Looking for holiday attractions in Charleston? Let’s face it, this city is charming all year round, but the holidays add something special to the air. With the city’s historic homes decorated in all their holiday finery and dazzling light shows illuminating the entire peninsula, the Holy City is a truly magical place to be this time of year.

Best of all, there are nonstop winter activities and festive gatherings that the whole family can enjoy. From Historic downtown Charleston to James Island, you’ll have no trouble finding fun things to do to get the family into the holiday spirit.

Ready to make your trip to Charleston unforgettable? Here are a few holiday events that you won’t want to miss:

Historic Downtown Charleston

Holiday parades, sweet treats and crafts — oh my! Downtown Charleston always has some of the best holiday happenings in the Holy City. Here are a few of our annual favorites:

Holiday Market in Marion Square

For the first three weeks of December, the Charleston Farmers Market transforms into the Holiday Market. Along with your favorite vendors, you’ll also find seasonal vendors marketing their wares.

The Holiday Market also promises live music, caroling and fun activities for the kids. Best of all, there are free visits and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Sweets with Santa

Come out to support the arts with this family-friendly event. On December 2 and 3, the Gaillard Center will welcome hundreds of families with cookies and hot chocolate, photos with Santa, activities for the kids and a special performance by Charlton Singleton & Friends.

Although the event is free to attend, consider giving a small donation. The proceeds go to the Charleston Gaillard Center’s Education Initiative, which focuses on providing in-school art workshops, camps, community events and other educational opportunities for kids.

City of Charleston Holiday Parade

A beloved Lowcountry event, the City of Charleston Holiday Parade delights families year after year with its spectacular floats, lively music and candy tossed to the little ones in the crowd.

Hosted by the Charleston Fire Department, the parade is free to watch and starts at 3:00 p.m. on Dec. 16, 2018. The parade commences on Broad Street, travels north on King Street and ends at Calhoun and Meeting streets.

A Christmas Carol

Back by popular demand! Last year, the Charleston Stage’s musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” sold out and received widespread acclaim.

This year, the holiday classic returns to wow audiences a second time. If you haven’t seen the production, be sure to grab your tickets before they’re gone!

Cigar Bazaar Holiday Market

The Charleston area isn’t short on holiday markets, but this one should be high on your list of must-visit markets. Set in the historic Cigar Factory, the Holiday Cigar Bazaar features eclectic wares from local artisans that make for truly one-of-a-kind gifts.

With a wide range of local and regional vendors, you’re sure to find a unique gift or holiday décor to bring home. Plus, it’s always nice to support local businesses — especially during the holiday season.

James Island

Located just a short drive from Downtown Charleston, James Island offers plenty of holiday fun for families of all ages. From it’s captivating lightshow to its family-friendly market, here are a couple of holiday events worth attending this year:

Holiday Festival of Lights

Photo Courtesy of Instagram Via @bootsbowsandbeaches

Without a doubt, the biggest holiday event on James Island is the Holiday Festival of Lights. Now in its 29th year, this spectacular lightshow features about two million dazzling lights spanning three miles.

Each year, families from all over the country make their way to James Island to partake in this exciting event. Along the three-mile drive, visitors can park the car and experience family train rides, marshmallow roasting and interactive lakeside lights, as well as myriad shopping and dining opportunities.

The big event will be open nightly until just after the New Year.

James Island Holiday Market and Movie

Starting December 7, say goodbye to the James Island Fall Festival Market and hello to the Holiday Market! This year, your favorite holiday vendors will bring a variety of local crafts, produce and more.

The kids will have a blast partaking in holiday workshops, bouncy castles, crafts and food. At dusk, “Polar Express” will play on the big screen.

Mount Pleasant

With its small-town charm and lively celebrations, Mount Pleasant, S.C. is the perfect place to usher in the holidays. Make your way across Ravenel Bridge from Downtown Charleston and discover lit-up trees, boat parades, local holiday shopping and other festivities in this fast-growing suburb.

