9 Charming Towns In South Carolina That Could Star In A Hallmark Christmas Movie

Dusty Rhodes • December 21, 2021

South Carolina is rich in history, beautiful beaches, friendly inhabitants, and many other good things, but snow is not among them. However, the lack of white precipitation in no way dampens the Christmas spirit in South Carolina’s towns, nor does it make those towns less worthy of Hallmark Christmas movie town status.


In the same way, each town has its own look, feel, and story; each also has its own individual Christmas vibe. With so many delightful destinations from which to choose, deciding among them is impossible. But here is a small sampling of shining South Carolina towns where all your Hallmark Christmas movie dreams can come true.

1. Greenville


America’s friendliest town, Greenville, ratchets up the welcoming warmth and hospitality at Christmas. Twinkling tree-lined sidewalks on Main Street. Santa gliding down the street in his motorized sleigh (a converted 1993 Ford Aerostar). Ice skaters doing some gliding of their own at a mini replica of Rockefeller Center. These are a few of Greenville’s favorite things, and the Hallmark movie style happenings just keep on coming.


Christmas carolers in the streets, dozens of giant brightly decorated trees at local hotels for the annual Festival of Trees competition, as well as a community Hanukkah celebration and Menorah Lighting create a full holiday experience. Of course, Greenville holds a parade and a Kringle Holiday Market featuring artisan vendors, rides, entertainment, visits with Santa, food, and a biergarten at Fluor Field baseball stadium. 


Pro Tip: Stay at the Westin 4 Diamond Poinsett Hotel. In front of the building stands a statue of South Carolinian, Joel Poinsett, who brought a certain popular Christmas plant to America.

2. Aiken


A visit to Aiken is a joy any time of year, but during the holidays, this charming equestrian town becomes the ideal spot to star in a Hallmark Christmas movie. Even the horses trot into the holiday spirit during the Hoofbeats And Christmas Carols Parade through downtown. Horses and carriages, as well as dogs walking their humans, create a festive mood, with community caroling following the parade.



Santa at the Depot gives the little ones the chance to tell him how good they’ve been at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum with festive holiday decorations, music, and a special gift for each child.


The annual Aiken Jaycees Christmas parade, Night of 1,000 Lights, and a leisurely ramble through brightly lit garden paths at the Annual Christmas in Hopelands event bring locals and visitors together to celebrate the warmth and joy of the holidays. More such opportunities can be found at the Christmas Craft Show and Christmas Crafts at the Farmers Market, where shopping and camaraderie go hand in hand.

3. McCormick


For a pretty town with a population of less than 3,000, McCormick makes the holiday season shine with big-time celebrating, just like in a Hallmark Christmas movie.


To help everyone get into Hallmark movie mode, the 2021 Holiday on Main (HOM) Christmas Parade has as its theme “Cultivating a Hallmark Christmas.” Of course, Santa is primed and ready for fun and photos.


The Holiday Market at the Cotton Gin, featuring local and regional artisans selling unique handcrafted creations, as well as the Festival of Trees at the Grist Mill make excellent use of McCormick’s historical sites.


Santa and his elves assist in the tree lighting ceremony. And everyone is counting the days to the Chamber of Commerce Cookie Walk. A $10 advance ticket purchase buys over 25 individual cookies or baked items from participating local businesses.


Pro Tip: You can download a digital version of the HOM brochure and flyers.

4. Myrtle Beach


Who says you can’t have a Hallmark Christmas at the beach? Certainly Santa doesn’t, and neither do the Myrtle Beach locals and visitors who make Christmas merry in this coastal town.


Begin with Winter Wonderland at The Beach, a holiday event featuring a covered outdoor ice-skating rink, a walk-through lights experience, and other holiday happenings at the Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place. Then take in the magnificent display of The Great Christmas Light Show, where you can drive through over 2 million sparkling lights at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex.


The Christmas Show of the South, a Myrtle Beach tradition, brings the warm spirit of Christmas to life with music, comedy, and dance.

