Category: Historic Charleston

Mortgage interest rates ticked a bit higher in February, but remain below their February 2020 levels. Interest rates may rise a bit further in coming weeks, but according to Freddie Mac chief economist Sam Khater, “while there are multiple temporary factors driving up rates, the underlying economic fundamentals point to rates remaining in the low 3 percent range for the year.” With rates still at historically low levels, home sales are unlikely to be significantly impacted, though higher rates do impact affordability.
~ Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS® (CTAR)

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +25.1% | Median Sales Price +11.6% |  Months Supply -73.5%

Downtown Charleston

Upper Charleston Peninsula

Upper Mount Pleasant

Lower Mount Pleasant

Daniel Island

Folly Beach

Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes

Sullivan’s Island

Kiawah Island

Seabrook Island

James Island

West Ashley

Johns Island

North Charleston

Summerville

Goose Creek

Featured Listing

51 Waterway Island Drive, Isle of Palms
5 bed, 5 full and 2 half baths, 5298 sq ft   |  Offered for $5,235,000

Paradise awaits you in this custom deep water home nestled on Morgan Creek inside the gates of the Wild Dunes Resort. 51 Waterway Island Drive has everything a beach and boating enthusiast could want combined with the charm and inviting character that makes a home on the Isle of Palms so desirable. Features include an oversized shiplapped living room / entertainment area with a wood burning fireplace, gourmet kitchen with top of the line appliances, gorgeous first floor master suite, an elevated infinity salt water pool, and the real gem – your very own 80 ft deep water dock (the largest on the creek!) complete with power, water and lighting ensuring you can enjoy the outdoors anytime of day and any season of the year.⁠⁠ For more information, visit www.51WaterwayIslandDrive.com.

Agent Spotlight: Joy Millar

“I don’t think I have ever met a REALTOR® that is
more dedicated, responsive, and pleasant to deal with than Joy Millar. In an intensely competitive and skyrocketing market, Joy was the difference between us getting a truly special house, and being priced out of the market. Her knowledge of Seabrook Island combined with her contacts made the impossible happen. She is an absolutely delightful person, and I cannot recommend her services highly enough.”  ~ Paul M.

Charleston Coast Vacations

Sunshine on your mind? 😎 There’s still time to book your spring vacay with us on the #charlestoncoast! Visit www.charlestoncoastvacations.com to explore available rental properties and book your stay today!

January started off strong for the housing market, with healthy buyer demand and strong market fundamentals. A robust increase in housing starts in December points to an active year for new construction, but higher material costs, especially lumber, and a limited supply of buildable lots will temper the number of new units.
~ Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS® (CTAR)

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +22% | Median Sales Price +9.5% |  Months Supply -70.6%

Downtown Charleston

Upper Charleston Peninsula

Upper Mount Pleasant

Lower Mount Pleasant

Daniel Island

Folly Beach

Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes

Sullivan’s Island

Kiawah Island

Seabrook Island

James Island

West Ashley

Johns Island

North Charleston

Summerville

Goose Creek

Featured Listing

134 North Plaza Court #204, Mount Pleasant
3 bed, 2 full and 1 half bath, 2577 sq ft   |  Offered for $1,350,000

This pristine waterfront condominium offers panoramic views of historic downtown Charleston, the Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. Enter through a private, direct access code elevator with a secure interior door to the spacious 23′ living room. The living room boasts a gas fireplace and connects seamlessly to the expansive dining room and adjoining kitchen, perfect for entertaining. The Renaissance offers outstanding amenities including a pool, clubroom, premium workout room and multiple guest suites in each of the two buildings that can be reserved for a nominal fee. Other amenities include garage parking for two cars and a climate controlled storage room.⁠⁠ For more information, visit bit.ly/134NPlazaCt204.

Welcome New Agents

Welcome to our newest dunes properties agents, Nelson Lundberg, Heyward Bonner and Zoe Skinner! To find out more about these agents visit bit.ly/DunesAgents.

Charleston Coast Vacations

New property alert! Book your summer stay at the Riprap Cottage featuring incredible views, a beachfront deck, and great proximity to shops and restaurants. Book your spring and summer vacay dates today! Book online at our website www.charlestoncoastvacations.com

What a strange year! It was certainly weird for all of us at dunes properties and I’m sure you and yours also! So many vacation reservations had to be canceled or rescheduled while our Charleston islands were closed to the public this past spring. Our agents, already set up with home offices, were joined by our employees, who like so many in the country successfully adapted to working from home. We continue to do so, alternating days to limit our office personnel numbers.

On the bright side, I am simply amazed by our 2020 real estate record year, having closed over $415 Million in sales; a 31 year company record and over 30% above our previous best year, 2017 at $320 Million. In fact, of the over 6,000 Charleston area REALTORS®, FIVE of our dunes agents landed in the top 50.

Demand (mostly from big cities) is off the charts, and with home inventory at record lows, I expect pickings to be slim this year. So, with 30 year fixed mortgage rates STILL BELOW 4%, we encourage you to come get your piece of paradise! We do hope you and your family managed through this past year all healthy as ever, and we look forward to seeing you on the Charleston Coast soon!

