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Agents • November 3, 2025

Lisa D’Amato, Recognized by BestAgents.us as a 2025 Top Agent

by Aimee Peterson
Lisa D’Amato, Recognized by BestAgents.us as a 2025 Top Agent

https://bestagents.press/lisa-damato-recognized-by-bestagents-us-as-a-2025-top-agent/

Congrats to Lisa D’Amato of Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Palmetto for being honored by BestAgents.us as a 2025 Top Agent. Discover how her Lowcountry expertise, MRP designation, and commitment to clients make her a trusted REALTOR®.

Lisa D’Amato: Your Trusted REALTOR® in the Heart of the Lowcountry

Lisa D’Amato is a dedicated REALTOR® and Team Lead of the Lowcountry Living Team of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate – Palmetto, based in Summerville, South Carolina. With an extensive understanding of the Charleston real estate market and its surrounding communities, Lisa offers clients professional guidance through every phase of the buying and selling process. Her approach is firmly rooted in honesty, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.

Lisa D’Amato is distinguished by her determination and meticulous attention to detail. She is passionate about advocating for her clients’ best interests, from negotiations to contract execution, ensuring that each real estate transaction is managed with the utmost precision and care. As a licensed REALTOR® in South Carolina, Lisa is an active member of both the Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS® (CTAR) and the South Carolina Association of REALTORS® (SCAR). She also holds the esteemed Military Relocation Professional (MRP) designation, underscoring her dedication to serving those who serve our country.

Deeply inspired by the Lowcountry’s unique beauty, characterized by its stunning coastal landscapes, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant communities, Lisa is devoted to helping clients find their dream homes or achieve successful sales. Her personalized service and expert insights are designed to make every real estate experience smooth, informed, and rewarding.

Lisa credits her success to the unwavering support of her friends and family, along with her profound knowledge of the Charleston market. Her steadfast commitment to excellence, integrity, and determination is evident in every transaction she handles. Beyond her professional endeavors, Lisa is passionate about giving back to her community. She actively volunteers with and supports numerous local organizations, reflecting her dedication to enhancing the connections that make the Lowcountry a remarkable place to live and work.

For those looking to buy or sell a home in Charleston or the surrounding areas, Lisa D’Amato offers the expertise, care, and commitment necessary to navigate the real estate landscape successfully.

 

Area Information • November 3, 2025

Cost of Living in Summerville vs. Mount Pleasant…Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

by Aimee Peterson
Compare the cost of living in Summerville vs. Mount Pleasant, SC. Discover home prices, lifestyle differences, schools, and which Charleston suburb best fits your lifestyle with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

Cost of Living in Summerville vs. Mount Pleasant…Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you’re considering a move to the Charleston area, two names likely top your list: Summerville and Mount Pleasant. Both offer great schools, strong communities, and Lowcountry charm, but their cost of living and lifestyle appeal to different types of homeowners.

Let’s compare the two side-by-side so you can decide which one feels like home.

🏡 Home Prices and Housing Market

  • Summerville: Known as the “Flower Town in the Pines,” Summerville delivers value without sacrificing comfort. The median home price hovers around the mid-$300s, with new construction options in communities like Nexton and Cane Bay starting even lower. You’ll find larger lots, newer homes, and more square footage for your money.
  • Mount Pleasant: One of Charleston’s most desirable suburbs, Mount Pleasant carries premium pricing, expect median home prices in the mid-$700s and up. Proximity to beaches, shopping, and downtown Charleston drives demand, and newer construction often includes upscale finishes and smaller lot sizes.

Bottom line: If you want space and value, Summerville stretches your dollar further. If you want convenience and prestige, Mount Pleasant delivers.

🚗 Commute and Convenience

Summerville sits roughly 25 to 35 minutes from downtown Charleston depending on traffic, while Mount Pleasant is about 15 to 20 minutes away.

Summerville’s location along I-26 makes it ideal for those commuting to North Charleston or the growing employment hubs in Nexton and Volvo’s Ridgeville plant. Mount Pleasant shines for easy access to beaches, hospitals, and tech offices on Daniel Island.

