JL's Columbia SC Real Estate Blog: August 2009

 I hear and read a lot these days about how difficult the business of real estate has become. How hard it is to remain motivated in the face of eternal detriment as the hand of today's economy. How short sales, foreclosures, and frightened public perception of the distorted American Dream has drained the life from what we once considered fun.

 But did you forget so quickly that beyond the trappings of business you are also the guide to a brand new life? The sometimes you are beyond blessed by your ability to ingrain your occupation into the lives of real life people, known as clients, who beyond the obstacles of the modern day forge a brand new life that you have a hand in creating. It shouldn't be so hard to remember that you have one of the greatest opportunities in the world and you spend all your time referring to it as a job or just another career in the midst of volitile complacency that has engulfed our existence.

 Remember that frightened excitement of the last family that relocated to your area?Remember that the nervous energy was a power that you could feel in the air and it was almost electric? Everything had a life of it's own from the first phone call, to the hunt for the perfect new home, to the gut wrenching moments we wrote the contract, to the uncontrollable smiles as they received the key at closing. You were there every step of the way and there was nowhere you would rather be in the world.

 Remember those first time home buyers that could even decide why they called much less where to go from here. They just knew that had hopes, dreams, and the overwhelming desire to carve out their own spot in this world and they needed you to protect them in the process. And after all the headache, heartache, and sleepless nights they found the place that they just knew was right for them and there it was, one more welcome mat and Weber sold a new grill. Because this time, there would be no hanging out at the apartment or our house, but everyone would grill out in the backyard of their home. And you could see the smile involuntarily curling up from the edge of their lips every time they uttered the word.

 And you still think this is a hard thing to do? Well, in some ways of course it is, I'll take nothing away from the hard times of the world we face today. But can you remember the times that make it worth it? I sure can! And I consider myself far more blessed than cursed!

www.jlboney.com

 One of the largest mistakes that I see people make in this business, and in life in general in my opinion, is try to conform to the norm. I'm not sure why it is that so many people are hesitant to strike their own path and go against the grain.

 In the end I feel like you and your clients would be better served if you are willing to chart your own path. You have to be willing to take some risks and rise above the normal tone of mediocrity that's become the average. And in the end, who really wants to be known as average?

 Make a conscious to decide what it is that sets you apart from the crowd. The last thing you need to do is blend into the background and become like everyone else. Instead you need to turn heads and create a sense of excitement that surrounds you through your ability to try new things. See what the rest of the crowd is doing and add your own twist.

 If no one else in your area is really blogging, then capture the opportunity that they have presented to you. Blog your heart out to reap the rewards of better SEO and prove that you are not like the rest of the crowd. Maybe your background sets you apart. I was once a high end finisher that worked on $20,000 beds. When you charge that much for a bed, it has to be as close to perfect as one human can make it. Therefore, my background makes me very detailed and meticulous.

 Maybe you want to pass out boomerangs to your sphere and farm areas that say you'll keep coming back. Just make sure whatever you do it's memorable and it makes you stand out. You are not prey, so there is no reason to hide. You're not a spy, so secrecy has never been and never will be your friend. Bland may get you by, but it won't get you where you truly want to be. So make sure you're loud every chance you get, because you never know when the right person will be listening.

www.jlboney.com

Columbia, SC Attractions - Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens

 Home to more than 2,000 magnificent animals, the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens are a must see for anyone in the Columbia, SC area. The beautiful 170 acre site makes wonderful use of it's surroundings and features natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views and walking paths, inspiring valley overlooks, and some fascinating historic sites.

 For more than 30 years, Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens have offered a wonderful place for families, individuals, and groups to connect with and learn about the world's wildlife. Twice awarded the Governor's Cup for South Carolina's most outstanding tourist attraction, Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a crown jewel for recreation and education in the Southeast.

 Riverbanks Zoo and Garden plays host to visitors from all across the country and the world. It's exhibit lined paths invite visitors to stroll through at their on pace embarking on a journey to see some of the world's most wondrousanimals. Stop in the bird house to see the penguin exhibit and natural habitats full of various birds from African and Asian rain forests. Or stop in the Gorilla exhibit to see these massive and magnificent creatures on display and don't forget to stop in the state of the art aquarium that feature bright, colorful saltwater fish as well as a host of various reptiles to entertain your interest and curiosity.

 Just one trip and you will be hooked by this awe striking place and it's glory. It has been one of my favorite places in Columbia, SC since I was a child, but you certainly don't have to be a kid to enjoy all it has to offer. All you have to do is pass through the entrance and you will feel like a child again as you can't help but feel taken in by all the beauty that surrounds you.