~ Randy Walker, dunes properties President

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +31.1% | Median Sales Price +14.4% |  Months Supply -62.9%

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

Featured Listing

2740 Seabrook Island Road, Seabrook Island
5 beds, 5 baths, 3400 sq ft   |  Offered for $1,625,000
Set amongst glorious live oaks and overlooking Crooked Oaks golf course, this magnificent home exudes southern charm, offers curb appeal galore, and is an easy stroll to the beach and club amenities. With 5 beds, 5 baths plus study/office and a year-round outdoor kitchen/porch/sunroom, this home would be a welcome gathering place for multi-generations of a family, but is also warm and inviting for more intimate living. The stunning Brazilian Koa flooring throughout sets the scene for this special property, and the custom oyster shell linear gas fireplace is exceptional. Amenities include two separate Russound systems, a three stop elevator, an infrared sauna, and electric car charging outlet. For more information, visit bit.ly/2740SeabrookIslandRd.

In The News

Charleston County announced that new maps guiding flood insurance requirements and costs will go into effect on January 29, 2021. Click Here to watch a helpful video or view a list of frequently asked questions.

A study by United Van Lines determined that South Carolina was the second most sought after state to move to in 2020. Overall, 55% of the country’s inbound moves were to the Southern region, with the Carolinas, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida and Tennessee topping the list. Click Here to read the full article.

Charleston Coast Vacations

Our 2021 vacation brochures started hitting mailboxes earlier this month! If you’ve stayed with us the last few years, look out for your hard copy soon. If you want to make sure you receive a copy, email vacations@dunesproperties.com to request one.⁠⁠ See something you like? Search and book online at our website: www.charlestoncoastvacations.com.

One of the most desirable vacation destinations in the U.S., Charleston, SC, has so much to offer both visitors and residents. Located along the coast of South Carolina in the area known as the Lowcountry, this charming little city was originally part of one of the first 13 colonies, making its historical background rich and interesting. If you’re thinking about moving to a new area, check out some of the Charleston Historic homes for sale and make new memories in one of the uniquely Charleston-style properties.

When you move to the Holy City, you’ll have access to dozens of outdoor activities you can do all year long because of the mild climate. History buffs will love delving into the area’s unique story and foodies can spend years exploring all the top-notch restaurants in the area. Find out more about some of the best attractions in Charleston and plan to visit the city for yourself.

The History

With so much history surrounding the area, it’s no wonder history buffs flock to Charleston. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, this city had a major role in the early days of America. In fact, the state of South Carolina was actually where more Revolutionary battles took place than any other area of the country during that time. If you’re interested in this part of history, you can visit Fort Moultrie, Fort Johnson or Middleton Place amongst other sites.

For Civil War enthusiasts, there are dozens of sites to visit and learn more about Charleston’s role. The first shots of the Civil War were actually shot from the tip of the peninsula, known as The Battery, towards a Union ship that was delivering supplies to Fort Sumter. Though these are the two most notable roles Charleston had in U.S. history, there is much more to be explored.

Places to Visit:

• Fort Sumter National Monument: A major landmark in the Civil War, Fort Sumter was originally a Union-held stronghold, but after the state of South Carolina seceded, the governor and Confederate general demanded the fort be surrendered. Over the course of several months, the Confederates attempted to regain control over Fort Sumter until April 12, 1860 when they opened fire on the fort, eventually leading to the Union surrendering and what is often credited as sparking the Civil War.
  
  To visit one of the most historic Civil War sites in the country, you can take a beautiful ferry ride across the harbor to the man-made island where the fort still stands to this day. A national park ranger will guide you through some of the areas and let you explore on your own time. This is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history.
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: Located just across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, less than 15 minutes from downtown, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum can actually be found in the retired aircraft carrier the USS Yorktown. This is one of the most unique settings for a maritime museum as the building itself is an artifact. You’ll be able to see the inside of the ship as well as a number of historic aircrafts. With general admission, you can also explore the USS Laffey destroyer and the USS Clamagore And on the way out, history buffs will definitely want to swing by the Vietnam Experience exhibit spanning three acres.
• The Charleston Museum: To really learn the full scope of Charleston history, you may want to spend an afternoon at the Charleston Museum located on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston. Here, you’ll be able to get an up-close look at artifacts dating back to pre-colonial times when Native Americans inhabited the area––as well as natural history items, such as fossils and specimens and, of course, historic items like Civil War artifacts. The museum also welcomes a rotating list of visiting exhibits to explore new, interesting topics surrounding Charleston and its history.

• Rainbow Row: One of the most photographed places in Charleston, Rainbow Row is known for the pastel-colored houses that line the street. Just around the corner from The Battery, this area’s history mostly surrounds the architecture of the properties and many Charleston-specific features preserved as a testament to the history of the Holy City. If you’re interested in a traditional Holy City property, check out some of the Charleston Historic homes for sale right now.
• Historic Charleston City Market: Now a bustling shopping area, the Historic Charleston City Market was first given to the city in 1788 by General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, who fought in the Revolutionary War. Pinckney specified the area must forever be used as a public market for the enslaved people. Although many people mistakenly believe this area was the slave market prior to the Civil War, this is actually untrue. It was a beef market for many years until it burned in a fire and was reconstructed as a city market, which it has remained since 1807. Now, you can peruse vendor stands and pop into local stores for a bite to eat or a cold beer.