Trade-off: Summerville gives you distance from city congestion, while Mount Pleasant keeps you close to Charleston’s coast and nightlife.

🏫 Schools and Community

Both towns have strong reputations for schools.

  • Summerville: Served by Dorchester District 2 known for award-winning schools like Ashley Ridge High and Rollings Middle School of the Arts.
  • Mount Pleasant: Falls under Charleston County School District, home to Lucy Beckham High, Wando High, and several ranked elementary schools.

Community culture differs, too. Summerville has a small-town, local vibe with parades, farmers markets, and affordability that draws first time buyers. Mount Pleasant blends suburban comfort with resort style living perfect for professionals or those who love coastal convenience.

☕ Lifestyle and Amenities

  • Summerville: Local coffee shops, boutiques, and historic charm define the downtown area. Nexton’s live-work-play community offers restaurants, fitness studios, and neighborhood events that create connection without the commute.
  • Mount Pleasant: You’ll find endless dining, shopping, and entertainment, from Towne Centre to Shem Creek. Outdoor lovers enjoy water access, trails, and close proximity to Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.

In short: Summerville leans toward laid-back comfort and affordability, while Mount Pleasant offers coastal luxury and convenience.

💡 Which Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you crave space, affordability, and community feel, Summerville is the smart choice. If you want quick coastal access, upscale amenities, and a beach-adjacent address, Mount Pleasant is worth the premium.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we help buyers explore both, matching lifestyle and budget to the perfect Lowcountry location. Whether you’re ready to build in Nexton or invest near Shem Creek, our agents can guide you every step of the way.

Area Information • November 3, 2025

Living in Clements Ferry: Why It’s Charleston’s Next Hot Corridor

by Aimee Peterson
Living in Clements Ferry: Why It’s Charleston’s Next Hot Corridor
Living in Clements Ferry: Why It’s Charleston’s Next Hot Corridor

Living in Clements Ferry: Why It’s Charleston’s Next Hot Corridor

If you’ve driven along Clements Ferry Road lately, you’ve probably noticed, this once quiet stretch of Charleston is changing fast. What used to be a pass through route connecting Daniel Island to Mount Pleasant is now one of the most talked-about growth corridors in the Lowcountry.

So what’s fueling the buzz around the Clements Ferry Corridor? Let’s break it down.

📍 Location That Just Makes Sense

Clements Ferry Road sits in a sweet spot tucked between I-526, Daniel Island, and Mount Pleasant, yet surrounded by the beauty of the Wando River and natural Lowcountry marshes.
You’re 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, 25 minutes from the beach, and within reach of major employers and schools. For many buyers, it hits that perfect balance of convenience, affordability, and lifestyle.

🏡 New Construction Meets Established Neighborhoods

Clements Ferry offers the best of both worlds established neighborhoods with mature trees and community feel, right next to master-planned developments like Point Hope, The Marshes at Cooper River, and The Retreat at River Reach.

Builders are bringing modern Lowcountry architecture, open-concept floor plans, and energy-efficient homes. You’ll find price points ranging from the mid-$400s for townhomes to over $1M for riverfront or custom builds.

🎓 Schools & Amenities

Buyers are drawn here for more than the houses. Philip Simmons Elementary, Middle, and High Schools consistently earn high marks, and their proximity means less time in the car and more time together.
The area is also seeing new parks, walking trails, and local businesses that make it easy to stay connected without having to head downtown.

🍽️ Dining, Shopping, and Small-Town Charm

While still developing, the retail scene is catching up fast, with restaurants, fitness studios, and coffee shops popping up near Point Hope Commons. You’ll find everything from easy weeknight eats to boutique fitness and service businesses that cater to busy families and professionals.

And when you want a little more nightlife or upscale dining, Daniel Island and Mount Pleasant are just minutes away.

💰 Investment Potential That’s Hard to Ignore

With land inventory tightening closer to downtown, the Clements Ferry Corridor offers room to grow — both literally and financially. Property values have been steadily rising, and new phases continue to open across multiple communities.
For buyers, that means opportunity. For investors, that means long-term appreciation.

