Welcome to Brunswick, Georgia, a city that flawlessly combines Southern charm with the serene beauty of the coast. Here, ocean breezes blend with oak-lined streets to create an unmistakably inviting atmosphere that beckons both visitors
and residents alike. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Brunswick presents a life steeped in community spirit and scenic delight.
The city is known for its picturesque waterfront, where visitors can admire stunning views of shrimp boats bobbing in the gentle tides against a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets. Hanover Square and Mary Ross Waterfront Park provide idyllic settings for leisurely strolls or community gatherings,
Brunswick, Georgia
Hello Brunswick, Georgia • Winter Issue |5
encouraging a spirit of camaraderie among locals.
Brunswick's historic downtown is nothing short of enchanting, with beautifully preserved buildings housing quaint shops, tempting eateries, and lively arts scenes. It's easy to lose oneself exploring the artisanal craftsmanship and culinary delights that speak to the region’s essence.
Nature enthusiasts will find no shortage of nearby adventures, with the Golden Isles
offering pristine beaches and lush landscapes to explore. Whether kayaking through salt marshes or relaxing on white sandy shores, outdoor pursuits are endlessly rewarding.
With a welcoming atmosphere and unassuming elegance, Brunswick embodies the best of coastal Georgia, making it a cherished place to call home.
Brunswick, Georgia
Brunswick, Georgia: Where Southern Charm Meets Coastal Splendor
Welcome to Brunswick, Georgia, a city that flawlessly combines Southern charm with the serene beauty of the coast. Here, ocean breezes blend with oak-lined streets to create an unmistakably inviting atmosphere that beckons both visitors and residents alike. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Brunswick presents a life steeped in community spirit and scenic delight.
The city is known for its picturesque waterfront, where visitors can admire stunning views of shrimp boats bobbing in the gentle tides against a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets. Hanover Square and Mary Ross Waterfront Park provide idyllic settings for leisurely strolls or community gatherings, encouraging a spirit of camaraderie among locals.
Brunswick's historic downtown is nothing short of enchanting, with beautifully preserved buildings housing quaint shops, tempting eateries, and lively arts scenes. It's easy to lose oneself exploring the artisanal craftsmanship and culinary delights that speak to the region’s essence.
Nature enthusiasts will find no shortage of nearby adventures, with the Golden Isles offering pristine beaches and lush landscapes to explore. Whether kayaking through salt marshes or relaxing on white sandy shores, outdoor pursuits are endlessly rewarding.
With a welcoming atmosphere and unassuming elegance, Brunswick embodies the best of coastal Georgia, making it a cherished place to call home.
Why Trust is the Cornerstone of Residential Real Estate
In residential real estate, every decision carries weight beyond the financial numbers. A home is not just a property, it is the place where families grow, memories are made, and lives move forward. Buyers and sellers often find themselves in the middle of major life transitions, whether that means
starting fresh, relocating for work, or preparing for retirement. Because these moments are so personal, trust between client and agent is not optional, it is the foundation that makes the entire process work.For an agent, building trust starts with simple honesty. A timeline that reflects
6 | HelloBrunswick, Georgia • Winter Issue
Why Trust is the Cornerstone of Residential Real Estate
In residential real estate, every decision carries weight beyond the financial numbers. A home is not just a property, it is the place where families grow, memories are made, and lives move forward. Buyers and sellers often find themselves in the middle of major life transitions, whether that means starting fresh, relocating for work, or preparing for retirement. Because these moments are so personal, trust between client and agent is not optional, it is the foundation that makes the entire process work. For an agent, building trust starts with simple honesty. A timeline that reflects reality, a valuation that is accurate, and transparency about both opportunities and risks help clients feel confident. This kind of open communication sets the tone for the entire transaction. Without it, stress and uncertainty can take over quickly. Clients need to know that the person guiding them is focused on their long-term wellbeing, not just on closing a sale. First-time homebuyer support is one area where this becomes especially clear. New buyers may not know what to expect, from financing questions to inspection reports. An agent who takes the time to explain each step can transform what might feel overwhelming into an exciting and manageable process. Trust is built when those questions are met with patience, clear answers, and genuine concern for the client’s comfort. On Saint Simons Island, this principle becomes even more important. Many buyers are discovering the area for the first time, often looking for vacation homes or considering a permanent move. A Saint Simons Island real estate agent who understands both the lifestyle and the market can provide honest real estate guidance that eases the