Consider This When Buying Real Estate in Charleston’s Historic District - Page 223
Ever feel nervous about buying a home or moving to a new location, and think “Is this the right move for me?”
A quick city-guide or list of property details can give you some insight, but there are doubts. For those moving to Charleston’s Downtown Historic District, there’s a double whammy. First, you have to wonder if downtown Charleston is right for you. Then you have to answer if you should buy a historic real estate property.
Real estate is already filled with too many decisions. To narrow your choices and get you in the right mindset, let’s dive into the questions you should ask yourself before deciding on Charleston, SC.
- Should I buy a historic home in Charleston?
Charleston and the outlying suburbs offer plenty of choices for real estate. You can find ranch-style properties, modern living arrangements, houses on the beach, and homes situated within historic districts. All have different pros and cons.
Historic homes in Charleston are typically located on the peninsula, giving you quick access to many workplaces, restaurants, and other entertainment options. The main selling point to historic real estate is the character of the home. No property is the same and each has a layout that has been distinguished by its previous owners (some dating back to the early 1800’s).
Living in a historic home means you get to be a part of something unique. You get a glimpse into the past few are privy to. How cool is that?
Some things you may want to research before buying include:
- What taxes will you pay? Are there any tax credits (or incentives) from state and local governments?
- What restrictions are there for renovating historic homes?
- What kind of costs will you face with maintaining a historic property?
- Does the location create a setting you want to live in or be away from?
- Is downtown Charleston the right location for me?
Downtown Charleston is naturally alluring. You’re connected to almost everything -- entertainment, work, travel spots, and so on. Choosing Charleston means understanding what kind of vibe you want to live among.
Downtown is more energetic and lively than other suburbs like Mount Pleasant or James Island. Restaurants and events are just blocks away. Each weekend is its own adventure. You don’t have to worry about sitting through traffic, since you’re already in the heart of things.
The price for living in downtown Charleston means less space for your dollar. Properties, here, don’t have acre-sized backyards. You’re choosing to live in a traditional, Southern home where you’re close to your neighbor. Other things to consider include knowing your flood zone. Charleston is located in a flood zone and does, occasionally, experience inclement weather. This means paying more for home and flood insurance.
- Does the home (or location) have the right amenities?
Depending on your lifestyle, Charleston’s Downtown Historic District may or may not be the right place for you. If you’re someone who wants to be on the beach, surfing every day … downtown Charleston may not be the best option, since you can choose a home on Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, or Folly Beach.
But if you love being in the heart of activity and cherish opportunities to try new things, downtown is a great choice. Before selecting a property, perform a local Google Map search. See what parks, schools, and other venues are nearby. Example: if you’re a sailor, you’ll enjoy the marina just down the road.
Double check what effort it will take to live your lifestyle and see if it’ll be a happy (and easy) one.
Modify Search Criteria
21 George Street UNIT 306 A
Charleston, SC 29401
Downtown
Residential
THE SOPHISTICATED AND UPSCALE XXI GEORGE STREET IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC CHARLESTON. EXCLUSIVE THIRD FLOOR CONDOMINIUM WITH FANTASTIC VIEWS OF DOWN...
165 Tradd Street
Charleston, SC 29401
South Of Broad
Residential
Circa 1890 Charleston Single beautifully renovated in 2006, including two- story rear addition. Double piazzas overlooking historic Tradd St. an...
233 Ashley Avenue
Charleston, SC 29403
Elliotborough
Residential
This home is located in a central location near all of the conveniences including MUSC, the College of Charleston, the Citadel and within walking d...
27 Tradd Street
Charleston, SC 29401
South Of Broad
Residential
The Joseph Johnson House, Circa 1779 is located on one of the most picturesque streets South of Broad. 27 Tradd Street is beautifully restored a...
162 Smith Street
Charleston, SC 29403
Morris Square
Residential
*** GREAT SHORT-SALE OPPORTUNITY IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON, SC *** This lovely Charleston Single Style home was built in 2007and...
33 Lockwood Drive UNIT B4
Charleston, SC 29401
The Harborage At Ashley Marina
Residential
***UPDATED PRICING & HOT, BANK OWNED SLIP IS PRICED TO SELL*** This 50X18 BANK OWNED SLIP is located in The Harborage at Ashley Marina, one of t...
33 Lockwood Drive UNIT B3
Charleston, SC 29401
The Harborage At Ashley Marina
Residential
***UPDATED PRICING & HOT, BANK OWNED SLIP IS PRICED TO SELL*** This 50X18 BANK OWNED SLIP is located in The Harborage at Ashley Marina, one of t...
87 Smith Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Harleston Village
Residential
Wonderful turn-of-the-century cottage in the heart of Harleston Village. Uniquely situated, partially hidden from the street by mature landscapi...
195 East Bay Street UNIT #223
Charleston, SC 29401
French Quarter
Residential
FORECLOSURE, NOT A SHORT SALE, CAN CLOSE QUICKLY! Great Pied-A-Terre overlooking Lodge Alley courtyard and fountain; perfect as investment with ren...
15 Smith Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Harleston Village
Residential
House is being sold for lot value. Seller has disclosed that the property has serious structural problems. The pool has multiple cracks and will ne...
54 Smith Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Harleston Village
Residential
14 Lockwood Drive UNIT 11G
Charleston, SC 29401
Ashley House
Residential
Breathtaking views of downtown Charleston! This immaculate unit is in a great location featuring beautiful views of Alberta Long lake and Charle...
18 Corinne Street
Charleston, SC 29403
Radcliffeborough
Residential
Walking distance to College of Charleston, MUSC, downtown Charleston shopping, restaurants and nightlife. 18 Corinne sits on a quite and safe stree...
40 Bee Street UNIT #117
Charleston, SC 29403
University Place
Residential
$3,500.00 CLOSING ASSISTANCE WITH ACCEPTABLE OFFER!! PRIME LOCATION**HARD TO FIND 2 bedroom 2 bath condo downtown across from Dental School and ...
85 Cumberland Street UNIT #10
Charleston, SC 29401
French Quarter
Residential
Gorgeous luxury condominium with 11'+ ceilings, granite counter tops, custom cabinetry, heart pine flooring, high-end stainless steel appliances...
150 Bee Street UNIT #406
Charleston, SC 29403
Bee Street Lofts
Residential
Welcome to Bee Street Lofts. Charleston's first urban loft style living at it's finest. The location and water views are fabulous, situated acro...
5 Middle Atlantic Whf Street UNIT 4A
Charleston, SC 29401
French Quarter
Residential
IT'S JUST MAGNIFICENT! Enjoy this wonderful top-floor Factor's Walk unit and walk to all that Charleston has to offer. The spacious rooms, light...
32 Prioleau Street UNIT O
Charleston, SC 29401
French Quarter
Residential
Located in the French Quarter, this harbor front luxury residence at Vendue Range overlooks Charleston Waterfront Park. Quiet and spacious, loca...
40 Society Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Ansonborough
Residential
The perfect opportunity to acquire a premier Ansonborough home and location. For the sophisticated buyer, a tasteful blend of mid-19th century "...
17 Lowndes Street
Charleston, SC 29401
South Of Broad
Residential
This charming home is located on peaceful Lowndes Street, offering a very functional floor plan with 3 Bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms. The private de...
2 Bedons
Charleston, SC 29401
South Of Broad
Residential
Circa 1778. The Humphrey Sommers House. This fabulous three story stucco home was built by wealthy contractor Humphrey Sommers as a tenement wit...