“The real estate market this fall is looking far from scary” (CTAR)

As the real estate market begins to cool with the changing of the seasons, buyers are beginning to see fewer listings, and less competition for homes. That being said, mortgage rates remain considerably low, and the economy strong as 2019 begins to come to a close.

Closed Sales +13% | Median Sales Price +3.1% |  Months Supply -10%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston
• Summerville
• Goose Creek

Featured Property

Don’t miss your chance to preview Sullivan’s House – a historic restoration yielding a collection of four bright, luxurious residences designed for the island lifestyle. With open floor plans, expansive master suites, guest bedrooms with ensuite baths and expertly designed kitchens, they are the perfect gathering places for friends and family. Only 2 units remain, so act fast! For more photos and information, visit www.SullivansHouse.com.

New Downtown Office Location!

SAY HELLO to our newest office location in historic Charleston, 11 Fulton Street. Centrally located one half block off of King and within walking distance to world-class shopping and dining, this fabulous (and yet cozy!) office space is steeped in history and will serve as our new hub in the heart of downtown Charleston.

The Real Estate Studio  |  11 Fulton Street, Historic Charleston

And speaking of new…

Thanks to the recent lowering of federal interest rates in July, consumer confidence is up, and many homeowners have taken advantage by choosing to refinance their homes. On the other hand, a lack of affordable inventory and the continuation of high housing prices continue to affect the housing market. As we move into fall, buyers are encouraged to keep and eye on the market, and remained poised to act when the time is right.

Closed Sales -4.6% | Median Sales Price +9.4% |  Months Supply -12.5%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston

Featured Property

JUST LISTED ON FOLLY BEACH!  306 East Huron Avenue
Nothing beats owning deep water property on Folly Beach! With an existing dock out back, short stroll to the beach out front, and an adorable old-Folly style cottage,this is the perfect place to call home. For more info visit: bit.ly/306EastHuron.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

In a much anticipated move, The Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the first time in more than a decade at the close of its July meeting . While it was stated this will not be an ongoing trend, it is seen as a precaution for what the future holds. Regardless of further cuts, the U.S. market remains favorable with a strong labor market, solid consumer spending and relatively high stock valuations.

Closed Sales +6.5% | Median Sales Price +4.1% |  Months Supply -7.7%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston

Featured Property

JUST REDUCED $100,000! 410 Patriot Street, Sullivan’s Island
This beautifully appointed coastal home was thoughtfully planned featuring 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, heart of pine floors, an extra-wide screened porch and stunning rooftop deck with some of the best panoramic views of the island!

Upcoming Events in Charleston

Charleston Summer Wine Festival  August 17
Sip the night away as Charleston Wine Festivals hosts the first Charleston Summer Wine Festival at Memminger Auditorium on Saturday, August 17, 2019, 6pm-10pm. Enjoy over 50 wines, mimosas, beer, live music & DJ.

2019 Grape Stomp Festival  August 24
The 2019 Stomp Festival promises to be THE event of the year at Deep Water Vineyard. Join us Saturday, August 24th from 10am- 5pm.

SC Reggae Jerk & Wine Festival   August 25
It doesn’t get much better than Jamaican Jerk foods paired with wine, reggae music, and a stroll around beautiful Magnolia Gardens – all while benefiting a good cause! Sunday, August 25th, 12-7pm

Lowcountry Jazz Festival   August 31 – September 1
South Carolina’s premiere annual Smooth Jazz event returns to the Charleston Gaillard Center Saturday, August 31st and Sunday, September 1st with a stellar lineup of superstar artists and up and coming instrumentalists and vocalists.

Charleston, S.C. is one of the hottest travel destinations in the entire country right now, and after people visit once, they want to stay forever. If you’re looking for a truly unique place to go to college, Charleston is the city for you. With three beaches within a few miles of the campus and a bustling downtown scene with more bars and restaurants than you can count, you’ll love the atmosphere almost as much as the campus itself.

You’ll find gorgeous Spanish moss draped from ancient live oak trees almost anywhere you go on the College of Charleston campus along with historic buildings used as offices and classrooms. If you’ve never visited Charleston, find out all the reasons you should add this to your list of places to apply for school.

