Living In I'On, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina: A Guide

I'On is a unique master-planned community in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, known for its New Urbanism design, Lowcountry architecture, and strong sense of community. If you're considering moving to the Charleston area, I'On offers a distinctive lifestyle with its walkable streets, parks, and proximity to both downtown Charleston and the beaches. This guide will provide an in-depth look at living in I'On, covering everything from its history and architecture to the real estate market and community amenities.

What is I'On?

I'On is not just a neighborhood; it's a vision of community living. Founded in the mid-1990s by Vince Graham and designed by renowned architects, the community was developed with the principles of New Urbanism in mind. New Urbanism emphasizes walkable neighborhoods, mixed-use development, and a strong sense of place. I'On’s design encourages residents to connect with each other and their surroundings, fostering a close-knit community.

History and Development

The land where I'On now sits was once part of a large plantation. Developers carefully planned the community to preserve the natural beauty of the area, including its wetlands and waterways. Construction began in 1996, and today, I'On is home to over 750 residences, a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.

Architectural Style

I'On's architecture is a key element of its charm. The homes are designed in the traditional Lowcountry style, featuring: — NBC News And Charlie Kirk: What You Need To Know

• Wide front porches
• Double-tiered piazzas
• Raised foundations
• HardiPlank siding
• Metal roofs

The architectural guidelines ensure a cohesive look throughout the community while allowing for individual expression. The pastel color palette and intricate detailing contribute to I'On's distinctive aesthetic.

Why Choose I'On?

Living in I'On offers a unique lifestyle that appeals to a variety of people, from young families to retirees. Here are some of the key reasons why people choose to call I'On home:

Sense of Community

I'On's design fosters a strong sense of community. Front porches encourage interaction among neighbors, and the numerous parks and green spaces provide gathering places for residents. The community also hosts regular events, such as concerts, farmers' markets, and holiday celebrations, further strengthening the bonds among residents.

Walkability and Connectivity

One of the hallmarks of I'On is its walkability. The community is designed with pedestrian-friendly streets, sidewalks, and walking trails that connect different areas. Residents can easily walk to the neighborhood's shops, restaurants, and amenities. I'On's location also provides convenient access to other parts of Mount Pleasant and Charleston.

Natural Beauty

I'On is surrounded by natural beauty, with its lagoons, parks, and walking trails. The community has preserved much of the original landscape, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Residents can enjoy views of the water, marshes, and abundant wildlife.

Proximity to Amenities

I'On is located in Mount Pleasant, a vibrant town with a wide range of amenities. Residents have easy access to:

• Shopping centers
• Restaurants
• Grocery stores
• Medical facilities
• Schools

Downtown Charleston is also just a short drive away, offering a wealth of cultural attractions, dining options, and historical sites.

Real Estate in I'On

The real estate market in I'On is competitive, reflecting the community's desirability. Properties range from condominiums and townhouses to large single-family homes. Prices vary depending on size, location, and features.

Types of Properties

I'On offers a diverse range of housing options:

• Single-family homes: These range from smaller cottages to large, custom-built residences.
• Townhouses: Townhouses provide a low-maintenance lifestyle with shared walls and amenities.
• Condominiums: Condominiums offer a more affordable option and often include amenities such as pools and fitness centers.

Price Range

As of 2023, the price range in I'On can vary significantly. Smaller condos may start in the $400,000s, while larger single-family homes can exceed $2 million. The median home price in I'On is typically higher than the average for Mount Pleasant due to the community's desirability and unique features. — La Liga Schedule: Your Ultimate Guide To Matchdays

Real Estate Trends

The real estate market in I'On tends to be active, with properties selling relatively quickly. Demand remains strong due to the community's reputation and desirable location. Working with a local real estate agent who specializes in I'On can be beneficial for both buyers and sellers.

Community Amenities

I'On offers a variety of amenities that enhance residents' quality of life:

The I'On Club

The I'On Club is a central hub for community activities. It features:

• Swimming pools
• Tennis courts
• Fitness center
• Clubhouse

The club hosts social events and programs for residents of all ages, further fostering a sense of community.

Parks and Green Spaces

I'On boasts numerous parks and green spaces, providing residents with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Eastlake and Westlake are two large lagoons that offer scenic views and walking trails. There are also smaller parks and squares scattered throughout the community.

Walking and Biking Trails

The community features an extensive network of walking and biking trails, encouraging residents to stay active and explore the neighborhood. These trails connect different areas of I'On and provide access to nearby amenities.

I'On Village

I'On Village is the commercial heart of the community, offering a mix of:

• Restaurants
• Shops
• Offices
• Services

Residents can walk or bike to the village for dining, shopping, and everyday errands.