The Cuisine

Over the last decade, Charleston has become a pinnacle of Southern cuisine. When you visit or move to the area, you’ll discover hundreds of restaurants spread out through the city and surrounding areas. Though traditional Southern dishes reign supreme, many chefs are coming to the city to bring more eclectic offerings, like Vietnamese and Pakistani food. We couldn’t possibly name all the restaurants you need to try, but we’ve rounded up a few classics.

Places to Try:

• Rodney Scott’s BBQ: It wouldn’t be the South without real South Carolina barbecue. Rodney Scott spent much of his childhood in Hemingway, South Carolina, learning how to roast whole hog barbecue from his dad. But, after 25 years of helping his dad run his business, Rodney Scott partnered with Nick Pihakis and brought his style of barbecue to the Holy City. Now, this pitmaster has received the James Beard Foundation award for Outstanding Chef Southeast and opened an additional two restaurants in Birmingham, AL, and Atlanta, GA. If you’re going to try barbecue anywhere in Charleston, be sure this is at the top of your list.
• The Ordinary: Seafood lovers looking for a fancy dining experience should head to The Ordinary, an upscale restaurant located inside an old bank. The decor is unique and the food is phenomenal, highlighting local catches and adding new specials to their menu on a regular basis. If you’re headed out to eat with a big group of people, be sure to order the seafood tower to get a little taste of everything.
• Bowen’s Island Restaurant: Charleston without seafood is like toast without butter. And, while there are tons of great seafood restaurants to choose from, nothing offers an experience like Bowen’s Island Restaurant. Don’t expect anything fancy from this joint though. Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a no-frills fish shack that doesn’t rely on fancy interior design or culinary experimentation. They stick to what they know—and they do it well. The menu consists of only a few basic items, including classics like oysters, fried fish, fried shrimp and frogmore stew. The restaurant has been passed down through the family since 1946 and they have perfected serving up these Southern classics. Head there around dinner time to catch one of the most beautiful sunsets on their outdoor patio.
• Oak Steakhouse: If you’re looking for a place to celebrate something special, Oak Steakhouse is an excellent choice. The ambiance and the service are top-notch, while the menu offerings boast some of the finest cuts of meat in the city, along with a vegetarian option and several seafood dishes like jumbo crab cakes, lobster tail and pan-seared scallops.
• Neon Tiger: A new addition to the Charleston food scene, Neon Tiger is only one of two all-vegan restaurants in the city—the other being a breakfast and lunch joint called Gnome Cafe. For anyone visiting the city looking for an upscale vegan/vegetarian restaurant, this is the place to go. Famous vegan chef Doug McNish collaborated with local restaurateur John Adamson to create a vegan cocktail bar that serves an extensive menu of vegan options, from pizzas and fried “shrimp” to pastas and burgers.

The Beaches

One of Charleston’s greatest attractions, the beaches in the area are gorgeous and offer plenty of activities for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking to stay near the water like in one of these gorgeous Folly Beach, SC rentals, or you want to be a bit closer to the city, you’ll still have easy access to the three beaches in Charleston or make a quick day trip to Kiawah or Seabrook islands.

Places to Visit:

• Folly Beach: Heading southwest from downtown Charleston, you’ll find Folly Beach on James Island. This shoreline of this beautiful part of the South Carolina barrier islands stretches six miles, providing plenty of space for visitors and residents. The beach area near the pier is usually the most crowded, but if you take a left at the end of Center Street, you can follow the road all the way to the end to visit the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, a private stretch of beach with an unparalleled view of the Morris Island Lighthouse.
• Sullivan’s Island: Heading the opposite direction of Folly Beach from downtown Charleston, you’ll first find the beach on Sullivan’s Island. You could spend the day grabbing lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area, or lay on the sand for a few hours before heading to Dunleavy’s Irish bar for a post-beach beer. From this beach, you’ll be able to see the Sullivan’s Island lighthouse as well as a unique view of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the colorful houses of downtown, depending on where you decide to set up camp.
• Isle of Palms: If you drive a bit farther into Mount Pleasant, you’ll reach Isle of Palms, another one of the beautiful beaches in the area. This beach tends to attract more of a family crowd, but there is a good mix of people of all ages. In the summer, the Windjammer is one of the most popular places on the Isle of Palms to hang out as they host live music and beach volleyball games all season long. Restaurants and stores line the street leading to the beach, so you can spend some time dining and shopping before or after you catch some rays and take a dip in the ocean. Keep an eye out for dolphins as it’s not usual to spot a pod of them swimming by!
• Kiawah Island: Only a 45-minute drive from downtown Charleston, Kiawah Island is the perfect place for a quick day trip. Kiawah is a gated community, but you can easily gain access to the island if you’re planning to visit the beach or play one of the five championship golf courses on the island. Spend the day lounging on the shore line or visit the Kiawah River to do some birdwatching and other wildlife viewing.

Come Home to Charleston

With so much to do in the area, Charleston should be at the top of your list for places to visit—or relocate! Between the gorgeous architecture, rich history, hoppin’ bar scene, outstanding restaurants and beautiful beaches, what else could you ask for? No matter what you’re looking for, there’s the perfect property waiting for you in Charleston. Those looking to take it slow can find property on Kiawah Island, while beach bums can look to Isle of Palms or Folly Beach. Mount Pleasant is the perfect place to raise a family, and the downtown area offers tons of attractions for those looking for a more lively place to live. Check out the Folly Beach, SC, rentals to visit the area and scope out places where you’d like to move before looking for your new dream home.