5. Murrells Inlet


One of the oldest and smallest towns on the Grand Strand, Murrells Inlet was once a quiet fishing village. Today, it is a popular spot for vacationers. But during the holidays, Murrells Inlet emits a definite Hallmark Christmas movie vibe.


The highlight of the season is Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, a wondrous extravaganza of over 2,800 hand-lit candles and countless sparkling lights illuminating the magnificent sculpture gardens. Visitors stroll the pathways, marveling at the seasonal lighting and decorations. Each evening, guests can enjoy the Lighting of the Trees at 6:45 p.m. at the Leonard Pavilion.


At the annual Santa Crawl on the MarshWalk, revelers meander the boardwalk along a natural saltwater estuary, enjoying beverages and dinner specials at MarshWalk restaurants. MarshWalk is also the location for the annual Christmas Parade.


Pro Tip: Myrtle Beach lies 20 minutes from Murrells Inlet, making a double dose of holiday fun a realistic goal.

6. Manning


Quiet streets lined with stately oaks and antebellum homes make historic Manning a delight to visit. Located approximately 65 miles from South Carolina’s capital of Columbia, this picturesque town could star in a Hallmark Christmas movie. 


Manning may not necessarily be a beehive of organized activity during the holidays, but the town is brightly illuminated, lovingly decorated, and full of warmth and whimsy. It’s the ideal location for a relaxed, unhurried holiday.


Every year, Manning’s residents gather to enjoy the Parade of Lights, which rolls through town spreading cheer right after Thanksgiving. Lighted trees cast their merry glow on Manning until early in the New Year.


“Don’t Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle” is the Carolina Dance Academy’s annual Christmas spectacular. The festive evening begins with an energetic gymnastics program and concludes with a lively dance performance.

7. Abbeville


The delightful little town of Abbeville knows how to think big. It’s home to the Abbeville Opera House and Parson’s Mountain Recreation Area. Abbeville also knows how to put on the kind of holiday celebration that would fit into any Hallmark Christmas movie. 


This town goes all out to support local businesses, especially during the holidays. Handmade for the Holidays is an arts and crafts festival featuring items produced by local vendors. Christmas Market is a 2-day open house, family-friendly event at Crate and Quill, featuring holiday shopping, live Christmas music in the courtyard, and sweet treats.


The Abbeville Annual Christmas Tree Lighting involves more than flipping a switch. Holiday entertainment, hot cocoa, and cookies, all provided by local businesses, infuse the event with warmth and cheer.


The friendly folks of Abbeville look forward to their annual Breakfast with Santa, a traditional hometown Christmas parade, the Cookie Walk, and the Ugly Christmas Sweater Wine Walk. Wouldn’t you?

8. Pendleton


4 miles from the college town of Clemson, Pendleton feels like a different world. Life moves at a slower pace, no one is a stranger, and the town’s history is fascinating. So, the transformation into a Hallmark Christmas movie town for the holidays is, like Pendleton itself, smooth and gentle.


Every weekend from late November to mid-December finds Pendleton residents at the Christkindlmarkt, a quaint, European-style Christmas Market on the town’s historic Village Green. Important holiday shopping becomes less stressful amid the bright, cheerful sights, sounds, and smells of the market. A live, 40-foot Christmas tree watches over shoppers as they purchase original hand-crafted ornaments, indulge in local treats, and sip holiday beverages.


Locals turn out in force for the annual Christmas Parade and the tree lighting in the square. No grinch in his right mind would even dream of trying to steal Christmas from Pendleton.


Pro Tip: Drop into Mama Rae’s Ice Cream Shoppe for a special Christmas hot chocolate decked out with whipped cream and two candy canes arranged in the shape of a heart.

9. Rock Hill


The town of Rock Hill can keep visitors busy for days, especially during the holidays. Old Town magically transforms into ChristmasVille, an award-winning holiday village and outdoor art festival that makes for excellent Hallmark Christmas movie material.


