
Rick and his wife Jada have lived on Hilton Head Island for over 8 years and LOVE it!!! Rick and Jada went to high school together in Albany, New York, Rick then attended school at St. Michael's College in Vermont. After college Rick went to graduate school and studied business and political science at Old Dominion University in Virginia. Soon after, Rick worked for Nabisco in sales and worked all over the country, until finally settling here on Hilton Head Island, where he says "I am not leaving, this is truly paradise".
Rick was the President of the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors® in 2005, he currently sits on several committees at both the local and state level. Rick has been a member of the President's distinguished Honor Roll for more than 5 years. Rick co-founded a local organization known as YES "Young entrepreneurs of the South", he is also very active at the local Humane Society. A top ten Realtor out of more than 1,500 agents, he has sold over $40 million dollars and serviced more than 150 clients in 2005. His service, work ethic, and energy are second to none and you know this the second you meet him.
Why the Carolina Realty Group? Rick knew he wanted to join a company that wanted to ethically serve it's clients, be a part of the community and be with a company that enjoys what they do. This is very difficult to find in an area with more that 1,700 Real Estate Agents and hundreds of companies...........With ONLY 8 Realtors, the Carolina Realty Group is the 5th Largest in VOLUME, behind only Sea Pines, Charter 1, Re/Max, and Dunes......which have hundreds and hundreds of agents!
How have they been this successful? They have the support (8 Assistants/Computer personnel), they help one another (everyone works together, helping one another's clients and customers alike), they have the repeat clientele that keep coming back and referring friends and family, and they have the community respect, because we love it here and we certainly give back, knowing how blessed we are to be a part of the Low country. Lottie Woodward, our broker in charge, encourages heavy involvement at the Association of Realtors and with our Community. Everyone that is a part of the Carolina Realty Group volunteers and gives back or she does not bring them aboard! That's the best part of this company by far and the people that work here know that and respect that.
Here is what a few of his clients have to say:
" The thing Kathie and I liked mostly about our real estate transaction with Ricky was he always followed through on what he said he would do. We're both a little "old school" and in this day and time it's hard to find anyone that complete the entire deal from start to finish like Ricky. We would not choose anyone other to handle our next real estate venture than Ricky. It's also great to have someone backing you up like Nancy in the office or Tristan for emergencies.
"
- Norm & Kathy Bushman - July 27, 2007
" Just wanted to let everyone know that as a retired couple, we have purchased and sold many properties over the years. We have had very few good Realtors. We do agree that Rick is the best Realtor we have ever had. The follow-up, attentiveness, honesty and helpfulness were superior.
Although the market was soft, and we needed to reduce the price, we were pleased that it did sell and Rick handled the closing with ease while we were in New Jersey. Thanks Rick for a good job.
"
- John and Lorraine DeGeorge - June 17, 2007
- Toms River, NJ
" Congratulations to you and Jada on becoming new parents. Congratulations to all of us for selling our Preserve property. We closed on September 14th.
Joanne and I wanted to thank you for making the process in this slowed down market bearable if not enjoyable. I appreciate your perspective and insights as we adjusted our sales strategy to accommodate a changing market. You were always accessible and treated us as team members but with the right mix of Realtor and therapist.
We needed to sell our Hilton Head Villa by the Fall of 2006 and chose Rick as our listing agent in the Spring of 2006, just at the time the real estate market was getting "soft" for sellers. Rick was great.
We ran into some big problems (slow market) and some little problems (quirky tenant). Rick always dept his eye on the big picture (getting the villa sold), developing new marketing strategies and working with our property manager to coordinate showings. In the end, the villa sold at an excellent price, well within out time table for the closing. Rick was responsive to all of our calls and questions! We were so satisfied with Rick that we recommended him highly to our closest friends. Rick took the time to show them properties on their schedule with no pressure. They purchased a home with his help and sold their Hilton Head villa (Rick was the listing agent) in June 2007 in less than a month! All of this with Rick's guidance, patience and support!
As we move forward with the exciting task of building our "retirement" home at Hampton Hall, I feel we have gained a friend and resource in Hilton Head, a solid person that we can contact when needed and hopefully work with on future real estate adventures.
In short, it is a great feeling to have sold our villa, made a substantial profit and anticipate closing on our "dream" property - Thanks Rick.
We'll see you when we move down Rick! Thanks again!