“November saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average top 30,000 for the first time, while mortgage rates reached new record lows again. These new records have provided encouragement for buyers to move forward on home purchases, which continued to remain strong overall for the month. Showing activity remains higher than the same period a year ago across most of the country, suggesting that strong buyer demand is likely to continue into what is typically the slowest time of year. With inventory remaining constrained in most market segments, sellers continue to benefit from the tight market conditions.”

~ Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR)

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +34.5% | Median Sales Price +18.4% |  Months Supply -61.5%

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

Featured Listing

1509 Ocean Club, Wild Dunes
4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths | 2,810 sq ft | Offered at $1,599,000
Welcome to 1509 Ocean Club, a premier oceanfront penthouse villa with spectacular 180 degree views from the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean. This 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath villa is a rare find with the desirable ”B” floor plan, offering additional square footage, a breakfast room, private powder room for guests, and 3 of the 4 bedrooms facing the stunning view! For more information or to schedule a private showing, visit bit.ly/1509OceanClub.

Top 9 of 2020

Charleston Coast Vacations

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Ask any resident of the Holy City, “Is Charleston, SC, a good place to live?” and you’re sure to be greeted with resounding affirmative responses. But, there are many factors to consider before moving to a new area. Generally speaking, Charleston is one of the best places to live in the country. In fact, the city has received an extensive list of accolades over the last decade, topping Travel + Leisure’s Best U.S. Cities since 2013. But, before permanently relocating, you should have a good understanding of the city, its culture, climate and cost of living to ensure it will be the best fit for your lifestyle.

Fortunately, Charleston has an abundance of beautiful areas to reside–from the bustling downtown homes to the beachside Isle of Palms real estate. Learn more about this flourishing coastal town in South Carolina and figure out which area your new dream home will be located.

What Is Charleston Like?

The Weather

Perhaps one of the most enticing reasons to move to Charleston is the gorgeous weather year-round. The summers may reach scorching temperatures from time to time, but the winters are mild and pleasant. Plus, with so many beaches and outdoor water activities in the area, it’s easy to escape the summer heat while enjoying all the city has to offer. On average, the temperatures usually remain between the low 50s and 70s in the fall and spring, dropping down briefly to the mid-40s in the winter and rising back up to the 80s and 90s in the hottest of the summer months. With such a temperate climate, it’s no surprise an abundance of outdoorsy adventurers and beach bums gravitate towards this sunny little city.

The Food

Charleston, SC, is one of the greatest culinary destinations in the country right now with new restaurants popping up all the time. Many travelers come to the area to experience authentic Southern cooking, but stay for the surprising variety of cuisines available from classic French cooking to Sichuan joints. Of course, if you’re looking for good Carolina barbecue, you’ll have no trouble finding smoked meats from some of the most renowned pit masters in the state like Rodney Scott, but the adventurous eater will love all the other options available for exploring.

Though the downtown area has the greatest concentration of high-quality restaurants, you’ll find delectable dining throughout the area–from unexpectedly divine hidden fish shacks like Bowens Island Restaurant to decadent dining experiences at places like The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island. Believe us, you’ll never be hungry when you’re living in Charleston.

The History

Originally part of the first 13 British colonies, Charleston and the surrounding areas have a deep, rich history that spans from the Revolutionary War through modern times.

Although some of the city’s past is dark, with slavery playing a major role in the pre-Civil War economy, Charleston has become a flourishing, progressive hub of forward thinking and modernity. From the mix of historical events that can take place here, including pirate endeavors and the creation of the first playhouse in the country, there is so much unique history to learn and experience.

The Outdoor Activities

With such beautiful year-round weather, it’s no surprise Charleston is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream place to live. Avid golfers look for Kiawah Island homes for sale to stay close to some of the top-rated championship courses in the country, while others prefer the bohemian vibe of Folly Beach. You’ll find exciting things to do in nearly every corner of Charleston. Visit the Francis Marion National Forest for a daytime hike along the Palmetto Trail, a cross-state trail that extends 350 miles with the goal of expanding to 500 miles. The Caw Caw Interpretive Center is another resource for experiencing and learning more about the Lowcountry’s environment and the beautiful creatures that inhabit it. And, in Charleston, anytime is a good time to go to the beach.

The Architecture

Downtown Charleston is home to some unique and very specific styles of architecture, ranging from Colonial and Federal styles to Classical Revival and even Art Deco. With more than 2,800 historic buildings, the area is teeming with unique designs and stories to match. You could spend days exploring the streets of downtown, discovering new, incredibly built houses. One of the most admired styles is the traditional Charleston Single, which is typically a two-story home featuring a covered porch off the side of both stories, a setup unique to Charleston developed prior to modern air conditioning to allow for air flow in the scorching summers.

The Best Areas to Live in Charleston, SC

If you’re still wondering, “Is Charleston, SC, a good place to live?” then you’re asking the wrong questions. Charleston is one of the most beautiful places to live along the coastline, and it encompasses so many different areas that there are plenty of different types of environments to choose from.