Holiday Parade of Boats

On December 8, be sure to catch all the boats decked out in their festive décor and lights as they sail from the Cooper River through the Charleston Harbor and into the Ashley River. This annual event ends with a spectacular display of fireworks over the harbor.

This Lowcountry holiday tradition is not to be missed! The event kicks off at 5:00 p.m. and is completely free to watch. For prime viewing of the holiday boat parade, check out Mount Pleasant’s Waterfront Park or the South Carolina Aquarium.

Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade

December 9, don’t miss the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Moultrie Middle School in Mount Pleasant, followed by a dazzling display of fireworks. Immediately following the tree lighting, get ready to take in the festive Christmas parade.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., more than 100 festive floats will make their way down Coleman Boulevard and through the intersection of Patriots Point Road and W. Coleman Boulevard. The kids will adore catching a glimpse of Santa and experiencing the lively marching bands that make their way past.

West Ashley

If you’re staying in the West Ashley area, you’re in luck. Located relatively close to the West Ashley area are two of Charleston’s most stunning plantations: Middleton Place and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

Both plantations are worth a visit anytime, but they are especially inviting during the holiday season. Decorated in holiday finery and featuring plenty of kid-friendly holiday activities, the two historic plantations host spectacular events the entire family will enjoy.

Family Yuletide at Middleton Place

Each year, families all over Charleston flock to Middleton Place for its annual Family Yuletide in the Stable Yards. This event encourages families to create their own nature-inspired holiday décor around warm fires as blacksmiths, potters and seamstresses work their trades by candle-light.

There will also be a live nativity scene that features a few animals from the stable yards at Middleton Place. With actors in period dress and old-fashioned décor, the kids will get an opportunity to see what life was like in the 18th century.

Children’s Village at Magnolia Plantation

Photo Courtesy of Instagram Via @magnoliaplantation

Bring the entire family — including the dog — to Magnolia Plantation for its annual Children’s Village. Starting in December, this yearly event is centered around exciting holiday activities for the little ones.

Kids can wander down Candy Cane Lane and visit Santa’s workshop, the Candy Factory, Gingerbread House, the Elf Bunk House and other fun stops. Each weekend, the Holiday Children’s Village adds a special theme to enhance the event’s charm.

North Charleston

North Charleston may be somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Charleston. But make no mistake — this fast-growing neighborhood boasts its own lively dining scene and exciting events.

If you’re in the North Charleston area for the holidays, be sure to check out the following events:

Christmas Tree and Lights in the Circle

Don’t mIss the Christmas tree and festive lights on the  front lawn of the Felix C. Davis Community Center. Every year, the mayor lights the spectacular 40-foot tree to kickstart the holiday season.

After the ceremony, stroll around Park Circle to catch a 360 view of the tree and take in other stunning light displays.

North Charleston Christmas Parade and Festival

Photo Courtesy of Instagram Via @northcharleston

The Christmas Parade and Festival is one of North Charleston’s best holiday events. December 8, the Christmas Parade kicks off at 5:00 p.m. at the corner of East Montague and Mixson avenues. In previous parades, live music and DJs warmed up the crowd before the parade sets off.

After the parade, kids can enjoy activities such as bouncy castles, petting zoos and hay rides. There will also be caroling and visits with Santa.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — for a live performance, that is. On December 19, bring the entire family to see this musical rendition of one of America’s most beloved television specials.

Held at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, the production will highlight everyone’s favorite characters, including Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius and the Abominable Snow Monster. Get your tickets now and treat the entire family to a show that everyone is bound to enjoy.

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms — or IOP to those in the know — is the perfect place for families to escape from the cold. Although it’s bordered by pristine beaches, IOP offers visitors far more than a relaxing beach getaway.

