Buy a home at a reasonable rate with a VA loan in Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, 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 Daniel Island, SC
Mixed-use building at 211 Seven Farms Drive under review
thedanielislandnews.comhttps://thedanielislandnews.com/news/mixed-use-building-211-seven-farms-drive-under-review
This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEENov. 2: Restore at Point Hope Ph. 1 (Point Hope Mixed Use – North) – Site plan for 158 single-family attached and detached residential homes on ...
This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.
UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
Nov. 2: Restore at Point Hope Ph. 1 (Point Hope Mixed Use – North) – Site plan for 158 single-family attached and detached residential homes on 91.82 acres at 1236 Clements Ferry Rd. TMS: B2620000028. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Domonic Jones, jones.d@tandh.com.
Nov. 9: 211 Seven Farms Drive Mixed-Use – Site plan for 3-story mixed-use building with parking, retail, commercial and residential uses on .34 acres at 211 Seven Farms Dr. TMS: B2750000196, Applicant: C Baker Engineering. Contact: Bret Jarotski, bret@cbakerengineering.com.
Nov. 9: Credit One Pickleball Additions – Site plan for pickleball court additions with associated check-in and restroom buildings and maintenance building relocation at 155 Seven Farms Dr. TMS: B2750000078. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Paul Peeples, ppeeples@seamonwhiteside.com.
UPCOMING: BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS – SITE DESIGN
Nov. 1: Request for a variance to remove 2 grand trees at 1995 Daniel Island Dr. TMS: 275-00-00-080, 311 & 312. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc.
RESULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
Oct. 26: Cainhoy Sports Park Amenity – Site plan for amenity, swimming pools, sports parks, parking lot, and stormwater pond on 23.5 acres at 3050 River Village Dr. TMS: B2620000008. Owner: Cainhoy Land & Timber, LLC. Contact: Steven Roach, roach.s@tandh.com. Results: Revise and resubmit to TRC.
Oct. 26: Towne at Cooper River Phase II - Road and infrastructure – Three separate items for road improvements to Enterprise Blvd, Beresford Run, and Clements Ferry Rd. and R/W extension, roadway construction, and master infrastructure to serve future development on 30.1 acres at 2620 Clements Ferry Rd. TMS: B2710001035. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Spencer Plowden, splowden@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revisions, pending zoning and SW comments.
Oct. 26: Woodfield Cooper River Farms – Site plan for 71 multifamily units on 2.7 acres at 700 Silo Acres Dr. TMS: B2710001035. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Malcolm Glenn, mglenn@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Pending zoning and SW comments.
Oct. 26: Tuxbury Farm Tract - Concept plan for an 82-unit mixed-use development on15.1 acres at 2686 SC41. TMS: B2630004006. Results: Pending SW comments and final documentation to zoning and planning.
Compiled by Suzanne Detar, sdetar@thedanielislandnews.com.
All meetings are open for public comment except the City of Charleston Technical Review Committee meetings.
For more information, contacts for specific projects and on location and time of the meetings or to learn more, visit charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/.
Gamecocks Second at Daniel Island Intercollegiate
University of South Carolina Athleticshttps://gamecocksonline.com/news/2023/10/30/gamecocks-second-at-daniel-island-intercollegiate/
Select Sport All sports Baseball Beach Volleyball Equestrian Football Men's Basketball Men's Golf Men's Soccer Men's Swimming and Diving Men's Tennis Men's Track and Field Softball Swimming and Diving Track and Field Women's Basketball Women's Cross Country Women's Golf Women's Lacrosse Women's Soccer Women's Swimming and Diving Women's Tennis Women's Track and Field Women's VolleyballFri, Mar 15 / All Day Schenkel Invitational R1 Men's ...
