I have had a lot of clients call and ask me how the oil spill in the gulf has affected Hilton Head Island. 

Hilton Head Island has noticed an increase between 25% and 30% in visitors over the last several weeks. 

We had a call from a family friend who visits Panama City, Florida every year.  She said that this year they have booked their stay in Hilton Head along with 24 of their family members. 

I think there has been a lot of confusion as far as the effect the oil spill has had on the beaches of Florida and it seems to be driving regular visitors of that area to other locations.  I would not wish this on anyone, but it does appear that it has had an effect on our market – the rental market has been at its strongest in quite some time. 

I’ll keep you posted on any other developments that arise from this disaster.  We continue to keep all the people of the gulf and those affected in our thoughts and prayers.