"
- Joanne & Bruce Bushart - May 26, 2007
" Rick Saba makes me a lot of money! "
- John Thomas - June 14, 2007
"
As out-of-town buyers, we chose Rick Saba for his experience and extensive knowledge of on and off island real estate. He asked the right questions, sent us lots of information, and planned for our visit. Together, we toured the area, met appointments at selected properties, and in 48 hours had purchased our dream home.
We certainly suggest that you contact Rick if you are considering buying or selling a home. He's not only talented and trustworthy, but provides exceptional service with personal attention to detail throughout the process. Long after the close of escrow, Rick continued to work on our behalf and always with our best interest in mind. Now, we not only have a great real estate agent, but also a good friend in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
"
- Ron & Candi Welch - June, 2007
- San Diego, CA
" From the first time I met Rick in October, he was so friendly that he makes you feel like you've been his friend for years. He was so well prepared and efficient that we discussed or looked at over two dozen villas in the three days that I was there, but he planned it so that we didn't see too many villas in one day and we were able to see everything on my want list. His experience and knowledge in the field is extraordinary and allows you to avoid many potential problems in the future by knowing what to look for in the beginning. After getting my offer accepted by the seller, Rick continuously kept us on track so that closing would be as smooth as possible. I have never met a person who's more friendly, professional, knowledgeable or energetic than Rick. I can't wait to buy by next villa."
- Edward Daniels, Jr. - May 15, 2007
" The first time we visited Hilton Head, we fell in love with the Island. Wonderful climate, friendly people, casual and comfortable lifestyle. What's not to live? When we saw the house on Leamington Lane … with it's open floor plan, windows overlooking the golf course, a perfect neighborhood, it seemed like a dream. Rick Saba helped us make our dream come true.
"
- Char and Dom Petrelli - May 29, 2007
"I met Rick Saba in March 2001 when my wife and I were looking to purchase a villa. In my job as a military and airline pilot, we have lived in many places and bought many houses. We have had 16 previous real estate transactions, all with outstanding agents. None, however, is more outstanding than Rick".
- Stan Cole, Texas
"Rick is an energetic, highly motivated realtor. After helping us buy a larger villa, he sold our old one in less than two weeks, for the price we had set. His insight into the real estate market in Hilton Head is invaluable. Not only did we get a great villa and a good investment, we got a great friend."
-
Ron and Ruth, Notestine PA
I still can't believe the villa you told us to buy cleared $80,000 in one year..........tell us where the next one is and we are in! Thank you so much, this is giving my kids a jump start for college.
- Tom and Sherrie Fair Norfolk, Mass 2004-5
You are the ONLY Realtor we would ever recommend or think about using! You sold our villa in record time, then you found us a non listed home in Sea Pines, well under the current market price. You flat out tell it like it is and your knowledge is the best! Thank you Rick for everything that you have done and will continue to do for us in the future.
- Bill and Heather Losey
Dear Rick:
This is a long overdue "Thank you" for all your efforts in assisting with my very first purchase of investment property. You came highly recommended by my son, because you are one of the very few people he knows and trusts to do what you say you'll do. I particularly appreciated your rapid response follow up to all of my inquiries, and you often times anticipated my questions and had the answers at hand for me.
For nearly 25 years, I was a real estate paralegal in a couple of private law firms and became quite familiar with real estate law...and realtors. In all my years as a paralegal, I can count on one hand the number of realtors I'd recommend, and you are first on the list. You not only followed up with me throughout the purchase transaction, you have maintained contact with me. When I decide to list the property, there is no other agent but you I'd want to have the listing.
You are very knowledgeable about the real estate market on Hilton Head and understand the buyer/seller trends in your area. You talk straight and clearly and give me the information I need to have to make informed decisions. You've managed to combine great skill and knowledge with a very easy-going style, and I look forward to our next transaction.
Warmest Regards,
- Esther A. Lapin - October 24, 2004
Dear Rick,
I just wanted to thank-you for all your hard work in helping me find the perfect home! I really appreciate all the time and effort you took with me to show me everything in my price range and than putting up with me dragging friends along for a second look at several possibilities. Being a first time homeowner not knowing anything.... you really saved me a lot of headaches by handling everything from making the offer to arranging inspections and repairs while I was out of the country on vacation. Once again. I couldn't be happier with my new condo!
Thanks again.