 As if the animals themselves are not enough to make you want to come visit the Zoo, the botanical gardens are an attraction all their own. This 70 acre site boasts tons of eye catching color and beauty from thousands of blooms and is actually several gardens in one. With multitudes of lush, green shrubs and bushes to blooms of all shapes, sizes, and colors, you'll immediately fall in love with this area of Riverbanks.

 The backside of the Botanical Gardens has a walking trail that winds it's way along the Broad River and allows visitors to hike to and from the gardens. With fountains in the middle and plants from all across the globe, this is an excellent place to learn and see some nature's greatest creations. Fountains within the garden aid the serene experience and give the sound of running water to complete the spectrum of senses touched by this fascinating place. A perfect way to cap off or begin your visit to Riverbanks.

 In case you are still not completely convinced that this wonderful display of nature is a great place to visit, then let me explain that Riverbanks Zoo and Garden also plays host to several important historical sites. Located on the nature trails near the botanical gardens, each one has it's own significance for both Columbia's and the nations history.

In February of 1865 Confederate Soldiers burned down the Old State Road Bridge, a covered bridge that crossed the Saluda River, in an attempt to keep Sherman's army from entering the city of Columbia, SC. The abutments and supporting piers can be seen from the the Saluda River foot bridge, the bridge that connects the zoo to the botanical gardens. Sherman ordered his men to construct a temporary floating bridge to cross the river, and it is believed that the lumber came from the old Saluda Mill. Of course, the rest is well known history.

 Camp Sorghum, located on the garden side of the river below the old state road, and was a confederate prisoner of war camp. Established in 1864, it consisted of a 5 acre open field with no walls, fences, buildings, or facilities. Instead wooden boards placed 10 feet within the boundary presented the deadline for the camp and escapes were common. By the end of 1864, a reported 1,300 Union solders were held in the camp before being moved to the Columbia Mental Hospital and then North Carolina upon word of the Federal approach. The camp received it's name from cornmeal and sorghum molasses that made up a staple of diet.

 Also located along the river on the garden side is the ruins of the Saluda Factory District. One of the oldest and largest textile mills in the state, during the Antebellum Period, it was made from local granite and completed around 1830. During the Civil War it was used to produce cloth for Confederate Uniforms and is surrounded by other buildings. Though burned by Federal Troops, the ruins are still visible on the Woodlands Walk.

 These are only a few examples of sites that make up the historical significance of Riverbanks Zoo and it's surrounding grounds. It's easy to spend an entire day here, so come early and plan to be here for a while attempting to discover it's many wonders. If you get tired, there are tons of benches to help take a load off and watch the animals nearest to you at the time. There is a playground for the children as well as a Mari go round near the Saluda River Foot Bridge.

 There are plenty of places throughout that you can grab a beverage, especially if you visit during the hot days of Summer. The temperature can stretch a little high here during certain times of the year, another reason to come early. There are even a couple of sit down spots like the Kenya Cafe if you need some lunch to recharge the batteries before continuing to embark on your journey through this magnificent Zoo.

 Riverbanks Zoo and Garden also plays host to several special events throughout the year. In Summer there is the Brew at the Zoo, which gives people the opportunity to sample great beer and wine while walking the grounds. This one of course is an after hours event and require separate tickets. There is also the Boo at the Zoo for the kids in October near Halloween. Parents and children are invited to come tour the zoo at night in full costume for tons of fun. And of course there is the famous Light Before Christmas which displays millions of lights for visitor to marvel at while touring the ground in the evening.

Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway off of the Greystone exit of I-26. Riverbanks is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Days. Adult tickets are $9.75, children 3-12 $7.25, and seniors and military are $8.50. Special hours and prices for other events. For more info visit www.rivierbanks.org.

www.jlboney.com

Columbia, SC Attractions - The Robert Mills House and Garden

Located in downtown Columbia, SC, The Robert Mills House is one of only five National Historic Landmarks in Columbia.Designed by Robert Mills, the first architect born and trained in the United States, he was also the first Federal architect and served under seven presidents. The Mansion is one of the few residential designs in his portfolio which includes some of the most prominent buildings in the country as well as the Washington Monument in our nation's capital.

 Englishmen Ainsley Hall and his wife Sara from lower Richland, hired Mills to design this stunning classic revival townhouse in 1823. Unfortunately prior to the completion of the home, Ainsley Hall passed away near Virginia on a trip to visit Sara. He left a contested estate due to an outdated will in which he left Sara the Mansion across the street from the Robert Mills House, their previous home which he had already sold.

