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Our Favorite St. Simons Island Vacation Rentals for Day Trips!
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle on St. Simons Island are two St. Simons Island vacation spots that you won’t want to miss. Check out two great properties that are perfect for day tripping:
1105 Reserve Lane is the definition of classic seaside style and is the ideal choice for an island hopping vacation in the Golden Isles. Centrally
located on the island and just off of Demere Road, this vacation destination is convenient to everything on St. Simons Island. Five minutes from the beaches, two minutes from the marina, or Island hop over to Jekyll – this town home is minutes away from everything the Island has to offer.
Island Retreat #2504 is the perfect St. Simons residence for an extended stay in the Golden Isles. This delightfully furnished two bedroom unit is located in the Island Retreat condominiums, just off of Demere 
Road. The community amenities included with your stay in Island Retreat are perfect for living the active Island lifestyle and include a swimming pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and tennis court.
St. Simons Island is home to fabulous beaches, golfing, fishing, and a variety of great spots to dine. The whole family can have fun on St. Simons Island – so instead of staying for a weekend, why not stay for a while? Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals has the largest selection of St. Simons Island vacation options for you and your family to choose from.
Hodnett Cooper is excited to introduce Melissa Johnson, one of the newest Realtors to join the Hodnett Cooper Team.
Melissa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Valdosta State University.
Before coming to Hodnett Cooper, Melissa and her husband began a construction company in 2005, Johnson Partners Inc. With his background in Civil Engineering and her background in Marketing, they focused on high end residential and commercial building. When the real estate market struggled, they geared their company toward their industrial building roots. Going back to residential building, the team changed the company name to REH Building Solutions. Melissa felt this would be a perfect time to transition to her career in real estate. Melissa started with Hodnett Cooper Real Estate as an office administrator while completing real estate courses at night.
Melissa truly enjoys working with people and is eager to build a strong client base through honesty and knowledge. A knowledge that comes from 10 years in the construction industry. Melissa’s goal is to help others find true happiness in their residence. The process of buying or selling a home should be as stress free as possible and she will diligently work to make sure her clients receive a pleasant experience.
Melissa enjoys hanging out with her husband Jamie and their 3 children. They love riding bikes, swimming, playing with their two golden retrievers, Hollywood & Rigger, and traveling. Melissa feels truly blessed to be able to call St. Simons Island her hometown and loves that there are so many outdoor adventures available to experience.
Melissa is located in our mainland office, visit her today!
571 Green Swamp Road, Brunswick, Georgia
Join Hodnett Cooper REALTOR Winnie Skarpalezos at an Open House Sunday, April from noon to 3 pm. 571 Green Swamp Road, Brunswick, Georgia.
This home has the best of both worlds: farm-like setting on acreage, yet convenient to all of Brunswick’s amenities. Just 8 miles from the Target Shopping Center in Brunswick, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on 3.88 acres. Included on the property is a multi-stall barn for horses, new three-rail fencing and an additional fenced area (originally designed for goats). There is also a large workshop with electricity.
The home is in excellent condition with a 15’ x 18’ master bedroom with tray ceiling, large walk-in closet, and extra area off the master that could be used as an office or nursery. Also inside are three living/dining areas, sunroom and front porch overlooking the pasture.
At $214,900, the home is USDA zoned and could be purchased with no money down. Do not miss the opportunity to see this unique, beautiful property.
For directions, additional details or to schedule a private showing, contact Winnie Skarpalezos:
Winnie Skarpalezos
winnie@https://www.hodnettcooper.com
Office Phone: 912-291-3486
Join Hodnett Cooper REALTOR Winnie Skarpalezos at an Open House Saturday, February 28 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. 571 Green Swamp Road, Brunswick, Georgia.
This home has the best of both worlds: farm-like setting on acreage, yet convenient to all of Brunswick’s amenities. Just 8 miles from the Target Shopping Center in Brunswick, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on 3.88 acres. Included on the property is a multi-stall barn for horses, new three-rail fencing and an additional fenced area (originally designed for goats). There is also a large workshop with electricity.
