Named one of the 100 best small towns in the nation, it is no surprise that people from all over the country are relocating to Beaufort, South Carolina. The number of people discovering this idyllic Carolina Lowcountry community continues to grow yearly. Besides the natural beauty of the water and overall scenery, this romantic and desirable town provides a diverse and enjoyable mix of outdoor activities including golf, sport fishing, and the beach. The most visited park in South Carolina, Hunting Island State Park, is known for its beaches, lighthouse, campground, and natural features.
The downtown district, with its vast history and gorgeous waterfront views, has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Beaufort real estate in this Lowcountry paradise continues to increase in popularity and market value. Click here for a list of currently available properties.
The housing market in Beaufort
Photo courtesy of UnsplashThe Beaufort housing market is reasonably competitive. Homes are currently selling in about 33 days. In September 2022, Beaufort real estate for sale sold more quickly than in September 2021 when listed homes sold in approximately 58 days. Overall, the median home price in Beaufort is up 19% compared to last year. Fewer houses are on the market, but they are still selling quicker and at higher prices.
The city of Beaufort comprises 18 neighborhoods, ranging in price from around $20,000 to $5.4 million. Prices have been steadily rising for 21 consecutive months on a year-over-year basis. According to the USA TODAY Network, the top 10% of houses sold in Beaufort County were up 34.8% from last year and sold at values of at least $1.2 million. View these notable Beaufort real estate transactions to see how these trends reflect the exclusive nature and desirability of this unique South Carolina town.
The number of homes for sale from August 2022 to September 2022 in the Beaufort housing market varied. The home inventory remains low in Beaufort, with 452 homes on the market in September 2022, compared to the 468 homes on the market in August 2022. The traditional supply and demand economics extend into the housing market.
The summary market report for Beaufort real estate reflects this trend. The median list price in September 2022 was $369,00 (equivalent to $214 per square foot based on all the Beaufort real estate for sale over the past 12 months). The difference in price since September 2021 is more than $49,000 (+15.3%). This dramatic increase in pricing for high-end luxury homes continues to move up.
The popularity of the Beaufort area has spurred new construction throughout the region. As of August 2022, there were 147 new construction homes for sale in Beaufort. The higher-end properties range from $600,000 to $1.4 million. Further, homeowners are updating and renovating their existing properties to maximize their investment in the elevated housing market. Mortgage rates in Beaufort follow the national trends based on the Federal Reserve System.
Best neighborhoods in Beaufort
Photo courtesy of PexelsWhether you are a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, you will find Beaufort real estate in a neighborhood to fit your particular lifestyle. The Southern charm and friendly seaside environment are part of the Beaufort vibe. Conveniently located just a few miles from downtown Beaufort, Battery Point is a family-friendly area featuring plentiful oak and palm trees, an extensive walking trail along the march, and dock access.
Luxury real estate is the focal point in one of Beaufort’s neighborhoods, Newpoint. Extensive front porches and expansive sidewalks allow neighbors to stroll or jog through tree-lined streets on their way to the park. Enjoy a day out on the water with easily accessible dock access.
If a private dock is on your checklist, consider Lady’s Island and the neighborhood of Ashdale. Spacious homes in yards with lush landscaping abound in this community. Its proximity to Morgan River provides an idyllic setting for fishing, shrimping, crabbing, and more. Take your boat to the Morgan River Grill in the Dataw Island Marina and enjoy a delicious lunch, or play tennis, golf, or croquet on Dataw Island.
Why is Beaufort real estate popular?
There is truly something for everyone in Beaufort. Residents enjoy a variety of museums, beaches, parks, watersports, and a thriving arts scene. You will often find outdoor enthusiasts mingling with pet lovers and gourmet diners. Adorable boutiques like Cabana 22 and Serendipity Beaufort line the main downtown thoroughfare. Beaufort also boasts many fine restaurants, such as the Breakwater and the Wren — both on Cartaret Street — that appeal to various tastes and palates. The beauty of Beaufort makes for an exclusive and appealing lifestyle.
Beaufort’s perfect weather, with mild winters and hot summers, lets residents enjoy the outdoors year-round. With stately homes, expansive marshes, and elegant Spanish moss draping old oak trees, it’s hard not to fall in love with Beaufort. Films and TV productions such as Forrest Gump, The Great Santini, and Outer Banks all feature Beaufort scenery. The artistic and eclectic nature of the area makes this housing market appealing — not just to Hollywood but also to high-end buyers and sellers.
Local real estate agents can provide the latest information about Beaufort real estate for sale, current market trends, pricing, mortgage rates, and more. Anthony & Co. is an experienced real estate team who assists buyers and sellers with exclusive property transactions in the Beaufort area. They would be happy to answer your questions about residential homes or investment property. Contact Anthony & Co. today and turn your Lowcountry dream house into a reality.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