- Christine Lipske - Hilton Head Island, SC - October 27, 2004
When we decided to buy a villa in Hilton Head in 2002, we were shown around by another company's agent. She showed us only properties her company was pushing - nothing like what we wanted. After waiting for a response for several weeks, we called Rick Saba. What a difference in service! After explaining what we wanted, we came down 2 weeks later. Rick had about 25 properties lined up - they were exactly what we asked for. At the end of that day we made an offer on a villa, it was accepted, and we closed 3 weeks later. Rick was great in getting everything ready for the closing and in assisting us in every step. After 2 years we are still loving our villa! Thanks for everything Rick!
- David P. Shuster - Gainesville, GA - October 27, 2004
In early 2001 we decided to list our Harbour Town villa with our friend, Rick Saba, who had only recently become a real estate agent. At the time we thought the property would sell quickly and we were doing Rick a favor by placing the listing with him. Little did we know that the end of 2000 economic downturn and other events, including 9/11, would slam the door on villa sales on Hilton Head Island.
With the tables turned, Rick had to muster all his skills to sell our villa. And, he did so. He constantly came up with new ideas for marketing the property. He followed every lead. He called buyers' agent to expedite and secure the sale at a price very favorable to us. He was, borrowing one of his favorite phrases, "simply amazing" and we will be forever grateful.
- Nancy & Terry Gromel
In working with Rick Saba over the past few years, I found him to be extremely professional and diligent. He was always on the spot with matching my expressed needs to what he presented to me from the market place. I have worked with many agents in several regions of the country and Rick demonstrates to be a best in class.
- James Reinstein
Rick, I can describe you in 5 words, "You Are Simply the Best"!
I have owned my Fiddlers Cove apartment for 3 years now and am so happy that I bought it through you. You fought to get me the best price. Until today I have so much appreciation for the way you made the sale go through. I will without any doubt buy my second home through you.
- Stauros Odysseus
Rick Saba is the best real estate agent you could find. He is incredibly thorough, meticulous, and knowledgeable. But most of all, he is the most positive and honest agent you could ever employ.
Having bought and sold ten properties over thirty years, Rick stands at the top of real estate professionals.
I highly recommend this man to you who became more than a real estate agent for my family; he became a trusted friend.
- Stan Cole Texas 2000 and 2003
Rick Saba is a very professional realtor, who gave us sound and good advise on our recent purchase. Mr Saba possesses the highest integrity and ethics in his field.
Rick has a refreshing and knowledgeable approach in today's market. He has a wonderful old-fashioned work ethic. Rick helped us tremendously with all our relocation needs. We were pleased with our experience and highly recommend him.
- Joe & Mary Matis - Sun City SC - October 22, 2004
Rick is an energetic, highly motivated realtor. After helping us buy a larger villa, he sold our old one in less than two weeks, for the price we had set. His insight into the real estate market in Hilton Head is invaluable. Not only did we get a great villa and a good investment, we got a great friend.
- Ron and Ruth Notestine 2002-Present
Rick Saba is the only Real Estate agent I met who spent the time to prepare a marketing analysis and review the possibilities with me. I have utilized Rick's skills in 6 transactions in Hilton Head and have been very satisfied with the results. Rick Saba gets it done!
- Eric Lapin
I would highly recommend selecting Rick Saba as your realtor for the Hilton Head area. Rick has represented us as a buyer's agent for two purchases on Hilton Head Island. In both cases, Rick demonstrated himself to be honest, hard working and very knowledgeable about the Hilton Head real estate market. He can also provide great advice about who to work with in Hilton Head to get additional services such as financing and property management.
Prior to our Hilton Head purchases, we were unfamiliar with the area other than its good name. Choosing Rick to represent us turned out to be an excellent decision. As an example, during our first purchase the financing we arranged fell through less than 2 weeks before the closing. It was unbelievable! Rick got involved and recommended we use a contact of his at Wells Fargo. Within a week, the financing was secured and we closed on time. That property has already appreciated over 30% in less than 2 years. Rick's knowledge, experience and contacts on Hilton Head are a valuable resource that can benefit you if you choose to have him represent you. At this point, I wouldn't make another move on Hilton Head without working with Rick.
I highly recommend you consider using Rick for at least one real estate transaction. I won't be surprised that you will also find that having him represent you on Hilton Head was a wise choice.
- Gary Morrison - October 12, 2004
Rick was great! He assessed our needs, worked closely with us and helped us make the right real estate decision. As first time vacation property buyers we had a lot to learn. Rick went above and beyond to provide the knowledge and insight for us to feel comfortable with our purchase.
