Charleston Homes for Sale | Lemon Lane Home

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Exploring Curtain Styles and Window Treatments

When it comes to window treatments, curtains are a timeless favorite, but understanding the different styles and how to hang them can be transformative. Not only do they add softness and warmth to a space, but curtains also serve as an opportunity to express your personal style. Beyond curtains, there’s a wide range of window treatments like plantation blinds, shutters, and rattan blinds that can further enhance your home's aesthetic. Let’s dive into the different curtain looks, how long they should hang, and ways to decorate with alternative window treatments. Different Curtain Looks and Styles Curtains come in various styles, each bringing a distinct vibe to a room. Here are some of the most popular curtain styles: Traditional Drapes: Full-length drapes that often pool on the floor create an elegant, sophisticated look. These are ideal for formal living or dining rooms. Sheer Curtains: Light and airy, sheer curtains are perfect for rooms where you want to filter natural light without sacrificing privacy. These look great in casual spaces like bedrooms or sunrooms. Grommet Curtains: With metal rings at the top, grommet curtains have a modern, sleek look. They slide easily across the rod, making them practical for spaces where curtains are frequently opened and closed. Rod Pocket Curtains: A more traditional style, rod pocket curtains have a sewn-in pocket at the top where the curtain rod slips through. These work well for stationary curtains that are more decorative than functional. Pleated Curtains: These provide a tailored look and are often used in formal settings. There are many pleat styles to choose from, including pinch pleats, box pleats, and goblet pleats, depending on the desired level of formality. How Long Should Curtains Hang? The length of your curtains can dramatically affect the overall look of your space. Here are some common curtain lengths: Just Above the Floor: Curtains that stop right above the floor are a great choice if you prefer a clean, modern look. This length works well in high-traffic areas where you want to avoid the hassle of floor-grazing fabric. Touching the Floor: Curtains that lightly kiss the floor create a balanced and polished look. This is ideal for achieving a tailored appearance without feeling too formal. Puddled on the Floor: For a luxurious, romantic look, let your curtains extend a few inches beyond the floor, creating a puddling effect. This works well in formal or vintage-inspired spaces but requires a bit more maintenance. Complementing with Other Window Treatments While curtains are a classic choice, there are many other window treatments that can add texture, depth, and functionality to your windows. Here are some alternatives to explore: Plantation Shutters Plantation shutters are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a timeless, structured look. These wooden shutters can be painted to match your interior decor and are perfect for controlling both light and privacy. They’re also easy to clean and highly durable, making them a great long-term investment. Use them in living rooms, bedrooms, or even bathrooms for a crisp, tailored appearance. Blinds (Wooden or Faux Wood) Blinds offer a clean and minimalist look, with options for adjusting light control. Wooden or faux wood blinds give a warm, natural touch to any room. They are versatile, blending well with various decor styles from coastal to rustic to modern. They’re especially well-suited to kitchens, offices, or spaces where you want flexibility with light filtering. Rattan Blinds (Woven Shades) If you want to add texture and an organic feel, consider rattan or woven shades. These natural fiber blinds bring warmth and a casual, bohemian vibe to any space. Pair them with sheer curtains to create a layered look that balances softness and texture. Rattan blinds are great for sunrooms, bedrooms, or beach-inspired spaces. Roman Shades Roman shades are an elegant, streamlined option for window treatments. When raised, they fold neatly, and when lowered, they provide full coverage. They can be made in various fabrics, giving you options to introduce color or pattern into your room. Roman shades are perfect for spaces where you want a tailored, clean-lined look without the formality of drapes. Shutters Shutters, particularly in traditional or plantation style, offer a classic architectural element. They provide excellent privacy and light control while adding a substantial, custom look to windows. Whether you opt for full shutters or half shutters (café style), they are a great choice for living rooms, kitchens, and sunrooms. Layering Window Treatments For a polished and custom look, don’t hesitate to layer different window treatments. Combining blinds or shades with curtains adds depth and dimension to a room. For example: Pair sheer curtains with rattan blinds to soften the natural texture of the blinds. Match wood blinds with heavy drapes for a traditional, upscale feel in living rooms. Combine plantation shutters with Roman shades to mix structure and softness, adding both functional and visual appeal. Window treatments are an essential element of interior design, not only for their functional value but also for their ability to elevate a room’s aesthetic. Whether you choose classic curtains, plantation shutters, or woven rattan blinds, the key is finding the right balance between function, style, and your home’s personality. So, explore the possibilities, and don’t be afraid to layer different treatments to create a look that’s uniquely yours!
A Guide to Different Types of Sump Pumps for Residential Homes: What They Are and Where the Water Goes