Downtown Charleston

Most downtown residents consist of college students, young professionals or wealthy adults, with the South of Broad area being home to some of the richest residents in the area. The remainder of the peninsula welcomes the younger population, with many young families choosing to find homes further up the neck in the Wagener Terrace area. Close to Hampton Park and filled with adorable cottage-style homes, Wagener Terrace is close enough to the action of downtown while keeping a safe distance from the noisy bars and restaurants.

Mount Pleasant

Just over the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, you’ll find yourself in Mount Pleasant. In the last 10 years, this town has grown exponentially as more people fall in love with Charleston and decide to relocate here. Regardless of what area you’re in, Mount Pleasant allows you to remain fairly close to downtown while having a more suburban surrounding. There are two beaches in Mount Pleasant—Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms—so you have plenty of options when it’s time to hit the shore.

For families looking to move to the area, Mount Pleasant is highly touted as having many of the best public schools in the entire state, a much sought-after characteristic. Enjoy spending your weekends walking through the outdoor town center, lounging by the beach or taking a walk over the bridge for unparalleled views of the surrounding area.

Folly Beach

Heading southwest of downtown, the opposite direction of Mount Pleasant, you’ll discover James Island, home to the charming little area of Folly Beach. Known as the Edge of America, this shoreside locale is known for being a bit more bohemian than the other beaches in the area, but nonetheless a favorite haunt for locals and visitors alike. Here, you’ll discover hidden gems of the culinary world like Jack of Cups Saloon and Chico Feo. You can opt to take a sunset walk along the pier, or drive farther down the beach to the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, a more secluded area of the beach where you can marvel at unique graffiti drawings and the abandoned Morris Island Lighthouse.

West Ashley

This area of Charleston was named for its geographical location as west of the Ashley River, which is also directly west of downtown. This charming town has plenty to offer, including proximity to downtown and its own hopping little area known as Avondale where you can explore funky tiki bars like Voodoo and even the oldest bar in Charleston, Gene’s Haufbrau. Though this area of Charleston is mainly residential, residents have easy access to the Citadel Mall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Johns Island’s Angel Oak Tree.

Park Circle

Located in North Charleston, Park Circle is a short 15-minute drive from downtown. Considered a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood, Park Circle is home to young professionals and families. The strip of bars, restaurants and shops along E. Montague Ave. is the hub of this charming neighborhood, along with the adjacent Spruill Ave. businesses like brunch spot The Junction and the new Chinese-American joint called Jackrabbit Filly. Living in this area allows easy access to nearly every area of the city from downtown to the many beaches, while also harboring its own unique little culture of art and food.

Johns Island

Considered slightly more rural than other parts of Charleston, Johns Island is a gorgeous area surrounded by typical Lowcountry scenery of marshlands and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The island itself is home to the Angel Oak Tree, what is believed to be one of the oldest living trees east of the Mississippi, as well as renowned restaurants, the Fat Hen and Wild Olive, and the charming Low Tide Brewing. From this location, you’re just a short drive to the James Island music venue called the Pour House as well downtown.

Seabrook Island

As you move farther away from the city, you’ll begin to feel more entangled in the natural landscape of the Lowcountry. Seabrook Island is only about a 45-minute drive from downtown Charleston, but offers serene backdrops of marshlands and the quiet relaxation of the barrier islands. Here, you’ll be close to the many championship golf courses on Kiawah Island, while remaining slightly closer to the city of Charleston. One of the major differences between Kiawah and Seabrook is that Kiawah is a gated community. Some people prefer this type of privacy, while others find getting guests and visiting relatives in and out of a gated community to be a bit of a burden.

For those who love outdoor adventure, this area might be a better fit as the island’s surroundings are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, horseback riding and much more. If you’re in the market for a boat or you already own one, the advantage to living so close to the water is clear. And, with such a gorgeous climate, you’re able to sail across the water almost any time of the year. Just imagine a New Year’s Eve sunset boat ride before the festivities begin.

Kiawah Island

As the barrier island located right next to Seabrook Island, Kiawah is similar in surroundings with lush live oaks flourishing across the island and thriving marshlands providing homes for the unique Lowcountry wildlife. For those who are interested in birdwatching or other types of wildlife observation, the island is the perfect environment for such endeavors. You can visit the Beachwalker Park or Night Heron Park to look for native species or simply enjoy the surroundings.

While Kiawah Island is a bit farther south than Seabrook, it is still under an hour from Charleston, making it possible to take a day trip into the city at any given moment. But, the island itself provides a variety of entertainment options as well as top-notch dining available at The Ocean Room and lovely cocktails at the Ryder Cup Bar. For golf lovers, this island is truly a paradise with access to five public courses and two private courses, many of which have been created by top golf designers and offer a challenge to players of all skill levels.

If you’re looking for Kiawah Island homes for sale, you’ll find a plethora of gorgeous properties that offer privacy and proximity to desirable activities nearby. Anyone looking for a slower pace of life will be attracted to the atmosphere of Kiawah.