🌿 The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a Charleston address that offers modern living, strong schools, outdoor beauty, and long-term value, keep your eye on Clements Ferry. It’s not just up and coming it’s arriving.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, our agents know this corridor inside and out. Whether you’re relocating, building new, or exploring investment options, we’ll help you find the right fit in Charleston’s next big growth zone.

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Agents • November 2, 2025

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto Celebrates Million Dollar Producers for October 2025

by Aimee Peterson

  

 

Celebrating Excellence Across the Lowcountry

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we take pride in recognizing the agents and teams whose performance, dedication, and professionalism continue to raise the bar for real estate in South Carolina.

October 2025 was a powerhouse month, packed with milestones, record-breaking numbers, and inspiring stories from across our Charleston, Summerville, and Moncks Corner offices.

These leaders not only deliver results but embody the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto values: integrity, innovation, and connection.

🏆 Top Producing Agent – October 2025

Heather Tyson — Over $1.8 Million Closed

Heather Tyson delivered an incredible month, closing more than $1.8 million in sales and earning the title of Top Producing Agent for October 2025. Her professionalism, client focus, and market expertise have made her a trusted name in the Lowcountry, and a shining example of excellence at BHGRE Palmetto.

🏆 Top Producing Team – October 2025

The Magnolia Team — Over $2.6 Million Closed

Led with precision, passion, and teamwork, The Magnolia Team continues to make waves, achieving over $2.6 million in sales in September and continuing their strong momentum through October. Their collaboration, consistency, and client first approach define what it means to be a top-producing team at BHGRE Palmetto.

🌿 Million-Dollar Teams — 2025 To Date

Our team structure is designed for success, and the results speak for themselves. Each of these powerhouse groups has achieved incredible milestones so far this year:

  • The Magnolia Team – Over $20 Million Closed

  • Lowcountry Living Team – Over $9 Million Closed

These teams prove that collaboration, training, and technology drive results and that success at Palmetto is built on both skill and synergy.

Leading the Way in Charleston Real Estate

Under the leadership of Aimee Peterson and Lisa Horan, Broker-in-Charge, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto continues to set the standard for brokerage excellence in the Carolinas.

With over 100 agents and a reputation for innovation, service, and community leadership, Palmetto continues to grow as one of Charleston’s top real estate brokerages, recognized for:

  • 🏆 Best Brokerage in Charleston

  • 🏆 Best Place to Work

  • 🏆 Best in Brokerage Technology (Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

Join the Brokerage Where Agents Thrive

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we don’t just celebrate success, we build it. Our agents have access to cutting-edge technology, advanced marketing systems, and a culture that prioritizes training, collaboration, and work-life balance.

If you’re ready to take your real estate career to the next level, we’d love to connect.

Agents • November 2, 2025

Meet Lisa: Broker-In-Charge at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto

by Aimee Peterson
Lisa Horan Broker In Charge

Hi, I’m Lisa the Broker-In-Charge at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto

Originally from New Jersey and proudly Italian, I made the move to South Carolina over 15 years ago with my amazing husband, Michael, and our two wonderful daughters, Kate, now a college student, and Bella, who attends Summerville Catholic School. Our home is full of love, laughter, and the joyful energy of our two dogs. We’re also lifelong Disney fans, and many of our best family memories have been made in the parks, soaking up the magic that continues to inspire me every day.

From Receptionist to Real Estate Leader

My real estate journey began humbly as a receptionist, answering phones and learning the ropes. But I quickly fell in love with the industry. Through dedication, late nights, and a fierce desire to grow, I climbed my way up to become a Managing Broker at Keller Williams before joining Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

Along the way, I earned my broker’s license, gained invaluable experience working with both buyers and sellers, and proudly surpassed $100 million in career sales. Every closing, every family, and every home has added to a career built on connection, consistency, and care.

What I Love Most About Real Estate

For me, real estate is deeply personal. It’s not just about buying or selling property — it’s about helping people find the place where they’ll celebrate birthdays, raise their kids, and build lifelong memories.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or seller ready for your next chapter, I’m here to guide you through the process with expertise and compassion. I believe every client deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported from start to finish.