- Dave Massey - Atlanta, Georgia
Rick Saba is that rare bird in business: A man who says what he can and will do for you. And then does it! We have had the pleasure of having Rick represent us on two purchases on Hilton Head Island and we would never consider using anyone else. He is congenial, responsive, honest and efficient.
- Corinne and Michael Rae - Belmont, California - October 13, 2004
As a first time home buyer, Rick made my experience a very positive one. He was very thorough in explaining anything and everything I needed to know. He was energetic yet patient and helped me find and purchase exactly what I was looking for in the right price range. He's fun to work with and very personable as well as extremely knowledgeable about the market on Hilton Head. I would highly recommend him to anyone interested in purchasing property in the area.
- Amanda L Dahl
Dear Mr. Saba;
I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for all of your hard work in the closing of our property on Hilton Head Island. Your hard work and patience with first-time Hilton Head property-buyers like us made the dream of Hilton Head ownership a reality.
From the first time that we met you, Rick, there was a sense of honesty and professionalism about you. In fact the first time we met back in 2001, you gave my parents, my wife, and myself, a tour of the entire island and told us what areas were good investment areas, and what areas where not so good. You not once pressured us to buy a particular property. You wanted for us to have a general picture of the entire island before making any decisions. There was a sincere sense of wanting to establish a relationship, and not to just sell one more property. You sincerely had our interests in mind. Then, once we bought the property, you have always been there to answer any questions, and to provide a helping hand in anything that needed to be done.
Rick, you are truly a credit to your profession. I can truly say that since the first time we met, you have handled yourself professionally, and I can honestly say that you are a friend of our entire family. In fact, whenever we come to Hilton Head Island, the first person we generally call is you, Rick.
I would have no problem recommending you to other people. Please feel free to use this letter as a testimonial.
With much appreciation,
S. and Lakshmi Prakash
St. Louis, MO
- The Prakash Family St. Louis, MO
Finding your dream house is just the beginning ……
As an out-of-town buyer, we needed someone to co-ordinate all of the numerous activities that precede settlement. We chose Rick because of his cheerful “can-do” attitude, his attention to details, and his focus at all times on our best interests.
It proved to be a wise choice. He assisted us with contract negotiations; home inspection; insurance requirements; utilities hook-ups; pest, garden and home improvement contractors; settlement attorneys; and even a rental company (that found us a long-term tenant).
Rick’s contacts were invaluable in getting everything on our “must-do list” satisfactorily completed, long before we flew down for settlement.
Rick is a true gem – an outstanding professional, a joy to deal with, and our first friend on the Island.
- Steve and Shelli Roth Out of Town Buyers July 1st 2002, Maryland
"Rick Saba helped me purchase 5 investment properties for a 1031 exchange. His service, knowledge, and commitment is second to none and I highly recommend him to anyone. I will use Rick Saba when I purchase in the near future, he is the best I have seen."
- Jan Bordewick 1031 Exchange Investment Buyer July 2002 California
To any potential buyers, Rick Saba's knowledge and understanding of property on the Island is the best. By talking to him long enough you will realize this. And by the time you are finished closing on your new home you will have made a friend for life!
- Guy Ruley Villa Owner and Realtor Hilton Head Island 2002
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I met Rick Saba in March 2001 when my wife and I were looking to purchase a villa. In my job as a military and airline pilot, we have lived in many places and bought many houses. We have had 16 previous real estate transactions, all with outstanding agents. None, however, is more outstanding than Rick.
Rick is hard-working and honest. He invested untold hours finding every piece of information we needed quickly. We never once saw him shade the truth. He treated everyone with the highest respect. He is one of the most positive, encouraging people I have ever known.
Rick impressed us most after the sale. When the property is closed and the commissions paid, most agents feel their job is done. Not Rick. He continued to work jus as hard helping us move in. He called and visited several times. He found us a ticket to the Heritage Golf tournament. He recommended people for remodeling. He invited us to his home.
Rick cared about us as more than clients. Rick became our friend. I strongly encourage you to partner with Rick as your agent. You can be assured that you will make the best real estate decision and gain a wonderful friend as well.
Sincerely,
Stanley P. Cole, Jr.
- Stanley P. Cole Jr. Out of Town Villa Owner Texas
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the great job
you did in helping me find my villa. You went way beyond what I expected. You researched many properties and showed me as many as I could possibly see during the time I was at Hilton Head. You were there for me from beginning to end, helping me with an attorney, mortgage lender, inspections, pictures, and anything else that would make the purchase go smoothly. I am fortunate that I was able to find such a GREAT realtor who I TRUST and would highly recommend to anyone purchasing a home! You're the BEST!
