Category: Historic Charleston

With mortgage rates on the decline due to COVID-19, buyers are encouraged to take advantage and lock in today’s low rates while they still can. Although it is still uncertain how it will impact the real estate market long-term, it will be interesting to see if low mortgage rates are enough of an incentive for buyers to make an offer.

Closed Sales +4.4% | Median Sales Price +10.8% |  Months Supply -29.3%

Market Statistics by Area

• 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

Located in the heart of Folly Beach, this home would make the perfect rental, primary residence, or a combination of both. Features include a metal roof, two gas tankless water heaters, two gas fireplaces, high end finishes and multiple decks perfect for lounging and entertaining. For more info, visit: bit.ly/207EArcticAve

In the News

Charleston Coast Vacations

Booking direct always ensures you have the best choice of properties and dates while getting exceptional service from our team at Charleston Coast Vacations. When you’re ready to make vacation plans, visit CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Today is the first day of spring!
Have you started your Spring Cleaning Checklist yet?

As we move into February, the question remains – will inventory suffice? While many see the housing shortage as a negative, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun sees this as good news for home prices. “National median home price growth is in no danger of falling due to inventory shortages and will rise by 4%,” he predicts. Yun and others would also like to see home builders bring more affordable units to market, which I think we can all agree with, especially in the Charleston market.

Closed Sales +20.6% | Median Sales Price +8.1% |  Months Supply -25%

Market Statistics by Area

• 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

WOW does this property have it all! This stunning waterfront home on the Isle of Palms boasts 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, gorgeous elevated pool, and a 50′ private dock that includes power, water, a fish cleaning station and two drive on jet ski docks…plus, all of the privacy and amenities of Wild Dunes! For more information, visit: bit.ly/46WaterwayIsland

In the News

New Vacation Rental!

There’s still time to book your summer vacay. You could even stay at our newest vacation rental, “BodSEA” on the Isle of Palms! Check out our newest rentals, search by location and book direct at CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Upcoming Events

Lights of Magnolia | November 15 – March 15
Join us for “Lights of Magnolia: Reflections of a Cultural Exchange.” The lantern festival will feature custom-designed installations of large-scale lanterns, a fusion of historic Chinese cultural symbols, and images that represent the flora and fauna of Magnolia Plantation. or more info, CLICK HERE.

Charleston Wine + Food Festival | March 4 – 8
Join us for the 15th installment of the Charleston Wine + Food festival as we celebrate the city’s local food culture. Join us in Marion Square, various locations downtown and around Charleston for exclusive dinners, wine tastings, workshops, excursions, and seminars. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Festival of Houses & Gardens | March 11 – April 18
Step inside the private houses and gardens of some of the city’s most stunning properties, learn about Charleston’s distinctive architecture and history and celebrate our unique culture at luncheons, musical concerts and other Lowcountry lifestyle events. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Hellooo 2020! As we wrap up 2019, we are happy to report that thanks to continued low mortgage rates, low unemployment, and wage growth, we anticipate home buyer activity to remain healthy into the new year. While inventory remains low (-23.1%), it is important to note that new construction has been on the rise in the past year, and is expected to continue into 2020 as well.

Closed Sales +19.6% | Median Sales Price -.07% |  Months Supply -23.1%

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
• Summerville
• Goose Creek

From the Blog

Featured Listing

Located in James Island’s prestigious White Point Estates, this beautifully appointed 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home boasts 11 ft ceilings, hardwood floors throughout, a stunning new kitchen and large covered porch that overlooks the salt-water pool and marsh below. Live oaks line the marsh and provide beautiful views and privacy all year long, while a dock provides access to the waterway beyond. For more information, visit: bit.ly/882WhitePointBlvd

It’s Almost Summer, Which Means…

There’s still time to book your summer vacay! Check out our newest rentals, search by location and book direct at CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Upcoming Events

2020 Jazz Festival | January 25th
Don’t miss the 6th Annual Charleston Jazz Festival as it presents The World of Regina Carter, widely considered the finest jazz violinist of her generation. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Lowcountry Oyster Festival | January 26th
Join us at Boone Hall Plantation for the world’s largest oyster festival and has been named one of the “top 20 events in the southeast” by Southeastern Tourism Society. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Charleston Coffee Fest | February 9th
Join us at LoFi Brewing to celebrate Charleston’s burgeoning coffee culture, featuring local and non-local coffee roasters, artisans, coffee competitors, and kids activities. For more info, CLICK HERE.