Reasons Charleston, S.C. Is a Great College Town

Southern Hospitality Is Real

For those who didn’t grow up in Charleston, S.C., it may come as a surprise that Southern hospitality is more than just a stereotype. As you walk around the downtown area, you’ll find yourself smiling and greeting strangers who are genuinely interested in how your day is going. For many northerners, this is an unfamiliar custom, but it makes it really easy to get comfortable in a new place when everyone you encounter is smiling and friendly.

Voted Most Beautiful Campus in the U.S.

We’re not the only ones who think that the College of Charleston has a stunning campus. Travel + Leisure voted this campus as the most beautiful in the entire country in 2017. The unique Roman architecture gives the impression that you’re stepping back in time as you walk through the sprawling campus. The cistern is the most photographed area of the college, which is where graduation is held each year. A large outdoor area, the cistern is filled with huge live oaks that are covered in enchanting Spanish moss. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the campus is the history and mystery that surrounds it. Professors’ offices can be found at the top of spiraling staircases connected to traditional Charleston single-style homes or even tucked away inside the arches that lead to the cistern.

Experience an All-American City

While many large universities have many forms of entertainment offered by the college itself, the College of Charleston is located right in the middle of the bustling city, providing students with access to the best activities in the area. From campus, students can walk through the streets admiring the brightly painted, Antebellum-style houses on their way to the tip of the peninsula known as the battery. Here, you can watch boats sail through the ocean or have a picnic at the White Point Gardens. You’ll find plenty of beautiful outdoor places to sit and enjoy the weather—from Marion Square, where the weekly farmers market is held, to Hampton Park.

For college students, there’s also no shortage of great bars and restaurants to check out. King Street is the hub for great dining, and you’ll find every type of food you could want—Italian, Vietnamese, classic Southern and so much more. On the weekends, King Street is flooded with young people bar hopping, exploring the best rooftop bars, hanging out in some of our favorite dive joints and listening to live music. It’s nearly impossible to be bored when you’re living right in the heart of historic Charleston, S.C.

Minutes Away from the Beach

Students living in Charleston are amongst the luckiest college kids in the country because not only do you have access to the city, but you can easily head to the beach on any day of the week. And, because of the area’s pleasant year-round weather, you can explore all of the Charleston beaches during any season. It’s not uncommon to see people heading to the beach in the middle of winter for a walk along the shore. Our climate may be mild, but you will still need to bring a jacket along for the stroll.

From downtown Charleston, S.C., students have three options when it comes to going to the beach—Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms. The Isle of Palms is the furthest from the campus but has one of the most popular beach bars in the area, The Windjammer, which hosts live music and beach volleyball competitions each summer. Sullivan’s Island is much closer to downtown but also located in Mount Pleasant. This charming little beach area is the Charleston beach with the best selection for food. Order mimosas and oysters for a fancy brunch at Obstinate Daughter, or head to HomeTeam for some Southern-style barbecue and their famously potent alcoholic drink, the Game Changer. The last of the three Charleston beaches, Folly Beach is located on James Island and gives off more of a bohemian beach vibe. Many students opt to go here because of the laid-back atmosphere and bars along Center Street.

The Football Team Is “Undefeated”

A running joke amongst current CofC students and alumni, the College of Charleston football team is notoriously undefeated—because they do not exist. For some, the lack of a football team might be problematic, but Charleston is just two hours from Columbia, S.C., home of the Gamecocks, meaning you can easily drive up for the weekend to catch a game. Although Charleston does not have a football team, there are frequent basketball games at the TD Arena with BYOB tailgates beforehand, baseball games at Patriot’s Point and our olympic-level sailing team. In fact, sports are a major part of the College of Charleston community. Students can even opt to take sailing or yoga as a class during the year.

Achieve a Liberal Arts Education

In today’s world, your major doesn’t necessarily make or break your future career path, and getting a liberal arts education can provide you with a well-rounded knowledge of many subjects so you can use your skills in multiple fields. Liberal arts schools try to cover humanities and social and natural sciences, as well as mathematics to give students some insight into many different areas before they select a major. People with degrees from a liberal arts school are attractive to employers after graduation because they have been taught how to implement their skills across multiple areas of study, making these employees self-sufficient and adaptable.

Colleges in Charleston, S.C.