Sincerely,
- Lorraine Thomas - Investment Buyer - New Jersey
I just wanted to take the time to officially thank you for the wonderful job you did in helping me buy unit 12F Fiddlers Cove on Folly Field Rd. You were very prompt and provided me with efficient service at all times. You were also very responsive to special requests that I had. Thank you. I am amazed by how much effort you put into making the sale take place and would without a doubt recommend you to anyone that is interested in buying real estate.
- Stavros Odysseus 1st Time Buyer South Africa
I am writing this testimonial to you in hopes that you will share it with your future clients. We have the highest regard for you. Your professionalism and honesty are more than excellent. When we began looking for an agent in the Hilton Head area, we spoke to several other agents before we found you. Most agents never bothered to return our calls. Once I contacted you, you were more than willing to work with us. From the very first contact there was no question in our minds that we would enjoy dealing with you. You have always done exactly what you said you would do and in a very timely manner. Words just cannot convey the appreciation and respect we have for you. The work you have done for us and still are doing just goes above and beyond what anyone could expect. You have done so much to make our new purchase just about effortless on our part. Your tireless dedication to us is extraordinary.
To anyone reading this letter, please know that you will never find a better agent or person than Rick Saba. He has made our transition as new homeowners a very pleasant experience. Buying a property when you are out of state can be a nerve-wracking project. Dealing with Rick set our minds at ease. Rick's honesty and integrity are beyond reproach. Rick made phone calls o hook us up with furniture companies, phone companies, insurance companies, rental companies, he went to our property and set up cleaning and carpet cleaning and furniture delivery. Aside from that I would like to think of Rick Saba as our new friend, and I hope he will remain our friend forever.
In closing I would like to say how lucky we were to have found Rick Saba. If at any time Rick we can repay you for all of the help and kindness you have shown us, please don't hesitate to ask.
- Sandy and Lenny Young Out of Town Buyer's Ohio
We are excited about the direction our REALTOR School has been taking recently. We are pleased that you have agreed to serve on the School Committee that will take us to a new dimension in member service. You were chosen to serve because of your expertise and your dedication to our Association. You will add a lot to the makeup of this Committee.
- Hilton Head Island Realtors School
Your lust, vitality and outlook on life breathes into everyone you touch. Continued success and may life grant you all of your wishes.
- Seth and Kelli 1st Time Buyers New Construction Off Island
"Rick was the only person that totally represented my interests. I worked with a few other agents and they kept pushing me. With Rick, we looked for almost 6 months, then when we found the right property, it was really a great buy and the right buy for me. I will list my villa with him when I sell!"
- Craig Utsman Villa Owner Tennessee
"Recently, I have had the pleasure of becoming a homeowner on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. I know that becoming a homeowner and pleasure is nom ally an oxymoron but I was treated to a wonderful surprise. Knowing as many people as I do, I received many suggestions as for who I should have represent me. The reoccurring name was that of Rick Saba. I was told that Rick would be fair and go to bat for me when I needed it. So I stave him a chance.
Rick not only went to bat for me but also went WAY above and beyond the call of duty. He kept in contact with me throughout every step of the process. He was always two steps ahead of the seller's agent and the lawyers. He even rented my moving truck and showed up on the day of the move ready to work.
Rick worked night and day, seven days a week and took care of all problems before I even knew about them. He answered all of my questions and treated me with much respect Rick wasn't in this sale for his commission; he was in it for me. My interests were his interests. My concerns were his concerns. And he became so close to my family and I, that my mother became his second mother!
The William F. Hilton Co. is lucky to have Rick Saba working for them, as I was lucky to have him working for me. He has become more than a real estate agent to me, he has become my friend. I encourage you to work with a man that is changing the way the real estate market is, one friend at a time."
- Tom Bastek 1st Time Buyer New York
"We are lucky to have Rick Saba as our agent. It is almost impossible to handle things out of town such as: attorneys, estimates, inspection reports, follow up on vendors, and other details that need to be supervised. When we sell our home, we will use Rick to sell it."
- John Dreier Out of Town Owner Little Falls, New York
Specializing in out of town buyers and investors, Rick's knowledge of the villa and investment market is unbelievable. As a member of the Carolina Realty Group, they are now the 5 th largest company in volume with only 8 agents! With the support, the marketing, and the overall service level at Carolina Realty Group, Rick Saba is the one to know in Real Estate!