After a widely anticipated benchmark rate reduction by the Federal Reserve in November, home buyers and sellers are eager to see what the new year holds. Although inventory is still low (down 21.4%), the economy remains strong and new construction activity continues to rise nationally with new housing permits up 5% in October.

Closed Sales +2.4% | Median Sales Price -0.2% |  Months Supply -21.4%

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

Welcome to 507 Carolina Boulevard, your perfectly situated island retreat,
just 2 short blocks to the beach! This 5 bedroom, 4 bath home features a modern, open floor plan with state-of-the-art kitchen, multiple porches and a beautiful family room that opens to the stunning open air deck.

30 for 30 Year-End Update

Throughout 2019, we’ve been donating to a varied list of 30 worthy charities and non-profit organizations to celebrate our 30th anniversary as a company. Here are some of the groups we’ve supported this year…

One 80 Place
Begin with Books
Dewees Island Conservancy
Green Heart Project
Heart Artist Community
Lowcountry Orphan Relief
Ronald McDonald House
Habitat for Humanity
Camp Happy Days
Meals on Wheels
Doors to Freedom
Fresh Future Farms
Tri-County Veterans Support Network
Charleston Waterkeepers
Genesis Project through Parkland Foundation
Pet Helpers
Friends of the Library
Palmetto Paws
Florence Crittenton Programs of SC
Preservation Society of Charleston
Charleston Parks Conservancy
Lowcountry Food Bank
Abaco Connect
American Red Cross

Top 9 Social Media Posts of 2019

Whether you’re planning on visiting Charleston, S.C. or you’ve made the decision to move here permanently, you should be prepared to spend a lot of time outside. Located along the coast of South Carolina, Charleston is a quaint and charming city that experiences sunshine almost every day of the year, making it the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Though the area is relatively free of mountains, there are dozens of other great outdoor activities visitors and locals can participate in all year long, especially water-related sports. Find out more about everything you need to know to enjoy the Lowcountry outdoors.

Charleston Has the Ideal Climate

In the last decade, Charleston has experienced a huge influx of people moving to the area from more northern states. Aside from the world-class cuisine, great bar scene and beautiful landscape, the most enticing aspect of the city to these newcomers is most likely the climate. Charleston’s location on the coast can mean an increased chance of humidity, but it also provides some relief from the summer heat as an occasional breeze from the ocean can cool things down.

July and August are the hottest months of the year with temperatures regularly surpassing 90 degrees F. Though the summers can be sweltering, there are plenty of ways to seek relief from the heat, and the rest of the year offers beautiful temperatures allowing you to take advantage of the outdoors. In the winter, the average temperatures fall between the mid-40s and 60 degrees F. These winter temperatures are very mild compared to other parts of the country and many Charlestonians take advantage of the warm winters by heading out on the harbor in boats or even making a December trip to the beach, though you will still want to throw a sweatshirt on for this activity.

Take Advantage of Lowcountry Outdoor Living

With such beautiful year-round weather and gorgeous Lowcountry scenery, it would be crazy not to indulge in all of the exciting outdoor activities Charleston has to offer. If you’re coming to the area for a vacation, you can find beachfront rentals throughout the area to stay close to the water. For visitors, the spring is the most popular time of the year to visit as the summer heat hasn’t quite set in yet, but the flowers are all in bloom. If you don’t want to visit during a time when a lot of other travelers are in the area, try booking a trip for fall or winter and get a more authentic feel for Charleston. Summer brings in a lot of travelers as well, but some people avoid the area during this season because of the hotter temperatures. During your stay, here are the top outdoor activities you should plan to participate in.

Golf Courses Galore

Charleston is a hotspot for those who love golf. Not only are there several nearby golf courses, but Charleston is also less than two hours away from Hilton Head Island, where you’ll find even more world-class courses. In Charleston, you can spend a day on the green at the public City of Charleston Municipal Golf Course or frequent one of the private courses like Patriots Point Links or Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club. Many of the most serious golfers will take the 40-minute drive to Kiawah Island for access to some of the best courses in the entire country. The Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers five beautiful courses that have been designed by top professionals like Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. Each course integrates the natural landscape of the nearby ocean and marshes.

