Charleston Market Pulse: July 2021

As we move into summer, we’re seeing a slight seasonal shift in the housing market across the country. Demand still remains greater than supply, and many sellers continue to have the upper hand in this market. However, as more homes hit the market, the ability to get under contract is becoming more realistic for hopeful buyers. 

June is an important time for the real estate market as it typically defines the trends we’ll see throughout the summer. Median home prices continue to rise across most markets and days on the market remain consistently low. Many homes continue to sell for over list price, however we’re beginning to see fewer offers in bidding wars. June saw an increase in listings that is likely seasonal, but could offer some relief for buyers. 

All stats below are based on End of Month in May vs June:

Charleston

Supply and Demand: In June, there were 3 weeks worth of housing inventory available, a 14% reduction from the 3.5 weeks we saw in May. 
Median days on the market – In June, houses spent 20 days on the market, a 25% decrease over May when they averaged only 28 days on the market.
New homes on the market – In June, there were 2,496 new homes on the market, a 8% increase from the 2,309 new homes we saw in May.
Homes sold – In June, 2,463 homes sold, an increase of 12% over May’s 2,189 homes sold.

Charleston home values were up 26.0% in June compared to this time last year, selling for a median price of $428,000. New listings increased slightly in June, but supply remains much lower than normal in the area. Median days on the market also continues to decrease, which likely means summer will continue to be a challenging time for buyers.

View current market data

Seller Suggestions

Now, more than ever it’s important to price your home correctly. While many homes are still selling for over list price, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t choose wisely when pricing your home. Median days on the market remain low, with the prime time to list your home being a Thursday to allow for weekend showings. Sellers should adjust their listing strategy to reflect nearby comparative home sales. If you list your home too high, you risk not selling as quickly as nearby listings. Then, showing activity decreases and so do the odds of an asking price (or higher) offer. 

Here are a few blogs that might help you as a seller:

• Questions to Ask When Selling a House
• How Much Does it Cost to List on the MLS?
• What if the Appraisal Comes in Low?

Buyer Suggestions

While being a buyer has been an exhausting process in 2021, more houses are beginning to hit the market as summer is the peak season for inventory. For the first time in months, buyers are facing less competition for active listings. This doesn’t mean bidding wars are going away completely, instead buyers are competing with 3-5 offers, rather than 15-20. Home values are holding strong, which means buyers who are able to secure a home are rewarded in equity. Ultimately, things are looking up for potential homebuyers. Our advice is to be prepared with financing, get creative with the contingencies of your offer, and don’t give up. 

Here are a few blogs that might help you as a buyer: 

• How to Buy a New Construction Home
• Can I Buy a House with No Money Down?
• What is Due Dilligence in Real Estate?

Please note, if you buy with us, we split our buyer’s agent commission with you and give you back up to $6,000, and if you sell with us, we give you comprehensive, expert service for a low flat fee. And keep in mind, especially if you’re moving or you have friends in other states, that Trelora can help you in Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte, Denver, Phoenix, Raleigh, Seattle, St. Louis and Tucson. In the meantime, please stay healthy and safe.