Buying a home is one of the most significant investments that you will ever make. Like most good things, finding the perfect home comes with a lot of work. From your initial search online to your home tour and finally closing, there are many difficult decisions to make along the way. The bottom line is that the entire home buying process can be very stressful, especially when it comes to finding the right mortgage broker and loan for your new home. Since market conditions and mortgage programs change frequently, you have a lot riding on your broker's ability to provide quick and accurate financial advice. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or own several residential properties, you need a mortgage broker in Folly Beach, SC, who can educate you on mortgage rates and provide trustworthy guidance to help you make an informed decision.
My name is Dan Crance - Folly Beach's most trusted mortgage loan officer with more than 30 years in the mortgage industry. I bring unparalleled insight and decades of experience into your home loan process. If you're looking for a new home loan, are interested in refinancing your current mortgage, or need information regarding FHA, VA, or other types of loans, Dan Crance is Your Mortgage Man.
Unlike some mortgage loan officers in Folly Beach, my primary goal is to help you make the right mortgage choice for you and your family. Mortgage lenders have a horrible reputation for turning over clients quickly to expedite cash flow and make the most money possible. While some mortgage brokers come off as pushy and impatient, I encourage my clients to take as much time as they need to ask questions and review their mortgage agreements. I'm here to help answer those questions and provide you with easy-to-understand advice so that you can rest easy knowing you made the right choice. I could say that I strive to provide service that exceeds your expectations, but I'd rather show you. In the end, I want you to leave feeling confident in the loan you've selected, as well as in your choice of broker.
Clients choose my mortgage company because I truly care about helping them navigate the often-confusing landscape of the mortgage process. I am fiercely dedicated to my clients and make every effort to provide them with trustworthy advice and an open line of communication.
In my business, I work for two different customers. On one hand, I have the buyer: the person entrusting me with the responsibility of guiding them through one of the most important decisions ever. Serving homebuyers is not a task that I take lightly. I work with them daily to help them through the process and provide timely updates and news on their mortgage status. On the other hand, I have the realtor: the person who works with my client to find their dream home. Since their commission is in my hands, working with realtors is also a very important task. I update these agents on the status of their customers weekly. Only when I take care of both parties can I say my job as a mortgage loan officer is complete.
As a mortgage broker with more than 30 years of experience, I pledge to give you the highest level of customer service while providing you with the most competitive loan products available. That way, you can buy the home of your dreams without second-guessing your decision.
At Classic Home Mortgage, our team works diligently to close on time without stress or hassle. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or are buying your new home in Folly Beach, we understand how much stress is involved. Our goal is to help take that stress off of your plate by walking you through every step of the home loan process. Because every one of our clients is different, we examine each loan with fresh eyes and a personalized approach, to find you the options and programs you need.
With over 30 years as a mortgage professional in Folly Beach, Dan Crance will help you choose the home loan, interest rate, term options, and payment plans that fit your unique situation.
30-Year Loan - This loan is often considered the most secure option to choose. With a 30-year loan, you can lock in a low payment amount and rest easy knowing your rate won't change.
FHA Loan - If you're not able to make a large down payment, an FHA loan could be the right choice for you. With an FHA loan, many of our clients have successfully purchased a home with less than 4% down.
VA Loan - This loan is reserved for military veterans and active-duty men and women. Those who qualify may be able to purchase a home with no down payment and no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).
Choosing a home loan is an important step in the home buying process. At Classic Home Mortgage, we are here to make choosing a loan as easy as possible, so you can focus on the joys of being a homeowner. Contact our team of experts today and ask how you can get pre-qualified for your home loan in Folly Beach, SC.
Because home mortgage rates in the U.S. have been so low over the last year, many current homeowners are opting to refinance their home loans. Simply put, refinancing is replacing your existing mortgage with a different mortgage under new terms. Homeowners who refinance their homes enjoy lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, and even turn their home's equity into cash. If you're interested in refinancing your home, it all begins with a call to your mortgage broker in Folly Beach, SC - Dan Crance.
Refinancing from a 30-year to a 15-year mortgage might seem counterproductive on the surface because your monthly payment usually goes up. However, interest rates on 15-year mortgages are lower. And when you shave off years of your previous mortgage, you will pay less interest over time. These savings can be very beneficial if you are not taking the mortgage interest deduction on your tax returns.
FHA loans are notorious for paying premiums for the life of the loan. Mortgage insurance premiums for FHA loans can cost borrowers as much as $1,050 a year for every $100k borrowed. The only way to get rid of mortgage insurance premiums is to refinance to a new loan that the Federal Housing Authority does not back.