uncertainty of buying in an unfamiliar place. Explaining neighborhood dynamics, seasonal trends, and the character of different communities allows clients to make informed decisions about where they truly belong. Trust in real estate turns one transaction into a lasting relationship. This trust also has a life beyond the closing table. Many clients continue to reach out to their agents for local referrals, from contractors to landscapers, or even advice on home improvement projects. When families expand, downsize, or relocate again, the agent who first earned their confidence is often the first call they make. Over time, this creates long-term client relationships that stretch across years and even generations. The real estate market is competitive, and buyers and sellers have many options. Yet the role of trust cuts through the noise. A smooth closing is important, but what clients remember most is whether they felt guided, respected, and supported during one of life’s biggest transitions. In many cases, the reputation of an agent in the community depends less on the number of sales and more on the depth of relationships built. Another factor that strengthens trust is consistency. A client who receives the same careful attention on a modest starter home as another does on a luxury property sees that their needs are valued equally. Consistency signals integrity, and integrity builds the kind of reputation that lasts. This approach not only helps individual clients but also elevates the standard of the profession as a whole. In residential real estate, trust is not a single gesture but a series of small, steady commitments. It is found in the willingness to answer questions late at night, in the patience to explain a contract line by line, and in the honesty to say when a property may not be the right fit. These actions, while simple, carry more influence than any advertisement or marketing campaign. They are the reason why satisfied clients become lifelong advocates. When seen in this light, trust is not just about good business practice, it is about human connection. Homes are the backdrop of daily life, and the process of buying or selling them deserves care and respect. For agents who embrace this responsibility, the result is more than a successful closing. It is a relationship that continues long after the final signature is in place, providing stability for families, reassurance for first-time buyers, and confidence for anyone taking their next step.
Crystal Akers
their long-term wellbeing, not just on closing a sale.First-time homebuyer support is one area where this becomes especially clear. New buyers may not know what to expect, from financing questions to inspection reports. An agent who takes the time to explain each step can transform what might feel overwhelming into an exciting and manageable process. Trust is built when those questions are met with patience, clear answers, and genuine concern for the client’s comfort.On Saint Simons Island, this principle becomes even more important. Many buyers are discovering the area for the first time, often looking for vacation homes or...
reality, a valuation that is accurate, and transparency about both opportunities and risks help clients feel confident. This kind of open communication sets the tone for the entire transaction. Without it, stress and uncertainty can take over quickly. Clients need to know that the person guiding them is focused on
Trust in real estate turns one transaction into a lasting relationship.
About the Author
Crystal Akers began her real estate career in 2002. She has been recognized as one of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Real Estate's Top 10 Agents. Crystal provides each of her clients with an interesting mix of marketing mediums to help promote their properties for sale in the Golden Isles.
HelloBrunswick, Georgia • Winter Issue |7
Golf Cart or Street-Legal EV? What Coastal Homeowners Need to Know
Living by the coast often changes the way people think about getting around. Instead of using a car for every trip, many homeowners turn to smaller electric vehicles that fit the pace of their community. The choice usually comes down to a golf cart or a street-legal electric vehicle, also called a
low-speed vehicle, or LSV. While the two look similar at first glance, they serve very different purposes. The right decision depends on where you plan to drive, how your neighborhood is regulated, and how you plan to protect your vehicle against coastal conditions.A golf cart is designed for
8 | HelloBrunswick, Georgia • Winter Issue
Golf Cart or Street-Legal EV? What Coastal Homeowners Need to Know
