The many different "Columbias" of Columbia,SC

[Woodlands]

Originally Posted by rubber_factory

I wouldn't describe Columbia's upper crust as ostentatious. I believe it is the opposite. But provincial? Absolutely. You must 'speak the language'.

As far as Shandon goes, it is not the foo-foo neighborhood of Columbia. I'd say that is Heathwood. Shandon is what I'd call the home of the "modest white Democrats". Sort of a Chapel Hill/Charlottesville style crowd, well educated, 'old money', moderately wealthy but inconspicuous, very charitable and community-oriented, open-minded, mildly liberal, and politically connected.

In my opinion, a stark contrast to the more suburban and outlying neighborhoods of Columbia and Lexington, of which I have nothing positive to say, so I'll just keep my mouth shut.

And don't get me wrong on the politics here - I am fairly conservative. I just really appreciate the progressive community vibe of Shandon, which is rare in South Carolina.

I can agree with that.. Heathwood is probably a better comparison.

[le roi]

Originally Posted by Scots

Hmmm, I guess that begs the question, what areas would currently be a bargain?

a bargain is typically going to be farther out geographically, in an area where they cut all the trees down to build 200 tract homes that look exactly the same. you typically get more for your money in those types of neighborhoods.

[Scots]

Originally Posted by rubber_factory

a bargain is typically going to be farther out geographically, in an area where they cut all the trees down to build 200 tract homes that look exactly the same. you typically get more for your money in those types of neighborhoods.

Well, that would be a high price to pay, bargain or not.

We're not looking for a cookie-cutter neighborhood. Seems like we keep coming back to areas like Shandon, Heathwood, and around Lake Katherine and Forest Lake, from the descriptions you've all been giving us. Maybe Shandon at the top of the list given that we could actually walk to some stuff. (I guess that's not the case in Heathwood or the two lakes?)

But I have to admit that a house on Lake Murray also just seems like it would be really cool, if it were a reasonable commute and had at least some amenities nearby.