Sometimes, borrowers with adjustable-rate mortgages refinance so they can switch to a fixed rate, which lets them lock in an interest rate. Doing so is beneficial for some homeowners who like to know exactly how much their monthly payment is each month. Conversely, some homeowners with fixed rates prefer to refinance to an adjustable-rate mortgage. Homeowners often go this route if they plan on selling in a few years and don't mind risking a higher rate if their plans fall through.
Finding the right loan can be a difficult proposition, even if you have been through the process before. This is especially true since mortgage rates and market conditions change frequently. If you're like most of my clients, you probably have questions about interest rates, refinancing options, and a litany of other topics. To help alleviate some of your stress, here are just a few common questions with answers so that you can better educate yourself as we work our way to securing your loan.
Whether you're selling, buying, refinancing, or building the home of your dreams, you have a lot riding on your home loan specialist. When you need a mortgage broker who works tirelessly for you, answers your questions, provides guidance, and does so with a genuine smile, Dan Crance is your mortgage man. Contact Dan today at 843-478-5612 to get pre-approved and discover why Folly Beach loves Classic Home Mortgage.
After hours by appointment only. CONTACT DANHave you visited Folly Beach, SC? No matter what kind of beach trip you are looking for, you can find it on the barrier islands of Charleston, South Carolina. Folly Beach is your best bet for the perfect mix of relaxing beaches and spots to dine. Folly Island is 18 square miles of sand and sun and offers a beach town vibe just 20 minutes from the tourist attractions of Charleston. This article includes:...
Have you visited Folly Beach, SC? No matter what kind of beach trip you are looking for, you can find it on the barrier islands of Charleston, South Carolina. Folly Beach is your best bet for the perfect mix of relaxing beaches and spots to dine. Folly Island is 18 square miles of sand and sun and offers a beach town vibe just 20 minutes from the tourist attractions of Charleston.
This article includes:Public Beach Access on Folly IslandFolly Island Places to Eat
Take A Trip To Visit More Beaches That Are Located Not Far From The Upstate!
The beaches of the Low Country offer something for everyone when it comes to a beach trip. For a quiet, non-commercialized beach experience, Kiawah Island’s Beach Walker Park is my go-to option. However, if a tourist-heavy, commercialized expertise is what you seek, Isle Of Palms fits the bill.
If a sandy spot somewhere in the middle of both is what you want, then the beaches of Folly Island are perfect. They are family-friendly, quiet, and some access points have restrooms and showers for beachgoers to use. The downtown area of Folly Island offers a funky beach town vibe that’s solidified its place in the history of the SC coast.
Here’s a Great Map of Folly Island To Show The Kids
This Stay 22 Map contains affiliate links that will help you find the perfect place to stay near Folly Beach!
With six miles of shoreline, there’s no shortage of sand to spread out on when visiting Folly Beach. Finding beach access isn’t difficult, but depending on your family’s needs, one access might be more suitable than another.
Located on the southern tip of Folly Island, the county park offers families all of the amenities they might need including showers, restrooms, a seasonal concession stand, seasonal lifeguards, and chair rentals.
The parking fees range from $5-$20, depending on the season, and are $20 on weekends and summer holidays. Park gates are open from 8 am to sunset.
The Folly Beach Ocean Park is located at the end of West Arctic Avenue. It offers beachgoers restroom and shower facilities that are free and open to the public (currently only open during the summer.)
At the end of nearly every block on the island there is a beach access pathway. Some spots include parking if space permits, otherwise you can park streetside.
The further you drive away from the pier, the less the metered parking costs. By quite a bit. If you aren’t trying to be right next to the pier and center street, drive a few miles north to find cheaper meter rates. The parking meter fees can be paid through a kiosk, or with the PARK Folly Beach app.
The centerpiece of Folly Island is the Folly Beach Pier. The pier was recently renovated. Amenities at Folly Beach Pier include the gift shop, restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and wheelchair beach access.
The Pier 101 Restaurant is open Wednesday through Monday, and offers seafood, sandwiches, and more!
Swimming is permitted on the beach that flanks the sides of the pier, however, the undertow can become dangerous near the pier causing unsafe conditions. Also, people throw baited hooks off of that pier looking to catch “a big un”. I don’t know about you, but I would prefer not to be swimming near where people are reeling in jaws.
The parking fees range from $5-$20, depending on the season, and are $20 on weekends and summer holidays. Pier hours vary by season, so be sure to check the park’s site before venturing out.
There are plenty of spots to choose from when it comes to meals on Folly Island. These are just a few of our favorites when we head out to spend the day on Folly Beach.