Hit the Beach All Year Long

With winter temperatures rarely dipping below the 50s and 60s, it’s possible to enjoy the beach during every season. Charleston is surrounded by three fantastic beaches—Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms. When you drive about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston to James Island, you’ll reach Folly Beach. This area has a bohemian vibe with great restaurants like Jack of Cups Saloon, which offers a killer red curry mac and cheese, and Rita’s, where you need to order the surprisingly refreshing watermelon tuna nachos. You can enjoy a drink on the back deck of the Tides hotel while overlooking the ocean or grab a seat on the pier and take in the view.

If you head all the way to the end of Folly, you’ll find the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. To get to this hidden part of the beach, you’ll have to park your car and walk down a stretch of deserted road covered in unique graffiti. After about half a mile, you’ll see the beach, which is covered by large pieces of driftwood that people use to hang hammocks. In the not-so-far distance, you’ll also be able to see the old Morris Island Lighthouse, which is no longer in operation but still makes for a unique landmark.

If you head in the opposite direction of James Island from downtown, you’ll discover two more beaches in Mount Pleasant. Sullivan’s Island has a more upscale vibe with fancy restaurants like The Obstinate Daughter and more casual eateries like Hometeam BBQ or Mex-1. After a filling meal, hit the beach and find a spot near the lighthouse. Traveling a bit further into Mount Pleasant, you’ll reach Isle of Palms, which tends to have a bit more of a family vibe. For young people, there’s still plenty to do like catch some live music at the Windjammer beach bar or round up people to play a game of beach volleyball on the bar’s courts. Isle of Palms is also the perfect location if you’re looking for beachfront vacation rentals.

A Fishing Enthusiast’s Dream

There are plenty of areas throughout the Lowcountry for fishers to spend the day trying to reel in a big catch. For shoreline fishing, you can cast a line off one of the fishing piers in Mount Pleasant or Folly Beach. Many fishers will also head to specific areas of the beach to participate in some shark fishing, which often turns up small sharks that can be as large at three feet long. As a visitor, you can charter a boat and take it out to some of the best spots in the marshes or out on the ocean to catch some local fish species. Before heading out on the water, be sure to educate yourself on local fishing laws to ensure that you’re not breaking any guidelines or disturbing the natural ecosystem.

Boating Excursions

With so many bodies of water surrounding Charleston, there’s plenty of opportunities to go boating, whether you want to spend the day fishing or cruising through the harbor. Drive beneath the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for one of the best views from the water and cruise past the Battery to get a unique look at the mansions that line this street. Throughout the area, you’ll discover many sand bar areas where other boaters anchor to spend some time drinking, chatting and taking a dip in the Atlantic. If you’re moving to Charleston, you may want to consider investing in your own boat as there’s ample opportunities to get out on the water. Some locals even head out on a Christmas Day ride. For those visiting, you can look into one of the many charter options available.

Other Water Activities

Charlestonians love their water activities. From kayaking and paddleboarding to surfing and parasailing, you’ll find it all here. Maybe you want to explore the ocean atop a jet ski or learn how to balance on a standup paddleboard. If you head to Bowen’s Island and rent kayaks from this location, you can explore the waterways surrounded by gorgeous marshlands. Then, after turning in your kayaks, head to the Bowen’s Island Restaurant for a taste of the freshest fish in the city. Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is another great area for water activities as you can paddle through the waterway, which is surrounded on either side by popular outdoor bars. Afterwards, be sure to stop at Saltwater Cowboys or Red’s Ice House for a drink and an appetizer.

Outdoor Shopping

Though there are traditional malls in Charleston, outdoor shopping is definitely the more popular option. Both locals and visitors tend to prefer spending as much time outside as possible in Charleston because of the beautiful weather. The downtown shopping district runs from the intersection of King Street and Calhoun Street until King hits Market Street. Explore the many local boutiques or pop into bigger name stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M. You can also check out the open-air market on Market Street, which offers unique, handmade products from local artisans.

For even more outdoor shopping, you can explore the Tanger Outlets in North Charleston. Here, you’ll find great prices from major brands like Nike and Lucky Brand. The entire outlet area is set up like an outdoor mall so you can enjoy the mild temperatures while walking from shop to shop. Mount Pleasant’s Town Center is another outdoor mall with a combination of small boutique shops and big-name department stores like Belk.