A Passion for Mentorship and Teaching

Beyond helping clients, I have a true passion for teaching and mentoring new agents. As a licensed South Carolina Real Estate Instructor, I love guiding agents as they find their confidence, build their business, and reach their goals. Watching someone grow from their first listing to a thriving career is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

I believe in sharing knowledge freely, lifting others up, and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence — values that perfectly align with the spirit of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

Agent of Excellence: Bringing Disney Magic to Real Estate

I’m proud to have earned the Agent of Excellence certification, a prestigious recognition through Disney’s real estate school. This program taught me how to deliver world-class service through empathy, attention to detail, and creating truly magical client experiences.

That philosophy, to go above and beyond in every interaction, has shaped how I approach real estate today. My goal is to make every transaction smooth, memorable, and, yes, a little magical.

Living with Purpose and Passion

I live by one simple belief:

“What you focus on expands.”

That mindset has guided my career, my family, and my faith. I believe in balance, gratitude, and growth, both personally and professionally.

Real estate isn’t just my career — it’s my passion, my calling, and my way of helping others build the life they dream about.

Let’s Make Your Real Estate Dreams a Reality

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or starting your real estate career in the Charleston area, I’d love to connect. Together, we’ll turn your goals into a plan — and your dreams into keys.

Agents • November 2, 2025

Meet our Broker in Charge and Owner Aimee Peterson

by Aimee Peterson
Top selling real estate agent in Charleston is Aimee Peterson

Raising the Standard: How Aimee Peterson Is Redefining Real Estate Leadership in the Lowcountry

Meet Aimee Peterson: The Vision Behind Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto

In an industry where leadership and results go hand-in-hand, Aimee Peterson stands out as a force of innovation, integrity, and inspiration. As Broker-in-Charge and Co-Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, Aimee leads one of South Carolina’s most dynamic and top-producing brokerages, proudly serving the Charleston, Summerville, and greater Lowcountry markets.

Aimee isn’t your average broker she’s a builder of businesses, a mentor to hundreds of agents, and the creative engine behind a brand that’s redefining how real estate is done in the South.

Leadership Rooted in Excellence

Alongside her husband and business partner, Terry Peterson, Aimee has built a brokerage that blends the best of both worlds — the trusted heritage of Better Homes and Gardens and the bold innovation of modern real estate marketing.

Today, Aimee leads a team of more than 100 agents who have collectively achieved over 400 closed transactions this year. Under her direction, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto has earned a reputation as one of the most respected brokerages in the Carolinas, recognized for both performance and culture.

The company has been honored with some of the highest distinctions in the industry, including:

  • 🏆 Best in Brokerage Technology from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

  • 🏆 Best Place to Work

  • 🏆 Best Brokerage in Charleston

Many of Aimee’s agents have also earned “Best Real Estate Agent” titles in their local territories — a testament to her commitment to high standards, hands-on coaching, and brand-driven excellence.

Innovation Meets Integrity

Aimee’s leadership style merges old-school integrity with forward-thinking innovation. She’s a hands-on mentor who empowers agents to build sustainable, independent businesses using the latest tools in AI, video marketing, storytelling, and design.

From marketing systems to tech integrations, her approach has transformed how agents connect with clients — creating brands that not only look beautiful but perform powerfully online and off.

As a result, BHGRE Palmetto stands out for its digital presence, agent growth, and consistent success across multiple markets in the Southeast.

Beyond the Brokerage: Leadership That Inspires

Aimee’s influence doesn’t stop at her office door. She’s served on several leadership boards, including:

  • Women in Real Estate

  • Local MLS Leadership

  • Broker Advisory Councils

These roles reflect her commitment to elevating the real estate profession as a whole — particularly for women building long-term careers in leadership and ownership.

An entrepreneur at heart, Aimee has also owned and sold multiple businesses, giving her a deep understanding of growth, systems, and sustainability the very same foundation she brings to her brokerage every day.

Community, Connection, and Culture

When she’s not leading her agents or fine-tuning operations, you’ll find Aimee supporting community events, teaching agent development classes, or collaborating on new marketing systems. She’s known for being accessible, authentic, and deeply invested in the success of her team.

