The C.D.C. may make historical updates as more data is reported.
The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on Covid cases in May 2023.
The Best Things To Do In Beaufort, South Carolina
Stephanie Hunthttps://www.southernliving.com/travel/south-carolina/beaufort-sc
There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes."Yes," it turns out, sums up the best way to ...
There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes.
"Yes," it turns out, sums up the best way to experience Beaufort, South Carolina, and its environs, including Hunting Island. Yes, the path less taken is an excellent idea, as is the Sweet Tea Float at Scout Southern Market. Spending hours strolling through The Old Point and gazing at historic homes and even older live oaks offers endless enchantment. But with my eyes peeled for rattlers, I was (yes) relieved that the only serpentine thing I discovered was more of the winding trail along old dune ridge lines through a primordial wonderland.
The trail affirms why Hunting Island, a breathtaking 25-minute drive from Beaufort, is South Carolina's most popular state park. With a dozen similar paths and 5 miles of pristine beach, this place leads you back eons in time through an untouched maritime forest with towering pines and ospreys soaring overhead as well as magnolias and saw palmettos tangled with yaupon hollies and wax myrtles in the dense understory. Here you breathe deeper and look more closely. Life slows down, and a sense of awe percolates up.
Take In The Scenery At Waterfront Park
Take a seat on one of the bench swings at Beaufort's Waterfront Park. Wide and welcoming, they move back and forth in a rhythmic lullaby. You can't help relaxing, especially if you happen to catch a sunset or tune into the soft lapping of the Beaufort River against the floating dock, hearing the jingling clink of pulleys against sailboat masts—a mariner's wind chime.
Saltus River Grill, where the scenic setting rivals the exceptional food and drink. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards A slice of the sweet life from Beaufort’s upscale Saltus River Grill. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards
Waterfront Park showcases the smart civic planning that makes Beaufort such a delight: The town's best vistas are protected and preserved. There are thoughtful amenities (parking, public bathrooms, an amphitheater, picnic tables, and plenty of green lawn for kids and dogs to play on). Plus it's all conveniently adjacent to an enticing array of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores along Bay Street. What better nightcap than to sit and swing a spell after enjoying grilled scallops or top-notch sushi at Saltus River Grill?
Historic Craven Street. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards A rooftop sunset at Anchorage 1770. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards
Appreciate Beaufort's Subdued Beauty
Beaufort is subdued in the best possible way. She has the same deep history and stunning architecture that her nearby sisters, Charleston and Savannah, are celebrated for, but she's fine staying slightly out of the limelight. Wise and mature, Beaufort wears her age like the badge of honor it is. Her Lowcountry aura feels elemental, with more patina and less pomp. Along Short Street at the edge of The Old Point, moss-heaped limbs cradle historic mansions. Beaufort's treescape shouts of grandeur in whatever language oaks speak. Gardens and yards aren't so much manicured as they are magical. It's easy to see why Hollywood frequently comes calling (a stairwell at The Beaufort Inn features posters from major motion pictures filmed here). Longtime resident Pat Conroy was so smitten that he wrote, "When I came to Beaufort I had struck upon a land so beautiful I had to hunt for other words."
Learn About Beaufort's History
Not far from Short Street, the First African Baptist Church, a Gothic Revival gem built by freedmen in 1865, bears witness to Beaufort's African American, Gullah, and Reconstruction-era history. "Robert Smalls was a member here. This document notes his Sunday school attendance and that he put a few cents in the offering plate," says the Rev. Alexander McBride, a jovial former marine and the church's pastor of almost 20 years, pointing to framed, yellowing pages hanging behind the sanctuary. A statue of Smalls, an enslaved crewman who heroically commandeered a Confederate ship and later served as a U.S. Congressman, is less than a mile away at Tabernacle Baptist Church, where a monument to Harriet Tubman is also planned.
Both churches are worthy stops, along with the Penn Center, the first Southern school for formerly enslaved people, across the bridge on St. Helena Island. Each place gives a deeper insight into the region's vibrant and enduring African American and Gullah Geechee culture.
Providing an overview of Beaufort's past, Capt. Henry Brandt of Coastal Expeditions offers a boat tour that cruises through the area's Native American, Spanish, and French history; Union occupation; and a view of Camp Saxton's tabby ruins, where the Emancipation Proclamation was first read in South Carolina—all interspersed with musings on estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.