Outdoor Attractions

Angel Oak on Johns Island

The Angel Oak tree on Johns Island is undoubtedly one of the top outdoor attractions in the Holy City. When visiting Charleston, S.C., a trip out to one of the oldest trees in the world is well worth the drive. This live oak is so large that many of its limbs need to be supported by thick wooden stakes. When you arrive at the Angel Oak, you’ll be in awe of the tree’s sheer size and beauty, and you may even notice an almost mystical ambiance that surrounds the entire area. While out on Johns Island, check out one of the area’s best restaurants before heading back into the city. The Wild Olive is a highly praised Italian restaurant run by chef Jacques Larson of Sullivan’s Island’s The Obstinate Daughter. The Fat Hen is another great option on Johns Island for either brunch or dinner.

Rooftop Bars

Drinking, eating and being outside are three of Charlestonians’ favorite pastimes, and locals will try to combine these activities into one as often as possible, which is why so many rooftop bars dot the downtown area. The Watch, a bar atop The Restoration Hotel, may offer one of the best views of the sunset along with craft cocktails and light plates. The rooftop bar at the new Hotel Bennet overlooks Marion Square and faces out towards the harbor. From here, you can spot several of the dozens of churches that make up the Charleston skyline. Stars is another popular restaurant and bar on King Street that offers a rooftop experience and delicious dishes like Truffle Lobster Fettuccine.

Historic Sites

If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy the Lowcountry while also learning more about the area, try taking a trip to one of the many historical sites. From Fort Sumter and Patriot’s Point to Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row, the entire city is entrenched in an intriguing history. Learn about the city’s role in the Revolutionary and Civil wars or head to the Patriot’s Point Maritime Museum atop the USS Yorktown, where you can explore this retired aircraft carrier and even climb aboard some old military planes on the hangar deck. Head out to Fort Sumter to witness the location where the Civil War began or spend the day hanging out in one of the many historical parks in the area. You can sign up for a walking historical tour or hear legends of the city’s past on a late-night ghost tour.

Whether you’re just visiting Charleston, S.C. or relocating to the area permanently, you’ll quickly realize how much outdoor living is a part of the city’s culture. You can spend your days on one of the nearby professionally designed golf courses, hit the beach any day of the year or simply enjoy the many outdoor spaces and historical areas. No matter what outdoor activities you choose to participate in, you’ll be amazed by the unparalleled natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

In part one of four, I made it clear these locations are not “secrets,” but rather places that even some long-time Charleston residents have yet to find and explore. Here are two more delightful neighborhoods and another great activity hidden in plain sight.

Kiawah River Estates

Do you love the Kiawah Island (KI) lifestyle but find it a bit too exclusive? Kiawah River Estates (KRE) is a great alternative with many of the same great features KI offers at a premium. This gated community is less than 5 miles from the front gate at KI and prices are significantly lower for its executive homes. KRE has tennis, a community pool, tennis courts, pickle ball tournaments, and party house where I’m told they hold one of the area’s top notch Kentucky Derby Parties! The newly redesigned golf course at KRE is managed by the Kiawah Island Club. There is also a picnic area near the community dock and you’ll see more golf carts than cars on the quiet streets. Perhaps the best feature is that Beachwalker County Park is less than 5 miles away and is open to the public. The county park is connected to the beach behind the gate and features the same white sand, dunes and dolphins! At KRE you can enjoy one of the finest beaches in the country and live where the homeowner’s costs are thousands less per year.

Bordeleaux

Looking for a bargain near historic downtown Charleston? The Bourdeleaux condominiums are located in Wagener Terrace on the banks of the Ashley River. This delightful neighborhood on the north end of the peninsula is walking distance to Hampton Park, the Citadel and some of the best new restaurants in town! The condos share a pool and fabulous views of the river. Walk the dog, or bike through the lightly traveled streets. The tidy homes in this older Charleston neighborhood are hot properties, so if you haven’t been to Wagener Terrace lately, you are in for a treat. If you are looking for a real sense of neighborhood, a downtown bargain, and the convenience of a condo, Bordeleaux might be right for you.

Northbridge Park

For years I watched people fishing and shrimping off the edge of the Ashley River under the bridge that links West Ashley to North Charleston via Cosgrove Avenue.  Folks would park precariously along the edge of the road to throw in a line or net while cars whizzed past them in four lanes of traffic over the bridge. A couple of years ago, the City of Charleston developed this de facto fishing pier into a charming municipal park with a proper dock, plenty of parking, and a safe ingress and egress for walkers, bikers, and cars. Other amenities include security cameras, lighting, and restrooms. Put in a kayak, take your fishing pole, pack a picnic, or just sit on a bench and watch the boats and dolphins navigate the waterway at the Northbridge Park. The sunsets are truly spectacular!