Her leadership isn’t about numbers — it’s about people. She believes that when agents are supported, confident, and well-trained, clients get a better experience and communities get stronger.

A Mission That Matters

At the heart of everything Aimee Peterson does is a clear mission:

To raise the bar for real estate by creating a culture where agents thrive, clients feel seen, and professionalism drives every decision.

Through her guidance, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto continues to grow — not just in size, but in impact. With a reputation for integrity, innovation, and Southern excellence, Aimee Peterson has cemented her place as one of the most influential leaders in Lowcountry real estate.

Connect with Aimee Peterson and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto

📍 Charleston | Summerville | Moncks Corner | Lowcountry SC
🌐 www.BHGPalmetto.com

Follow along for community events, real estate insights, and local market updates from one of the most trusted names in Charleston real estate

Area Information • November 2, 2025

Toys for Tots Drop Off Location in Summerville, Goose Creek and Charleston

by Aimee Peterson
Charleston Toys for tots locations

The holiday season is upon us! In some way, this year has impacted everyone — and we believe that now more than ever is the time to spread cheer and generosity. That’s why Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto (3 Locations) are an official drop-off location for new, unwrapped toys as part of the Toys for Tots campaign. Do you have a toy you’d like to donate to a child in need?

Drop Off is now till December 12, 2025

 

Drop it off at one of our 3 locations, the address below:

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto (Summerville) 114 W Doty, Summerville

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto (Goose Creek) 100 A Central Ave. Goose Creek

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto (Wando) 1184 Clements Ferry RD Unit D, Charleston

What is Toys for Tots?

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is a yearly campaign that collects new, unwrapped toys during the months of October, November, and December. The campaign takes place all throughout the United States. The donations are delivered as Christmas gifts to children whose families are unable to purchase brand-new presents. The mission of Toys for Tots is to make the holidays joyful for kids in need.

Donate Online or at a Drop-Off Location

If you want to make a child’s holiday extra special this year, giving to Toys for Tots is a great way to start! You can make a one-time or recurring monetary donation on their website or scan the below QR code to donate.

Charleston Toys for Tots

 

Agents • October 31, 2025

Work with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent

by Aimee Peterson
Work with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent who delivers results fast. Buy or sell your Charleston home with a trusted local expert backed by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

🏡 Work with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent

When it comes to buying or selling a home, time isn’t just money, it’s opportunity. Working with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent means you get both: speed and skill. In today’s real estate market, experience and efficiency are everything. You deserve a professional who can move quickly, negotiate fiercely, and deliver results that leave you smiling at the closing table. At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto you can get connected with agents that have the Fast Expert 5-Star Agent ranking. Continue to read below to find out why this ranking matters. 

Why Work with a Fast Expert Agent?

A Fast Expert Agent is someone who doesn’t just react, they anticipate. They know your local market inside and out, use technology to your advantage, and understand how to make every moment count. Whether you’re listing your home for top dollar or competing for your dream property, a fast, strategic agent can be the difference between “just missed it” and “under contract.”

Here’s what sets a 5-Star Fast Expert apart:

  • Speed to market: Your home gets listed fast, with professional photos, video, and targeted marketing across every platform.
  • Expert pricing strategy: Market data meets human insight to ensure you list smart — not just high.
  • Communication you can count on: No waiting days for updates. You’ll always know what’s happening, and what’s next.
  • Negotiation power: Experience matters when every offer counts. Fast Experts know how to position your home or offer to win.
  • Network reach: From cash offer programs to relocation partnerships, Fast Experts connect you with solutions that fit your goals.

The 5-Star Standard

A 5-Star Agent isn’t just fast, they’re trusted. They’re the professionals with proven track records, verified reviews, and consistent results. These agents go beyond transactions; they create experiences that clients remember and refer.

When you see a 5-Star Agent, you’re looking at someone who:
⭐ Delivers top-tier client service every single time
⭐ Closes deals faster than the market average
⭐ Has local insight and connections that move mountains
⭐ Earns repeat and referral business through excellence

How to Find and Choose Your Fast Expert Agent

Not all agents work at the same pace or with the same precision. When you’re searching, look for someone who:

  • Specializes in your area and price point
  • Has strong marketing and negotiation experience
  • Uses modern tech tools and data analytics
  • Communicates clearly and consistently
  • Has verified client reviews and proven results

The right agent won’t just meet your expectations they’ll exceed them, making your next move smoother, smarter, and more profitable.