"You don't fully experience Beaufort until you see it from the water," Brandt claims. After watching dolphins curl and glide from the boat's bow and admiring the town's steeples rising in the background, I absolutely believe him.
Where To Stay
Anchorage 1770Boutique hotel in an 18th-century mansion with fine dining at the Ribaut Social Club; anchorage1770.com
The Beaufort InnHistoric main inn plus several cottages clustered around a courtyard; beaufortinn.com
Rhett House InnHistoric Greek revival mansion that's been a favorite of movie stars; rhetthouseinn.com
What To Eat And Drink
Blackstone's CaféClassic diner-like options; blackstonescafe.com
Red Rooster CafeExtensive breakfast menu, whether you like it country, continental, Lowcountry, or Tex Mex; facebook.com
Lowcountry Produce KitchenLocally sourced salads and sandwiches and a legendary tomato pie; lowcountryproduce.com
Chapman's GrocerGrab-and-go items plus beer, wine, and snacks; facebook.com
PlumsWaterfront dining featuring soups, salads, and sandwiches; plumsrestaurant.com
Saltus River GrillFine dining with fresh local seafood, Southern fare, steaks, sushi, and a well-curated wine list; saltusrivergrill.com
Old Bull TavernGastropub featuring a lively bar scene anda lamb shank that does not disappoint; oldbulltavern.com
Breakwater Restaurant and BarSeafood, steaks, and seasonal dishes with Southern flair; www.breakwatersc.com
Paninis on the WaterfrontStone-baked pizzas, paninis, seafood, and pastas; www.paninisonthewaterfront.com
Where To Shop
Scout Southern MarketUnique gifts and home goods as well as delicious treats like the famous float at the Sweet Tea Bar; scoutsouthernmarket.com
Bachelor Hill AntiquesOffering treasures galore; facebook.com
Cabana22Coastal-chic boutique; cabana22.com
The Chocolate TreeConfections such as fudge, truffles, and peanut brittle; facebook.com
The Beaufort Candy ShopClassic candies and sweet treats of every kind; facebook.com
Lisa Rivers Fine ArtGullah-inspired art, prints, and gifts; www.lisariversart.com
Cassandra Gillens Art / Gullah Art in De WoodsPaintings, posters, and gifts; www.cassandragillensarts.com
Good AuraSustainable clothing and jewelry boutique; shopgoodaura.com
Monkey's UncleToys, fun, and games for children of all ages; www.monkeysuncletoys.com
What To Do
Hunting Island; southcarolinaparks.comSt. Phillips IslandPat Conroy Literary Center; patconroyliterarycenter.orgCoastal Expeditions; coastalexpeditions.comReconstruction Era National Historic Park; nps.gov/reerSpanish Moss Trail; spanishmosstrail.comCraven Street en route to The Old Point to explore historic neighborhoods
Beaufort County dodges brunt of the storm: power restored to 17K as winds, rain subside
Evan McKennahttps://www.islandpacket.com/news/weather-news/article284048658.html
A strong storm system battered Beaufort County with rain and heavy winds Tuesday afternoon — but reported damages appeared to be minimal as power slowly returned to the Lowcountry.Fire officials from across the county said the volume of storm-related calls was about what they expected. Despite a sizable number of downed trees, no injuries or significant property damage was reported.Just after 3 p.m., crews fr...
A strong storm system battered Beaufort County with rain and heavy winds Tuesday afternoon — but reported damages appeared to be minimal as power slowly returned to the Lowcountry.
Fire officials from across the county said the volume of storm-related calls was about what they expected. Despite a sizable number of downed trees, no injuries or significant property damage was reported.
Just after 3 p.m., crews from the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department responded to a small structure fire at a business in the 1800 block of Boundary Street, which closed the roadway for less than an hour in downtown Beaufort. The flames were put out by a fire extinguisher and likely started in a surge protector, according to spokesperson Ross Vezin.
Beaufort County power outages peaked at nearly 17,000 affected customers around 4 p.m. Tuesday, with Palmetto Electric Cooperative’s Hilton Head customers experiencing widespread blackouts after a small tree impacted a mid-island Santee Cooper power line. Power outages dwindled as the night went on. As of 9 p.m., Poweroutage.us reported just over 1,000 households without power — nearly all of which came from Dominion Energy.
Winds reached a high point around 4 p.m. Tuesday, with a maximum sustained wind speed of 37 m.p.h and gusts reaching up to 53 m.p.h., according to data from the National Weather Service (NWS).
