Staying on Top of Everything that there is to See and Do in the Charleston area!

Charleston is great city for a lot of reasons: Outstanding restaurants; Great beaches; Lots of Water; Tremendous History; An emerging Tech industry with Charleston being characterized as "Silicon Harbor"; Nightlife; Friendly people and Great weather.

Our intent it to provide a view into all the interesting activities that are possible in Charleston. Whether you a local resident, tourist or considering relocation, this will be a great resource to get tips on activities to make your visits to Charleston and the surrounding areas even more memorable!

July 6, 2023

Charleston Area Real Estate Median Sales Price June 2023

Charleston Real Estate Median Sales Price June 2023

June 1, 2023

Homebuyers might be able purchase a home with less savings — thanks to the two largest US mortgage lenders now allowing down payments of just 1%

  • Affording a down payment is a major hurdle for many would-be buyers.
  • Top lenders introduced a mortgage that requires just 1% down payment, versus the usual 3% minimum.
  • It's available to first-time and repeat homebuyers and could save them thousands of dollars.

Imagine getting approved for a mortgage on the home of your dreams and making a down payment of just 1% of the purchase cost. 

That has become reality for many lower income Americans thanks to new mortgage programs introduced by United Wholesale Mortgage and Rocket Mortgage — the two largest US lenders in 2022 — that aim to make homeownership more affordable at a time when high interest rates and home prices have put the the market into a deep freeze.

The programs from Rocket Mortgage and UWM  let some homebuyers who make 80% or less of their area's median income put just 1% down on a home, 2 percentage points less than the minimum for a conventional loan. The lenders make up the difference, and that, for example, can result in a savings of $4,000 toward the downpayment on a $200,000 home.

"We thought about how we were going to help consumers that are on the fence," Alex Elezaj, the chief strategy officer at UWM, told Insider. "A couple thousand dollars is make it or break it for a lot of people that are trying to get into a home."

Housing affordability in the United States is at an all-time low. Elevated inflation has brought on the steepest Federal Reserve interest rate increases since the 1980s, pushing up borrowing costs for many Americans. In a stark contrast to the homebuying bonanza of 2021, housing demand has fallen sharply with buyers grappling with a year of higher mortgage rates and stubbornly high home prices.

This has led to fewer home sales nationwide, and a recent jump in rates has dashed hopes for a better spring selling season, at least for now. Originations of home loans are expected to drop more than 19% this year, after falling by nearly half in 2022, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

The mortgage programs are making buyers more confident 

Addressing down payments — which have become the largest hurdle to homeownership for a millennial generation in their prime homebuying years — is a way to bring buyers back to the market, according to the lenders and brokers trying to close deals. 

Whitney Beaubien, an independent mortgage broker from Belleville, Michigan — a small town of less than 4,000 people just 32 minutes outside of Detroit — said that UWM's 1% down payment program has already helped several of her clients close the deal on their home purchases. 

"I had a client who was already pre-approved through their bank and received an offer for payment assistance of 3% down," Beaubien told Insider. "I was able to win them over with 1% down payment assistance, as well as give them a better rate." They saved thousands of dollars in closing costs, she said.

"These 1% down payment assistance programs are really making homeownership more affordable for borrowers, Beaubien added."

A few thousand dollars goes a long way In Belleville, Michigan, where the median home-sale price is $232,000, according to Redfin. Assuming a borrower wants to make a 3% down payment, the outlay would amount to $6,690. However, if they were to use UWM's 1% down payment program  — which caps its grants at $4,000 — they are looking at spending only $2,690.

Beaubien said the savings gained from UWM's down payment assistance program is truly making a difference for her clients.

"A lot of homebuyers, especially first-time homebuyers, will get discouraged about what the closing costs and down payment may look like," Beaubien said. "The nice part about the product is that it allows them to get into a home without the fear of not having enough money saved up."

Original article: https://www.businessinsider.com/buy-a-house-low-1-downpayment-limited-income-2023-5

Posted in Real Estate Trends
May 1, 2023

Why are so many people interested in relocating to the Charleston, South Carolina area?

There are many reasons why people are interested in relocating to the Charleston, South Carolina area. Here are some of the most common reasons:

 

Beautiful Scenery: Charleston is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and lush greenery. The area offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, golfing, and hiking.

 

Vibrant Culture: Charleston is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. It is home to many museums, theaters, art galleries, and music venues, as well as a thriving food and beverage scene.

 

Strong Economy: Charleston has a diverse and growing economy, with major industries including healthcare, tourism, aerospace, and technology. The area is also home to several major military installations, which provide many jobs and opportunities.

 

Low Cost of Living: Despite its many amenities, Charleston has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the U.S.

 

Southern Hospitality: Charleston is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and many people are drawn to the area because of its sense of community and Southern charm.

 

Overall, Charleston offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, economic opportunity, and quality of life that makes it an attractive destination for many people.