Check out the following IOP holiday events that are guaranteed to liven up your seaside vacation:

Holiday Street Festival

The Isle of Palms annual Holiday Street Festival promises a good time for locals and visitors alike. Full of carnival rides, bouncy castles, face painting, local music and food, the Holiday Street Festival is sure to get the grumpiest of grinches into the holiday spirit.

The fun starts December 1 at 2:00 p.m. and runs until 7:00 p.m. Don’t forget to stick around for the special Christmas tree lighting that happens on Front Beach at 5:30!

Happy Holidays from Dunes Properties!

Whether you call Charleston home or you’re simply visiting for the holidays, the city never fails to make this season special. With its many tree lighting ceremonies, shopping opportunities and family-friendly activities, there is something for the entire family to enjoy in Charleston.

If you need help finding a place to stay in Charleston, get in touch with us! We’ll help you find the right accommodations to make your holiday vacation truly spectacular.

Seabrook Island

When it comes to laid-back coastal living, it doesn’t get any better than Seabrook Island. Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Charleston, this wonderful island community strikes the perfect balance of modern amenities and unspoiled nature.

With a phenomenal year-round climate, pristine beaches and year-round activities, it’s easy to see why Seabrook Island is an ideal place to live, work and play. This private island is a quiet oasis, full of natural splendor and outdoor recreation.

But don’t mistake this beautiful barrier island for your average summer resort town. Explore the secluded charms of Seabrook Island and you’ll soon discover why residents love living here year-round.

THE UNIQUE CHARMS OF SEABROOK ISLAND

Whether you’re a retiree, a working family or simply want your own private oasis to relax, Seabrook Island is sure to delight. This 2,200-acre island may be small, but it has a lot to offer its residents.

Although you’ll find many of the usual high-end amenities on Seabrook, the island has plenty of unique attributes that make it distinct from other Charleston-area resorts.

Less Tourist-Driven

Unlike other beach resort areas in Charleston, Seabrook Island doesn’t have many amenities for tourists. In fact, there are no hotels on the island. Seabrook Island offers rental villas and condos that blend in with the area’s natural scenery. Although this offers fewer rental options to those who wish to vacation on Seabrook, locals enjoy having the quieter pace of life that having fewer tourists provides.

One significant benefit to living on Seabrook Island is that locals can enjoy the summer months without the congestion caused by a huge number of vacationers. Less tourism also keeps the island feeling like one big neighborhood.

Commitment to Sustainability

The unspoiled beauty of Seabrook is a deep source of pride for the island community. Locals are committed to preserving their island for future generations and have implemented numerous sustainable management practices to support these efforts.

Because of these efforts, the island received the Audubon International Sustainable Community certification—the first community in South Carolina to receive this status and the 75^th in the United States. The certification indicates the completion of management practices and policies addressing 14 focus areas, such as wildlife conservation, energy efficiency, health and transportation.

Seabrook is also involved with the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program and retains Audubon certification for both of its golf courses.

No Master Developer

Do you dislike being told what you can and can’t do when building a home? Seabrook Island is distinctly residential in that it has no master developer. That means residents have the freedom to create their own private oasis without strict limitations.

Enjoy an existing home tucked away in live oaks, lush foliage and palmetto trees, or build your own from the ground up. Whichever option you choose, your Seabrook Island home will be perfectly situated in a balance of modern amenities and natural beauty. Click here to view current listings: Seabrook Island real estate

Small, Yet Vibrant Community

Although the island is gated, the Seabrook Island community is friendly, displaying the same Southern charm that Charleston is famous for. Whether you’re dining on the island, popping into one of many nearby specialty shops or getting together with other locals for Sunday brunch, you can expect a warm welcome from the community.

In fact, the island makes it incredibly easy for residents to connect with each other. Periodic social events are scheduled, giving new residents a chance to meet other locals and community leaders.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

For equestrians and nature lovers alike, nothing is more tranquil than riding horses along the beach. Seabrook Island is the only place you can ride horses along Charleston’s coast and the only place in the Carolinas.