The College of Charleston

The most popular school in Charleston, S.C., the College of Charleston is a liberal arts school located in the heart of historic downtown with a variety of excellent programs and a knowledgeable staff of professors. For those who aren’t quite sure what career they would like to break into after graduation, the College of Charleston is a great choice because the liberal arts program will set you up to explore a variety of classes and industries. Most students at CofC live in one of the many dorms during their freshman year before moving off campus into a downtown apartment. Because the downtown area only covers a few miles, it’s easy to find an apartment near the campus. For those looking to get a top-notch education and stay close to the beaches and city, College of Charleston is an excellent choice.

Trident Technical College

Trident has both a downtown and North Charleston campus. The main location in North Charleston is much larger and offers a greater variety of classes, but some students elect to take as many classes as they can at the downtown location to stay close to all that the city has to offer. Trident is a two-year school, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone trying to save money on out-of-state tuition. Many students come to Charleston, S.C., attend Trident for two years and then transfer to the College of Charleston. This is such a common process that the two schools have a seamless system for transferring students over.

Charleston Southern University

This small Baptist college is located in North Charleston, not far from the downtown area. Overall, the college welcomes about 3,600 students each year. For those who thrive in an environment with more direct instruction and smaller classes, Charleston Southern is a great option. This school also implements a liberal arts program, but because it is a private university connected with the South Carolina Baptist Convention, the curriculum tries to tie in religion and spirituality.

Medical University of South Carolina

One of the top medical schools in the South, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is also located right in downtown Charleston and is known for its outstanding programs. Many people seeking a career in the medical field will choose to attend the College of Charleston for a bachelor’s degree and then stay in Charleston and continue their education at MUSC. This school is located on the west side of the peninsula in a quieter, more residential area then the College of Charleston.

The Citadel

Charleston’s military college was established in 1842 as part of a state-organized military to educate young people and train them for service simultaneously. Over the last century, the college continues to incorporate its military origins with many of the students intending to serve in some branch of the military after graduation, though some students simply attend the college for a more rigid type of higher education.

American College of the Building Arts

Located in downtown Charleston, the American College of the Building Arts is a unique college in the city that focuses on more hands-on artistic avenues of education, such as different types of architecture, masonry and plasterwork. This is a great option for students who have an interest in this specific career path and are ready to jump into a curriculum designed to train them to move directly into their line of work after graduation.

Best Downtown Neighborhoods for College Students

Downtown Charleston is broken into 11 different neighborhoods that stretch across the peninsula from the affluent South of Broad, which houses many of the mansions located on The Battery, to Wagener Terrace and Hampton Terrace on the northern end of the city, featuring more family residential areas. For students attending a school downtown, staying near the campus is important because you’ll have quick and easy access to classes and all that Charleston’s nightlife has to offer. Here are some of our top neighborhoods for students and young working professionals.

Harleston Village

Much of the College of Charleston campus is located within Harleston Village, making this the most desired area of town for younger residents. You’ll be able to walk to almost every building on campus within 10 minutes, and you’ll find tons of great restaurants nearby. This area of town is also just a few blocks from King Street, where nearly all of the most popular establishments are in the city. From coffee shops to dive bars, college students will find everything they need in Harleston Village.

Cannonborough/Elliotborough

This area is probably the second most desired neighborhood in downtown Charleston for those attending school. Cannonborough/Elliotborough is a few blocks further from campus than Harleston Village, which means many students living in this area will ride bikes or skateboards to get to class more quickly, though it’s still within 25 minutes to walk to the college. Here, you’ll find easier access to those same upper King Street bars and restaurants, but you’ll also discover a wave of new and eclectic spots that have been popping up in the neighborhood. In the evenings, you can grab tacos from the well-loved Charleston restaurant Fuel or check out the intriguing menu of Asian Fusion options at Xiao Bao Biscuit.

Wagener Terrace and Hampton Terrace

Though both Wagener Terrace and Hampton Terrace are not highly populated by college students, this neighborhood is great for young professionals looking to settle down after graduation without having to leave the peninsula. Further north than many of the other neighborhoods, both areas are more laid-back with many families choosing to settle in this part of town. Here, you’ll find far fewer traditional Charleston single homes that have been split into apartments and more quaint, cottage-style houses. The best part of this neighborhood? The beautiful nearby Hampton Park, where events like outdoor yoga are frequently held. You’ll also be closer to places like Moe’s Crosstown Tavern, a dive bar with killer burgers, and The Park Cafe, a charming little place for brunch or lunch.