A sump pump is an essential component for many homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to heavy rainfall or with high water tables. Its primary job is to keep basements and crawl spaces dry by removing water that accumulates in a sump basin, typically located in the lowest part of the house. Without a sump pump, excess water can lead to flooding, foundation damage, mold growth, and other costly problems. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of sump pumps available for residential use, how they work, and the most effective ways to direct the water away from your home. Types of Sump Pumps Sump pumps come in various designs, each suited for specific needs and setups. The two most common categories are submersible and pedestal sump pumps, but other variations also exist, such as battery backup and water-poweredsump pumps. Let’s break them down: 1. Submersible Sump Pump A submersible sump pump is designed to operate underwater within the sump basin. The motor and pump are sealed within a waterproof casing, making it quieter and more durable. These pumps sit directly in the sump pit and are typically the most efficient at removing water, especially in homes where there is significant water accumulation. Pros: Quiet operation due to being underwater Efficient water removal Fully hidden in the sump basin Cons: Typically more expensive than other models May be more difficult to service or replace due to being submerged 2. Pedestal Sump Pump A pedestal sump pump has a motor that sits above the sump basin, with only the hose and pump mechanism submerged in the water. This design makes it easier to access and service but can be noisier due to the motor being exposed. Pedestal pumps are often used in smaller sump basins or where frequent maintenance is expected. Pros: More affordable than submersible pumps Easy to access and repair Cons: Noisier operation Takes up more space in the basement or crawl space 3. Battery Backup Sump Pump A battery backup sump pump is typically used in combination with either a submersible or pedestal pump. It kicks in when the primary pump loses power (common during storms) or if the primary pump fails. This secondary system provides peace of mind by ensuring your home remains protected even during power outages. Pros: Offers protection during power outages Can handle water if the main pump fails Cons: Additional installation and maintenance costs Requires battery replacement periodically 4. Water-Powered Sump Pump A water-powered sump pump operates using your home’s municipal water supply instead of electricity. These pumps are a good backup option since they rely on water pressure to create suction, which pulls excess water out of the sump basin. Pros: No battery or electricity required Ideal as a backup system Cons: May not work well with low water pressure Can increase water bills due to high water consumption Where Should the Water Be Pumped? Once the sump pump removes water from the sump basin, it’s crucial to discharge it in a way that keeps it away from your home’s foundation to prevent future flooding or water damage. Here are the most common and effective discharge methods: 1. Drainage to the Yard Most sump pumps discharge water to a location in your yard, typically at least 10-20 feet away from the house. The water is then absorbed into the ground or guided to a safe drainage area. It’s essential to ensure that the water is directed to a sloped area where it will naturally flow away from the home. Key Considerations: Ensure the water doesn’t pool near the foundation or seep back into the home. The discharge area should be clear of landscaping that might impede water flow. 2. Storm Sewer System In some municipalities, homeowners are allowed to connect their sump pumps directly to the storm sewer system. This system is designed to carry stormwater away from residential areas and direct it to natural bodies of water like rivers or retention ponds. Key Considerations: Always check local regulations to ensure this is allowed. Avoid connecting sump pumps to sanitary sewers, as this can lead to contamination and overload the sewer system during heavy rains. 3. Dry Well A dry well is an underground structure that collects and stores the water discharged by the sump pump, allowing it to slowly percolate into the surrounding soil. This is a great option for homes with limited yard space or those in areas where drainage to the yard is insufficient. Key Considerations: The dry well should be large enough to handle the volume of water being pumped. Make sure the well is located far enough from your home’s foundation to prevent water from seeping back into the basement. 4. French Drain System A French drain is another option for directing sump pump water away from your home. It involves a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe that allows water to drain more efficiently. This system is often used in conjunction with the sump pump to redirect water to a lower area of the yard or a stormwater drainage area. Key Considerations: Proper installation is key to ensuring the French drain effectively carries water away. Regular maintenance is required to prevent the system from clogging. Sump Pump Maintenance Tips No matter the type of sump pump you install, proper maintenance is critical to ensuring it functions effectively when you need it most. Here are a few key tips for maintaining your sump pump: Test regularly: Pour a bucket of water into the sump basin to ensure the pump activates and drains the water properly. Check the float switch: Ensure the float switch, which triggers the pump, is free from obstructions and moves smoothly. Inspect discharge lines: Regularly check discharge pipes for clogs, blockages, or leaks, especially after heavy rain or storms. Replace the battery: For battery backup systems, replace the battery every 2-3 years to ensure reliable operation during power outages. Conclusion Sump pumps are a vital defense against water damage in homes, particularly those in flood-prone areas or with basements. Understanding the different types of sump pumps—submersible, pedestal, battery backup, and water-powered—can help you choose the right one for your home. Equally important is ensuring the water is properly discharged to a safe location, whether that’s a yard, storm sewer, dry well, or French drain system. By choosing the right system and maintaining it regularly, you can protect your home from potential water damage and keep your basement dry and safe year-round.
The Pirates of Folly Beach, SC: A Tale of History, Mystery, and Legends