Experience the Lowcountry Life

People who haven’t visited the area often wonder, “Is Charleston, SC, a good place to live?” and the answer is a resounding, “Yes.” Between the uniquely gorgeous natural landscape, abundance of activities and world-class culinary dining, what more could you ask for? If you’re thinking about relocating and looking for Seabrook Island real estate or property in the surrounding areas, consider the activities you’d like to be closest to. Seabrook and Kiawah offer the serenity of quiet island living, while areas closer to downtown Charleston provide the bustle of a small city and the promise of nightlife. Browse some of the available properties in the area and inquire with Dunes Properties to learn more about your next dream home.

“October continued to be busier than the calendar normally suggests. Buyer activity remains higher than normal for this time of year, while in many segments of the market housing supply remains much lower than one year ago. Multiple offers remain a common occurrence in many areas, keeping housing hot while the temperatures continue to fall.”

~ Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR)

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +54.5% | Median Sales Price +16.3% |  Months Supply -55.0%

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

Featured Listing

31 Smith Street, No. 204, Harleston Village
3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths | 1,758 sq ft | Offered at $1,850,000
Historic Charleston’s new distinctive address, Harleston Gates, is now welcoming its new owners. There is just one opportunity left to become a part of this compelling boutique building. The North Flat offers ten foot ceilings, a gracious open floor plan, a spacious master suite, and opulent appointments. With views to Wentworth Mansion and french doors to a balcony set amidst the trees, this Flat is one-of-a kind. For more information, visit www.HarlestonGates.com.

Charleston Coast Vacations

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LUCKY WINNER!
Thank you to all our past guests who submitted stories and photos to our Charleston Coast Vacations Experiences Vacation Giveaway! It was very hard to choose a winner…but we did. BIG CONGRATS to our past guest Robert M. on his winning story and photo. The image and Robert’s story made for a winning combination.🖤
www.CharlestonCoastVacations.com

Working in downtown Charleston, the carriages and tour groups on foot are ubiquitous. dunes properties is located on the first floor of a famous former bordello so you can guarantee the tour guides are certain to point it out every time they pass.

If you however, are looking for something more Uniquely Charleston, I know just the guy for the job. Paul Garbarini’s Uniquely Charleston tours are walking tours customized to your party’s interests. Limited to no more than six people, he can take time to answer all of your questions and focus on the elements that pique your particular interest. “I’m old enough to only do things that are fun, and more than six people on a tour is not fun! The regular walking tours max out at 20,” Paul explains. He also works on your schedule to accommodate the stamina and needs on an individual basis planning shady walks, bathroom breaks, and water along the way.  And, if you want or need a driving tour, he’ll do that as well. In his eighth year now doing downtown tours, Paul is also an interpreter at McCloud Plantation Historic Site.

Word of mouth and reviews on Tripadvisor are virtually his only advertising. He has a website, but the business is built on the delighted customers who praise his knowledge and enthusiasm. Paul’s very particular charm and verve will entertain even the soberest tourist. When asked about the cost he declared “I base it on price per person and it’s 90 minutes long unless we are having too much fun or we’re all excited.”

Self – taught over 20 years, his independent research means no one else tells the stories he does. Rather than focus on the rich people who owned the buildings or the statues of military leaders, he explains who built the city, how they lived, and worked. In the 21^st century, the concepts of labor and work can be troublesome to process let alone an understanding of what enslavement has meant for our country. According to Paul “It’s an opportunity to raise awareness – I am a ‘brick geek’ – I know both the people who made the bricks and the people who owned them. Their descendants asked me to tell the whole story.”

When asked who his clients were, he replied, “The universe has sent me philosophically compatible people.” One in particular was Dr. Ysaye Barnwell. She traveled from her home in New York to Charleston to make a presentation for the Avery Institute of African American History and Culture at her grandfather’s church – Central Baptist on Radcliffe Street. Because her family was originally from Charleston, she wanted a custom tour. Paul set about researching her genealogy and found that her grandfather, who died in 1907, was one of the richest African American men in town. Originally an enslaved person, Paul even found the original bill of sale from when he was sold in the public records. He went on to learn Dr. Barnwell’s grandfather, William James Parker, was known as the Tinsmith of Tradd Street. Church and census records showed he was also a founding member of Central Baptist Church, and that he donated the labor to put the tin roof on the new church and erect the metal steeple tower.  On her personal tour, Paul not only toured the church, but also two of the homes in which he had lived on Tradd. Paul was acquainted with the owner of 12 Tradd who welcomed her inside. Grateful and overwhelming was how she described her experience.

I’m pretty sure that was a tour no one else has ever given. Truly unique.

For more information, or to schedule your own Uniquely Charleston Tour, visit https://uniquelycharleston.tours/.

• – Terry Bell-Aby, Realtor®
• Mobile  508-627-2988  | Terry@dunesproperties.com

Charleston, South Carolina, may not boost the largest population or tallest skyscrapers, but it’s a city with real character, charm and history. If you’re wondering where to live in Charleston, SC, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to all of the neighborhoods in historic downtown Charleston and some of the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beach house for your family or a charming downtown apartment for one, you’ll find some of the most unique properties right here in the Holy City.