So many people are attracted to Charleston, S.C., because of the city’s many options for college students, but once young people have experienced the beauty and excitement of our unique city, they never want to leave. Whether you’re interested in getting a liberal arts education from the College of Charleston, a more religiously oriented study program at Charleston Southern or a hands-on experience at the American College of the Building Arts, Charleston has many diverse options for every type of student. Pick the college that speaks to you most and come experience all that Charleston, S.C. has to offer.

Overall the economy is performing well due to factors such as low unemployment and solid retail sales. An interest rate reduction seems likely in 2019 and would, especially in the Charleston market, be a welcome opportunity for growth.

Closed Sales -1.3% | Median Sales Price +7.3% | Months Supply -5.1%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston

Featured Property

Pool party anyone? 😎🍹 This stunning marshfront home on Sullivan’s Island recently underwent a whole-house renovation by Renaissance South Construction where no expense was spared! Enjoy gorgeous marsh views from the unbelievable outdoor area with spacious deck, infinity-edge pool, large hot tub, and cabana area complete with a grill, bar and sitting area perfect for relaxing and entertaining! For more information, visit www.2402Raven.com

We Did It Again!

Did you hear the news? For the 7th consecutive year, the readers of Travel + Leisurehave named Charleston the No. 1 city in the US. I can’t say we’re surprised, but we’ll take it! To read the full article visit: bit.ly/ChasNo1USCity

Where to Eat in Charleston, July 2019

Baker and Brewer

Baker and Brewer   |   Downtown Charleston
Located at the former home of DeSano Pizza Bakery, Baker and Brewer is the hottest new pizzeria and brewpub from the makers of EVO Pizzeria and Holy City Brewing.

Dashi   |   North Charleston
Fans of Dashi’s foodtruck (myself included) are thrilled to finally see a brick-and-morter restaurant, serving up Asian and Latin cuisines – now with an expanded menu!

The Salty Dog

The Salty Dog Cafe   |   Bohicket Marina
After a long wait, The Salty Dog has opened in Bohicket Marina (right next to our Kiawah/Seabrook office!) offering waterfront dining with some pretty great views.

Maison  |   Downtown Charleston
Brought to you by Carlton “Vandy” Vanderwarker, the former chef de cuisine at The Ordinary, and former Fish bartender, Will Love, Maison is a french inspired bistro sure to please!

As we hit the mid-year mark, we are starting to notice a reoccurring trend – low inventory and steadily increasing home sales. In addition to this, we are currently seeing a slight rise in days on market (up 8.5% from this time last year), which is most likely due to schools being out for the summer causing buyers to wait to make those large purchase. That being said, markets across the country are starting to level off, meaning more wiggle room for buyers which is always a good sign. As long as the weather works in our favor, we anticipate a healthy real estate market for the Charleston area.

Closed Sales +3.0% | Median Sales Price +4.0% | Months Supply -2.6%

Market Statistics by Area

3 Bennett Street, Listed by Kristin B Walker

Tax Credits for Historic Properties

People from all over the world love Charleston and its wonderful architecture. Our leaders years ago, knew that preserving that charm would be important to its future. What might seem to some like draconian rules that must be followed have become the unswerving guiding principles to preserving these beloved historic structures. Consequently, incentives have been put in place to encourage owners to “do it the right way” and truly restore and not just remodel historic buildings. 

How does it work?

Taxpayers who rehabilitate their owner-occupied residence may be eligible to subtract 25% of the costs of many expensive repairs and renovations from their state income taxes.

How do I qualify?

Your building must meet both of these criteria:

1. You must own and live in the building or a portion of the building that will be rehabilitated. It can be a house or another type of historic building, such as a school or store, that you are rehabilitating to live in. An historic outbuilding associated with your residence, such as a barn or a garage, can also be eligible for the credit. The credit does not apply to buildings or portions of buildings that are used in a trade or business or produce income.

2. Your building must be one of the following:

• listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places
• contributing to a listed National Register historic district
• determined by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to be eligible for individual listing in the National Register
• an outbuilding that contributes to the significance of a property listed in the National Register

One might be surprised to learn that tax credits are available all around the Lowcountry and not just downtown Charleston that qualify. Here are a few: Historic District (HD) in Summerville, Hampton Park Terrace, a carriage house downtown, a Freedman’s cottage in North Central, Mt. Pleasant HD, Ashley River HD Atlanticville HD Charleston Navy Yard Officer’s quarters HD, French Quarter HD, Moultrieville HD, Pinopolis HD, Pineville HD, Sullivan’s Island HD, Successionville HD to name a few.