Living by the coast often changes the way people think about getting around. Instead of using a car for every trip, many homeowners turn to smaller electric vehicles that fit the pace of their community. The choice usually comes down to a golf cart or a street-legal electric vehicle, also called a low-speed vehicle, or LSV. While the two look similar at first glance, they serve very different purposes. The right decision depends on where you plan to drive, how your neighborhood is regulated, and how you plan to protect your vehicle against coastal conditions. A golf cart is designed for private use, most often on a golf course or inside a gated neighborhood that allows them. By definition, a golf cart is not built to meet the federal safety standards that cars and trucks must follow. They generally top out around 20 miles per hour and lack required equipment like seat belts, turn signals, mirrors, and windshields. For this reason, they are not legal on public roads, even if those roads seem quiet. They work well for trips inside a community where the paths are set aside for low-speed travel and the rules specifically permit carts. An LSV, on the other hand, is manufactured to federal safety standards and is treated as a street-legal vehicle. This means it comes with headlights, seat belts, mirrors, and a vehicle identification number. It can be registered, insured, and driven on public streets where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. For homeowners who want the freedom to run errands, visit nearby shops, or travel beyond the gates of a neighborhood, an LSV is the safer and legal option. They are also allowed on the road at dusk or at night because they have the proper lighting equipment, something a golf cart is not equipped for. Salt air introduces another factor in the decision. Corrosion is constant near the ocean, and both carts and LSVs need protection. Hardware made of stainless steel or treated metal holds up better against the elements. Sealed electrical connectors help reduce problems caused by moisture. Even the underbody of the vehicle should be considered, since rust and corrosion often begin where owners do not see it every day. Regular rinsing, especially underneath, helps extend the life of the frame. Battery technology plays a major role for coastal owners as well. Lead-acid batteries, common in traditional golf carts, require frequent maintenance. Watering, cleaning, and monitoring are necessary to keep them working properly, and the salty air can accelerate wear. Lithium-ion batteries have become more popular because they hold charge longer, require almost no maintenance, and are more resistant to harsh conditions. Although the cost is higher at the start, lithium batteries are often considered a better match for coastal use. For families who want a vehicle that is ready to go with minimal upkeep, lithium power can feel like a long-term investment in convenience. Homeowner associations and local ordinances also influence the choice. Many coastal neighborhoods regulate what type of vehicles may be used on their streets or shared pathways. Some only allow carts, while others specify that any vehicle leaving the property must be a licensed LSV. Checking the rules before purchasing avoids conflicts and potential fines. Insurance requirements are another layer. A golf cart may be covered under a homeowner’s policy if it never leaves private property, while an LSV requires an auto policy because it is registered for public road use. These differences affect not only cost but also liability in the event of an accident. Storage is another issue that homeowners sometimes overlook. Flood zones, hurricanes, and storm surge all put vehicles at risk. Choosing a safe storage location above expected water levels helps protect the investment. If power outages are common in the area, considering how the vehicle will be charged is also important. A backup charging plan or dedicated outlet in a secure location makes ownership more practical. Even something as simple as whether the garage is ventilated can make a difference in how long a battery lasts in humid conditions. Choosing between a golf cart and a low-speed vehicle is less about preference and more about matching your routine to safety, legal requirements, and coastal conditions. Ultimately, the decision comes down to lifestyle and environment. If your routine is limited to golf course paths or short rides inside a gated community, a cart may be sufficient. If your plans include public roads, evening trips, or crossing town safely and legally, an LSV is the better fit. By mapping your typical routes, checking local rules, and preparing for coastal conditions, you can choose the vehicle that meets both your needs and your environment.
Cade Stepp
windshields. For this reason, they are not legal on public roads, even if those roads seem quiet. They work well for trips inside a community where the paths are set aside for low-speed travel and the rules specifically permit carts.An LSV, on the other hand, is manufactured to federal safety standards and is treated as a street-legal vehicle. This means it comes with headlights, seat belts, mirrors, and a vehicle identification number. It can be registered, insured, and driven on public streets where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. For homeowners who want the freedom to run errands, visit nearby shops, or travel...
private use, most often on a golf course or inside a gated neighborhood that allows them. By definition, a golf cart is not built to meet the federal safety standards that cars and trucks must follow. They generally top out around 20 miles per hour and lack required equipment like seat belts, turn signals, mirrors, and
Choosing between a golf cart and a low-speed vehicle is less about preference and more about matching your routine to safety, legal ...
About the Author
Cade Stepp is the Co-Owner of Gem Car Sales and Service, where he oversees business operations and service delivery. In his leadership role, he manages the day-to-day functions of the company and works to ensure consistency across sales and service operations. Known for his hands-on involvement, he brings valuable experience to the company’s ongoing growth and management.
