If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy a home in the Charleston tri-county area, this could be it. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer searching in Summerville, a growing family relocating to Mount Pleasant, or a homeowner in West Ashley preparing to sell, understanding today’s real estate market is key. Right now, buyers across the Lowcountry have more leverage than they’ve had in years, while home sellers in Charleston and surrounding towns are adjusting their strategies to remain competitive and make their properties stand out.

Over the past few years, the real estate market in Charleston and surrounding towns like Summerville, Mount Pleasant, and West Ashley moved at a rapid pace. Homes sold quickly, inventory was tight, and multiple offer situations were common. Recently, however, that pace has started to slow. A combination of increased inventory, higher mortgage rates, and broader cost-of-living concerns has begun to slow the momentum. Buyers now have more flexibility and negotiating power, while sellers need to approach pricing and presentation more strategically.

In May 2025, the Charleston tri-county area had 4,934 active listings, compared to 4,032 in May 2024 and just 2,615 in May 2023. This significant rise in available homes gives buyers more choices and time to make thoughtful decisions. For sellers, it highlights the importance of working with a realtor® to offer accurate pricing and strong presentation right from the start.

Today’s real estate market across Charleston County, Dorchester County, and Berkeley County is more balanced than it has been in years. As of May 2025, the average days on market across the Charleston tri-county area is approximately 48 days—an increase from the much shorter timelines seen in recent years. For sellers, this shift means that strategy is more important than ever. Homes that are accurately priced, well-staged, and marketed effectively are still selling within a reasonable timeframe. However, homes that are priced too high or presented poorly are staying on the market longer, which can raise red flags for buyers. Many still associate extended market time with underlying issues—an impression left over from the days when a home that didn’t sell quickly was assumed to have something wrong with it. This often leads to necessary price reductions, delayed sales and potential closing cost concessions.

Although the pace of price growth has slowed, home values in Charleston remain strong. Properties are no longer appreciating at the extreme rates seen in 2021 or 2022, but they are holding their value. This creates a more sustainable environment that benefits both buyers and sellers.

Charleston remains one of the most desirable places to live in South Carolina. From historic downtown Charleston and the family-friendly neighborhoods of Summerville, to the scenic lifestyle of Mount Pleasant and the accessibility of West Ashley, the Lowcountry offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell one you’ve outgrown, having a trusted local real estate advisor can make all the difference. We’re here to provide expert guidance, market insight, and personalized service every step of the way.

Ready to navigate the Charleston market with confidence? From your first showing to final closing, we’re here to ensure every detail is handled and every decision supports your long-term goals.

Source: MarketQuest Coldwell Banker Realty