The home is in excellent condition with a 15’ x 18’ master bedroom with tray ceiling, large walk-in closet, and extra area off the master that could be used as an office or nursery. Also inside are three living/dining areas, sunroom and front porch overlooking the pasture.
At $214,900, the home is USDA zoned and could be purchased with no money down. Do not miss the opportunity to see this unique, beautiful property.
For directions, additional details or to schedule a private showing, contact Winnie Skarpalezos:
Office Phone: 912-291-3486
As a family-owned business, Hodnett Cooper takes pride in celebrating the individuals that make contribute to our success every day. Our founder, Roy Hodnett, continually emphasizes the importance of a positive attitude.
Starting this year, Hodnett Cooper Real Estate will be presenting the “Roy Hodnett Positive Person Award” to one team member in the Brunswick office and one team member in the St. Simons Island office. The award can be give for any number of reasons that fall under the “positive person” umbrella. For example: helping a fellow employee with a difficult situation, participating in a charitable event, rescuing a dog, covering the front desk for a sick employee or taking food to a family in need. The award winner is the person that never says “no” when someone needs assistance, or the person that always makes you smile. The award recipient chooses the next month’s recipient based on those criteria.
Last month’s recipients, Winnie Skarpalezos and Rachel Fitzpatrick nominated and awarded February’s recipients:
Becky Canter – in the words of Winnie, “Becky is always supportive and encouraging. When she sees you in the hall she wants to know how your showing went, how your day is going. She is always smiling and doing things for others, including making special days with her granddaughter. She recently helped with a Habitat for Humanity build. Overall, She is just a positive person to be around.”
Janice Ronson – Rachel Fitzpatrick describes why she nominated Janice Ronson for the award, “Janice is ALWAYS so positive! She comes in every day with a smile on her face, ready to learn something new. I love that she asks tons of questions to better herself and improve her business. I love that she speaks highly of everyone and never gets caught up in negative chatter. She is optimistic about her buyers and sellers and is a cheerleader for everyone who works in this office.”
Hodnett Cooper is pleased to announce the recipients of the February, 2015 Roy Hodnett Positive Person Award.
Becky Canter
Becky Canter comes to real estate with a strong background in education. Becky has a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Georgia and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University. She spent most of her teaching career at Glynn Academy in Brunswick, Georgia, getting to know the students and families in the community. Becky is also plugged in to the business community, as she placed many students in business and work environments through work-based learning programs.
In real estate, Becky enjoys introducing newcomers to our unique community. Much like matching students with suitable workplaces, Becky enjoys helping clients meet their real estate goals. “With Becky’s background in education, work-based learning, and familiarity with the business community, she is an incredible asset to the Hodnett Cooper Real Estate team,” said Pat Cooper, President and Broker. Becky carefully listens to clients and provides personal, professional service.
Becky and her husband Jim have two children, one grandchild and one very spoiled dog. Becky volunteers at her granddaughter’s school, is a member of the First Baptist Church of St. Simons Island and enjoys family time with her granddaughter.
Office Phone: 912-291-3430
Cell Phone: 912-230-0077
Office Fax: 912-634-8350
Janice Ronson
Janice enjoys traveling and has explored the United States, Europe, Mexico, Canada the Caribbean and beyond. While at home, she enjoys sewing, cooking, gardening, reading and walking on the beach. She’s got a fun spirited side with a passion for motor boats and car racing.
Office Phone: 912-291-3415
Cell Phone: 912-399-7363
Office Fax: 912-264-6616
Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals hopes you’ll be able to join us in the coming months on St. Simons Island and Brunswick for some exciting events! There’s a 5K, there’s art, there’s history, there’s romance and there are even dozens of Elvis impersonators. And don’t forget, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. If you need a little inspiration, here are a few events that may interest you. As always, if you need assistance finding the perfect accommodations on St. Simons Island, give one of our experienced vacation planners a call today!