Posted in Real Estate Trends
March 25, 2023

Charleston, SC Area Beaches

Charleston, South Carolina has many beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the best beaches in the area, in no particular order:

Charleston SC Beaches Map

 

Kiawah Island - Located about 25 miles south of Charleston, Kiawah Island is a secluded paradise with 10 miles of unspoiled beach, marshes, and maritime forests. It's known for its world-class golf courses and luxury resorts.

Kiawah Island Beach Map Image

 

Isle of Palms - This pristine beach is a favorite among families and water sports enthusiasts. It offers wide stretches of white sand, calm waters, and a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, and parasailing.

Isle of Palms, SC Beach Map Image

 

 

Sullivan's Island - With its historic lighthouse, quaint beach cottages, and quiet, undeveloped shoreline, Sullivan's Island is the perfect place to escape the crowds and soak up some sun.

Sullivans Island Map Image

 

Folly Beach - Known for its laid-back vibe, Folly Beach is a popular spot for surfing, fishing, and relaxing on the sandy shores. It's also home to a pier, a variety of restaurants and shops, and the Morris Island Lighthouse.

Folly Beach, SC Map Image

 

Edisto Beach - Situated about an hour's drive from Charleston, Edisto Beach is a small, charming beach town with a relaxed atmosphere. The beach is wide and uncrowded, and there are plenty of opportunities for shelling and fishing.

Edisto Beach Map Image

 

Overall, the Charleston area offers a range of beaches to suit different preferences, from lively and bustling to quiet and secluded.

If you are interested in purchasing real estate in any of these areas please contact me:

Vito Boscaino

Real Estate Advisor

KingOne Properties International

614.571.9054

vitoboscaino@gmail.com

http://www.HomesAndCondosCharleston.com

 

 

March 9, 2023

The Best Things To Do In Charleston, According To A Local

Good times and good eats abound in this beloved South Carolina city.

Jan. 14, 2023

The Most Important Thing That's Probably Missing From Your Backyard

Medicinal Garden Kit

 

Create a small backyard pharmacy in any size yard. This Medicinal Garden Kit empowers people to take their health into their own hands, while adding beauty and value to any home.

Everyone should have a medicinal garden in their backyard. This way you can easily go and pick the remedy you need at any time. Your backyard pharmacy will be there for you even in times of crisis when pharmacies might be closed or looted.  

Imagine stepping into your backyard and looking at your new colorful medicinal garden. Your backyard will smell of fresh lavender and chamomile. 

You can pick any of these medicinal plants and turn it into the remedy you need. This kit contains all the seeds for 10 herbs, inside the Medicinal Garden Kit. All these seeds have been handpicked from the very best plants, providing nothing less than premium quality seeds. 

With your seeds kit, you’ll also receive a FREE Medicinal Guide that shows you how to turn these 10 plants into tinctures, ointments, salves, poultices, decoctions, infusions, essential oils —all in minute detail so you can follow our guide even if you’ve never made an herbal medicine in your life.

Spring planting season will soon be here. This is an easy home-improvement project that will not only bring beauty to your yard, but offers alternative medicinal options not available at your pharmacy.

For more information on how to plant and use this seed kit, click here:

>>Medicinal Seed Kit<<

 

Medicinal Natural Seed Kit

 

 

 

Posted in Real Estate Trends
March 11, 2022

The South's Best City 2022: Charleston, South Carolina

What is Charleston’s secret to holding the top spot year after year? A commitment to reinvention. With a new wave of restaurants, hotels, and experiences popping up around every corner, there’s always good reason to plan a visit.

Nov. 24, 2021

October Charleston Region Market Report

HOME SALES AND BUYER INTEREST CONTINUE TO INCREASE IN THE CHARLESTON REGION

NOVEMBER 10, 2021 (Charleston, SC) 1,975 homes sold in October in the Charleston region at a median price of $365,000 according to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR).

Year-to-date, sales volume is up 13% with 20,345 homes sold thus far in 2021 compared to 17,963 at this point in 2020. Median price is $346,937, a 16% increase from this point last year, when the median price was $299,000.

Inventory data shows 50% fewer homes for sale over the last 12-month period, with 1,982 homes listed as “active” for sale in the CHS Regional MLS database at the end of September—representing one month’s worth of available inventory.

“October’s home sales represent the highest volume of sales we’ve seen since this summer—buyer interest in our market has never waned and we’re seeing that with a consistent year of growth for both sales and pricing” said 2021 CTAR President Rusty Hughes. “Sales are 13% higher than 2020, which was a record-breaking year and median price is up 16%” he said.

Berkeley County
581 homes sold at a median price of $290,000 in Berkeley County in October, 514 single-family homes and 67 condos/townhomes.

Year-to-date, 5,196 single-family homes have sold at a median price of $332,700. Today’s report shows a 29% increase in sales and a 17% increase in median sale price. 689 condos/townhomes have sold at a median price of $228,719 so far this year—a 7% increase in sales and 16% increase in price.

