Most people who buy a home and the land it sits on expect that it will be theirs for as long as they choose to reside there. They may choose to pass that home and land along to children or other family members once they pass. It's a very common scenario, but for some residents of Charleston County, it may not be possible due to a highway expansion. Once the expansion starts, these residents could actually lose their land. And while you wouldn't think such an action would be legal in America, truth is often stranger than fiction.
The newly proposed expansion on Highway 41 will expand the highway to two lanes, increasing it to a total of four lanes on most of the roadway and from two to three lanes near the Phillips Community. The project would also start construction of Laurel Hill Parkway - a two-lane road that intersects through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park. For the Phillips Community, which sits adjacent to the highway, it could mean the loss of residents' homes and land that have been in their families for generations.
So, what can people like those in the Phillips Community do? They don't want to lose their homes or bear the burden of significantly more traffic around them. On their own, the options can be dour. But with the help of eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC, these families can receive the just compensation they deserve.
Remember that when you purchase or are given a plot of land, your property rights aren't as absolute as you may think. According to the United States Constitution, the government has the authority to take your property under specific circumstances. Essentially, your property rights are not absolute.
What's interesting is that the government's ability to take your property is actually stated in the Constitution. Even though the Constitution states that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," in essence, this means the government can take your property if the intended use is valid and they compensate you fairly. The Supreme Court upheld this view in 1876, interpreting that the government had this power based on the Constitution. Eminent domain was frequently used during the construction of the nation's railroad system, often without sufficient limitations on the government.
Unfortunately, many South Carolina residents end up being on the wrong end of the cost-benefit analysis when it comes to fair compensation. That's why, if the government is trying to take your land, it's so important to get in touch with eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC, as soon as possible. That way, you have someone by your side for any legal proceedings or disputes. At Lauren Taylor Law, we have a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for our clients in cases where the government has failed to fulfill its legal responsibilities.
There are typically two different ways that the government may take your property. Those include:
In both scenarios, you could be forced into litigation in order to protect your rights, even though you had no plans on doing so.
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
Landowners commonly contest whether the taking is genuinely for public use. There are constraints on the government's actions and the reasons for which they can seize your land. The interpretation of these terms by the courts often favors the government. "Public use" does not simply mean that your property would be open to the general public. Instead, the term is more akin to "for the benefit of the public."
Historically, the government expropriated private lands for projects such as bridges and highways. Numerous legal battles arose during the period when the nation was constructing its railroad system. In these instances, the courts typically interpreted "public use" more broadly.
Some of the most common reasons why government landtaking is upheld include the building of structures like:
These are the more "traditional" uses of eminent domain, where the public use would be less in question. However, the law also permits certain utilities to wield the power of eminent domain. For instance, in a recent case in South Carolina, Dominion Energy was granted the authority to acquire homes in order to construct an energy pipeline.
Regrettably, governments have historically tended to misuse this authority, and some courts have even condoned such actions. As an example, courts in Toledo, Ohio, allowed 83 homes to be taken from residents in order to construct a manufacturing plant for Chrysler, which said the plant would create jobs for the public.
If the government is trying to take your land, you should never give up on your property. By working with eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC, you may be able to stop them by challenging the taking itself. You can also challenge the purpose of the taking and argue that the reason for "public use" is really for private use.
Many people worry about the government taking over their entire piece of land. However, in some cases, the government may not need all your property and might not want to compensate you for it. They may only require a portion of your land.
In such instances, the government not only has to pay you for the part of the land they are taking, but they also have to compensate for the decreased value of the remaining land that you still own. Additionally, the government may seek to obtain an easement on your land through eminent domain. This easement could be for utilities or access to another area. Once again, the government must compensate you for the land taken and for the reduction in value of the rest of your property.
In essence, fair market value represents the amount a willing buyer would offer to a seller for their property. While this concept seems straightforward, applying fair market value in reality can be quite challenging. In many instances, negotiating with the government may be necessary to receive proper compensation for your land. Just like any negotiator, the government typically begins with a low offer and anticipates a counteroffer from you to reach a mutual agreement. Rarely does the government present its best offer right from the start.