Select Sport All sports Baseball Beach Volleyball Equestrian Football Men's Basketball Men's Golf Men's Soccer Men's Swimming and Diving Men's Tennis Men's Track and Field Softball Swimming and Diving Track and Field Women's Basketball Women's Cross Country Women's Golf Women's Lacrosse Women's Soccer Women's Swimming and Diving Women's Tennis Women's Track and Field Women's Volleyball
Fri, Mar 15 / All Day
Schenkel Invitational R1
neutral
Sat, Mar 16 / All Day
Schenkel Invitational R2
neutral
Sun, Mar 24 / All Day
Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate R1
neutral
Mon, Mar 25 / All Day
Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate R2
neutral
Tue, Mar 26 / All Day
Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate R3
neutral
Mon, Apr 8 / All Day
Tiger Intercollegiate R1
neutral
Tue, Apr 9 / All Day
Tiger Intercollegiate R2
neutral
Wed, Apr 24 / All Day
SEC Championship R1
neutral
Thu, Apr 25 / All Day
SEC Championship R2
neutral
Fri, Apr 26 / All Day
SEC Championship R3
neutral
Sat, Apr 27 / All Day
SEC Championship R4
neutral
Sun, Apr 28 / All Day
SEC Championship R5
neutral
Mon, May 13 / All Day
NCAA Regionals R1
neutral
Tue, May 14 / All Day
NCAA Regionals R2
neutral
Wed, May 15 / All Day
NCAA Regionals R3
neutral
Fri, May 24 / All Day
NCAA Championship R1
neutral
Sat, May 25 / All Day
NCAA Championships R2
neutral
Sun, May 26 / All Day
NCAA Championships R3
neutral
Mon, May 27 / All Day
NCAA Championships R4
neutral
Conservation-minded projects set to protect DI’s shoreline
Elizabeth Bushhttps://www.thedanielislandnews.com/news/conservation-minded-projects-set-protect-di%E2%80%99s-shoreline
The trails and waterways along Daniel Island’s Wando River shoreline have long been a beacon for walkers, bikers, kayakers and other nature enthusiasts.Within a few years, new opportunities for residents and visitors to partake in recreational pursuits on the island’s Cooper River waterfront may be available – thanks to a trio of conservation-minded projects on land owned by the S.C. State Ports Authority (SPA).CONSERVATION EASEMENT – SALTWATER MITIGATION BANKThe SPA recently ente...
The trails and waterways along Daniel Island’s Wando River shoreline have long been a beacon for walkers, bikers, kayakers and other nature enthusiasts.
Within a few years, new opportunities for residents and visitors to partake in recreational pursuits on the island’s Cooper River waterfront may be available – thanks to a trio of conservation-minded projects on land owned by the S.C. State Ports Authority (SPA).
CONSERVATION EASEMENT – SALTWATER MITIGATION BANK
The SPA recently entered into a partnership with the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust to place about 135 acres of marsh, tidal creeks and former farmland into a conservation easement that will be held by the trust in perpetuity.
Used prior to 1970 as a dredge disposal site, and once destined to be part of a Global Gateway Port on Daniel Island, the property is slated be restored to its original state and become a saltwater mitigation bank.
According to the SPA website, the bank will “provide companies the ability to purchase tidal saltwater wetlands credits for their mitigation projects, supporting economic growth and job creation, while also protecting and enhancing environmental assets.”
“A mitigation bank works by creating or restoring wetlands,” said Mark Messersmith, environmental manager for the SPA. “Based on quality of the improvements that are made, the Army Corps of Engineers gives you ‘credits’ that can be used to mitigate future impacts from other projects.”
Working with Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust to preserve the property seemed like “a great fit,” Messersmith said. And it means that the area can be environmentally protected and utilized by community members.
“The effort will create habitat, and the area can expect to see water quality improvements,” he said. “There will also be public access around the perimeter.”
An original creek filled in with dredging materials more than 50 years ago will also be restored as part of the project. The overall initiative, which includes the clearing of brush and replanting of marsh grasses, will cost around $1 million, Messersmith said, and will take about a year to complete once construction begins.
The project is quite possibly the largest saltwater restoration effort in South Carolina history.
“The only other saltwater mitigation or restoration that is occurring is at the Savannah River basin in the tidal areas,” District 37 State Senator Larry Grooms said. “It’s an island that was purchased for conservation as part of mitigation for the Savannah River dredging project. But this one is much larger.”
Active work on planning for the Daniel Island project began in 2016, but talks about how to properly preserve the land for public use started long before then, according to Grooms, who has been involved from the start.
“It’s been a start and stop process from the initial conversations we had with the port…when the idea first surfaced that this could be a wonderful asset for the community,” he said. “This is truly one of those win-win situations.” But before the project could progress, there were hurdles to overcome, Grooms said.
Site assessment work had to be completed, and then legal issues with a contractor hired to do the work held things up, followed by a complete shutdown due to COVID from about 2020 to 2022. Now things are finally moving forward, said Grooms, who envisions the saltwater mitigation bank site offering public access for passive recreation such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
BERKELEY COUNTY PARK & STATE LEASED LAND
As previously reported in The Daniel Island News, Berkeley County plans to purchase a separate 115-acre parcel of the SPA’s Daniel Island land, known as the North Island Tract, to create a new park.