Schools

I'On is located within the Charleston County School District, which offers a range of public and private school options. Some of the schools serving I'On include:

• Belle Hall Elementary School
• Cario Middle School
• Wando High School

The schools in this district are generally well-regarded, and families often cite the quality of education as a reason for choosing to live in I'On.

Lifestyle in I'On

Living in I'On offers a unique lifestyle that blends small-town charm with urban convenience. Here’s a glimpse of what daily life might be like:

Daily Life

Residents often start their day with a walk or bike ride along the trails, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Many people walk to I'On Village for coffee or breakfast. The community's design encourages outdoor activities and social interaction.

Community Events

I'On hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including:

• Concerts in the park
• Farmers' markets
• Holiday celebrations
• Neighborhood gatherings

These events provide opportunities for residents to connect and celebrate together.

Social Atmosphere

The social atmosphere in I'On is friendly and welcoming. Neighbors often gather on front porches to chat, and the community's design encourages interaction. There is a strong sense of belonging among residents. — AWS Outage: What Happened & How To Prepare

Pros and Cons of Living in I'On

Like any community, I'On has its pros and cons. Understanding these can help you decide if it’s the right place for you.

Pros

• Strong sense of community: I'On fosters a close-knit community with numerous opportunities for social interaction.
• Walkability: The community is designed for pedestrians, with walkable streets and convenient access to amenities.
• Natural beauty: I'On is surrounded by lagoons, parks, and green spaces, providing a serene environment.
• Convenient location: The community offers easy access to Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and the beaches.
• Unique architecture: I'On's Lowcountry-style homes create a cohesive and charming aesthetic.

Cons

• Higher cost of living: Real estate prices in I'On are generally higher than in other parts of Mount Pleasant.
• HOA fees: Residents pay homeowner association fees, which cover community maintenance and amenities.
• Limited architectural flexibility: The architectural guidelines can be restrictive for those who prefer a more modern or unconventional style.
• Potential for conformity: The emphasis on community and architectural consistency may not appeal to everyone.

Comparing I'On to Other Mount Pleasant Neighborhoods

Mount Pleasant offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Here’s how I’On compares to some other popular communities:

I'On vs. Old Village

• Old Village: Historic district with a mix of architectural styles, walkable streets, and a charming downtown area.
• I'On: Master-planned community with a focus on New Urbanism and Lowcountry architecture.

Old Village offers a more historic feel, while I'On provides a cohesive, planned community experience.

I'On vs. Mount Pleasant

• Mount Pleasant: A large town with diverse neighborhoods, shopping centers, and schools.
• I'On: A distinct community within Mount Pleasant, known for its unique design and amenities.

Mount Pleasant offers a broader range of housing options and amenities, while I'On provides a more focused community experience.

Tips for Moving to I'On

If you’re considering a move to I’On, here are some tips to help you prepare:

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent who specializes in I'On can provide valuable insights and guidance. They can help you find the right property, negotiate the best price, and navigate the community’s rules and regulations.

Understand the HOA Guidelines

The I'On homeowner association has specific guidelines regarding architecture, landscaping, and other aspects of community living. Be sure to review these guidelines before making a purchase.

Explore the Community

Take the time to explore I'On and get a feel for the community. Walk the streets, visit the parks, and check out the amenities. This will help you determine if I'On is the right fit for you.

Conclusion

Living in I'On, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, offers a unique and fulfilling lifestyle. With its strong sense of community, walkable streets, natural beauty, and convenient location, I'On appeals to those seeking a close-knit and vibrant neighborhood. While the cost of living may be higher than other areas, the quality of life and sense of belonging make I'On a highly desirable place to call home.

FAQs About Living in I'On

1. What is the average home price in I'On?

The average home price in I'On varies depending on the type of property and market conditions. As of 2023, prices range from the $400,000s for condos to over $2 million for large single-family homes. It's best to check with a local real estate agent for the most current market information.

2. What are the HOA fees in I'On?

HOA fees in I'On vary depending on the property type and specific neighborhood. These fees typically cover community maintenance, landscaping, and amenities such as the I'On Club.

3. What schools are located near I'On?

I'On is served by the Charleston County School District, including Belle Hall Elementary School, Cario Middle School, and Wando High School.

4. Is I'On a walkable community?

Yes, I'On is designed to be a walkable community, with pedestrian-friendly streets, sidewalks, and walking trails. Residents can easily walk to I'On Village for shopping and dining.

5. What amenities are available in I'On?

I'On offers a variety of amenities, including the I'On Club (with swimming pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center), parks, green spaces, walking trails, and I'On Village with its shops and restaurants.

6. How far is I'On from downtown Charleston?

I'On is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from downtown Charleston, depending on traffic conditions.

7. What architectural style are the homes in I'On?

The homes in I'On are designed in the traditional Lowcountry style, featuring wide front porches, double-tiered piazzas, raised foundations, and metal roofs.