Several valuations may be considered to determine your property's fair market value:
The amount of income your property could have produced
Comparison of sales to other similar properties in the area that were recently sold (there could be disagreements pertaining to what is comparable)
The amount of money it would cost to replace your property (and the structures built on it) minus depreciation
In reality, during a trial, both you and the government would have valuation experts testify. First, you'd have to choose the relevant valuation, which the government might dispute. Then, you'd need to apply the appropriate valuation method. There might be a significant difference between your numbers and the government's.
However, even if you couldn't prevent the seizure of the property, many have successfully challenged the government's valuation of their property. Property owners have compelled the government to pay more, and our team of eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC, has represented many of them in the legal process over the years.
For Any Help, Questions or Suggestions, Contact Us
Typically, you'll receive notice regarding the potential acquisition of your property through a letter. But if you're like the residents of the Phillips Community, you might have already heard murmurs that something might happen to your land. If you suspect or find out that the government plans to take your land through eminent domain, you need the help of seasoned eminent domain attorneys in Greer, SC, right away.
The truth is that the government can be just as challenging to deal with as an insurance company. Despite your constitutional rights, they might try to conceal information or offer far less compensation than your property is worth.
In an eminent domain lawsuit, you're essentially challenging the government. While some courts might show some level of deference to the government, they are not given free rein to do as they please. It's within your rights to stand up and contest the government's actions if they violate your rights. But to fight back effectively, your best bet is to work with an eminent domain lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law.
Your attorney will assess the best legal approach for your case, which could involve suing the government or vigorously defending against their lawsuit. You could also negotiate compensation, either before or after the case goes to court.
If you receive notice that your property is being targeted for eminent domain action, also known as condemnation, it's important to seek advice from an eminent domain attorney. Many people won't reach out to a lawyer when dealing with this kind of legal issue because they:
Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely, if ever, true. In fact, you may actually be more vulnerable and at risk than you originally thought. This misunderstanding illustrates exactly why you should enlist the services of a reputable eminent domain attorney. With the assistance of a legal expert who is well-versed in South Carolina eminent domain law, property owners can safeguard their rights and secure maximum compensation.
Here are the top three ways an eminent domain lawyer can help:
It's important to keep in mind that the initial offer from the government for your property is often the lowest amount they think they can get away with. This rarely represents the full and fair compensation you deserve. An attorney has the expertise and resources to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the value of your property, including relocation expenses and more.
In some instances, an eminent domain attorney may be able to secure a higher amount than what the government is proposing. The eminent domain lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and protecting your property
Government agencies are not permitted to simply take any property they desire. According to the 5th Amendment, they must prove that the condemnation is genuinely for public use and meets other specific criteria. You have the right to demand that the state fulfill these criteria before seizing your property. Plus, if only a portion of your property is necessary to complete the project, you have the right to safeguard the ownership of the remaining part of your property.
Eminent domain cases and their related laws can be quite intricate and overwhelming for the average property owner. You shouldn't be expected to grasp all the technical terms, and you certainly shouldn't be penalized for not fully understanding the process. That's why having an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side is valuable on many levels. A skilled eminent domain attorney will assist you through each stage in plain language that you can grasp. With an eminent domain attorney advocating for you throughout your case to safeguard your rights, you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
If the government takes your property or prevents you from using it, you have the right to file a lawsuit. The law provides you with the opportunity to stand on equal ground with our government, allowing your lawyer to advocate for your rights in court.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our eminent domain lawyers step in so you don't get pushed around. Our goal is to fight the government on your behalf, so you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to learn more about eminent domain in South Carolina and how our firm can help.
Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorab...
Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.
Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.
Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorable discharge after serving for four years with the United States Navy and later received the Quilt of Valor. He was a certified public accountant with S.D. Leidesdorf National CPA firm and then became Vice President of Finance with Hewitt Coleman and Associates. Later he owned his own CPA practice, Clarke and Ballentine, LLC, later renamed Ballentine and Hodges, LLC, before retiring in 2013. Since 1973 he was an active member of Taylors First Baptist Church, part of the church's security team, and an usher. He also served in various church ministries: he was a coach for a boys' basketball team, Royal Ambassador leader, marriage small group facilitator, Intercessory Prayer member, and Finance Committee member. He served on the Board for the Taylors Free Medical Clinic, served on the Board of the Paraclete Foundation, the Greenville Estate Planning Council, and the Finance Committee at the Poinsett Club. He supported World Vision and the North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund and served on the board of directors of the Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund. He also held membership in numerous professional and civic organizations.
He was predeceased by his brother, Doug Ballentine of Lilburn, GA.
Surviving are his wife of 56 years Mitsy Winburn Ballentine, of the home; his son, Representative Nathan Ballentine of Chapin, SC; his two precious grandchildren, JC and Emma of Chapin, SC; sister-in-law, Gail Ballentine of Auburn, GA; brother-in-law, John (Susan) Winburn of Greer, SC; brother-in-law, Rev. Bob (Kathy) Clarke of Alpharetta, GA; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
The family will receive friends in the Welcome Center at the church at 1:00 p.m. prior to the services. Services will be at 2 p.m. on March 3, 2026, at Taylors First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, Taylors Free Medical Clinic, 400 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, or North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund, North Greenville University, P.O. Box 1892, Tigerville, South Carolina 29688.
Mackey Mortuary will be handling the arrangements.
DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.Strategic Location and Trade AccessThe new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes...
DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.
According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.
The new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes and major domestic trucking terminals. DMA said the site will operate as a Foreign Trade Zone facility and is C-TPAT compliant, supporting secure and efficient global trade operations.
According to the company, the Greer location enhances inbound and outbound logistics flexibility while supporting continued growth in regional distribution capacity.
DMA said the new facility will integrate several advanced systems to improve operational efficiency and accuracy. These include ultra-wideband inventory control tracking, camera-based visualization for put-away tracking, and an upgraded AI-supported proprietary warehouse management system.
“These advancements will provide service efficiencies while ensuring the highest levels of picking accuracy and on-time delivery,” said John Treece, chief executive officer of DMA Industries.
“This facility represents a pivotal step forward in our mission to be the most reliable partner in the automotive aftermarket,” Treece said. “By investing in the Greer region, we are not just increasing our square footage, we are improving our logistical speed-to-market and service execution.”
DMA Industries is headquartered in Loris and operates five additional distribution centers in the state. The company said the Greer expansion continues its long-term investment in South Carolina and supports economic growth in the region.
“With this infrastructure in place, DMA is uniquely positioned to scale operations rapidly and increase efficiency while maintaining the service quality our customers expect,” said Fred Snow, president and chief operating officer.
GREER, S.C., January 31, 2026 (Newswire.com) - With Greer home prices selling for a median of $332,500 and homes averaging 72 days on market in the latest reported month, sellers are feeling the cost of mispricing while buyers are feeling the cost of hesitation - conditions that continue to spotlight LeAnne Carswell as the for clients who want a clear plan, strong execution, and fewer surprises from contract to closing. Buying or selling in Greer, SC? Call LeAnne Carswell at Expert Real Estate Team on (864) 895-979...
GREER, S.C., January 31, 2026 (Newswire.com) - With Greer home prices selling for a median of $332,500 and homes averaging 72 days on market in the latest reported month, sellers are feeling the cost of mispricing while buyers are feeling the cost of hesitation - conditions that continue to spotlight LeAnne Carswell as the for clients who want a clear plan, strong execution, and fewer surprises from contract to closing. Buying or selling in Greer, SC? Call LeAnne Carswell at Expert Real Estate Team on (864) 895-9791.
Why Is LeAnne Carswell the Best Realtor in Greer, SC?