What elements qualify?

Money spent in the following categories may be counted as “Rehabilitation Expenses” when calculating the amount of credit:

• restoration of historic plaster
• energy efficiency measures except insulation in frame walls
• repairs or installation of heating, air conditioning, or ventilating systems
• repairs or installation of electrical or plumbing systems exclusive of new electrical appliances and electrical or plumbing fixtures
• architectural and engineering fees.

Allowable expenses do not include the cost of new construction beyond the footprint or volume of the existing building, the cost of acquiring or marketing the property, the value of an owner’s personal labor, or the cost of personal property.

Are there other requirements?

You must spend more than $15,000 within 36 months on Rehabilitation Expenses that qualify.  Remember, this is a government program. There will be forms to complete, timelines, reviews, and copious documentation is required.

What is the most important take away?

Do not start any work until the first form is approved by the state of SC.  You must have documentation of every element you intend to claim with before and after photos. You must tract specific expenses scrupulously throughout the process and you must quantify all work. This is not easy and contractors don’t like doing it so you will likely be the project manager for the tax credit work. But remember, it pays well come April 15^th.

• • – Terry Bell-Aby, Realtor®

  • Mobile  508-627-2988  | Terry@dunesproperties.com

Spring has SPRUNG and eager buyers are out in full force this season. With beautiful weather and new listings up 4.2%, it’s no wonder competition is fierce for well-priced homes in the Charleston area. Although inventory is still a factor, sellers are poised to make quite a profit in the coming months. With the the national unemployment rate dropping to 3.6% during April 2019 (the lowest level since 1969) we anticipate a positive affect on the real estate market.

Closed Sales -2.6% | Median Sales Price 0.0% | Months Supply 0.0%

Market Statistics by Area

Thinking about launching your career in Charleston, SC? You’ve chosen the right city. With its diversified economy, low unemployment rate and robust job growth, the Charleston-metro region offers plentiful job opportunities for those seeking employment.

On top of it all, Charleston is simply an incredible place to live. In addition to bountiful job opportunities, the Holy City’s coastal location also provides gorgeous beaches, scenic views and an endless array of recreational activities. Not to mention the city’s globally renowned food scene and rich history, which further contributes to the economy with its vibrant tourism.

If you’re ready to enter the job market, where you live can make all the difference to your success. Let’s take a deeper look into what makes Charleston one of the best cities for job hunters.

Charleston Labor Statistics at a Glance

Finding a job and settling down in Charleston, SC could be easier than you think. According to the SC Department of Employment & Workforce’s latest Charleston Community Profile, the Holy City’s low unemployment rate is outperforming both the state and the nation.

South Carolina’s monthly unemployment rate was at 3.3 percent for March 2019, while Charleston’s was at 2.8 for the same month. With the nation’s monthly unemployment rate at 3.9 percent, Charleston beats it by more than a whole percentage point.

Here are a few additional facts and figures from the report:

• Monthly Unemployment Rate (unadjusted): 8 percent
• Unemployed: 5,830
• Employed: 204,462
• Population in 2010: 348,370
• Projected Population for 2020: 366,380
• Notable Employers: The Boeing Company, Medical University of SC, The Citadel, Comcast

Why Job Seekers Are Flocking to Charleston, SC

There is no doubt about it: the Charleston job market is hot. A growing number of job seekers are turning to the Holy City for steady employment due to the region’s thriving economy, ideal port location and ongoing support from the local community.

Thriving Economy

As you could probably guess based on the labor market statistics above, Charleston’s economy is fueling job creation and contributing to the city’s prosperity. According to the Milken Institute’s Best Performing Cities index, Charleston’s economy ranked 16^th-best in the nation, jumping six places up from last year.

