Friday, July 3, 2026 / by Alex Krasnoff
Master-planned communities have become some of the most desirable places to live around Charlotte. Neighborhoods like Baxter Village, Masons Bend, Waterside at the Catawba, Sun City Carolina Lakes, and many others attract buyers with beautiful homes, resort-style amenities, walking trails, and a strong sense of community.
But while these neighborhoods offer plenty of advantages, they aren't the perfect fit for everyone.
Before buying into a master-planned community, it's important to understand the potential downsides.
1. HOA Fees Can Add Up
One of the biggest tradeoffs is the homeowners association (HOA).
Most master-planned communities charge monthly or annual HOA dues that help maintain amenities like:
Community pools
Clubhouses
Parks
Walking trails
Landscaping
Common areas
While many homeowners feel the amenities are worth the cost, the fees should be factored into your monthly housing budget.
2. More Rules and Restrictions ...
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Friday, November 21, 2025 / by Alex Krasnoff
If you're thinking about selling your home in York County, South Carolina, one of the first questions you’ll ask is:“How much will it actually cost me to sell?”
The good news: South Carolina is generally less expensive than many states when it comes to selling a home — but there are real costs you should plan for. Here’s an honest breakdown of what sellers in Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Lake Wylie, Rock Hill, and surrounding York County communities can expect.
1. Agent Commission
This is typically the largest selling expense and is agreed to in the listing agreement.Most sellers budget 5%–6% of the sale price, split between the listing and buyer’s agents.
Example on a $500,000 home:
Estimated commission: $25,000–$30,000
Note: Commission is always negotiable and depends on service level, marketing strategy, and market conditions.
2. Seller Closing Costs (Typical in SC)
In South Carolina, seller closing costs are usually lowe ...
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Wednesday, November 5, 2025 / by Alex Krasnoff
It happens more often than you’d think.A buyer relocates to Charlotte, finds a home in the city or a nearby suburb — and a year later, starts noticing the same conversation everywhere:
“We wish we’d looked in Fort Mill.”
So why does this happen? Fort Mill, South Carolina, just across the state line from Charlotte, has become one of the most desirable markets in the Carolinas — not only for affordability, but for schools, taxes, and community lifestyle.
Here’s why many Charlotte-area homeowners end up wishing they’d explored Fort Mill first.
1. Lower Property Taxes (and No Surprises at Closing)
The biggest difference between North Carolina and South Carolina homeownership often shows up after the sale.
Fort Mill homeowners typically pay 40–50% less in property taxes than Mecklenburg County homeowners. That means thousands of dollars in annual savings — which can make a big difference in monthly affordability or lo ...
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Monday, September 29, 2025 / by Alex Krasnoff
Fort Mill has quickly become one of the Southeast’s hottest suburban markets, and a big reason why is its master-planned communities. These aren’t just neighborhoods — they’re lifestyles. Think pools, trails, playgrounds, and neighbors who actually wave back.
If you’re considering a move, here are the best master-planned communities Fort Mill has to offer in 2025:
Baxter Village
The Vibe: Walkable, charming, front-porch living.
Why Buyers Love It: A true “town within a town” with restaurants, shops, schools, and parks woven into the neighborhood. Sidewalks connect everything, and community events keep the social calendar full.
Best For: Families and anyone craving small-town charm without leaving suburbia.
Massey
The Vibe: Resort-style living in a family-friendly package.
Why Buyers Love It: The pool complex feels like a mini waterpark. Add in trails, pocket parks, and competitive schools right ...
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