FIRST FRIDAY
February 6 and March 6
Historic Downtown Brunswick
From 5-8pm, stroll Newcastle and Gloucester Streets in Historic Downtown Brunswick. Galleries, shops and restaurants are open with live music, food samples, wine & beer tastings, unique art and lots of energy.
CINEMA GOURMET
Thursday, February 12 and Thursday, March 19
The Ritz Theater
Join Golden Isles Arts & Humanities at the Historic Ritz Theater in Downtown Brunswick for food from Chef Kate at Indigo Coastal Shanty, a classic movie screening and discussion.
February 12, Conrack: filmed right here in Brunswick, Georgia, this film is based on the Pat Conroy novel The Water is Wide.
March 19, Shane: timeless classic western directed by George Stevens
Cinema Gourmet tickets are $18/person and can be purchased online.
HISTORY TOURS AT CANNON’S POINT
February 13 & 27
Cannon’s Point, St. Simons Island
Through a partnership with the Coastal Georgia Historical Society and the St. Simons Land Trust, small group tours of this former plantation are being made available. The tours provide an overview of the history of Cannon’s Point with emphasis on life during the plantation period. Tour groups are limited to 16 participants. Groups meet at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center at 9:15am for a short introduction. Groups depart for Cannon’s Point at 10am and return to the Heritage Center at 12:30pm. The cost is $95 per person. For more information and reservations, call 912-634-7090 or visit the website.
2015 SOUTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM BRIDGE RUN
Saturday, February 14
Sidney Lanier Bridge, Brunswick912
Get your heart pumping this Valentine’s Day! Certified by the US Track and Field Association as “the toughest 5K in Georgia,” this run spans the length of the Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick. At its center, the bridge rises 480 feet above the Brunswick River, the tallest span in the state.
After the run, there is a fun walk followed by a family-friendly festival with food, drink, entertainment, vendors and activities for kids. For more information and to register, visit the website.
Thursday, March 12 to Sunday, March 15
The Georgia Elvis Festival returns to Brunswick for the third year! This three-day festival is a celebration of the life and music of Elvis Presley and is a sanctioned tribute artist contest. Dozens of “Elvi” compete in the preliminary contest and winners move on to the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis. The event is packed with activities, many free. For a full list of events, visit the Elvis Festival website.
All of us at Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals and Hodnett Cooper Real Estate hope to see you here in the Golden Isles soon!
by Holly Ponsell, REALTOR
I have a number of clients who want to purchase property in the Golden Isles, but are on the fence about when to act. In 2014 single family home prices in St Simons Island, Georgia increased 7.5% and mainland Brunswick, Georgia increased 17.1% over 2013. And the National Association of Realtors predicts gradual increases in the coming year. If you’re like my clients who are thinking about a purchase, now is the time to enter the market before prices rise. I—or any of the agents at Hodnett Cooper—would be happy to help you find the perfect new home. Give Hodnett Cooper Real Estate a call today.
Office Phone: 912-291-3493
Cell Phone: 912-217-1631
Office Fax: 912-264-6616
Holly Ponsell brings a wide range of experience to her real estate career. She worked in human resources to interview and screen call center employees. In addition, she worked with the family business, Ponsell Heating and Air, managing and assisting in all aspects of the business—from scheduling to marketing to customer service. As a result, Holly is professional, organized, hard working, creatively solves problems and values positive customer relations.
Holly enjoys meeting new people and developing strong relationships based on respect, trust and integrity. Holly’s skills are varied and honed—with a sensitivity and astuteness that comes from being a business owner. Whether her clients are first-time home buyers, investors, or relocating, she handles each with the individual attention and care they deserve. Holly recognizes that buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in life and she works hard to keep clients informed and educated.
Holly is married to Tommy Ponsell and they have three children. She loves fishing, antiquing, gardening, traveling and is an avid numismatist (coin collector).