Locals and visitors engage in over 70 Christmas-themed events that keep them in the Christmas spirit. Horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, a gingerbread house making contest, children’s activities with Santa, and ice skating, are only a few of the many delights individuals and families can enjoy.


The festival is held in honor of Vernon Grant, whose magical art graced many children’s books. However, he is best known for his creation of SNAP! CRACKLE! and POP! characters for Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal brand. Vernon Grant is still an important figure in his former home of Rock Hill. His charming illustrations of gnomes, elves, and Santa make their cheery appearance throughout the festival.




Source: Travel Awaits


Dusty Rhodes Properties is the Best Realtor in Myrtle Beach! We do everything in our power to help you find the home of your dreams. With experience, expertise, and passion, we are the perfect partner for you in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. We love what we do and it shows. With more than 22 years of experience in the field, we know our industry like the back of our hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and we dedicate our utmost energy to every project we take on. We search thousands of the active and new listings from Aynor, Carolina Forest, Conway, Garden City Beach, Longs, Loris, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Surfside Beach real estate listings to find the hottest deals just for you!

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How to Move Out After Selling a House

By Dusty Rhodes • October 13, 2025
From the first coat of paint you used to freshen up your house’s trim to the stress of wrangling your way to a deal, you’ve been through a lot in that place. Now you’ve made it to the final hurdle of selling a home: moving out! Don’t worry, this is the easy part… but you want to do it right. Here’s how to get through the last leg of your journey without any bumps along the way. How to move out on time Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house—and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close, “the buyer could evict you,” says Joshua Jarvis , founder of Jarvis Team Realty in Duluth, GA. So make sure to have your exit strategy in place! Still, most buyers will understand if you need a bit more time and have a legitimate reason—like if you can’t move until the weekend due to your work schedule. Just be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly. Decide what to leave behind To make sure you’re leaving behind everything the buyer wanted—and that you agreed to—double-check the closing documents . There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house . And even if the buyers didn’t formally request them, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. Such as? “Generally speaking, you should leave anything that’s bolted to the wall,” says Jarvis. “Some homeowners want to take their fans and blinds to the next home, but generally if it’s screwed in, it stays.” Also, if you and the buyers agreed to transfer any services—such as alarm monitoring or pest control —be sure to set that up before you go. Leave the buyers a detailed note in the house, or ask your agent to get in touch with theirs to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back—and they could potentially sue you in civil court for the cost of a replacement. So, when in doubt, feel free to check with the buyers before you grab and go. But don’t leave anything else behind Just as important as what you leave behind is what you don’t. Your buyers have a right to move into a home that’s been cleared of furniture and other movable items they didn’t expressly request. “Some folks leave all kinds of unwanted clothes, furniture, paint cans, and other items, thinking they are helping the buyers,” Jarvis says. If you truly think your buyers might love to have your old planting pots or kiddie equipment, go ahead and ask—but please don’t assume they’ll welcome your leftovers. Even if you’re careful, you might forget something—at which point the buyers may contact their agent to get it back to you, but they also have the legal right to just keep or get rid of it. So double-check areas (e.g., the attic, garage, basement, storage shed, kitchen, and bathroom drawers) where people commonly overlook items. Clean up It’s common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn’t have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive. Are you forgetting anything? Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the jacuzzi? We all get in a bit of a rush even in the best planned moves, but you won’t be able to get back in, so it can’t hurt to do a final run-through before you move out. Once you’re ready, it’s time to leave. You can drop a line to your real estate agent to let them know you’re out, although it’s usually a courtesy more than a necessity. If you’re feeling truly gracious, feel free to leave a note, card, or bottle of bubbly congratulating the people who’ve inherited your former home. Given all the fond memories you’ve built between those walls, wouldn’t it be nice to start the home’s new owners off on the right foot? And buy yourself some Champagne, too. Make it the good stuff—you’ve earned it. 