Ready to Move with Confidence?

Whether you’re buying, selling, relocating, or investing, partnering with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent gives you the edge. Let’s make your next move your best one yet.

👉 Contact Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto to connect with one of our award winning Fast Expert 5-Star Agent agents today.

Work with a Fast Expert 5-Star Agent who delivers results fast. Buy or sell your Charleston home with a trusted local expert backed by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto.

Seller • October 18, 2025

What Rooms Help Sell a Home Faster in Charleston, SC?

by Aimee Peterson
What Rooms Help Sell a Home Faster in Charleston, SC

What Rooms Help Sell a Home Faster in Charleston, SC

As a REALTOR® serving Charleston, South Carolina, one question I hear often is, “What rooms should I focus on to help sell my home faster and for top dollar?”

It is a smart question, and the answer can absolutely impact how quickly your home sells and how much money it brings in. Let’s look at the rooms and spaces that matter most to Charleston buyers and what you can do to make them stand out.

1. The Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

If you plan to invest in one space before selling, make it the kitchen. Buyers across Charleston view the kitchen as the centerpiece of the home and a major deciding factor when making an offer.

What Charleston buyers love:

  • Quartz or marble countertops

  • Stainless steel appliances

  • Bright, neutral cabinetry

  • Kitchen islands and open layouts

Even small updates such as new hardware, light fixtures, or a fresh coat of paint can give your kitchen new life. A clean, modern kitchen helps buyers envision themselves living and entertaining there.

2. Bathrooms: Small Space, Big Impact

Buyers want bathrooms that feel fresh and relaxing. They are drawn to spa like finishes, clean lines, and modern touches.

Top bathroom features that sell:

  • Dual vanities

  • Frameless glass showers

  • Updated lighting and mirrors

  • Soft, neutral colors and natural stone finishes

Homes with multiple bathrooms, especially with an ensuite primary, are particularly attractive to Charleston families and professionals.

3. Living Room or Great Room: A Place to Gather

Charleston buyers value living spaces that feel open, bright, and inviting. This is where families relax, host guests, and unwind after a long day.

How to make yours shine:

  • Maximize natural light

  • Create defined seating areas

  • Keep decor minimal and neutral

  • Highlight architectural details such as fireplaces or built-ins

Open concept layouts that flow from the kitchen to the living area are especially popular in today’s Charleston market.

4. Outdoor Living: A Charleston Lifestyle Essential

Charleston’s mild coastal climate makes outdoor living a key selling feature. Whether you have a front porch in downtown Charleston or a large backyard in Mount Pleasant, buyers want outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of the home.

What to highlight:

  • Fresh landscaping and trimmed greenery

  • Well-maintained decks, patios, or porches

  • Comfortable seating areas and outdoor lighting

  • Space for grilling or dining outdoors

If your home has a marsh view, mature trees, or a fenced yard, make sure these features stand out.

5. Smart Updates That Add Value

Beyond room by room improvements, several updates can boost your home’s overall value and appeal to Charleston buyers.

High-impact upgrades include:

  • Fresh paint in light, neutral tones

  • Energy efficient windows or HVAC systems

  • Updated light fixtures and ceiling fans

  • Durable flooring such as hardwood or luxury vinyl plank

These updates make your home look well cared for and move-in ready, which helps it sell faster.

6. Rooms That Do Not Always Pay Off

Not all renovations add value. Avoid spending heavily on updates that do not align with buyer expectations in Charleston.

Examples:

  • Expensive basement remodels, since basements are uncommon in this region

  • Highly themed rooms or bold color schemes that limit buyer imagination

Keep your spaces neutral and versatile so buyers can easily picture their own furniture and style.

Thinking About Selling in Charleston

Selling your Charleston home does not have to be complicated. Focus on the rooms buyers care about most kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces, and outdoor areas and make thoughtful, modern updates that highlight your home’s best features.

