Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate in Charleston, SC

Charleston’s 2025 real‑estate scene is dynamic: prices are still edging upward, inventory is tight but improving, and well‑priced homes often go under contract in just a couple of weeks. Whether you’re thinking of selling, buying, or simply exploring options in the Lowcountry, the FAQs below address the questions our clients ask most—backed by current market data and our on‑the‑ground expertise.

Selling a Home in Charleston, SC – FAQs

1. Is now a good time to sell in Charleston in 2025?

Yes. Median sold prices are up roughly 6.5 percent year‑over‑year, and buyer demand remains steady thanks to job growth in aerospace, tech, and port logistics. Properly priced listings still attract multiple offers, especially in walkable coastal neighborhoods.

2. How do I price my home to sell in today’s market?

Start with recent comparable sales in your micro‑neighborhood - or our proprietary Home Valuation Tool, then adjust for condition, upgrades, and unique features. In May 2025 the median sale price was  $610,000 and homes spent about 59 days on market—so strategic pricing just below key thresholds (e.g., $599K vs. $605K) can shorten your timeline. 

3. What are the most common reasons homeowners are moving around Charleston?

Growing households needing more space, job relocations to or from major employers, retirement downsizing, and lifestyle shifts toward barrier‑island living top the list. We also see sellers capitalizing on appreciated equity to purchase a second home or investment property.

4. What do I need to do to prepare my home for a quick sale?

Focus on curb appeal, neutral paint, deep cleaning, decluttering, and resolving minor repairs (leaky faucets, loose door handles). Professional staging and high‑resolution photography amplify online appeal, while a pre‑listing inspection can reassure buyers and prevent renegotiations.

5. Should I renovate before listing?

Cosmetic updates with high ROI—fresh paint, updated lighting, modern hardware—often pay off. Bigger projects (kitchen gut, primary‑bath overhaul) rarely recoup 100 percent in our market.  In most cases, pricing to reflect current condition is smarter than over‑improving.

Buying a Home in Charleston, SC – FAQs

1. Should I rent or buy in Charleston in 2025?

With mortgage rates hovering in the mid‑6 percent range and rents rising faster than wages, buying can build equity sooner—especially if you plan to stay at least three to five years. Ask your lender for a rent‑versus‑buy analysis using local numbers.

2. What are the best neighborhoods to buy a home in Charleston?

For value and growth potential, check out Daniel Island, Park Circle, Hanahan, and West Ashley. If you prefer historic charm and walkability, downtown Charleston or the Old Village might be a fit. If you're looking for upscale suburbs with great recreation and shopping, Mount Pleasant is ideal. Beach lifestyle? Check out Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, or Folly Beach. Each offers distinct price points, school options, and commute times.

3. What’s the buying process like right now in Charleston?

Get pre‑approved, tour homes quickly, and be ready to write a clean offer with earnest money and limited contingencies. Well‑priced listings typically go pending within 15–20 days, so decisiveness and strong representation matter.  If you're out of town, don't expect your dream home to hit the market while you're in town visiting. Work with us to get comfortable with your non-negotiables, wants, and needs so we can move forward with confidence with the right opportunity presents itself. 

4. How do I compete in a competitive buyer’s market?

Secure full loan approval upfront, consider flexibility on closing dates, and lean on a local expert Realtor like Matt DeAntonio for neighborhood‑specific insights. Personalized cover letters and escalation clauses can still help, but price and terms carry the most weight.

Why Work With Matt DeAntonio Real Estate in Charleston, SC

1. What makes your real estate team different from others in Charleston?

Matt DeAntonio Real Estate delivers concierge‑level service rooted in honesty, integrity, and diligent market research—so you feel confident at every step. His calm, no‑pressure approach has earned lifelong clients who refer us again and again.

2. How do you help sellers market their homes effectively?

We combine data‑driven pricing with high‑end photography, 3‑D tours, and targeted digital campaigns that reach qualified buyers worldwide—all while highlighting the Lowcountry lifestyle that draws people to Charleston. Our marketing platform covers a wide range of advertising channels in addition to good, ol' fashioned networking.  

3. What services do you provide to help buyers succeed?

From securing local‑lender pre‑approvals to previewing off‑market listings and negotiating repairs, we manage the details so you can focus on envisioning life in your new home. We've also helped dozens of out-of-state clients buy and sell remotely with confidence by using technology and a very detailed consultation process.

4. Why is it important to work with a local expert?

Charleston’s micro‑markets vary street by street; a local expert understands flood zones, short‑term‑rental ordinances, and neighborhood quirks that online portals can’t capture—protecting your investment and peace of mind.

5. How do I know I’m working with a top‑rated team in Charleston?

Check independent reviews, closed‑sale volume, and professional designations. Our five‑star client feedback and track record of successful transactions across Charleston County rank us among the best real estate agents in Charleston, SC year after year.