Seabrook Island is also home to a large-scale equestrian center offering private lessons, trail and beach rides and horse boarding. For beginners to advanced riders, the Seabrook Island Equestrian Center is not to be missed.

Dolphin Strand Feeding

Dolphins are a common sight in the coastal waters of the Lowcountry, especially during the peak months of their migration. But less common is witnessing a dolphin strand feeding.

Dolphin strand feeding is a sophisticated form of hunting that requires dolphins to work together to herd fish or shrimp towards shallow water or the shore. This unique behavior is sometimes seen by visitors and residents on Seabrook Island when dolphins are migrating down to warmer waters for the winter.

Visitors in the summer are less likely to see this fascinating sight, but locals who live in Seabrook Island year-round have more opportunities to see dolphin strand feeding. Just remember to keep your distance—at least 50 yards—to avoid interfering with this natural behavior.

A Unique History

Charleston is famed for its rich history, but Seabrook has a unique history all its own. First inhabited by Native Americans, the land that is now Seabrook was settled in 1670 by English settlers.

Originally named “Colleton” in honor of Sir John Colleton, the island would pass hands and experience multiple name changes (often named after the landowner) until it settled upon the name Seabrook Island in 1816 after owner William Seabrook.

Under Seabrook’s ownership, the island was primarily used for growing cotton. During the Civil War, Seabrook sold the island to William Gregg, founder of the Graniteville Company.

The town was eventually incorporated in 1987 when 85 percent of the registered voters of Seabrook cast their vote at the polls. A week later, a certification of incorporation was granted to the Town of Seabrook Island by the Secretary of State of South Carolina.

Interested in more of Seabrook Island’s history? Read the entire history by clicking on the PDF featured on the town’s website.

Unpretentious Seaside Living

Unlike other resort beach towns, Seabrook Island manages to offer modern amenities and a resort-style way of living without any pretentiousness. From its golf courses to its fitness and wellness facility, the town’s amenities are well-kept and welcoming to all.

Whether you want to take personalized golf instruction at one of Seabrook’s golf courses, get in shape at SIPOA Lake House or get involved in a special interest group, the town of Seabrook has an endless number of ways to enjoy the finer things in life.

EXPERIENCE COASTAL LIVING AT ITS FINEST

If one thing is certain about Seabrook, it’s that you’ll never be bored. Edged by 2.5 miles of beaches along the Atlantic coast, Seabrook offers a diverse array of outdoor activities and amenities for residents to enjoy year-round. From championship golf to exciting water sports, there is always something fun to do on this quaint island resort.

Water Sports

With 2.5 miles of uncrowded beaches, a deep-water marina and a phenomenal year-round climate, Seabrook Island is the ideal place for water sports. Residents can take advantage of the secluded waters by way of paddleboard or kayak, take their boat for a deep-sea fishing excursion or hop on a jet ski for an exciting day on the water.

Don’t own a boat? Rent a fishing boat from Bohicket Creek Boat Rentals at Bohicket Marina for a fun day with the family. Seabrook Island’s picturesque waters offer endless aquatic activities for all ages to enjoy.

Championship Golf

The lush greens and fairways on Seabrook Island are a golf enthusiast’s dream-come-true. The island features two award-winning golf courses: Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks.

The two courses are completely unique, uncrowded and offer picturesque views. Ocean Winds, designed by Willard Byrd, is a par 72, 6,765-yard course which takes golfers to the Atlantic Ocean. Crooked Oaks is a 6,780-yard course with a par 72, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. This course winds through twisted live oaks and marshland.

Tournament Grade Tennis Club

On Seabrook Island, there is no need to hang up your tennis racquet come wintertime. The Seabrook Island Racquet Club features 15 professionally-maintained clay courts which are available year-round.