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

As we approach the end of the year, we are starting to see a more balanced market, with continued low inventory levels and mortgage rates increasing slightly from the three-year lows seen in September. It is hard to say what the new year will bring, but most anticipate continued low rates in 2020.

Closed Sales -0.1% | Median Sales Price +4.8% |  Months Supply -19%

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

Located in The Pointe in Rivertowne Country Club, this custom home boasts a 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen with high-end stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops, and large great room which opens to the screened porch and deck. Plus, owners can enjoy use of all amenities including a dock, pool, tennis courts, basketball, and clubhouse!

Toddy Poore Dock Dedication

The Isle of Palms Exchange Club  |  201 Palm Boulevard

Upcoming Events in Charleston

30th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights  |  November 15th – December 31st
The Holiday Festival of Lights is known for its three-mile driving tour of spectacular lights where visitors are encouraged to park the car and experience family attractions, shopping, dining and more. For more information, visit: www.holidayfestivaloflights.com
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Steeplechase of Charleston  |  Sunday, November 17th
Dust off those hats and head to Stono Ferry for a day full of big hats, colds drinks, and fast horses! The family-friendly event will feature five high-stakes races with coveted titles on the line. For more information, visit www.steeplechaseofcharleston.com
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42nd Annual Turkey Day Run  |  Thursday, November 28th
The annual Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble is a U.S. Track & Field certified five kilometer race that winds through historic downtown Charleston and out to the peninsula. For more information, visit: www.turkeydayrun.com

One of the hottest travel destinations in the world, Charleston, South Carolina, has so much to offer its visitors, from a top-notch culinary scene to unique historic sites. However, if you’re like most travelers, you’re probably planning to fly into Charleston, leaving you without a vehicle to get around. Luckily, the downtown area of Charleston itself is fairly small, which makes it easy for active visitors to walk from place to place. If you’re traveling with small children or seniors on the other hand, you may want a quicker way to get around. If you’re not interested in renting a car, don’t worry–there are plenty of modes of transportation while staying in Charleston.

Getting Around Charleston Without a Car

Most people who live in downtown Charleston actually prefer not to own a car since it’s easier to get around, and there’s no need to pay for parking. If you’re moving to Charleston, you may want to consider the fact that your car could be a bigger burden than a convenience in the downtown area. However, if you’re moving to another area like James Island or Mount Pleasant, you’ll probably want a car to get around. If you’re just visiting the area and you have a place to stay downtown, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that you are within walking distance of most downtown attractions. Before figuring out which types of transportation you’ll need to use, it’s helpful to plan out all the places and sights you’d like to see. Then, you can determine the best way to hop from place to place.

Charleston Transportation Options

Free Trolley

When walking around downtown Charleston, you’ll notice a number of trolley buses cruising through the streets with the words “FREE” painted across the sides. You’re not imagining that—the downtown trolley service is actually free for visitors and locals! This DASH trolley service stops at some of the most popular and frequented places on the peninsula, making it easy for you to see all the sights you want to without needing a car. You can stop by the Charleston Visitor Center to pick up a map and find out more, or simply look for the CARTA signs that line the streets.

CARTA Public Transportation

The Charleston CARTA is a larger public transportation system that can be useful if you need to get on or off of the downtown peninsula for any reason. CARTA has routes that run between downtown, North Charleston, James Island, West Ashley and Mount Pleasant. This is a great and affordable way to get to and from the airport, but be sure to catch a bus that leaves well in advance of your flight just in case of unexpected delays. Although CARTA is a great way to get around, it does not have as many stops in neighborhoods aside from downtown, so you have to carefully plan how you will get from your stop to your destination. If you’re looking to visit attractions like the Angel Oak on Johns Island, you may have to opt for a different mode of transportation.

Pedicab

Downtown Charleston has a handful of different bike taxi options. Although these pedicabs will only bring you to locations on the downtown peninsula, this is a fun, cheap and convenient way to get around. Each pedicab can fit two to three people, but you can request multiple bikes if you’re traveling in a large group. These pedicabs will often post up in popular areas to make catching a ride even more convenient, but you can also contact the company directly and have a cab pick you up and drop you off at any desired downtown location.