Neighborhoods in Historic Downtown Charleston

Unlike larger, more spread-out cities, Charleston’s downtown area is the heart of the action. Everything from eating and partying to business gatherings and art events takes place right in the downtown area, which is why so many people flock the city center when they relocate. Historic downtown Charleston has dozens of beautiful areas to live in, but, of course, the desirability of these areas drives up the price, so be sure to consider both the vibe of the neighborhood and the average price tag on homes in the area.

South of Broad

Speaking of budgets, the South of Broad neighborhood is the most expensive area on the peninsula because of its proximity to the water and the massive mansions that decorate the streets here. If you’re working with a tight budget in mind, you should flip right past these extravagant homes. If extravagance is what you’re searching for, then there is no better area in Charleston than South of Broad. Perhaps the most desirable homes here are located on Murray Blvd., an area locals refer to as “the Battery.” This row of beautiful homes faces out to the harbor with gorgeous views of the water and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in the distance. This entire neighborhood makes up the tip of the peninsula from the water to Broad St. and is mainly residential. The nearest shops, restaurants and bars can be found along Broad St.

Harleston Village

One of the most popular neighborhoods in downtown Charleston, Harleston Village is adjacent to South of Broad. The neighborhood boundaries extend from Broad St. to Calhoun St. and from Lockwood Blvd. to St. Philip St., nestling this neighborhood within the College of Charleston campus. This area is home to a mix of college students and families as well as some staple Charleston establishments, including the Wentworth Mansion with the exquisite Circa 1886 restaurant inside and more casual stops like Caviar and Bananas or Circe’s Grotto.

Ansonborough

A more tourist-heavy section of the downtown area, Ansonborough covers the Market area in addition to other visitor hotspots like Waterfront Park, the rooftop bars at both Market Pavilion and The Vendue and the many other restaurants and bars along East Bay St. Although this may sound like a bustling area on top, the Ansonborough neighborhood itself actually remains extremely quiet because it’s tucked away down narrow, cobblestone streets that lead towards Gadsdenboro Park. Take a walk through this area to enjoy the charm of an old Charleston neighborhood and take a moment to step away from the busy streets of Meeting and East Bay.

Radcliffeborough

As you move up the peninsula, you’ll begin to run into a few different “boroughs,” including Radcliffeborough, which runs from Calhoun St. to Morris St. between King St. and Rutledge Ave. This is what most locals know as party central for the college kids. Students at the College of Charleston tend to move into off-campus apartments after one to two years of dorm life—and Radcliffeborough is where they choose to go. If you’re wondering where to live in Charleston and you’re not interested in the nightlife, this may not be the neighborhood for you. Many parents, however, decide to make an investment purchase and buy a house their child can live in while attending the college. If this is the kind of real estate decision you’re looking to make, Radcliffeborough is the area for college students. It’s a short, easy walk (or ride) to the campus while also remaining close to all the best parts of downtown Charleston.

Mazyck-Wraggborough

This small sliver of Charleston, which exists from Calhoun St. to Mary St. between King and East Bay, is a unique spot that has also been referred to as the Garden District. In this area covering just a few blocks, you’ll find an intriguing mix of old historic homes and, as its nickname suggests, beautiful outdoor gardens. The Mazyck-Wraggborough neighborhood encompasses Marion Square, one of the most popular spots in the city to host events–from Fashion Week to the annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival. During the spring, summer and fall, you can also enjoy a weekly Farmers Market in Marion Square with local artisans, farmers and producers bringing their best products to the park each Saturday.

King Street Historic District

Just a narrow sliver down the center of the peninsula, the King Street Historic District doubles as the shopping district, too. This neighborhood runs down King Street and extends on either side to Meeting and St. Philip streets. Here, you’ll find dozens of big name stores and local boutiques as well as some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. This is really where all of the action happens in Charleston, so if you’re able to find a property here, expect to be in the middle of it all.

Cannonborough/Elliotborough

A very desirable area of town, Cannonborough/Elliotborough is made up of a mixture of college students, young professionals and families. This is considered one of the more affordable spots in historic downtown Charleston and has much to offer in terms of gorgeous traditional architecture and great local eateries and bars. You won’t be too far from King Street when you move to this neighborhood, and you’ll be near coffee shops like 132 Spring, as well as trendy restaurants like the Pink Cactus and Xiao Bao Biscuit.

East Side

Considered an up-and-coming area of Charleston, the East Side is located along the eastern side of the peninsula naturally. Many of the homes in this neighborhood possess a long, intriguing history with dozens of examples of traditional Charleston single homes—a particular design unique to the city. When you live on the East Side, you’ll be within walking distance to the Old Cigar Factory, which has been converted into a multi-use building that is now home to a coffee shop known as Mercantile, the next-door whiskey bar called Bar Mash and Rappahannock, a seafood restaurant known for its oysters. From the East Side, you’ll also have easy access to walk the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and you’re just around the corner from a brand-new olympic swimming pool facility that was just installed in 2020.

West Side

On the other side of the peninsula sits the West Side neighborhood, which is conveniently close to the crosstown, making it easy and fast to get off the peninsula in either direction. If you’re looking for somewhere to move in historic downtown Charleston while also being able to hop on the highway at a moment’s notice, the West Side may be the ideal location. This side of town is also home to Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park, the stadium home to the city’s minor league baseball team—the Riverdogs. When you move to the West Side, you’ll also be sharing the neighborhood with a number of top spots in Charleston, including the Recovery Room (the bar known as the number one seller of PBR in the world) and Leon’s Oyster Shop. Make sure you find time to explore them all. Oh, and definitely invest in a tide chart because the streets on this side of town can shockingly flood during storms and high tide.