Ranked in Tennis magazine as one of the top 25 tennis resorts in the world, the Seabrook Island Racquet Club is famed for its state-of-the-art facility and natural beauty. In addition to its tennis courts, the facility also boasts a lounge for members to socialize, private instruction taught by professionals, onsite clinics, ball machine rentals and a Pro Shop for tennis gear and accessories.

Become a member of the SI Racquet Club and enjoy the many fun events that they host throughout the year, such as the New Year Mixer.

Unspoiled Beaches

Beaches may not be uncommon in the Lowcountry, but Seabrook Island’s unspoiled beaches are second to none. With nearly four miles of sandy beach shorelines, there are ample opportunities to swim, play and take in a gorgeous sunset.

In fact, Seabrook’s beaches have received numerous accolades. Seabrook Island was recently featured in Conde Nast Traveler’s “9 Best Beaches in Charleston” list and was named one of America’s “Best Restored Beaches” by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) in 2016.

Despite its good press, you’ll never need to worry about beating the crowd. Whether you’re taking in a sunrise on North Beach or playing with the kids at Pelican Beach, the miles of pristine shoreline along Seabrook Island are enjoyed primarily by locals. Remember to read the rules before you enjoy the island’s pristine beaches.

Shopping and Dining Opportunities

Not only is Seabrook Island less than 30 miles away from shopping and dining in downtown Charleston, it’s also a short distance to Bohicket Marina & Market and Freshfields Village.

Located between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, Bohicket Marina & Market is home to beloved restaurants, including LoKal Seabar and Fischer’s Sports Pub and Grill. The market also features quaint specialty shops where locals can pick up a thoughtful local gift from Doin’ The Charleston or pick up live bait at Bohicket Ship Store.

Freshfields Village is located on Kiawah Island, less than a 10-minute drive from Seabrook Island. This stylish village features an array of dining options, from gourmet coffee to savory, Lowcountry cuisine. Freshfields Village also has a fine collection of boutique stores, a farmers market and service establishments to please locals and visitors alike.

Final Words

If you’re searching for an easy way of living along the Lowcountry coastline, you’ve found it in Seabrook Island. Peaceful and secluded, this beautiful island boasts all the modern amenities of a resort without the crowds and congestion.

photo courtesy of instagram user @inspirenexton

The Neighborhood

This walkable community puts an emphasis on neighborly.  With a number of Nexton-sponsored events and clubs, there are tons of opportunities for you to meet your fellow neighbors!  Nexton is designed to live like a small town with homes, schools, shops, parks, restaurants, and businesses all close enough to walk or bike to anywhere you need to be.  Almost half of the community is dedicated to parks, natural open space, and paved paths/trails. The pool at Nexton’s Brighton Park Village is much more than just a 25-meter competition pool! There is also an interactive splash pad for young kids, a huge deck with shady areas, a covered pavilion, and green space that can accommodate a volleyball game, a family picnic or just spending time with a good book.  The Swim Club is designed for year-round fun, complete with a cozy fire-pit for chilly evenings. The highly praised Nexton Elementary opened back in 2015 and is the area’s only Common Sense Digital Leadership School. Walking your kids to school has never been easier!

photo courtesy of instagram user @inspirenexton

Nexton Square

The Nexton community is much more than just homes.  Its is South Carolina’s first gigabit community providing the fastest, highest-capacity broadband internet connections.  Nexton is also well on its way to becoming the region’s third major job center in its town center.  The 17-acre site will feature 140,000 square-feet full of shops, restaurants, and services all within a walking/biking distance and centered around the town lake.  Hall’s Chophouse, Taco Boy, and Fuji Sushi are just a few local favorites that will be calling Nexton Square home.  A Harris Teeter will soon be in the center of the retail district.  For beers and brews, there already is Starbucks and Carolina Ale House for you to enjoy.

photo courtesy of instagram user @inspirenexton

Location

Nexton is located right in the heart of the lowcountry in Summerville, SC.  It is conveniently positioned at the crossroads of I-26 and 17A and less than 30 miles from Historic Downtown Charleston.  Enjoy the small town charm of Hutchinson Square in Downtown Summerville where a number of family-friendly festivals are hosted each year.  You will find that everything need is just minutes away, including a variety of boutique shops and vintage stores.