Folly Beach, South Carolina, is more than just a charming coastal town—it’s a place steeped in history, folklore, and local legends. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning ocean views, Folly Beach has earned the nickname “The Edge of America.” But beneath its serene exterior lies a history filled with stories of pirates, shipwrecks, and even the haunting name “Coffin Island.” Let’s dive into the rich history of this unique barrier island and discover the origins behind its intriguing names. The Pirates of Folly Beach Folly Beach’s history of piracy dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, during the Golden Age of Piracy. Its location, just south of Charleston, made it an ideal spot for pirates to seek refuge, resupply their ships, and launch attacks on passing merchant vessels. The intricate network of inlets and creeks provided excellent hiding places for pirates, while the proximity to Charleston’s bustling port offered plenty of opportunities for plundering. One of the most infamous pirates associated with the area was Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard. Legend has it that Blackbeard and his crew often sailed the waters around Folly Beach, hiding their stolen treasures along the shoreline. Although there are no confirmed discoveries of buried pirate treasure on the island, local folklore is full of tales of gold and jewels hidden in the sands of Folly Beach. In addition to Blackbeard, other notorious pirates such as Stede Bonnet and Anne Bonny were said to have sailed the waters near Charleston and Folly Beach. These pirates took advantage of the island’s isolated location, using it as a base to evade capture while plotting their next attacks on unsuspecting ships. Why is Folly Beach Called “The Edge of America”? Folly Beach’s nickname, “The Edge of America,” reflects its geographical and cultural significance. Situated on a barrier island, Folly Beach is often described as the last strip of land before the Atlantic Ocean. The expansive horizon that stretches endlessly over the ocean gives visitors the sense of standing at the very edge of the country, where land meets the vastness of the sea. But beyond its literal meaning, the phrase also embodies the unique, free-spirited atmosphere of Folly Beach. Unlike other more developed coastal towns, Folly Beach has maintained a bohemian, laid-back vibe that feels a bit like stepping back in time. From its eclectic mix of surf shops, seafood shacks, and vibrant street art to its reputation as a haven for surfers and beach lovers, Folly Beach has cultivated an identity that embraces a sense of freedom and adventure. For many, it feels like a place where the constraints of daily life fade away—a fitting description for “The Edge of America.” The Mysterious Name: Coffin Island Long before Folly Beach became known as “The Edge of America,” it was called Coffin Island by early settlers and sailors. The origin of this name is tied to both folklore and historical events. One widely accepted theory is that the name “Coffin Island” referred to the island’s role as a quarantine station in the early 18th century. Ships arriving in Charleston with crew members suffering from contagious diseases like yellow fever, smallpox, or cholera were diverted to the island to prevent the spread of illness to the mainland. Sadly, many who were sent to quarantine did not survive, leading to mass burials on the island. The association with death and disease likely gave rise to the foreboding name "Coffin Island." However, another compelling theory links the name to the prominent Coffin family, who were wealthy plantation owners in both Beaufort and Charleston counties during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Coffins were an influential family in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, with their plantations playing a significant role in the region’s economy. Though the Coffins were more associated with mainland plantations, the name "Coffin Island" could have been a reference to the family, as it wasn’t uncommon for islands and landmarks to be named after notable local families during that period. Regardless of the exact origin, the dark and haunting history of Coffin Island stuck for a time. As the quarantine station fell out of use and the island began to develop, its name shifted to Folly Beach, shedding the grim association with death. The word “folly” comes from Old English, meaning an area of dense foliage or underbrush, which described the wild, overgrown nature of the island when early settlers arrived. The name change helped redefine the island's identity as a place of beauty and leisure rather than tragedy. Pirates, Legends, and Folly Beach Today While Folly Beach may no longer be a haven for pirates, the spirit of adventure and freedom remains alive in its culture. Visitors to Folly can enjoy not only the natural beauty of the beach but also the rich history that continues to influence the island. Whether you’re strolling along the shore, surfing the waves, or searching for remnants of pirate lore, Folly Beach offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and laid-back charm. From the days when pirates roamed its shores to its modern identity as "The Edge of America," Folly Beach is a destination that invites you to step into the past while enjoying the present. And who knows—perhaps there’s still a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered beneath the sands of this remarkable island.