What’s behind the city’s economic growth? The following economic trends are playing a significant role in Charleston’s economic expansion:

• Job Growth: Charleston’s job outlook is promising. According to a Talent Demand Study by the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, the city will add nearly 35,000 jobs by 2022. The report stated that 80 percent of this job growth will be in 10 specific occupations.
• Fast-Growing City: Job seekers—especially millennials—are flocking to Charleston. Attracted by the area’s lifestyle and promising job growth, young professionals are now scooping up homes in Charleston and contributing to the overall health of the economy.
• Promising Outlook: A healthy and diverse economy is essential to any metro region’s future success. Fortunately, Charleston boasts a diverse and flexible economy that is fueled by tourism, its vibrant shipping industry, retailers, airlines and more. This diversity is critical to reducing the potential negative impact of future recessions.
• Capital Investment: Thanks to its business-friendly atmosphere and innovative workforce, companies are continuing to invest heavily in Charleston. From the new Mercedes-Benz plant in North Charleston to Boeing, capital is an essential component for cities to grow—and Charleston has it in spades.

Prosperous Port City

Charleston’s coastal location plays an enormous role in its economic boom and prosperity. The region has benefited from the wealthy seaport dating back to the 1800s when Charleston first rose to prominence as a hub for Atlantic trade.

Today, the Port of Charleston is a key player in the city’s economy and providing hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide. According to an Economic Impact Study by the South Carolina Ports Authority (SPCA), the Port of Charleston provides an estimated $53 billion in annual economic activity, 187,600 jobs and $10.2 billion in labor income.

The Port of Charleston—which is owned and operated by the SPCA—is continuing to pave the way towards a brighter future for Charleston. Not only did the SPCA report a record-breaking year for container shipments in 2018, but the Port of Charleston is also unveiling new infrastructure to accommodate “super ships.” With this major milestone, the Holy City is continuing to grow its presence in global trade and laying the groundwork for a booming manufacturing economy.

Job Seeker Resources and Assistance

Charleston residents and lawmakers have strived to create government agencies and organizations that can help job seekers and business owners achieve their life goals. If you’re currently searching for employment in the Holy City, be sure to make use of the resources available to you:

• Charleston Job Network: Job opportunities, resume and cover letter writing help, career events, webinars, etc.
• Charleston County Public Library: Job opportunities, technology learning services, business resources (printing, copying, scanning), one-on-one business counseling, etc.
• Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce: Networking events, expert panels, professional career development, etc.
• SC Works: Job opportunities, employer/employee resources, career coaches, veteran assistance, etc.
• Charleston Regional Development Alliance: Resources for entrepreneurs and established companies, connecting them to organizations such as Charleston Digital Corridor and Holy City Collective.
• Charleston, SC SCORE: Business-to-business mentoring, online workshops, local guidance and other assistance for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Strong and Supportive Community

There is little doubt that Charleston’s economic success is bolstered by its tight-knit community. Whether you’re a transplant or you were born and raised in the Lowcountry, the locals embody true Southern hospitality and are willing to go the extra mile to help their neighbors out.

This is especially true for those who wish to launch a business in the Holy City. The community is incredibly supportive of startups, entrepreneurs and small business owners, with residents making a conscious effort to shop local. From supporting Small Business Saturday to participating in the Charleston Art Walk, locals regularly support businesses large and small.

Top Industries in Charleston

As a coastal city with a deep port and a busy, international airport, it probably comes as no surprise that Charleston is teeming with business activity. While not every profession within an industry will have the same job outlook, you can maximize your chances of employment by launching your career in one of the city’s top-performing industries.

Tourism

Charleston’s tourism industry is a huge driver of the economy and job opportunities in the region. According to CHS Today, tourism accounted for 20.1 percent of sales in 2017 in the Greater Charleston Metro and resulted in an economic impact of $7.4 billion for the same year.

It’s no big surprise, given the city’s vast amenities and offerings. Charleston has been voted the best U.S. city by Travel + Leisure Magazine for six years running and consistently ranked in the magazine’s ‘best cities in the world’ category as well.

What’s not to love? With the city’s historic houses, vibrant culture and award-winning food, Charleston has remained a hot travel destination for all types of adventure-seekers, from retirees and families to single ladies throwing bachelorette parties.

Hospitality

The hospitality and tourism industries often go hand-in-hand. After all, the millions of people who visit Charleston each year need somewhere to stay and eat as they explore everything the city has to offer.

The hospitality industry (which includes things such as restaurants, lodging, parks, transportation and travel) has plenty of open positions for job seekers. In fact, Charleston’s growing tourism industry has led to a staffing shortage as business owners struggle to fill positions in their restaurants and hotels.