“When you combine it with the North Island property, which can have more active recreation activities, you’ve got one of the best amenities that a community can have,” Grooms said.
Another 50 acres, set aside in 2015 by the SPA in a lease to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, can also be utilized for public recreation. Exact uses for the state’s PRT property have not yet been determined, but the public will be asked to weigh in.
“I think a lot of that would be driven by what the community wants to see there,” Grooms said. “The PRT doesn’t want to hold the property, but that’s where it’s parked right now, until the city and county can come together to decide what they want to see there. When you add that land with the other two parcels, you’ve got the makings of a very unique park. And I think they should all be tied together and the various usages mapped out.”
The end result would set aside some 300 acres and create 2.5 miles of protected shoreline along the Cooper River – giving Daniel Island residents and visitors new opportunities to enjoy a prized stretch of land they simply could not access before.
“We’re proud to be involved in holding the conservation easement (for the saltwater mitigation bank) and protecting that 135 acres in perpetuity,” said Chris Vaughn, executive director of Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust.
“It’s wonderful that it’s going to be connected to this new Berkeley County park and then the (State) Parks, Recreation and Tourism lease area,” Vaughn said. “I think it all ties together neatly for open space and the benefit of residents of Daniel Island, as well as folks who enjoy the Cooper River.”
Grooms, who has worked for more than two decades on finding uses for the island’s port land, sees an even bigger picture.
“Something that was once going to be the largest container terminal on the East Coast is now going to be one of the best natural preserved parks on the East Coast.”
Island resident organizes Spooky Tour
thedanielislandnews.comhttps://thedanielislandnews.com/news/island-resident-organizes-spooky-tour
Ghosts, ghouls and goblins have found a home on Daniel Island, all thanks to the spirits of one islander family – Scott and Heather Engler.Some call this month October, others view it as Halloween time. Scott and his family only know it as spooky season, a time for haunted houses and eerie specters to roam the streets.In 2021, he took it upon himself to transform the neighborhood into a thrilling maze of ghostly abodes, all for the pleasure of fellow neighbors and Halloween fanatics. The Daniel Island Spooky Tour was born...
Ghosts, ghouls and goblins have found a home on Daniel Island, all thanks to the spirits of one islander family – Scott and Heather Engler.
Some call this month October, others view it as Halloween time. Scott and his family only know it as spooky season, a time for haunted houses and eerie specters to roam the streets.
In 2021, he took it upon himself to transform the neighborhood into a thrilling maze of ghostly abodes, all for the pleasure of fellow neighbors and Halloween fanatics. The Daniel Island Spooky Tour was born out of a simple desire: to bring the spine-chilling joy of the spooky season closer to home.
Engler, the mind behind this frightful festivity, was inspired by the excitement his daughter Austen found in exploring haunted houses on James Island.
“When we first moved here in 2019, we saw the [James Island] houses and said, ‘Oh my gosh, this is better than Disney,’” Engler said.
Determined to create the same magic within Daniel Island (and tired of driving 30 minutes away), he organized a group of willing neighbors in transforming the island into a haunted wonderland, a place where families and friends can experience the thrill of the spooky season without venturing too far from home.
“At first it was just for friends, but then it blew up. Now I feel like I have an obligation.”
Now in its third year, the Daniel Island Spooky Tour invites all islanders and visitors to cruise around the neighborhoods and explore the front yards of 31 haunted houses – and counting.
In addition to the hair-raising tour, each haunted house is named in relation to their Halloween decorations. The creativity of the residents knows no bounds, as each house boasts its own unique theme. Residents can expect to see spine-tingling displays at houses such as “House of Skulls,” “Tarantula Lair,” “Web of Death” and more.
Lisa Strehmel, who has her “House of Dragons” on display, says she chose her theme based on her daughter’s love for dragons from a young age. “Our girls are out of high school now but we love continuing to decorate every year because the kids in the neighborhood love seeing the dragons so much!”
Fellow resident Joanna Loiselle has found the seasonal house transformation to be a family tradition. “We absolutely love Halloween on Daniel Island! The kids look forward to golf carting around to see the decorations each year. This is such a special community!”
Brace yourselves for a hauntingly delightful experience. This year, the Spooky Tour is taking it up a notch. Engler said since there will be so many people, it will have to be a “shotgun” or “choose your own adventure” kind of tour where everyone can start at different places and drive to see all 31 houses on their golf carts or cars.
This year’s tour will also include a contest of four categories, judging the houses on the spookiest house, most creative, most fun and overall best haunted house.