 Sara Hall eventually sold the home to The Presbyterian Synod of South Carolina and Georgia and they established the mansion as a seminary in 1831. Several of the most influential pastors of the Presbyterian Church taught at the seminary. George Howe, SR, who was instrumental in the founding of the institution, Dr. Joseph R. Wilson, Woodrow Wilson's Father, and Dr. James Woodrow, the future president's Uncle to name a few. In 1927 the Columbia Theological Seminary mover to Decatur, Georgia and the mansion served as the Westerveldt Academy and then the Columbia Bible College, which is still in Columbia today, until 1960.

 In 1960 the Robert Mills House was slated for demolition and was prepared to be torn down.A grass roots movement by local Columbians was started in order to save this priceless piece of American history. What came to be known as the Historic Columbia Foundation eventually succeeded is saving the home from destruction. After extensive renovation effort to return this beautiful home to it's former glory and grander, it was opened to the public as a historical house museum in 1967.

 Now thanks to the efforts of this wonderful foundation, the mansion which never really served as it's intended use of a home, is now open for all to see. Surrounded by old Oak Trees, sprawling green lawns, and with a 100 year old Magnolia on the back lawn, the grounds of the Robert Mills House are a sight to behold themselves. The garden with it's pebbled walkways, well manicured shrubs, and blooming flowers invite guests to stroll through or have a seat on one of the benches and soak in it's natural beauty.

 So if you're visiting Columbia, SC, or if you're already here and have yet to take the opportunity to come see this lovely piece of history, I implore you to take the time to pay the Robert Mills House a visit. Even if you're not a history buff, there is something powerful about taking a walk through time as you stroll the tour of this fascinating home and garden. It is well worth the visit.

The Robert Mills House and Garden is located at 1616 Blanding Street in downtown Columbia, SC. It is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm with the last tour at 3 pm. And on Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm with the last tour at 4 pm. Tours are every hour on the hour and take from 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

 Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, College Students, and active Military. $3 for youths age 6 to 17 and free children 5 and under.

www.jlboney.com

Columbia, SC Restaurants - Cafe Strudel

 If you're looking for a great place in Columbia, SC to enjoy some great breakfast, brunch, or lunch, then you don't need to look any further than Cafe Strudel. Just across the Gervais Street Bridge on State Street in West Columbia, Cafe Strudel offers wonderful food in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. From the brick walls on the interior, to the original artwork for sale draped across the walls throughout, this is a fantastic place to enjoy some great local eats.

 Their breakfast and brunch entrees range from crab cakes on top of Hawaiian rolls with hash browns and over easy eggs. to a more traditional pancakes and sausage. There's a little something for everyone, no matter your taste. They also have some fantastic steaks, burgers, and sandwiches in case you're not in the mood for breakfast consumables.

 Just in case you're not really in the mood to eat at all and you just want a cool place to hang out for a while, Cafe Strudel also offers some great adult beverages at the bar. With great imports like Lion Stout and Smutty Nose, and all the regulars on top and available, you're sure to find something that's to your liking.

 Cafe Strudel is located at 118 State Street in West Columbia just next to the New Brookland Tavern. Monday through Wednesday thay are open from 8:30 am to 4:00 PM. Thursday Through Saturday they are open from 8:30 am to 11 pm and have live music in the evening. And they are open from 10 am to 3 pm on Sunday. So next chance you get to stop in for some great food and some great times, visit Cafe Strudel and have a blast.

www.jlboney.com

Columbia, SC Attractions - The South Carolina State Capitol Building and Grounds

 With all the things to do in downtown Columbia, SC, on of the often over looked attractions in the South Carolina State Capitol Building and grounds right in the heart of the city. They themselves can be a fascinating adventure for both visitors and locals alike.

 The South Carolina State Capitol Building is made of Granite with a copper dome, one of it's most well known features,  that's visible for various points throughout the city.Weighing in at more than 70,000 tons and a gross square footage of 130,673 feet, it certainly stands out from it's raised grounds. The North entrance faces Gervais Street and the South side faces South Main Street, placing the Capitol Building in a prime location in the heart of the South Carolina's Capitol city.

 The Corinthian Columns are monolith by design, carved from a single piece of stone, and are among the largest in the world. Each column stands 43 feet high and weighs in at 37 tons a piece. The dome was adding between 1900 and 1902 and used 44,000 pounds of copper to cover the outside, delivering it's unique appearance.