photo courtesy of instagram user @inspirenexton

Homes

You can find residences ranging from apartments to single-family homes.  All are exclusively designed for Nexton, starting in the mid $200,000 and go up to the low $600,000’s.  Builders for the community understand that an authentic lowcountry home isn’t a historic replica, but rather a home carefully designed for a modern lifestyle while maintaining southern charm.  All of the homes meet a high standard of design and craftsmanship and are setting a new bar for the entire region. Currently, the homes are being completed by three developers: Saussy Burbank, Pulte, and Del Webb.

photo courtesy of instagram user @inspirenexton

August tends to mark the waning of housing activity ahead of the school year. Not all buyers and sellers have children, but there are enough parents that do not want to uproot their children during the school year to historically create a natural market cool down before any actual temperature change. Competition is expected to remain fierce for available listings. Savvy sellers and buyers know that deals can be made well into the school months, as household formations take on many shapes and sizes.

Closed Sales  -3.3% |  Median Sales Price  +1.2% | Months Supply  -22.7%

Market Statistics by Area

How long can the residential real estate market go on like this? We are about two years into a national trend of dropping housing supply and increasing median sales prices. There are some regional variations to the story, but the shift to a predominantly seller’s market is mostly complete. Multiple-offer situations over asking price are commonplace in many communities, and good homes are routinely off the market after a single day. It is evident that a favorable economy keeps hungry buyers in the chase.

Market Statistics by Area

Ever wanted to live right by the beach?  Check out these great new properties on Isle of Palms, SC.  Isle of Palms is a barrier island with everything. There’s lush vegetation, from age-old live oaks to flowering crepe myrtles and oleanders. For the sports-minded, there’s golf, great fishing, crabbing and shrimping, and more water sports than we can name.  All of this just a few miles from downtown Charleston.

14 32nd Avenue

You will love living in this seaside community just 2 blocks from the beach!! Craftsman style beach home has a very open floor plan with perfect spaces for your family or guests. Well taken care of & updated. The kitchen has a breakfast bar & granite counter tops & new stainless gas stove & DW for the cook of the house. There is a separate laundry room & pantry space. Great room & dining area are very open with vaulted ceilings. Dining area is spacious for a large table. Relax by the gas fireplace or outdoors in the very large screened porch. You will love the second bedroom with custom built-in bunk beds, storage and custom drawers. The office/study could be a 4th bedroom.  Offered by Sheryl Hill

20 Oyster Row

Gorgeous home on Palmetto Lake in Wild Dunes across from one of natures beautiful bird habitats. This spacious home has just been completely renovated with custom finishes throughout including a New Sun Room, Kitchen and master baths. In addition, the home has a new roof, flooring, HVAC, and entranceway. The incredible landscaping fits nicely with the natural environment! There are 5 bedrooms, 3 and 1/2 bathrooms with the master bedroom on the first floor. The kitchen is outfitted with all new Jenn-Air appliances including a gas cooktop, a bar counter for entertaining and an incredible view of the lake as you prepare your next meal. The sun room has raised ceilings and makes you feel like the outside has been brought in through the four large picture windows.  Offered by Rick Fain

19 Ocean Point Drive

Welcome to 19 Ocean Point, located in the gated neighborhood of Ocean Point, in Wild Dunes, Isle of Palms, SC. This custom built, meticulously maintained home overlooks the lagoon, driving range and has peaks of the ocean from the 3rd floor! The spacious foyer opens to a gorgeous, wide staircase and the inviting first floor living area with hardwood floors throughout. The open, airy floor plan is perfect for entertaining with a large gourmet kitchen front and center, flowing into the dining and living room. The kitchen offers high-end stainless steel appliances, updated cabinetry, granite surfaces and a cozy office. The living room features custom cabinetry fire place and wet bar.  Offered by Betty Poore & Ginn Maiers

The employment landscape and wages have both improved over the last few years, allowing for more people to participate in the home-buying process. When the economy is in good working order, as it is now, it creates opportunities in residential real estate, and right now is a potentially lucrative time to sell a home. Houses that show well and are priced correctly have been selling quickly, often at higher prices than asking. New listings were down 2.6% and inventory shrank 16.8% while median sales price was up 3.1%.

