South Carolina Real Estate
Columbia is South Carolina's capital, and a lot of people choose to live here. It's centrally located to the beach and the mountains. It's one of the biggest cities in the state, and the population has grown to just over 120,000. Some of the biggest employers in the area are the University of South Carolina, the state government, and the hospital systems. The state is the home of top notch resorts, golf courses by the billions and pristine beaches. With tons of history and modern development, South Carolina is a unique state. South Carolina real estate is also unique because prices are so low.
South Carolina
It would be an understatement to say South Carolina played a major role in the Civil War. Battles raged across the land and the state has done much to preserve the history. While maintaining this history, South Carolina has also looked to the future.
Considering the great location, South Carolina real estate is cheap, cheap, and cheap. Single-family homes average under $200,000 throughout the state with the exception of Charleston and the luxury resorts. A home in Charleston will average $300,000 while property in the resort areas varies wildly. Appreciation rates for South Carolina are neither great nor terrible. For 2005, property has appreciated at an average of eight percent, but varies by location.
Charleston
So you are considering a move to Charleston? Excellent choice! The South Carolina real estate market has been steadily gaining in popularity for many years. This area has a lot to showcase to potential home buyers. Here is a short list of reasons why the purchase of a new home or condo in Charleston makes good sense.
This is simply a beautiful area in which to live. The natural scenery creates a beautiful backdrop for the homes and properties. There is also an abundance of parks and green spaces that only add to the already inspiring visual element of Charleston. The local islands that sit just off the coast are a beautiful element of the scenery here, adding to the scenic coastline, and beautiful beaches.
There are some amazing homes in this area and more are being constructed every day. It does not matter if your tastes lean towards country cottages or stylish loft condos; there is a special piece of property for everyone in Charleston. There is also a great selection of historical and heritage homes, plantation style manors and homes that will simply take your breath away.
Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston is a city with a ton of history. Arguably, the Civil War started in Charleston via Fort Sumter, which is located in the harbor. A major shipping port during those times, the city is now one of the most attractive in the United States. The architectural style is definitely old south, but with a mix of influences. Certain areas of the town feel like New Orleans with garden areas and hanging patios. Other areas have a distinct Caribbean feel and yet others are stereotypical old south manner homes. Charleston is definitely a hot spot if you are considering living the South.
Charleston is known for its history and culture. Its economy is also based largely on tourism, and it has started to make its way into the international tourism and real estate markets as it's become the cultural hub of the state. You'll find historic sites, museums, and art galleries throughout the main peninsula and surrounding areas. Charleston is considered more of an upscale port city and has 6 beaches along its coast (plus several islands and towns further inland). Charleston is comparable to Columbia in size, at just under 118,000.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a take it or leave it place. The beaches are beautiful, but the area is severely over-commercialized. The area is family friendly most of the year, but the beach has become a hot spot for college students during spring break. If you don't mind the ruckus, Myrtle Beach should be considered as a relocation spot because you will not find cheaper beach real estate prices anywhere.
Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist areas in South Carolina. Every year, more than 15 million people visit South Carolina's coast, and Myrtle Beach is at the top of the list of beaches, statistically speaking. Although a lot of people in Myrtle Beach live there year round, it's considered more of a vacation spot. You'll find putt-putt courses and beach shops sprinkled throughout the area. It also has a lot of large hotels and condo complexes right on the beach. Myrtle Beach is the most coastal city on this list. The residential population is estimated around 23,000.
Hilton Head
Hilton Head does not attract as many tourists, and it's known as a smaller and quieter coastal area. The AARP often lists Hilton Head in its top places to retire, but you'll find a mix of people there. Its population is estimated at about 33,000. Real estate prices are relatively high, as the town has strict development and commercial guidelines. The town incorporated these rules in an effort to preserve the natural setting that people associate with Hilton Head.
Greenville
Greenville is located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has cooler weather than the coastal areas of South Carolina. It snows usually about once or twice a year in the uppermost part of the state, and Greenville is the largest city in the upstate. It has an estimate of about 60,000 residents. This area has seen some of the largest growth for non-coastal areas in South Carolina, and it's expected to grow even more in coming years. The city has plenty to do and lots of nice areas, but it's also considered an up and coming area simply because of its past and projected growth.