There are currently 519 residential properties for sale in Berkeley County; 462 single-family homes and 67 condos/townhomes.

Charleston County
894 homes sold at a median price of $417,500 in Charleston County in October, 655 single-family homes and 239 condos/townhomes.

Year-to-date, 6,872 single-family homes have sold at a median price of $500,000. Today’s report shows a 3% increase in sales and a 19% increase in median sale price. 2,650 condos/townhomes have sold at a median price of $297,500 so far this year—a 20% increase in sales and 19% increase in pricing.

There are currently 949 residential properties for sale in Charleston County; 692 single-family homes and 257 condos/townhomes.

Colleton County
34 homes sold at a median price of $313,500 in Colleton County in October, 27 single-family homes and 7 condos/townhomes.

Year-to-date, 306 single-family homes have sold at a median price of $260,000. Today’s report shows a 4% increase in sales and a 16% increase in median sale price. 45 condos/townhomes have sold at a median price of $269,000 so far this year—a 13% rise in sales and 12% increase in pricing.

There are currently 71 residential properties for sale in Colleton County; 67 single-family homes and 4 condo/townhomes.

Dorchester County
402 homes sold at a median price of $289,233 in Dorchester County in October, 326 single-family homes and 76 condos/townhomes.

Year-to-date, 3,194 single-family homes have sold at a median price of $310,000. Today’s report shows an 8% increase in sales and 15% increase in median sale price. 575 condos/townhomes have sold at a median price of $226,200 so far this year—a 37% increase in sales and 22% increase in pricing.

There are currently 237 residential properties for sale in Dorchester County; 226 single-family homes and 11 condos/townhomes.

For additional information, please contact me directly:

Vito Boscaino

KingOne Properties International

Mobile: 614.571.9054

Email: vitoboscaino@gmail.com

Website: http://www.HomesAndCondosCharleston.com

 

 

Dec. 30, 2020

66 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401 ~ The John MCCall House Circa 1784

66 Church Street, Charleston SC 29401 Front of House 

 

The John McCall House Circa 1784. An exquisite home in the heart of Charleston's premiere neighborhood, South of Broad, features an abundance of historic details with modern luxuries. This stately, light filled home was completely restored and renovated down to the studs in 2006-2007. Piazzas overlook the spacious manicured garden courtyard. There is a wonderful outdoor area for sitting and entertaining. The sophisticated, highly detailed interior was handcrafted with heavy molding, wainscotings, and heart pine floors. The main level rooms are grand in scale with elegant proportions. Off of the formal living room and dining room the rear wing has a Butler pantry with a powder room, Scotsman Icemaker, sink and bar. 

 

66 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401 Historic Home

 

 

The elegant eat-in kitchen includes custom wood cabinets, Calcutta gold marble countertops, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a Wolf stove, with double oven. Just off the kitchen is the Media room/Den and rear porch. There are rear interior stairs to the ground floor living area of the kitchen as well. The house has seven fireplaces throughout. The second floor has a larger parlor, master suite and dressing area with mahogany built-ins. French doors will lead you to the second-floor piazza. The master bath has double sinks, private water closet, shower, and separate tub finished in marble, glass, and stone. The 3rd floor has a dormered bedroom and full bath. On the ground floor there is a guest suite with a living room/office, two bedrooms, and three full baths, and a laundry room, and many light filled French doors that all open to the private courtyard and grounds, including a large patio with fountain, Lemon and Orange trees and irrigation system. Off-street parking for three vehicles.

 

66 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401 Landscaped Patio Historic Home

 

66 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401

Click here for full listing information:  http://www.homesandcondoscharleston.com/property/20027377/

 

 

June 16, 2020

Mortgage Rates Edging Higher

Mortgage Rates Edging Higher So Far This Week
June 16, 2020

Mortgage rates moved higher for the 3rd straight business day.  That said, last Friday is better described as being a "2nd consecutive day of all-time lows."  Even yesterday, the average lender was able to quote rates under 3% for top tier conventional 30yr fixed scenarios.  Today's upward pressure was a bit more noticeable as markets cheered a Retail Sales report that was much stronger than expected.  In general, stronger data is good for stocks and bad for bonds (and when bonds are weaker, rates move higher).

There's a particular concern to be aware of in the world of mortgage rates--especially for those who are counting on additional improvements.  Simply put, the underlying bond market hasn't really been making  a case for additional improvement.  If anything, the case is for gradually higher rates.  It's only because mortgage rates were late to the low rate party (relative to Treasuries) that they've been able to hit all-time lows so recently.  Treasuries, meanwhile, are already sounding the alarm by trending slightly higher in yield for at least 6 weeks.

None of the above means that rates can't or won't hit another all-time low in the near or distant future--just that the prevailing trends make it decreasingly likely for the time being.  A significant deterioration in economic data or the coronavirus outlook could change things. Conversely a significant improvement in either of those factors could serve to accelerate a rising rate trend.

30 Year Fixed Rate Mortgage

 

Posted in Real Estate Trends