Taco BoyAmeri-mex style food with a kid’s menu, and a full bar. Great spot for nachos and margs after a day on the beach.
The perfect spot for breakfast or brunch, The Lost Dog has sandwiches, burgers, breakfast (all day), and more.
Saint James Gate Proper Irish Pub & Three Monkey’s Ice CreamThe menu here has a little bit of everything, including tacos. It’s kid & dog-friendly! Plus they have some delicious dessert options.
The Pineapple HutIf you spend any time on Folly Island, you are bound to see people walking down the street with a pineapple in their hands. This food truck is where it came from, filled with Dole Whip, or one of their weekly special flavors of soft-serve style ice cream. (March through November).
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — A beautiful day of beach-goings went on Thursday following a night of rising tides on Folly Beach. While those beachgoers were busy having fun Folly leaders were busy uncovering a sad truth about Tropical Storm Idalia's impact: Sand on the beach could become a dwindling commodity.“This is actually the worst erosion we’ve seen since the passage of Hurricane Matthew back in 2016," said Nicole Elko, the Coastal Consultant for the City of Folly Beach.Wednesday night's unusually high...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — A beautiful day of beach-goings went on Thursday following a night of rising tides on Folly Beach. While those beachgoers were busy having fun Folly leaders were busy uncovering a sad truth about Tropical Storm Idalia's impact: Sand on the beach could become a dwindling commodity.
“This is actually the worst erosion we’ve seen since the passage of Hurricane Matthew back in 2016," said Nicole Elko, the Coastal Consultant for the City of Folly Beach.
Wednesday night's unusually high tide was a challenge for the beach.
Read more: Second Lowcountry tornado confirmed in North Mt. Pleasant.
“So we are five years since our last renourishment. So, we weren't very prepared going into this hurricane season with sand on the beach," said Elko.
Idalia's impact caused up to 15 feet of dune loss in some spots. Even higher numbers in others. With three months left in Hurricane Season, Folly could see even more erosion before the next renourishment happens.
Elko tells us, “We won't have any sand on the beach for Hurricane season and we will be extremely vulnerable for the next month or two.”
Efforts are underway to work with the Army Corps of Engineers to hopefully speed up the renourishment timeline. The work could start in the Winter or as late as March 24.
Read more: INTERVIEW; Mayor Crawford Moore assesses damage at Edisto Beach.
With an Emergency Declaration approved by President Joe Biden on Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers could go in and help local spots like Folly Beach impacted by Idalia.
Jeff Livasy, the Chief of Civil Works for the Corps Charleston branch, said "What we anticipate doing from this event is looking at the storm damage and then we will be asking if we can basically, incorporate that into our ongoing activities and say, 'okay, we anticipated, you know, a set number or, you know, so many cubic yards of loss from Hurricane Ian.
"We now quantify that we got a little bit more from this hurricane are we eligible for the funding from last year or can we get additional funding and just keep the same efforts going but at an increased quantity."
Meanwhile, a number of folks were enjoying the change in weather over the 24-hour span. Some families and even beach-goers going solo were busy using metal detectors searching for "treasures." More importantly was just the chance to enjoy a great day of surf and sand regardless of the erosion status.
“It’s the perfect day. Like I don’t think we’ve had a better day this entire summer. It’s still catchable waves and it’s like 70 degrees all day," said surfer Georgia Myrick
Read more: Charleston leverages storm cleanup to discuss future resilience amid rising sea levels.
When my grandma made this summer’s vacation plans for Folly Beach, South Carolina, the rest of my family and I had never heard of it before.For years, my brothers and I have always gone on vacation during the summer with our grandparents, who we call Mimi and Poppy.We’ve been to Myrtle Beach twice, Virginia Beach,...
When my grandma made this summer’s vacation plans for Folly Beach, South Carolina, the rest of my family and I had never heard of it before.
For years, my brothers and I have always gone on vacation during the summer with our grandparents, who we call Mimi and Poppy.
We’ve been to Myrtle Beach twice, Virginia Beach, Ocean City, Maryland twice, New York City and Canada.
Wherever we go, it’s always an adventure with the Graves Family, and Folly Beach was no exception.
Our journey began at the Akron-Canton Airport, where our night flight to Charleston was delayed until around 10:30 p.m.
When we landed in Charleston, we took a long 45-minute cab ride and finally arrived at Folly Beach shortly after 1:00 a.m.
As we walked into our hotel, the Tides, we were greeted by a wall of men’s body spray smell that filled the lobby along with our favorite icon of the trip, Susan, who had the midnight shift at the front desk.
When we first got to our hotel room, exhausted and hungry from our long night of traveling, we decided to venture out and explore the town at 2:00 in the morning.
