Trends Every Buyer & Seller Should Know Before Making a Move

Spring is in full bloom—and so are the shifts in Charleston’s real estate market. Whether you’re house hunting or considering selling, understanding the latest numbers isn’t just
helpful—it’s essential.

Across the metro area, we’re seeing higher inventory, longer selling timelines, and mixed price movements, which translates to opportunity for buyers and a need for strategy for sellers.

Let’s break down exactly what’s happening in the four key counties—and what it means for you.

Mount Pleasant: More Listings, Slower Sales—but Still In-Deman

Mount Pleasant remains a top-tier destination for buyers, but the frenzy has cooled. Home values continue to rise, yet properties are sitting longer—and inventory has nearly doubled year-over-year. While prices are still climbing, the pace of sales has slowed significantly. Homes are staying on the market longer, and inventory is up nearly 70% year-over-year. The number of homes sold declined by 14%, while new listings barely budged.

Takeaway:

Buyers have more options and negotiating power than they did a year ago. For sellers, this means presentation and pricing are more critical than ever. This gives buyers a slight edge over last year, with more selection and more time to make decisions. However, Mount Pleasant still moves fast, and well-priced, well-presented homes remain competitive. Sellers must focus on pricing and presentation to stand out. A beautiful home priced right? Still gold. 

Charleston County: Stabilizing, But Still Active

Charleston County is gradually moving toward a more balanced market. Prices dipped slightly, but closed sales rose—suggesting continued demand. Inventory is up nearly 40%, and homes are spending more time on the market. 

Takeaway:

Buyers now have more negotiating power and greater stability in pricing. Sellers should expect longer timeframes and price more carefully to attract motivated buyers. This is a great time for buyers eyeing areas like James Island, West Ashley, or downtown—places that were previously ultra-competitive. With more homes on the market, you have a better shot at landing your dream home without a bidding war.

Berkeley County: Cooling Gently, Still Strong

Berkeley County’s market is cooling without concern. While home prices have dipped slightly and sales are down modestly, overall activity remains stable. The inventory bump gives buyers more opportunity, although supply is still below the 4–6 month balanced range.

Takeaway:

With more listings and longer time on the market, buyers can act more strategically. It’s a sweet spot: still strong value, less pressure.

This is a favorable environment for first-time buyers and move-up buyers looking for more space and value in communities like Cane Bay, Nexton, and Moncks Corner. Sellers should know that buyers are less likely to overpay or rush into offers without strong justification.

Dorchester County: A Buyer’s Market in the Making

Dorchester County is undergoing the most dramatic market shift in the region. Inventory is soaring while closed sales dropped sharply—indicators that the tide is turning in favor of buyers.

Takeaway:

Buyers in Summerville, Ridgeville, and beyond will find more homes, better deals, and less competition than they’ve seen in years. Sellers will need to price smart and stand out to capture buyer attention.

So, What Does All This Mean for You?

If You’re a Buyer:

• More homes to choose from
• More time to decide
• More room to negotiate

Strategy tip: Take advantage of this window before rates, demand, or investor activity picks back up again. The power balance is shifting, but not permanently.

If You’re a Seller:

• Pricing and condition matter more than ever
• Professional photos, staging, and curb appeal = essential
• Expect longer selling timelines—but success is still very achievable

Strategy tip: Lean on a local expert to analyze your hyper-local market and position your home for maximum impact in today’s shifting landscape.

Curious About Your Neighborhood?

Real estate trends can shift street by street. Whether you’re in Park Circle, Goose Creek, Daniel Island, or the Historic District, we can provide real-time data on what’s happening where you are.

📞 Call: (843) 790-4522
📧 Email: info@lowcountrycharmed.com 
🌐 Visit: www.lowcountrycharmed.com