Relocating from New York (Mount Pleasant, Summerville: homeowners insurance, house, elementary school)

[anya1]

My husband and I are currently living on Long Island, NY, but planning to relocate down south in the near future. We have been searching the web for gated communities which we would prefer to live in. I have recently stumbled upon Park West in Mount Pleasant. Can anyone provide me with information regarding the area and/or any other communities in Mt. Pleasant. We have 2 children (1 out of college and 1 in college), so schools are not a main concern. We would like to live near shopping and lots of activities. Our only worry are the hurricanes, possible flooding and the cost of flood insurance. We appreciate any thoughts on the subject. Thank you.

[baylovers]

We moved from Long Beach to Pawleys Island last year and my wife & I really love it. It kinda reminds us of Long Island a few generations ago. We have a little one in the elementary school & HS age boy and they have adjusted well. Neighbors are great and the weather is fantastic.

I've read & heard that the Mt Pleasant/ Summerville areas are very nice but I am not familiar enough to compare.

You are right to be concerned about hurricanes, but to be honest, LI (especialy the south shore) is as much of a threat from hurricanes as it is along the coast of SC. However, the cost of homeowners insurance is more expensive here. We have a 3800 sqft house & pay $3k a year for homeowners insurance including wind & hail. The state legislature is trying to work out some programs that are supposed to bring in more companies and lower the costs. The past two seasons have been quiet for hurricanes, so hopefully it will level off.

Here are some nice communities around this area:
Pawleys Retreat (not gated)
Welcome to Ricefields, Pawleys Island SC (not gated)
DeBordieu *** Homepage
http://www.heritageplantation.com/
Pawleys Plantation Exceptional Golf Experience
The Reserve Golf Club
The Tradition Club
Willbrook Plantation