When Are You Considered a First-Time Homebuyer Again?

By Dusty Rhodes • October 6, 2025
Buying a home is an exciting time, whether this is your first time purchasing a house or you’re a repeat buyer. But if you’ve owned a home before, you may be wondering if you can be a first-time home buyer again. In some cases, yes, you can. In this Redfin article, we’ll go over what qualifications you need to meet and when you can be considered a first-time homebuyer again. Whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, GA , or a condo in Portland, OR , read on to find out if you’re eligible to be a first-time homebuyer twice. Key takeaways Usually, you’re a first-time homebuyer again if you haven’t owned a home in 3 years. Some special situations may also qualify you as a first-time buyer. Benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance and lower interest rates. When are you considered a first-time homebuyer again? Typically, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer again if you have not owned a primary residence for at least three years. There are several additional reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer again, which we’ll explore below. Some first-time homebuyer programs have different definitions of “first-time homebuyer,” so check with the specific program before proceeding. Qualifications to be considered a first-time homebuyer There are other reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: You haven’t owned a primary residence for 3 years: This means if you owned a home, but sold it and rented for 3 (or more) years, you can be considered a first-time home buyer again. If you’re buying with another person, only one of you needs to meet the criteria to use most first-time home buyer programs. You’re a single-parent buying on your own: If you’ve never purchased a home by yourself and are a divorced single-parent, you may qualify again. Even if you purchased a home with your former spouse, you likely still meet the criteria. You’re a displaced homemaker/family caregiver: If you are a displaced homemaker who doesn’t or didn’t earn wages from employment and has only owned a home with a former spouse, you’re likely considered a first-time homebuyer. You previously owned a mobile home: If you owned a mobile home or property not affixed to a foundation, then you likely qualify. Your previous home was out of compliance: If your home had building code violations or safety issues that could not be repaired or brought into compliance for less than the home’s value, you’re likely eligible. Benefits of being a first-time homebuyer again There are benefits to being a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: Access to first-time homebuyer programs: One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use first-time homebuyer programs such as down payment and closing cost assistance , grants, credits, or loans. Every program has different qualifications, so make sure to research each program or speak with your agent and lender to explore options. Options for low down payment mortgages: There are several loans available for first-time buyers that offer lower down payment amounts. For example, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible and Fannie Mae’s Home Ready offer down payment amounts as low as 3%. Potentially lower mortgage rates: Sometimes, lenders will offer slightly lower mortgage rates to first-time borrowers to help them buy their first home. FAQs about first-time homebuyers Can I be a first-time homebuyer again if I previously owned a home? Yes, as long as you haven’t owned a primary residence in the last 3 years, or you owned a home while previously married. Do both homebuyers need to be first-time homebuyers to qualify? No, in most cases, as long as one homebuyer meets the qualifying criteria, then you’re considered a first-time homebuyer. However, some programs require both homebuyers to be first-timers. Can I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan again? Yes, for the most part, if you qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” you can get another first-time homebuyer loan. Every lender and loan is different, so be sure to read the eligibility criteria thoroughly. Are there income limits for programs? Yes, many first-time homebuyer programs have income limits. This means you won’t qualify if you make more than the specified annual amount.