Although the local tornado watch and severe thunderstorm warning ended before 6 p.m., Beaufort and Jasper Counties were still under a handful of weather warnings Tuesday night: a high surf advisory until midnight and a wind advisory lasting to 6 a.m. Wednesday.
The NWS also issued a special weather statement Tuesday night, warning of downed trees and power lines that might impact drivers overnight — especially on secondary roads and rural highways.
Other areas of the southeast and south had more extensive damage as wind, possibly from tornadoes, ravaged areas of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, as well as North and South Carolina. In Florida’s panhandle, images of a marina building and mobile homes severely damaged by the storm demonstrated the force of the storm as it moved across the states.
Meteorologists on The Weather Channel devoted Tuesday to tracking what they called a 600-mile long cyclone that moved from states near the Gulf of Mexico to all the way up the eastern seaboard, bringing winds, rain, and tornadoes to the south and wet snowfall to the northeast.
In Bamberg, SC, reports of a tornado touching down near a Edisto Electric Cooperative building causing damage will be investigated Wednesday as cleanup activities are completed.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this story contained incorrect power outage information. It has since been updated.
This story was originally published January 9, 2024, 9:31 PM.
Beaufort's Night on the Town kicks off Lowcountry Holiday celebrations
beaufortschttps://www.eatstayplaybeaufort.com/lowcountry-holiday-downtown-events/
Here comes our Lowcountry Holiday season and the ‘trifecta’ of downtown Beaufort, SC events – plus a few more!Nothing gets you into the Christmas spirit like our fun-filled first weekend in December with the annual ‘Night on the Town’ celebration, followed by the ever-popular Light Up the Night Boat Parade and ending with the Beaufort Christmas parade. Here are several must-see local events, and links to all the i...
Here comes our Lowcountry Holiday season and the ‘trifecta’ of downtown Beaufort, SC events – plus a few more!
Nothing gets you into the Christmas spirit like our fun-filled first weekend in December with the annual ‘Night on the Town’ celebration, followed by the ever-popular Light Up the Night Boat Parade and ending with the Beaufort Christmas parade. Here are several must-see local events, and links to all the info you’ll need to have the most enjoyable Lowcountry Holiday ever.
Friday, DECEMBER 1, 2023
A NIGHT ON THE TOWN, 6-9 PM with the Tree Lighting at 8 pm
The Annual A Night on the Town is the opening of the Christmas/holiday shopping season and takes place on Friday evening, December 1st, 2023, beginning at 6 pm. A long-standing tradition of the community, A Night on the Town is a mix of traditional and contemporary. An evening with a surprise around every corner and several things that will entertain, delight, and get you in the Holiday Spirit. Shops will stay open late to welcome regular and new customers with special treats and a preview of their large and unique selection of items for the Holidays to help get a head start on the holiday season.
The evening also includes the City of Beaufort’s tree lighting ceremony, entertainment by the Parris Island Marine Corps Band, choral performances, plenty of good cheer, and a rumored visit from Santa himself.
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2022, 11 AM – Gullah Taste of Christmas – Beaufort, SC Waterfront Park
Back for the fourth year is the Gullah Taste of Christmas featuring the Rice Cook-off Competition. The event is a part of the Sea Island Gullah Christmas Celebration to be held on Saturday. Rice is a staple among Gullah Geechee households, and the Gullah Rice Cook-Off showcases this “gold” by encouraging participants to show off their culinary skills by preparing a rice dish for which they are known. The entry fee is $50. Each dish will be judged based on five criteria – texture, flavor, consistency, crumb, and taste. There will be three winners who will receive a plaque and a cash prize – first place $2000, second place $1000, and third place $500.
Light up the Night Holiday Boat Parade, 5:30-8:30 p.m
The first boats will start arriving at the seawall at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park by 5 pm. Boats will make three passes by the seawall.
Sunday, DECEMBER 3, 2022
DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT, SC CHRISTMAS PARADE, 3 PM
The traditional Beaufort Christmas Parade will be on December 3rd, at 3:00 pm, through the streets of downtown Beaufort. Floats, bands, groups of walkers, and personal cars and trucks are expected to participate.
From light displays to community celebrations, Santa sightings, holiday concert performances, and everything in between, there’s tons of Lowcountry holiday fun for everyone happening in Beaufort, SC.
We look forward to seeing you all around town this December.
Happy Holidays Y’all!!!
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