REVIEWS

naturalbody1313

Tara did an outstanding job assisting with our process buying our first home in the Charleston area. Tara is extremely knowledgeable, responsive and has great ideas regarding future renovations. Tara has connected us with excellent people in the industry which has made the buying process smooth. She definitely goes above and beyond!
nick2413

Tara managed to make the home buying process incredibly easy despite my wife and I being first time home buyers looking for houses in both PA and NJ in this highly competitive market. We are not originally from the area so she worked very closely with us and helped us hone in on the exact types of areas that were right for us. Her dual licensure was a huge bonus because not many realtors in the area are able to work in multiple states, and she knows all the ins and outs of the guidelines in each state. She was also very knowledgeable about things to look out for that came in handy during showings. Tara was extremely responsive and available at all times to meet for a showing or to discuss any questions we had. She also helped with negotiation and we ended up closing in less than 3 months from starting looking with her but never felt pushed or rushed with any decisions. We definitely recommend Tara for anyone looking for a house in the greater Philadelphia area.
robbinsnyu

Tara could not have been any more accommodating and helpful when it came to looking for our new house. As we were relocating from out of state and did not know the area at all, she went out of her way to show us a wide variety of neighborhoods and house types to help us focus in on what we wanted. She was also straightforward about her thoughts on the pros and cons of each property and presented her observations in a clear and honest matter. It was refreshing not to have a realtor that was trying to sell us on every property we looked at. She is a consummate professional and we highly recommend her.
zuser20190331070812986

As a first time home buyer the process can be a bit daunting, especially buying from out of town. But working with Tara made the process so easy and stress-free. Can't recommend Tara and the work she does enough! Not to mention she's eco-friendly and still on top of every small detail every step of the way.
zuser20170405133134621

Tara was super knowledgeable and great to work with as a first time homebuyer. She shows homes with a realistic perspective on both the good and the bad and was great to work with. Would recommend!
brennamailey

We were so lucky to work with Tara on the purchase of our first home! She helped teach us everything we needed to know about the home-buying process and gave us great feedback about each home we looked at so we could make a well-informed decision. We also appreciated how responsive she was and never felt like we couldn’t reach out or that we were left with questions. Tara helped us navigate a fast-moving real estate market and we were thrilled to end up with the house that we did. I highly recommend her for anyone looking to buy a home, especially first time homebuyers!
elizabeth silvestro