Susan, who we jokingly imagined running through the hallways spraying the men’s cologne that stunk up the hotel, directed us down the block to a 24-hour store called Bert’s Market to satisfy our late-night cravings.
As we walked down the street, the town immediately reminded my grandma of the beach town described in Jimmy Buffett’s famous “Margaritaville” song, with the shops and unique restaurants that surrounded us.
The town was dead.
I remember all of us laughing and joking that our vacation might be a bust because of how lifeless the town seemed.
But as soon as we stepped inside Bert’s, it seemed like the only place still alive. The sound of a piano playing flowed through the crammed market, and when we turned around, someone was actually playing a piano in the corner.
The store sold everything from groceries and hot foods to music supplies. We grabbed some snacks and trotted back to our hotel, drained from the night.
We went to bed wondering what Folly Beach would have in store for us. After our three days, it turned out to be my favorite beach vacation, and I think more people should know just how special it is.
The beach, which is south of Charleston, is on Folly Island. The Atlantic Ocean and the Folly River surround the island, and there is also a pier stretching over 1,000 feet into the ocean.
What makes this beach stand out from others is that it’s not as commercialized as more popular places, and it’s a much more relaxed beach town.
Our hotel had an oceanfront view, so we were able to walk right out onto the beach. Since it’s a tight-knit beach town, many of the shops and restaurants were within walking distance. However, we rented a golf cart so we could explore the island.
On our golf cart, we passed through countless rows of beach houses. Each one was styled differently with colors and textures, and palm trees lined the town.
For the rest of our stay, the streets were full of life, and the down-to-earth atmosphere made you feel right at home.
We spent our days relaxing on the beach and eating our way through Folly. Though it might not sound thrilling, it was exactly what we needed.
Another fact about this town is that there aren’t any chain restaurants. Instead, there are a wide variety of local restaurants, bars and cafes that attract tourists to their dining rooms each day.
My favorite was Taco Boy, a three-story hideaway that features a rooftop bar. Hanging above the patio bar is an upcycled octopus, a piece of artwork made entirely of trash.
They serve tons of specialty tacos and, of course, tequila. I ordered their Taco Americano and Baja fish tacos, and they were the best tacos I’ve ever had.
We went to several other restaurants on our journey, including the Lost Dog Café, which serves breakfast all day and has walls covered with dog photos.
As our vacation came to an end, we realized that the laid-back “Margaritaville” vibe that Folly Beach gave off was the kind of vacation we were looking for.
Even though it may not be as popular as Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head, I was drawn to the tides of Folly Beach, and I think it’s highly underrated.
Aden is an opinion writer. Contact him at agrave10@kent.edu.
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FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Tami Bourne has lived on folly beach for over three decades.However, because of a recent development plan on Folly's beachfront lots, she is concerned.Folly Beach resident fears overbuilding amid ongoing legal battle over beachfront development. (WCIV)"When you have these disasters, these hurricanes, houses blow into houses," Bourne said. "So the more you put out there, the more it's gonna' get blown into the water. So it's just a problem that way. And also with the hurting...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Tami Bourne has lived on folly beach for over three decades.
However, because of a recent development plan on Folly's beachfront lots, she is concerned.
Folly Beach resident fears overbuilding amid ongoing legal battle over beachfront development. (WCIV)
"When you have these disasters, these hurricanes, houses blow into houses," Bourne said. "So the more you put out there, the more it's gonna' get blown into the water. So it's just a problem that way. And also with the hurting the beach as far as making it erode more."
The super beachfront lots are along East Ashley Avenue, just north of the washout down to the lighthouse.
Read more: South Carolina workers face job loss due to stalled worker's compensation claims.
"These lots were platted back in at least the 1950s," Leslie Lenhardt said, "and they are the most seaward of any lots that were platted on Folly Beach."
The plots are currently held in trust by the state for the public to enjoy. Some property owners attempted to claim ownership after the 2018 Folly Beach Renourishment Project.
"So for a very short period of time after that Renourishment, these lots became high ground," Lenhardt said. "These property owners, what they are trying to do during this window of time is to develop those lots."
Read more: Dorchester District 2 board to review long-awaited salary study in bid to stay competitive.
This is a legal battle that goes back to 2020. A judge hear motions on whether developers could build on those lots. The legal maneuvering is ongoing, with the issue expected to go before another court in the coming months.
"The Court of Appeals has remanded the case," Lenhardt said. "Because it's a novel issue, the court said we really want a judge to determine whether or not this is a recognizable theory under the law."
Multiple preservation groups and the city say they want to figure out the boundary between private and public property while preserving the beach.
