4 Things to Consider in a Second Home

A second home serves as a personal escape when you’re needing time away from your day-to-day life. It’s also an intimate place to gather with loved ones, and to enjoy each other’s company outside of your normal schedules and routines. Splitting your time between two homes allows you to make the most of that time and to do the things you love. It gives you the opportunity to explore new locales, experience other cultures, and meet wonderful people. Plus, unlike staying in a hotel, this place is yours. Therefore, it’s always equipped with the comforts of home and the necessities you need to feel comfortable and at ease. 

Whether you are looking to invest in a second home on Kiawah Island, or elsewhere, below are some general guidelines to consider when looking at potential properties. 

1. Determine Where You Would Like to Spend Your Time

First and foremost, consider the areas you would like to spend your time. Do you live somewhere with a gorgeous spring and fall season, but need shelter from the harsh winters or brutal summers? 

Or, perhaps you are interested in having unlimited access to your favorite amenities, such as a lake with watersports, a mountainous region with plentiful trails, or a beach that is ideal for relaxing. 

Kiawah Island, for instance, offers year-round activities and exclusive events to look forward to. As a private community, consider the Island your personal all-inclusive paradise, thanks to the Kiawah Island Club. Residents are granted private access to all seven of the Island’s courses, including the Members-only Cassique and River Course. Here, you’ll also find miles upon miles of pristine white sandy beaches that line even more miles of untouched marshland lagoons. Even a casual day for Members, such as an afternoon at the pool, is met with the highest of standards. World-class service along with extraordinary experiences are what make this Island so sought-after. 

2. Consider Who You Will be Spending Time With

Consider your family and closest loved ones to determine how much space you will need for accommodations. Are you looking for a second residence to travel with your family at your leisure? If that is the case and you are looking at property on Kiawah, you may consider a villa or a cottage for low-key living. 

On the other hand, is this home meant for large familial gatherings? Then you likely need a residence with ample amounts of space to house everyone, from grandparents to cousins. If so, you may require a sizable home that can keep you all together, yet provide enough space for privacy. 

3. What Amenities are a Must-Have?

Now that you have the location and size of your property in mind, narrow down your search by deciding which amenities appeal to you. Kiawah appeals to luxury homeowners looking for somewhere quiet and tranquil, yet complete with upscale amenities — a sort of Hamptons of the South, if you will. 

For the Golfers

Is golf important to you? Consider a community that offers access to premier golf courses, but the additional features that can improve your game and further your love for the sport. Think: a state-of-the-art Golf Learning Center. Plus, Kiawah is home to The Ocean Course, host of the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. On this course alone, you will find some of the country’s top caddies, ready to assist you in any way possible. 

For the Epicurean

You may simply be in search of a beautiful place to relax. Although Kiawah is abundantly full of things to do, it’s also an ideal place to indulge in some R&R. Club Members are able to utilize the Sasanqua Spa, an idyllic spot for recharging your batteries to feel anew. Many residents also love spending the afternoon basking in the sun and taking in the glorious views from the deck of Marsh House, the elegant pool and community clubhouse.

For the Children

Don’t forget, this exclusive Island and its many adventures aren’t just for the adults. Night Heron Park, Beachwalker Park, and the Members-only Beach Club are the go-to spots for children of all ages. Huge swimming pools and splash zones are ideal for playing and making new friends. Regular Club events and seasonal camps ensure they stay busy learning about the Island’s wildlife and history. 

Knowing which amenities are important to you and your family will make it easier to determine where your second home should be.

4. Consider the Right Home Type for You

Now that you have been able to get a clear idea of where you would like to purchase a second residence, it’s time to determine the right home type for you and your family’s needs. It all comes down to your interest in building a home or finding a move-in ready property. 

With several new and established neighborhoods across the Island, you will undoubtedly find a second home that meets all of your requirements. Start by looking into Cassique and Ocean Park — two of Kiawah’s most coveted communities. 

When building a home on Kiawah, you can choose to go the custom route or select a pre-designed home that suits your every need. Custom homes take a bit longer to complete, but this home will be everything you could dream of and more. Each detail will wholly serve you and forever stand as a reminder to the love and commitment you poured into this home. 

However, if you are looking to move to the Island sooner, pre-designed homes are an excellent option if you want a shorter build process. These homes are also somewhat customizable and can cater to most of your needs.

View Luxury Homes on Kiawah Island

Once you are ready to take a look at your home options, click the button below to view available homes and homesites on Kiawah Island. Peruse available homes with differing views, locations, and Club access. If you are unsure as to which home type will best fit your lifestyle, reach out to us to learn more about your home options for Island living.