Happy New Year! There’s always something happening nearby and we hope you’ll join us on St. Simons Island for some interesting events in the coming months. Whether it’s art, history, comedy or athletics that interests you, America’s Favorite Beach Town has it all! And, of course, the beach is available for enjoyment 365 days a year! Once you’ve found your perfect event, contact one of Hodnett Cooper’s vacation planners for assistance in finding the perfect accommodations. St. Simons Island is waiting!
FIRST FRIDAY
January 2 and February 6
Historic Downtown Brunswick
From 5-8pm, stroll Newcastle and Gloucester Streets in Historic Downtown Brunswick. Galleries, shops and restaurants are open with live music, food samples, wine & beer tastings, unique art and lots of energy.
CINEMA GOURMET
Thursday, January 8 and Thursday, February 12
The Ritz Theater
Join Golden Isles Arts & Humanities at the Historic Ritz Theater in Downtown Brunswick for food from Chef Kate at Indigo Coastal Shanty, a classic movie screening and discussion.
January 8, 6:30pm, The Bicycle Thief: this 1948 is a landmark neorealist drama
February 12, 6:30pm, Conrack: filmed right here in Brunswick, Georgia, this film is based on the Pat Conroy novel The Water is Wide.
Cinema Gourmet tickets are $18/person and can be purchased online. Click here for more details.
HISTORY TOURS AT CANNON’S POINT
January 16 & 30 and February 13 & 27
Cannon’s Point, St. Simons Island
Through a partnership with the Coastal Georgia Historical Society and the St. Simons Land Trust, small group tours of this former plantation (which was privately held until recently) are being made available. The tours provide an overview of the history of Cannon’s Point with emphasis on life during the plantation period. Tour groups are limited to 16 participants. Groups meet at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center at 9:15am for a short introduction. Groups depart for Cannon’s Point at 10am and return to the Heritage Center at 12:30pm. The cost is $95 per person. For more information and reservations, call 912-634-7090 or click here to visit the website and make reservations online.
COMEDY WEEKEND ON JEKYLL ISLAND
Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24
Morgan Center, Jekyll Island
This 3rd-annual event takes place at the Morgan Center on Jekyll Island. Emcee Pat McGann hosts both evenings. The Friday lineup includes Andy Forrester, Andy Woodhull and Nat Bargatze. Saturday, enjoy Emily Galati, Louis Ramey and Don Friesen.
Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. Click here for more information and to purchase advance tickets online.
2015 SOUTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTHY SYSTEM BRIDGE RUN
Saturday, February 14
Sidney Lanier Bridge, Brunswick
Get your heart pumping this Valentine’s Day! Certified by the US Track and Field Association as “the toughest 5K in Georgia,” this run spans the length of the Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick. At its center, the bridge rises 480 feet above the Brunswick River, the tallest span in the state.
After the run, there is a fun walk followed by a family-friendly festival with food, drink, entertainment, vendors and activities for kids. For more information and entry form, click here.
We hope to see you on St. Simons Island, Georgia soon!
201 Sarah Drive
The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) predicts a revival in the first-time home buyer market after Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced they will offer 3% down payment loans.
Previously, Freddie and Frannie issued loans with a minimum 5% down payment (and the standard down payment for mortgages insured through Freddie Mac and Frannie Mae was 20%). This development could make home ownership more realistic for first-time buyers.
This follows a downward trend in first-time home purchases. The NAR reported that despite improving job market and low interest rates, the share of first-time buyers fell to 29%, its lowest point in nearly three decades.
According to the NAR article detailing the new loans:
The new loans announced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be fixed-rate mortgages for up to 30 years, available only on a primary residence. Fannie plans to begin issuing the 3 percent loans before the end of the year. Mortgage insurance payments will be required, and qualified buyers will need to complete a financial counseling program.
At Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, we love helping first-time buyers find the perfect spot to call home in St. Simons Island, mainland Brunswick, Glynn County and all of the Golden Isles. Now is the perfect time to explore your options. Contact a Hodnett Cooper REALTOR today.
Source articles: Stage Set to Revive First-Time Buyer Market
More Americans to Buy Homes with Three Percent Down