Excellent realtor! We would absolutely recommend She was very informed, supportive, and understanding. She wasprofessional and supported us through every step of the process including a particularly difficult challenge!
zuser20200506140326111

Look no further, your real estate agent search has ended. Tara’s knowledge, communication, and advocacy is unmatched. Having her in my corner gave me the confidence to continue to find my home as I am sure she will for you.
crclarke0814

As first time home buyers we were incredibly fortunate to work with Tara. Her guidance and expertise made it possible for us to purchase our dream home!Tara expertly led us through the searching process, pointing out any costly fixes or interesting features. (She is incredibly knowledgeable about all home structural features, possible costs of fixes, local history, and much more!). She gently maneuvered us away from homes that were not a good fit, and encouraged us to follow through on homes that were. The daunting task of finding a home in a seller’s market during a pandemic was intimidating; Tara was critically important to our success in finding our beautiful home at an affordable price. She is professional, quick to respond, knowledgeable, will tenaciously fight on your behalf, and will lead you in the right direction. It was an honor and pleasure to have Tara as our agent. We will be recommending our family and friends to hire her in the buying or selling process!
sarahmlenhard

As a first time homebuyer, I had a lot of nerves throughout the entire process. From start to finish Tara made me feel supported, and I knew she had my best interests at heart. Tara was extremely responsive to all questions I had, and helped me through some issues prior to closing that I otherwise would’ve been completely lost on. I still can’t believe looking back at how smooth the process went and that it actually happened, but Tara made it possible. I would recommend anyone to trust that Tara will be completely honest with you about a home, and in the end she will do whatever she can to make it happen for you ! Thanks Tara!

WORK WITH US

Contact us today to get started on your real estate journey with the experts for Charleston and the Surrounding Areas.

Interior Design / CAD Projects

With over four years of dedicated service as a CAD designer that partners with Lemon Lane Living, Karine DesChamps is an invaluable member of our team. Collaborating closely with Tara, Karine specializes in rejuvenating older spaces for sellers aiming to market their homes without upfront repairs. Tara and Karine form a dynamic partnership, where Tara conceptualizes room redesigns and interior decor, and Karine brings these visions to life using CAD and Sketch Up. Karine expertise ensures that Tara's ideas are not only realized but are also practical solutions for space utilization and measurements. What sets our collaboration apart is the ability to offer clients innovative solutions beyond conventional real estate services. Working with Karine is a testament to true professionalism, genuine kindness, and a refreshing commitment to staying ahead of trends. Moreover, Karine's proficiency extends to transforming CAD designs into 3-D spaces using AI, adding another layer of creativity to our offerings. (AI is still a work in progress for most programs being used currently.) We are delighted to have Karine on our team, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to guide more clients from 'For Sale' to 'Sold!'

For more information on this service or selling your home. Please feel free to reach out directly to Tara below and she will be happy to share more details.

About Me

After being somewhat nomadic myself for many years, I realized the key to finding happiness in a new environment is surrounding yourself with a place that matches the authentic lifestyle you want to live and feeling like you belong to part of a community. My specialty is helping people find a home that allows them to feel their lifestyle and surroundings fit together. Whether that means they are buying or selling, my job is to make the transition as smooth as possible. As a real estate agent I'm driven, motivated and resilient. I've helped many first time home buyers find their dream property and successfully helped them through the home buying process. I've been a trainer/mentor for teams at Keller Williams, and I'm licensed in SC, PA & NJ, making transitions between the North and South states easy for those looking to make a change or buy a summer home. I have a Master of Science from WVU with my concentration in marketing, which allows me to prospect for Sellers using unique advertising techniques. I also own and run Lemon Lane Living (@lemon_lane_living), a lifestyle blog about Real Estate in the lowcountry. The site showcases my interior design work that I'll be implementing in my own home, as well as listings and locations throughout the greater Charleston area. I love what I do, and I'm passionate about helping others find a small piece of this great big world to call their own.

...and I love an Oat Milk Latte!