Greer isn't a "set it and forget it" market-buyers compare options fast, and sellers don't get many chances to make a first impression. Carswell's edge is a process built around certainty: clear pricing strategy, listing prep that targets buyer objections, and negotiation that stays calm when the deal gets complicated.
As Broker and Owner of the Expert Real Estate Team, she's known locally for combining deep Upstate knowledge with a practical, systems-driven approach-especially for clients who want strong guidance without the pressure tactics. "I'd rather we do the prep upfront and feel confident than rush and pay for it later," says Carswell.
What Is LeAnne Carswell's Experience in Greer?
Carswell leads the Expert Real Estate Team from its Greer headquarters, serving clients throughout the Upstate with a focus on residential listings, new construction, luxury properties, and senior life transitions as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES). Her team's footprint spans Greer and surrounding markets including Greenville, Spartanburg, Taylors, Lyman, Travelers Rest, and Landrum-often supporting clients who need both local nuance and steady transaction management.
Experience proof points:
What Do the Greer Market Numbers Say Right Now?
Greer's most recent market snapshot shows a median sale price of $332,500 with homes selling after an average of 72 days on market and 76 homes sold in the latest reported month. The sale-to-list price was 97.9%, with 14.5% of homes selling above list price and 28.5% showing price drops.
For sellers, the combination of price drops and below-list sale-to-list ratios is a clear signal: preparation and pricing discipline matter, and overreaching can create costly time on market. For buyers, a meaningful share of price drops can open doors-but only when your financing, timing, and inspection strategy are ready to move quickly. Learn what working with the best Greer real estate agent looks like when leverage, timing, and terms start to matter.
Who Are LeAnne Carswell and Expert Real Estate Team?
LeAnne Carswell is the Broker and Owner of the Expert Real Estate Team, headquartered in Greer and serving the Upstate across Greenville and Spartanburg-area markets with expertise in residential listings, new construction, luxury properties, and senior life transitions. With 2,200+ career transactions and more than $150 million in career volume, her team combines local market authority with process-driven execution - learn more about working with the for buying, selling, or a timing strategy.
Media Contact:LeAnne Carswell, Broker and Owner, Expert Real Estate Team
SOURCE: Expert Real Estate Team
Source: Expert Real Estate Team
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Greenville County Planning Commission voted 8-1 Tuesday night to deny plans for a controversial Greer subdivision that has faced opposition from neighbors for years.The commission rejected the latest plans for the Bellewyn subdivision on South Batesville Road, saying the proposal does not prioritize open space as required under county rules.Under county regulations, developers must set aside a portion of land to remain undeveloped to help preserve natural areas and manage growth....
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Greenville County Planning Commission voted 8-1 Tuesday night to deny plans for a controversial Greer subdivision that has faced opposition from neighbors for years.
The commission rejected the latest plans for the Bellewyn subdivision on South Batesville Road, saying the proposal does not prioritize open space as required under county rules.
Under county regulations, developers must set aside a portion of land to remain undeveloped to help preserve natural areas and manage growth.
Bill Johnson, a Sugar Creek resident who has opposed the project since 2024, said the land is an old pasture that holds a special significance for residents.
“We’ve lived in our home in Sugar Creek for 40 years. This pasture is important to us,” Johnson said.
Johnson said the plan is out of character with surrounding communities and worries roads won’t be able to handle the extra traffic.
“We just saw this as taking what was essentially a cow pasture--19 acres of natural area--and just jamming 72 units into it,” Johnson said.
The commission denied plans in 2024 over density concerns. At the time, Hartness Development requested 72 lots, just under four homes per acre. Commissioners approved new plans a year later with conditions that emphasized neighborhood concerns, including open space requirements.
The new plan proposes using a thin border as open space. A speaker reading a statement on behalf of the developer said larger storm water ponds are necessary and should also count as open space.
“We were advised by the county’s attorney that the planning commission does not have jurisdiction over stormwater design matters,” the developer’s representative said.
Planning Commission Chairman Steven Bichel disagrees.