 In total there three buildings on the grounds, with the Gassette Building and the Blatt Building making up the others, but none as stately and stunning as the Capitol Building itself.Within the grounds there are plenty of spots to stop and marvel at this fantastic display of architecture and the lush, green grounds that surround it. With many monuments, landscaped areas, wonderful green grass , walkways, and a rose garden, the grounds themselves are a sight to behold. Each vantage point gives you a spectacular view of the Capitol Building as well as the heart of the city.

 The Capitol building is located just off of Gervais street, in the middle of Main, right on the edge of the Congaree Vista. So the next time you are in the Columbia area, stop by and see what these wonderful grounds have to offer. Even if you're a local, you may want to pop in and reconnect with a glorious piece of history right in our backyard.

Columbia, SC Attractions - The Congaree Vista in Down Town Columbia, SC

 Looking for entertainment in a unique surrounding, try the Congaree Vista in Columbia, SC. Once a warehouse district packed with textile mills and railroad stops, the Congaree Vista has now been transformed into the epicenter of arts and entertainment in the heart of down town Columbia. The interesting mix older, remodeled buildings and new construction gives the Vista a truly unique look all it's own.

 With the Columbia Museum of Art, Historical Home Museums, and the South Carolina State Capitol Building all housed within the Vista, there is a ton of history to be seen mixed in with all the fun to be had. With over 60 art galleries and specialty shops and over 40 restaurants and bars, there's plenty to do here in Columbia. This area of town attracts visitors from all over and with good reason.

 Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of abandoned warehouses, the Congaree Vista has become a beautiful and eclectic addition to down town Columbia, SC. The state of the art Columbia Convention Center hosts a ton events constantly and brings visitors from across the nation and the wold. The equally impressive Colonial Center also draws crowds as it plays host to some of the world's favorite musicians and various other large scale events. The Colonial Center also serves as home to the South Carolina Gamecocks for home games here in Columbia.

 Whether you're passing through, here on business, or just stopping by for a visit, The Congaree visit is a must see here in Columbia. It's wothout a doubt the heart of business and entertainment for our city. Filled with old churches, green areas, shopping, dinning, and various other activities, it's well worth the visit.

www.jlboney.com

 I've read a lot of articles about Longtail Keywords and there use in targeting an audience and placing high in Google rankings. The fact of the matter is that it's easier to after a very specific keyword rather than something more general. For example if you target Columbia, SC homes for sale in Longcreek Plantation, it's easier to rank high on search engines than if you were to target a more generic keyword like Columbia, SC homes for sale. The fact is that the generic keyword has a lot more competition than the Longtail, specific keyword.

 I've read some great debates on both sides of the fence when it come to longtail keywords and their value. The largest debate against longtail keyword use is that they are so specific, that the keyword may only be searched about 5 to 10 times a month and the less specific search terms will be used far more often by many more people. In the end you do want to be in front of as many people as possible.

 However, I will say that I have found that the more specific people are, then the more serious they are and the more prepared they are to buy a home. If a potential buyer or client says that they want to buy a house, that's not a lot of information. But, if they say that they want to buy a 3 bedroom, 2 and a half bath, 2,000 square foot, vinyl sided house in a community with amenities and near a lake, then we are getting somewhere and narrowing down the search.

 The fact is that things are always more easy when people know exactly what they want. Then we can easily take them where they need to be.

 To me, I see the value in chasing both types of keywords in an effort to gain optimum exposure. It takes a lot of work and effort to make your way to the top of the rankings for your town real estate on Google, but if you target a specific area of town or a specific community within the town, there is far less competition and it's not as difficult to achieve great results. It doesn't mean that you should abandon your efforts to rank higher for more used keywords.

 But if the people who are very specific are more prepared to buy because they know what they want, then you should certainly not blow it off as a waste of effort. Even if those terms are only search about 5 times a month, then that's 5 very serious and specific people that just saw you. And if you have 5 posts out there for this, then that's 25 people who are very serious and ready that just saw you and on and on.

 So in the end, while I understand people who claim that it's a waste of time to use longtail keywords to target potential clients, for me I will continue to use them. Frankly, to me there is no such thing as bad exposure when you are offering good information to the consumers. Whether it's info on your area or communities within the city, it's all a good thing. So don't be too quick to toss them aside as a waste, anything is worth a try when it only takes a little of your time and effort. And if it doesn't work, then oh well, I don't it's the first thing you ever did that wasn't a home run.

www.jlboney.com