10 Home Renovation Projects Under $1,000 That Add Lasting Value

By Dusty Rhodes • September 29, 2025
Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With the right updates, you can add real value to your home for under $1,000. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in Grand Rapids, MI , or looking for some easy DIY projects for your house in Portland, OR , these cost-effective upgrades can breathe new life into your space. To dig deeper into this topic, we spoke with Kevin Brasler, executive editor at nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook , a consumer advocacy group that helps homeowners save money and make smart choices. With decades of experience evaluating service providers, Kevin shares insights on how to budget wisely, avoid common renovation mistakes, and know when to hire a professional versus taking the DIY route. 1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home Painting is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your home. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $50, with a full room averaging around $350 . Neutral shades like gray, beige, or white appeal to most buyers, while accent colors such as navy, forest green, or mustard add personality. For a calming vibe, try sage or powder blue. Brasler notes that painting is one of the best DIY-friendly projects homeowners can take on. “Good DIY projects are those that involve mostly labor: painting, basic tile work, installing fixtures that don’t require new wiring or plumbing, landscaping, and most flooring jobs,” he says. 2. Update your cabinet hardware A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece. 3. Change the kitchen backsplash A new backsplash can quickly refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls. A custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and creates a focal point that elevates the entire room. Opt for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot. Staying within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen is doable with those materials. Or you can go for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly, but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out. Brasler stresses that getting multiple estimates is critical for even small-scale projects like this. “The biggest mistake homeowners make is not getting multiple bids. Even for smaller projects, you should get at least three written estimates; five is better,” he explains. 4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Switching to LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, saves energy and reduces utility bills over time. Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal. 5. Create a beautiful landscape A simple landscaping update is another low-cost project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Low-maintenance features lower costs down while still making a strong impression. For most landscaping updates, DIY is both practical and cost-effective. Still, Brasler advises calling in professionals for anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural work. 6. Install a smart thermostat A smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. Homeowners can often handle the installation themselves, avoiding additional labor costs. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. 7. Refurbish or paint the front door Refresh your curb appeal by refurbishing or painting the front door – a low-cost project with instant impact. Sanding and restaining often costs under $100 and requires just a few materials. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style. 8. Add floating shelves or built-ins Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300. 9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet Breathe new life into your kitchen with a sink and faucet upgrade. Faucets usually run $100 to $300, and sinks $200 to $500. Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. Spending $300 to $800 on a sink and faucet upgrade can instantly refresh your kitchen’s look and make daily tasks easier. 10. Add safety measures to protect your home Smart security cameras or a basic surveillance system now offer affordable and effective protection. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, can improve your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property. Tips for finding good contractors Even for smaller projects, working with contractors requires careful planning. Brasler emphasizes the value of comparison shopping. “Get proposals and detailed pricing from at least three reputable, licensed contractors,” he advises. “The only way to ensure you’re paying a fair price is to initiate competition.” He also suggests: Check references thoroughly. Ask questions like: Did the company follow plans? Did it finish on time? Was the work professional? Did the contractor offer low-cost solutions and stick to agreed prices? Were problems handled promptly and effectively? Did the team communicate clearly throughout the project? Was disruption to your daily life kept to a minimum? Did the finished results meet your expectations for quality and appearance? Was the contractor flexible and fair about changes if you adjusted plans? Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. Word-of-mouth often uncovers the best local contractors. Look for complaints. Check ratings at Checkbook.org or your local Better Business Bureau and be cautious with online reviews as they can’t always be trusted. Common mistakes when budgeting for small renovations Brasler states the biggest budgeting mistake is skipping multiple bids. “A contractor charging $800 might be using premium materials while the $500 bid uses builder-grade stuff. Try to get prices from each business for the exact same work,” he explains. He also reminds homeowners not to assume that a low price means low quality. “For decades we have evaluated all kinds of businesses and often find some of the best companies have the lowest prices,” he says. When to DIY vs. hire a pro While DIY saves money, Brasler stresses knowing your limits. “Call in pros to deal with anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural changes. Ditto for work that requires a permit and inspection,” he advises. For tasks like painting, basic landscaping, or adding shelves, homeowners can usually manage on their own. Keep expectations realistic since DIY projects often take longer and may not match professional results. The bottom line Budget-friendly renovations under $1,000 can make a big difference in your home’s look, comfort, and value. From painting and landscaping to updating fixtures and adding smart technology, these projects prove you don’t need to overspend to refresh your space. As Brasler reminds homeowners, “the key is balancing creativity with caution.” By comparing bids, avoiding common budgeting mistakes, and knowing when to call in the pros, you can achieve lasting results without stretching your wallet.