Taxi

Always a viable transportation option, taxis are available throughout the Charleston area. However, unlike other larger cities, you won’t often see taxis driving around that you can simply hail down for a ride. Instead, it’s easier to call the company ahead of time and arrange for a ride. While this a great secondary option, there are several more convenient ways to get around Charleston.

Uber/Lyft

Using a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft is a more efficient way to get from place to place over a traditional taxi in Charleston. Uber and Lyft drivers can be found most times of the day and night, with wait times usually being under ten minutes. Ride-sharing services can be more useful than public transportation as they will pick riders up from any destination and bring them exactly where they need to go. When using public transportation, you’re a bit more limited because of the specific stop locations.

Walking

When exploring downtown Charleston, you can walk to nearly any attraction easily. The entire downtown area covers about three miles in each direction, meaning you never need to go too far on foot. There are some areas that would be inconvenient or dangerous to walk because of traffic, but for the most part, all of the shops, restaurants and parks are within walking distance. You can even embark on a Historic Walking Tour of the city to learn more about its history and witness the many beautiful neighborhoods.

Bicycle Rentals

One of the top ways for locals to get around downtown Charleston is by bicycle. If you’re moving to the area and wondering about transportation options, purchasing a high-quality bike is a great option as you can quickly and easily navigate the streets of downtown without having to stress about parking. For visitors, biking through the city is a great option. Throughout downtown, you’ll find many different Holy Spokes bikeshare stations where you can rent bicycles and pay simply for the time that you’ve been using the bike. Just download the app, enter your payment information and you’re off! You can rent the bikes whenever you’re done at any of the stations around town, but keep in mind that even if you park the bike, you are still being charged for the time. You may want to return your bike at your destination. Then, start another rental period when you want to move on to another area.

Places to Visit by Foot

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is one of the most popular outdoor areas for visitors to walk or bike to. Located off Broad Street near The Vendue hotel, this area features a grassy park where you can sit and enjoy a picnic, as well as a pier that extends out into the harbor. Spend some time looking for dolphins passing by while relaxing on one of the large swings on the pier. If you have kids with you and you’re visiting in the summertime, you can also bring along their bathing suits and let them wade in the two fountains at Waterfront Park! Be sure to snap a picture in front of the Pineapple Fountain before you leave, as this is one of the most recognizable areas in Charleston.

Rainbow Row

Located on East Bay Street near The Battery, Rainbow Row is a series of thirteen houses that are painted in beautiful, bright colors. This is one of the most photographed areas in the city, and it’s easy to walk to from other popular destinations like The Battery, Waterfront Park and the market. If you’re going to walk to this attraction, try planning a route that will take you to several other nearby sites at the same time. This is also a great area to bike. You can round the corner after viewing the houses, and ride along the water while admiring the mansions that line the Battery.

King Street Shopping District

King Street is the main street that runs through the city and features many of the most popular bars, restaurants and shops. You can easily walk the entire length of the street to view beautiful Charleston-style buildings while shopping and eating to your heart’s content. If you’re in the area on the second Sunday of the month, you can walk here for the King Street Second Sunday celebration when the city closes the lower part of the street to traffic. Restaurants and shops will bring their business out to the sidewalks as visitors and locals walk through the street for a relaxing Sunday outside.

The Charleston City Market

Potentially the most popular tourist attraction, The Charleston City Market is located on Market Street between Meeting and East Bay Street. You can walk here from nearly anywhere on the lower peninsula, but be sure to consider what time and day you’re planning to visit as it can get very busy on weekends. The market itself features dozens of local artisans selling handmade goods, as well as food purveyors and artists. The market runs between South and North Market Street, both of which are also lined with individual shops. This is a great place to go to find unique souvenirs or gifts, and you can pop in to one of the restaurants if you start to feel hungry during your shopping trip.

Marion Square

On the corner of King and Calhoun Street, Marion Square is one of the most popular parks to spend time in. Bring a picnic and eat your lunch right here in this beautiful park or stop in to the Hotel Bennett, which overlooks Marion Square, to have a drink on the rooftop and get one of the most breathtaking views in the city. Between the months of April and November, Marion Square has a farmers market on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can purchase fresh, local produce, browse local art and jewelry and indulge in some of the best food truck food around. Live music and a kids’ play area act as additional entertainment for the whole family.