Whether you’re a chef hoping to start a restaurant in Charleston or you want to work as a concierge at one of the city’s many hotels, the industry is ripe with opportunities.

Manufacturing

Almost a decade ago, Boeing chose North Charleston as its new production facility, driving up the city’s aerospace sector along with it. Since then, other manufacturing companies have followed suit, including auto manufacturers Volvo and Mercedes-Benz.

The manufacturing industry has long been contributing to Charleston’s economic growth. In addition to tax-friendly policies and pro-business climate, the region has supported the advanced manufacturing sector through its workforce strategy. From rethinking school curriculum to apprenticeships and internships, the city has made a conscious effort to reduce the skills gap and produce a qualified workforce.

Health Services

If you’re a nurse or physician, finding a job in Charleston is almost guaranteed in the current economic climate. Home to top-notch facilities such as the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Roper St. Francis, the Holy City boasts a diverse concentration of healthcare talent that is growing all the time.

As the need for healthcare services grows, Charleston is once again finding itself in a staffing shortage crisis for certain positions. If you’re a qualified nurse or physician, chances are good that you’ll easily land a job in the city.

Tech

Forget Silicon Valley—Charleston’s new nickname, ‘Silicon Harbor’ reflects its thriving tech scene that has been steadily growing in the past decade. Fueled by the increasing number of millennials moving to the region, Charleston’s tech scene is now home to more than 500+ tech companies and offers a vast array of job opportunities and resources for tech workers.

If you’re searching for a job in the tech sector, be sure to check out the Charleston Digital Corridor. Launched more than a decade ago, the community-backed initiative aims to attract and nurture tech workers in the Greater Charleston Metro area and grow the city’s sizeable talent pool.

Finding a Home in Charleston, SC

After securing employment in a new city, the next logical step is to relocate. If you’ve landed your dream job and are now ready to start searching for a home in Charleston, SC, you’ll no doubt want to explore all the options available to you.

Explore Charleston’s Diverse Neighborhoods

From its vibrant and historic downtown area to the small-town appeal of Mount Pleasant, each area around the Charleston coast has something unique to offer residents. Depending on where you’re at in life, some areas may appeal to you more than others.

Are you a retiree looking for privacy and relaxation? If so, life on Kiawah Island or Sullivan’s Island could be right up your alley. Searching for the best place to raise a family? Check out the award-winning schools on Mount Pleasant and see if it’s a good fit for you and your little ones.

Remember that buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. To ensure that you make the right choice, be sure to talk with Charleston real estate experts who can give you the inside scoop on what it’s like to live, work and play in the Lowcountry.

Spend a Few Weekends at the Beach

If you love white sands and the sound of crashing waves, consider relaxing on Charleston’s pristine beaches for a weekend. Spending time at one of the city’s gorgeous beaches is an excellent way to find your ideal beach—and choose a home in close proximity to it.

From the family-friendly shores of Isle of Palms to the unspoiled beaches at Seabrook Island, Charleston’s varied beaches are as beautiful as they are unique. Book a vacation rental and spend quality time with the family as you discover your ideal beach.

Historic Home or Modern?

One of Charleston’s key attractions for tourists and homeowners alike are its historic homes. Full of charm and beauty, historic homes can be a dream come true for some homeowners—and a total nightmare for others.

If you’re considering the possibility of buying a historic home, make sure that you consider the rules and regulations that the city has put in place. Renovations can be a tricky process that may not be worth the charming qualities and features.

Final Thoughts

To sum it all up, Charleston’s thriving economy and vast array of amenities has transformed the city into a haven for job seekers and entrepreneurs. Whether you want to try your hand at a career in the restaurant industry or take advantage of the growing opportunities in the technology sector, moving to Charleston could be the key to launching your career.

Despite mixed weather patterns across much of the U.S. in the first quarter, prices in the Charleston,SC market moved higher as the Median Sales Price was up 5.8 percent. Many home buyers and sellers are sighing in relief as the Federal Reserve announced there will be no further interest rate hikes planned for 2019. This is great news for the area and we anticipate increasing numbers reflected not only in home sales, but in terms of mortgage rates as well, which typically follow suit.

Closed Sales -9.1% | Median Sales Price + 5.8% | Months Supply -2.6%

Market Statistics by Area