 Although there is a mounting amount of buyer competition during the annual spring market cycle, buyer demand has not abated, nor is it expected to in the immediate future unless something unpredictable occurs. While strong demand is generally considered a good problem to have, it creates an affordability issue for some buyers, especially first-time buyers. And yet, prices will continue to rise amidst strong demand.

Charleston Market Statistics through April 2017

With 34 people moving here everyday, demand for Charleston homes on golf courses, in resort communities, and on the beaches is on the rise. Charleston is a recreation lover’s dream where folks can enjoy sports and hobbies of all types almost year round. Featured first are some of our most recent Charleston homes on golf courses, but at the bottom of the post you’ll find an updated list of all homes on golf courses listed across all areas of the Charleston Coast. Which is your favorite?

 Our Featured Homes on Golf Courses:

334 Winged Foot Court, Kiawah Island  4 bed | 3.5 bath | 3,300 sq ft

2914 Atrium Villa, Seabrook Island   2 bed | 2 bath | 1,080 sq ft

3143 Baywood Drive, Seabrook Island  4 bed | 3.5 bath | 3,400 sq ft

762 Bulls Bay Boulevard, Mt. Pleasant  4 bed | 5  bath | 5,544 sq ft

32 Ocean Point Drive, Wild Dunes  4 bed | 4 bath | 2,294 sq ft

We can comfortably consider the first quarter to have been a good start for residential real estate in 2017. There was certainly plenty to worry over when the year began. Aside from new national leadership in Washington, DC, and the policy shifts that can occur during such transitions, there was also the matter of continuous low housing supply, steadily rising mortgage rates and ever-increasing home prices. Nevertheless, sales have held their own in year-over-year comparisons and should improve during the busiest months of the real estate sales cycle.

The U.S. economy has improved for several quarters in a row, which has helped wage growth and retail consumption increase in year-over-year comparisons. Couple that with an unemployment rate that has been holding steady or dropping both nationally and in many localities, and consumer confidence is on the rise. As the economy improves, home sales tend to go up. It isn’t much more complex than that right now. Rising mortgage rates could slow growth eventually, but rate increases should be thought of as little more than a byproduct of a stronger economy and stronger demand.

Daniel Island  |  Downtown Charleston  |  Folly Beach

Greater North Charleston  |  Kiawah Island  |  Johns Island

James Island  |  Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes  |  Lower Mount Pleasant

West Ashley  |  Upper Mount Pleasant  |  Upper Charleston Peninsula

Sullivans Island   |  Seabrook Island

We have a wide variety of new listings at the beach, and it’s just in time. The mercury is starting to rise and the sun is shining, that can only mean one thing….its almost summer on the Charleston Coast!  What better way to spend the lazy days of our favorite season than at one of Charleston’s fabulous beaches? Check out some of the newest listings from dunes properties agents on Sullivans Island, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island and Dewees Island.