"I'd like to keep folly as it is," Bourne said. "It's unique. It's funky. And I hate to see it get overbuilt and our beaches overbuilt."
People like to call Folly Beach the “fun” beach, and maybe it is, especially if you’re visiting for the restaurants and bars.But there’s also a measure of serenity here if you know where, and when, to look.Here’s the best way to find it: Get here early; 7 a.m. should work — before the traffic on the only road in and out becomes a nightmare.Bring the dog if you have one: From May through September, they’re allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.Check the tides ...
People like to call Folly Beach the “fun” beach, and maybe it is, especially if you’re visiting for the restaurants and bars.
But there’s also a measure of serenity here if you know where, and when, to look.
Here’s the best way to find it: Get here early; 7 a.m. should work — before the traffic on the only road in and out becomes a nightmare.
Bring the dog if you have one: From May through September, they’re allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Check the tides online before you arrive: at high tide, part of this walk is underwater.
Park in the grass just outside Folly Beach County Park. Make sure your tires aren’t on the pavement or you’ll have a ticket when you get back.
Take a right when your feet hit the sand.
Keep going, past the pelicans flying so low they could dip their toes in the water, past the last jetty trying to keep the sand from washing away.
Before you’ve walked a mile, you’ll reach a bend in the beach. This is the spot.
To the left, waves lap at the coast. To the right, still water.
It feels like you’ve reached the end of the ocean. Or the beginning.
Sit in the sand. Before you head back to civilization, let the scene wash through your eyes and into your body.
Explore
The Washout
Head to the other end of the island if your companion is a surfboard instead of a dog. A spot off East Ashley Avenue known as The Washout is a favorite for surfers. A bit farther along the street, a paved trail covered in graffiti leads to a small beach with views of the Morris Island Lighthouse.
If you’re brave enough, join the kite surfers being pulled along the water on windy days, sometimes soaring high above the surface before splashing back down.
Folly Beach pier
The pier reopened in December 2022 after a two-year, $14 million rebuild. It’s 1,049 feet long. The pier has been a part of Folly Beach — you can’t miss it if you head toward the sand — since the 1930s. Pay $5 for an all-day fishing pass or just walk to the end and listen to the water.
The pier is open from 8 a.m. to sunset.
Eat and drink like a local
Lost Dog Cafe
For brunch, the go-to meal for late sleepers or early drinkers, try Lost Dog Cafe. Located in a former laundromat on West Huron Avenue, you can find breakfast and bloodies on the menu all day. Try a breakfast burrito, or grab some fried green tomatoes and a chicken salad croissant from the lunch menu. And like many other eateries in Folly, your dog is welcome to join you.
Jack of Cups
A favorite of The Post and Courier’s food editor, Jack of Cups on Center Street has a menu built for the adventurous eater. Boasting a bevy of vegetarian options on a menu the owners describe as “globally inspired,” the kitchen also cranks out dishes you probably never come across at home: Among them: Cap’n Crunch deviled eggs, dill pickle soup and unicorn pop rock cheesecake.
The Bounty Bar
Created by the owners of The Royal American in Charleston, The Bounty Bar on Center Street aspires to serve “better than it has to be” bar food. It’s open until 1 a.m. daily and has you covered whether you’re craving seafood, chicken or steak.
Chico Feo
Head to Chico Feo on East Ashley Avenue for tacos, beer and live music. Check their calendar for musical performances. Or show up on a Monday for soapbox night, when you can sign up to take the stage and show off your talent, whether it’s singing, spoken word or parlor tricks.
Shopping
If you need groceries or a quick snack, try Bert’s Market on East Ashley Avenue.
A smattering of surf and beach shops in the heart of town will have everything you need for a day on the beach, including the towel or sunscreen you accidentally left at home.
While you’re indoors — easily the worst place to be at Folly Beach — you can also pick up some souvenirs for the family members who couldn’t join you.
If you plan to spend most of your time on the beach, there are some rules you should remember:
No alcohol, glass containers, plastic bags, balloons, Styrofoam, open fires, fireworks or littering.
Surfing without a leash is prohibited. From May 15 to Sept. 15, surfing is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West. From Sept. 16 to May 14, surfing is allowed in any area. It is prohibited within 200 feet of the fishing pier.
Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers.
To protect sea turtle hatchlings, no lights are allowed that illuminate the front beach between 10 p.m. and dawn from May 1-Oct. 31. For a full list of beach rules, check visitfolly.com.
Reach John Ramsey at 843-906-9351. Follow him on Twitter @johnwramsey.
Food editor Parker Milner contributed to this report.