Residents and visitors are invited to decorate their golf carts and ride along the haunted houses on Sunday, Oct. 29, beginning at 6:30 p.m. and vote for their favorites. Post your photos and comments in the DI Spooky Tour 23 Facebook group.
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, a handy map of the participating houses has been made available. Whether you travel by foot, golf cart, car or bike, Engler has created a self-guided tour of each participating house that has decked out on decorations. Each house can be found on the Maps app by visiting tinyurl.com/a336d5f3.
For fans of the island’s decorative tour, fear not. Engler is also the driving force behind the Cheer Tour, a festive neighborhood decoration tour featuring houses adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and ornaments.
Engler’s dedication to fostering a sense of community through these projects has evolved Daniel Island into an ever-vibrant hub of seasonal celebration.
“It gives you something to look forward to and feel like part of the community,” Engler said of his decoration tours. “It also gives people recognition of their homes. They put a lot of work into this.”
Engler and each Spooky Tour resident invite all islanders and visitors to stroll through the haunted streets of Daniel Island, a realm where the spooky and the spectacular collide. Happy hauntings, everyone!
The Spooky Tour houses are available to view from now until Halloween. Engler’s Christmas Cheer Tour will begin shortly after Thanksgiving.
Daniel Island Recreation Center redefines senior engagement
Emma Slavenhttps://thedanielislandnews.com/news/daniel-island-recreation-center-redefines-senior-engagement
What do you think when you hear the words “senior center?”If you picture elderly people playing shuffleboard, eating bland meals in front of a blaring TV, think again.The Daniel Island Recreation Center is a vibrant, action-packed hub for seniors, offering an array of daily activities designed to foster social connections, promote physical well-being and keep the mind sharp. Located at 160 Fairbanks Drive, the center can provide an outlet for local seniors to look forward to, with indoor and outdooractivities...
What do you think when you hear the words “senior center?”
If you picture elderly people playing shuffleboard, eating bland meals in front of a blaring TV, think again.
The Daniel Island Recreation Center is a vibrant, action-packed hub for seniors, offering an array of daily activities designed to foster social connections, promote physical well-being and keep the mind sharp. Located at 160 Fairbanks Drive, the center can provide an outlet for local seniors to look forward to, with indoor and outdoor
activities to enjoy every weekday.
“I’ve made a lot of friends here,” Ray Daoi said with a smile after a recent game of pickleball.
Fellow pickleball aficionado, Teresa Donohue, added, “It’s all about the friendships and the sense of community.”
Jennifer Nelsen, the facility manager, explained, “The Daniel Island Recreation Center provides opportunities for our seniors to learn new skills and meet new people with common interests.
Many of the people who participate in our classes have met friends, and it’s great to see them chatting about their lunch plans or what their next activity together is.”
MJ Mascarin, a regular at the Cards and Coffee sessions, highlighted the effects of the center’s daily activities for seniors. “I think it’s good for our brains!”
Friendship and staying active is the essence of community felt at the Daniel Island Recreation Center. Here, the activities aren’t just games; they’re avenues for forging connections, uplifting spirits and promoting physical and mental health.
“Some of the best programming that we have been able to bring here has been from the ideas or connections from our participants,” Nelsen encouraged. “We hope to continue to foster those opportunities!”
From card games and coffee to instructor-led fitness classes, here is what seniors can expect to find at the Daniel Island Recreation Center.
Cards and Coffee (Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., $1): Seniors can enjoy a friendly game of canasta, mahjong, scrabble or pinochle in an open play setting. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite games, fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
Bridge (Wednesdays, 12-3 p.m., $1): Enthusiasts of bridge can reserve their spot for an engaging session by calling 843-216-6366. The game brings together strategic thinking and camaraderie.
Senior Social Group (Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Free): Seniors gather in the large conference room to socialize, discuss current events, share family stories and enjoy snacks. This group provides a warm and welcoming environment for social interaction.
Senior Fitness (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Various Times, $5 per class): Led by experienced instructors Erica and Carla, the chair-based fitness class focuses on upper body strength, lower body exercises and core strengthening. The classes help seniors maintain their physical health in a supportive environment.
Pickleball (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., $2 resident/$4 nonresident): Pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels can enjoy open play sessions on the center’s two basketball courts. Equipment is available for borrowing, ensuring everyone can participate.
Looking ahead, the Daniel Island Recreation Center plans to introduce a line dancing class. The center invites individuals interested in instructing a class or proposing new activities to get in touch with Jennifer Nelsen at nelsenj@charleston-sc.gov or by phone at 843-216-6366.
Disclaimer:
