2015 Collins Group Realty State of the Market Report 1 | Page 15

2016 bluffton outlook by Chip Collins, Owner and Broker-in-Charge 2016 is expected to be another solid year of sales for Greater Bluffton, and we anticipate that buying and selling decisions will be shaped, in part, by the following factors in the marketplace: New Schools The construction and ultimate opening of both River Ridge Academy and May River High School is expected to continue to generate both local and inbound relocation real estate activity for those looking for the newest public-school offerings in the greater Bluffton area. Long Term Growth Across the County-Line With the agreements in place to begin and fund the planning, design, and development of the Jasper Ocean Terminal, Jasper County is freshly on the horizon of places to watch for residential and commercial activity, continuing the westward trend of expansion of the Lowcountry community. Golf Back On Par After being hit hardest in the downturn of the national economy and real estate market, golf-club communities are due for a year of recovery in 2016. Sales activity in the flagship communities of Belfair, Berkeley Hall and Colleton River are set to increase throughout the new year, offering greater stability and confidence in these beautiful residential neighborhoods. A rising tide lifts all boats, and it’s expected that the momentum throughout the greater-Bluffton real estate market will have an impact here as well. Traffic Takes Flight Given the expectancy of continued growth, road infrastructure improvements seem to be ongoing. The debate is over… and the new “fly-over” connector t