2614 Bayonne Street, Sullivans Island

2614 Bayonne Street, Sullivans Island

4 beds | 4.5 baths | 4,754 sq ft

One of the finest second row homes on Sullivans Island and only steps away from the Station 26 beach access path! A stunning remodel of this home was completed in 2015 by Phillip Smith Contractors. The 3,410 square foot first floor boasts a downstairs master-suite with outside porch, and direct access to the elevated pool and workout cabana. There is an additional guest suite off the front entrance. The house has a open great room and dining area combination with bay windows overlooking the pool area, a large office area, a gourmet kitchen with attached den and additional fireplace.  Listed by Tim Reese

2102 Atlantic Avenue, Sullivans Island

2102 Atlantic Avenue, Sullivans Island

9 beds | 6 baths | 5,760 sq ft

Located on a street to street, half acre lot on Sullivans Island, this unique, one of a kind home features lots of possible configurations for a large family! The owners built this home with generational living in mind. Side A and B each feature four bedrooms, two full baths, wrap around porches, 2 car garages, hardwood floors in the main living areas and tons of storage. In addition, there is a two story carriage house, connected to the main house, that features a one bedroom living space on the first floor and a studio space on the second. The main house, sides A & B, live like two separate homes but have privacy doors to make the spaces separate.  Listed by Betty Poore & Vannessa Carter

708 Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms

708 Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms

4 beds | 2 baths | 2,434 sq ft

This bright and cheery home with double front porches is centrally located on the island. The first floor features an open floor plan with a full bath. The kitchen window overlooks the pool located in the private fenced in backyard. Upstairs you will find the master suite with walk-in closet and large private bathroom. Three more nice size bedrooms are also upstairs with one of the front bedrooms that opens out to the upstairs porch. Plenty of parking underneath. Close to the beach, downtown Isle of Palms, connector and just a short drive to historic Downtown Charleston. Listed by Ginn Maiers

1653 B East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach

1653 B East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach

4 beds | 2.5 baths | 2,200 sq ft

Here is your chance to own a 4 BR oceanfront home on Folly Beach that will hold a large family, performs well on a rental program, and doesn’t break the bank. Enjoy the sunrise and seascapes from large oceanfront balconies.  There are hardwood floors downstairs and an enormous kitchen with granite countertops and a bar -height counter to gather around. The kitchen flows into the open living and dining room with windows and sliding doors that lead onto the oceanfront deck and let the light in. There is also an oceanfront deck upstairs that can be accessed by the master bedroom and two more bedrooms. Listed by Vince Perna & Laurie Hull

1120 E Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach

1120 E Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach

3 beds | 2 baths | 1,379

This is a renovated classic Cape Cod style beach house. Located on a full corner lot and directly across from beach access. ”Neptunes Folly” is on a vacation rental program with great occupancy and rental income history! The property also sits on a dead end, less traveled street. Enjoy beautiful ocean views from the large front porch. The open living/dining room area and updated kitchen are perfect for entertaining.  The property also has plenty of off-street parking, a huge plus on Folly Beach! Listed by Keith McCann

3611 Beachcomber Run, Kiawah Island

3611 Beachcomber Run,  Kiawah Island 

5 beds| 4 baths | 4,300 sq ft

If you are all about the beach, then look no further. This classic style beach house is oceanfront with enough room for family, friends, and grandchildren. Needless to say the views are amazing. The first floor has a very large great room with fireplace, sunroom, and master suite all with ocean views and outside access. Additionally, the kitchen is updated with newer cabinets, granite, and stainless steel appliances.  Listed by Karen Hilty

312 Pelican Flight Drive, Dewees Island

312 Pelican Flight Drive, Dewees Island

3 beds | 2 baths | 1,616 sq ft

This is the best starter home on private, unspoiled Dewees Island. This lovely 3 bedroom cottage with loft and open floor plan has views of managed wetland, deer browsing areas, and maritime forest. Nestled into the pines with easy access to kayak trails and a very short walk to the beach. Home has porches which flank the living room, allowing for the sea breezes to blow through the main part of the house. Airy master bedroom is open to below through captains windows, and an additional loft area is perfect for watching the eagles nest or alligators below. Two other quiet bedrooms each have their own porch access areas and vaulted ceilings. Charming cottage decor conveys with a few exceptions. Under the house, there is great storage for toys including golf carts, kayaks and bicycles.  Listed by Judy Fairchild