Hampton Park Terrace

Moving further from the tip of the peninsula, we begin to make our way into the Hampton Park/Wagener Terrace area of the city. Both of these neighborhoods are much more residential than other areas of the city closer to the tip of the peninsula. You’re a short drive or bike ride from the center of Charleston’s nightlife, but not close enough to be reminded of it while you’re having a relaxing night in. Hampton Park itself is right in the middle of this neighborhood, providing you the perfect space to relax, take a walk, host a romantic picnic or exercise outdoors.

If you decide to move to Hampton Park Terrace, you’ll notice these houses have a different style than the traditional Charleston singles seen in other neighborhoods. Hampton Park Terrace and Wagener Terrace are both home to more cottage-style homes, giving the neighborhood its own unique look. Here, you’ll be close to local restaurants like Park Cafe, Herd Provisions and the corner store Torres Superettes—a place where many locals claim you can get some of the most authentic tacos in town.

Wagener Terrace

Adjacent to Hampton Park Terrace, Wagener Terrace is another charming area with similar cottage-style homes and many residential families. For young professionals looking to settle down or newlyweds ready to start a family, this is probably the most desirable neighborhood in the entire city. If you can snag a property here, you’ll love the entire vibe of the neighborhood and the proximity to many of the same perks as Hampton Park Terrace, including the park itself, Park Cafe and Daps breakfast cafe.

North Central

The final neighborhood on the peninsula before you begin entering the city of North Charleston, North Central is a very up-and-coming area with new apartment buildings seeming to pop up every day. Residential living here is slim because of the influx of apartment buildings, but if you like living the condo life, you can rent here for a bit while seeking out the right permanent home for you. Sometimes called the neck of the peninsula, the North Central neighborhood is home to breweries like Revelry Brewing and Fatty’s Beer Works, as well as the cafeteria-style food court with rotating offerings of the newest and trendiest culinary pop-ups, starter restaurants or food trucks transitioning into the brick-and-mortar space.

Other Neighborhoods in Charleston

• The Old Village, Mount Pleasant: A neighborhood with property on the pricier side, the Old Village in Mount Pleasant is relatively close to the bridge, making it easy and quick to get downtown. This charming area is where you’ll find gorgeous homes and adorable boutique shops and cafes.
• 

Avondale, West Ashley: Also a short drive to downtown, Avondale is a neighborhood of West Ashley, filled with fun and action. Here, you’ll find yoga studios, shops, restaurants and bars, including the eclectic Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge and the oldest running bar in Charleston, Gene’s Haufbrau.

Park Circle, North Charleston: Perhaps the trendiest new neighborhood in Charleston right now, Park Circle is the first neighborhood between downtown Charleston and North Charleston. With an increasing number of developments over the last five years, the neighborhood centers around E. Montague Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, bars and even a brewery.

• James Island: If you’re a beach bum who wants to stay as close to the beach as possible, James Island is for you. Although the options for fine dining are more limited than downtown, James Island is a short drive into the city and equally as close to Folly Beach.

Find Your New Dream Home

Whether you’re looking for a home in the heart of the action in Charleston or you’d prefer a more quaint, laidback lifestyle in the outskirts of the city, Dunes Properties will help you find the home of your dreams. Moving to historic downtown Charleston is a big decision—but one you won’t regret. The city is filled with culture, history and fantastic weather all year long. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our available properties and imagine yourself in your new, beautiful home.

“Strong buyer activity has continued into the fall, which is normally the start of the seasonal slowing of the housing market. With stronger buyer activity in the market this year and the continued constrained supply of homes for sale, speedy sales and multiple offers are likely to remain a common occurrence and will keep the housing market hot even when the weather is cooling.”

~ Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR)

Market Statistics by Area:

Closed Sales +46.3% | Median Sales Price +8.8% |  Months Supply -56.1%

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

Featured Listing

2208 Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms
6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths | 6,182 sq ft | Offered at $6,500,000
Designed by architect Steven Herlong with interiors by Amy Trowman Design, this 1.3 acre oceanfront estate is the epitome of luxury. Nestled in the heart of Isle of Palms, the estate boasts captivating ocean views, circular porches, a 7 car garage, gorgeous infinity pool, gazebo, and a 500-foot Ipe boardwalk as you walk comfortably to the ocean. The interior is equally impressive with a 16 ft barrel ceiling in the great room, black walnut floors, mahogany ceilings, stunning chef’s kitchen and more. For more information on this one of a kind home, visit www.2208palmblvd.com.

Charleston Coast Vacations

We 💗💗💗 it when our guests have a great experience on Charleston’s beaches! We know some of your most cherished memories are made during your vacation time with us. Nothing makes us happier than seeing smiling faces and hearing about your stories. Whether you’ve been visiting us for years or you just got back from your first trip, we’d love to hear all about it! Submit your story at bit.ly/CCVcontest and we’ll feature it in our special blog series, on our Facebook Page, and you’ll be entered into our next Vacation Giveaway! 🏖️