We offer personalized consultations to help you decide where to invest your time and budget for the strongest return.

Ready to sell your Charleston home?
Contact we today for a complimentary home value review and staging consultation. Together we will prepare your home to attract attention, sell quickly, and deliver the results you deserve. Book an Appointment

Buyer • October 18, 2025

Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices in Charleston, SC?

by Aimee Peterson
Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices in Charleston, SC?

Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices in Charleston, SC?

If you’ve been following the Charleston real estate market lately, you’ve probably heard one question over and over again:
“Are rising mortgage rates going to cause home prices to drop?”

It’s a fair concern and one that’s top of mind for both buyers and sellers in the Lowcountry. While higher interest rates do influence affordability and buyer activity, the connection between rates and home prices isn’t always straightforward, especially in strong, desirable markets like Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Summerville.

Let’s break down how today’s mortgage rate trends are shaping our local market and what it means for you whether you’re planning to buy or sell.

1. Higher Rates Don’t Always Mean Falling Prices

It’s easy to assume that when mortgage rates rise, home prices automatically fall, but that’s not always the case.

In Charleston, the market remains resilient thanks to strong demand, limited inventory, and a steady stream of new residents relocating from across the country. People are still drawn here for the lifestyle, job growth, and coastal beauty, and that demand helps keep prices stable even as borrowing costs climb.

That said, price growth has slowed compared to the rapid increases of 2020 to 2022. Instead of sharp jumps, we’re seeing more moderate appreciation and a shift toward realistic pricing a healthy correction for long term market stability.

2. Affordability Is Changing Buyer Behavior

There’s no denying that higher mortgage rates affect how much buyers can afford. A higher rate means higher monthly payments, which can push some buyers to:

  • Explore smaller homes or different neighborhoods

  • Consider new construction offering incentives or rate buydowns

  • Take more time to get pre-approved or wait for rates to drop

Sellers should keep this in mind when pricing their homes. Overpricing in a high-rate environment can cause listings to sit, even in popular areas like Nexton, Cane Bay, and Daniel Island. Pricing smart and showcasing real value is more important than ever.

3. Inventory Still Favors Sellers (for Now)

Charleston’s biggest market factor right now isn’t interest rates it’s inventory.
Even with rates rising, there simply aren’t enough homes available to meet buyer demand. Many homeowners who refinanced at historic low rates are hesitant to sell, which keeps housing supply tight.

That limited supply has helped home prices hold steady despite affordability challenges. In fact, well-maintained homes in desirable areas are still attracting multiple offers when priced correctly.

If inventory stays low through the next several months, we’re likely to see prices level off rather than drop significantly.

4. What Buyers Should Do Right Now

If you’re thinking about buying, rising rates shouldn’t automatically scare you off. Instead, focus on strategy.

  • Get pre-approved early. Know exactly what your budget looks like in today’s rate environment.

  • Explore lender programs. Many offer rate buydowns or closing cost assistance to offset higher rates.

  • Think long-term. Remember, you can refinance later if rates drop — but home prices may keep climbing.

Charleston’s market still offers great opportunities, especially for buyers who act before competition heats up again.

5. What Sellers Should Know

For sellers, this market still offers strong potential, but it requires strategy and preparation.

  • Price competitively from the start.

  • Stage your home to stand out online and in person.

  • Partner with a local agent who understands neighborhood level demand and can attract qualified buyers.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we help our sellers position their homes smartly balancing strong pricing with realistic expectations to ensure fast, smooth closings.

The Bottom Line

Rising mortgage rates are reshaping how buyers and sellers approach the market, but they haven’t derailed Charleston’s strength.
With steady demand, limited inventory, and long term appeal, the Lowcountry continues to perform well compared to other regions.

Whether you’re buying or selling, the key is working with professionals who understand these market shifts and can help you make the best move for your goals.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we’re here to guide you  every step of the way.

Wondering how rising mortgage rates will affect home prices in Charleston, SC?

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Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto

Broker Owner Aimee Peterson

1184 Clements Ferry Road, Unit D

Charleston, SC 29492

O: 843-584-8326

 

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