“Stormwater isn’t our purview, but if you dig a big hole in the middle of open space, that’s our purview,” Bichel said.
Developers could return with new plans. Johnson said he would support a proposal that reduces the current density.
“I’m hoping that it won’t be going forward. But, let’s see what happens,” Johnson said.
Residents said they did not see the developer’s changes until Tuesday. They also said no public hearing signs were posted.
The planning commission said that did not happen because changes came from planning staff, which does not require the same process. One commissioner said they will look into changing that requirement.
The debate over the Bellewyn subdivision highlights a broader issue in Greenville County: open space. The county has no single standard for how developers must preserve open land—requirements vary by zoning and development type. Guidelines are also vague when it comes to classifying stormwater ponds as open space.
Last year, Greenville County Council placed a moratorium on cluster housing and began meeting with residents and developers to gather feedback and suggestions. The county is actively studying the issue and released an open space plan last June.
During a council meeting earlier this month, leaders said they plan to unveil a more detailed open space plan in February.
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The South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2026 have something going on in Myrtle Beach, Greer and Charleston — enough so that the governor has chosen them to represent the state.Gov. Henry McMaster joined Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers and Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director Duane Parrish to announce the chefs who will represent the culinary ambitions and accomplishments of the Palmetto State’s food scene.They are Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach...
The South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2026 have something going on in Myrtle Beach, Greer and Charleston — enough so that the governor has chosen them to represent the state.
Gov. Henry McMaster joined Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers and Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director Duane Parrish to announce the chefs who will represent the culinary ambitions and accomplishments of the Palmetto State’s food scene.
They are Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach; James London, owner and chef of Chubby Fish and Seahorse in Charleston; and Guichard Ulysse, chef and owner of House 509 Bistro & Wine in Greer.
Chef Ambassadors represent the state through food festivals and other promotional opportunities, sharing South Carolina’s culinary traditions, agricultural heritage and undiscovered places, according to a news release. They support the state’s farmers by using Certified South Carolina produce, meats, dairy, seafood and other farm-fresh foods.
According to her bio provided by Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Chef Heyd was a local who began her culinary journey on private yachts, where she gained global food experience and developed a passion for international, healthy dishes. She trained formally in South Africa at a culinary school in Cape Town and became a yacht chef. COVID nudged her back to South Carolina, where she started a small business making prepared meals. That grew into Lekker Eats, a scratch kitchen, market and bar built on her “eat good, feel good” philosophy.
Charleston native Chef London discovered his passion for fishing and food at an early age, starting his restaurant career at age 14. After earing a business degree at the College of Charleston, he honed his skills at The French Culinary Institute in New York. His journey includes restaurants in New York , including the acclaimed Niko, and San Francisco before returning home to open Chubby Fish, a dock-to-table restaurant with an emphasis on local catches and sustainable sourcing. Next door, he opened Seahorse, a cocktail bar and supper club.
Chef Ulysse is a native of Haiti who received his first cooking lessons as one of 10 children at the feet of his mother and grandmother. He immigrated to the United States and trained at Johnson & Wales University and launched a career working with South Carolina school districts and as a chef for Sodexo across four states. Ulysse and his wife returned to South Carolina and in 2022 opened House 509.
The South Carolina Chef Ambassador program launched in 2014, unifying the major industries of tourism and agriculture, which collectively contribute tens of billions of dollars to the state’s economy and account for hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide, according to the news release.
Chefs are appointed by the governor, and the program is run through a collaborative effort between the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture.
“The Chef Ambassador program highlights the strong partnership between South Carolina’s chefs and farmers and the role they play in our tourism and agribusiness success,” McMaster said in the release. “We’re proud to welcome the 2026 class of Chef Ambassadors to represent our great state.”
Commissioner Weathers said the program helps remind state residents that culinary pride often begins on the farm.
“The Chef Ambassador program helps us connect South Carolinians with their food and with the farmers who grow it,” he said in the release. “These chefs exhibit our state’s culinary diversity and our wide array of locally grown foods.”