Before booking a trip to Charleston, be sure to check the city’s schedule of events. Marion Square often hosts some of the most highly anticipated events of the year. Charleston Wine + Food’s annual culinary village is held right in this park, and attendees can walk around trying gourmet food samples, as well as sipping on a variety of wines and local beers. The Spoleto Festival, Charleston Fashion Week and SEWE (Southeastern Wildlife Exposition) are three other major events hosted in this park each year.

White Points Garden

White Points Garden is at the tip of the peninsula, connecting East Bay Street to Murray Boulevard. This is the start of what locals refer to as The Battery. Murray Boulevard runs along the tip of the peninsula with gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful multi-million dollar mansions. Hang out in the park and then explore The Battery to witness the exact location where the first shots of the Civil War rang out. This is the perfect place to visit during a bike ride through the city. Start your ride by renting bikes by Colonial Lake and then head towards The Battery. Ride along the water until you reach the park and continue up East Bay Street to see Rainbow Row and visit the Charleston City Market.

College of Charleston Campus

Voted the Most Beautiful College Campus in the U.S. by the readers of Travel + Leisure, the College of Charleston is located in the heart of downtown. If you find yourself exploring the city by foot, you should definitely take some time to walk through the campus, and get a glimpse of the gorgeous live oaks covered with Spanish moss and historic Charleston homes converted to offices. The Cistern is a large, open area where graduation takes place and is filled with beauty and history.

Explore the Best of Charleston

Whether you’re planning on moving to Charleston or just heading down for a vacation, this is one of the greatest cities in the country. If you’re staying downtown, you can easily walk or bike to many of the most exciting areas. You can also hop on and off the free DASH trolley to get to locations like the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston City Market and Waterfront Park. If you need to travel further distances, you can easily grab an Uber or Lyft from nearly any area in the city–or, for short distances, hop on a bike and enjoy the ride. However you choose to get around Charleston, just be sure to explore the best of the city’s food, history and outdoor activities.

I won’t call these locations “secrets,” because they simply are not; they are however, places that many people have not yet discovered and each is special in its own way. Here are two delightful neighborhoods, and an array of lowcountry activities hidden in plain sight.

Baker’s Landing

Tucked away behind the all too obvious Archdale neighborhood with its large, vibrant sign right on Dorchester Road, are Baker’s Landing I & II.  It’s hard to imagine a busier thoroughfare in the Lowcountry than Dorchester Road, but these two communities are tucked away on quiet streets. Each houses a small enclave of executive homes situated on the Ashley River, with community docks and breathtaking sunset views across the river. Within walking distance to Bosch and just a short drive from Boeing, both might be your ideal North Charleston commutes.

Croghan’s Landing

Across the highway from the highly visible Carolina Bay in West Ashley is a gently “patina-ed” sign for Croghan’s Landing. The sign is a little faded, and hard to see as you travel the Savannah Highway, but it is worth the slight detour to check out this neighborhood. As you turn into the neighborhood from the highway, you will suddenly find yourself in a quiet and highly walkable area with huge trees and slow moving streets. The dog walkers and golf cart drivers are treated to marsh views along the Intracostal Waterway portion of the Stono River. You might also enjoy the West Ashley Greenway – a former railroad route that runs from James Island to Johns Island – perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.

Garden Walk

This might be my favorite free thing to do in Charleston. Start at the garden and cemetery at the Unitarian Church on Archdale Street downtown. It is a treasure trove of plants and critters year round. I’d bet even your grandmother would be hard pressed to name every variety of plant found there. The paths twist around and end at King Street. Cross the street ever-so-slightly diagonally to the right, and enter the grounds at the Gibbes Museum just behind the Charleston Library Society. A more formally designed venue than the former garden, it has its own verdant charms that foster certain serenity in the heart of downtown Charleston. When you exit this shady green, you will find yourself on Meeting Street. Cross to the cemetery at the Circular Church and follow the Zen-like paths through the beautiful and ancient headstones.

Photo courtesy of CircularChurch.org

“According to one gravestone historian, there are more of these unusual 18th century slate stones in this graveyard than anywhere else in the country.” [1] Enjoy this unique way to experience Charleston’s history and beauty.

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

[1] Circular Church website

“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…