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BUYING A HOME IN CHARLESTON SC?
2009 is a buyers market in the Charleston SC real estate market. Several factors have combined to make it a great opportunity to buy a home in Charleston SC. It is especially a good time if you will be a first time homebuyer:
Lower Prices + Low Interest Rates + Large Inventory = Hot Buyers Market!
The "Perfect Storm" of Opportunity
LOWER PRICES
Prices have dropped to levels from previous years. If our market hasn't bottomed out yet, then we are very close. A recent survey by Forbes.com (January 2009) listed the Top 25 Real Estate Markets for metro areas with populations of 500,000 or greater. This survey determined what markets were closest to recovery. And wouldn't you know it, Charleston was on this list!
The report predicted that home prices would fall another 1.1% in the Charleston SC real estate market over 2009 before finally hitting bottom. Trying to wait until the true bottom of a market is not a risk worth taking.
First, you cannot really determine the actual bottom of a market except from hindsight--in other words, once you realize where the bottom was, you have already missed it.
Second, the money you save from an additional 1% drop in price is insignificant. You also risk interest rates creeping up between now and then, which would negate any gain from the price drop.
Besides, 1% off the current price can easily be negotiated in the current Charleston SC real estate market. That way, you can have "tomorrow's price" at "today's interest rates". Finally, remember the old saying "Buy Low, Sell High!" Well, now is the "Low"!
LARGE INVENTORY
During the hot seller's market we experienced in the Charleston SC real estate market several years ago, we never saw more than 3,000 to 4,000 homes actively listed for sale in Charleston SC.
Today, there are over 10,000 homes listed for sale in Charleston SC. This means that buyers have a huge selection of homes to choose from, and they have more leverage when negotiating
LOW INTEREST RATES
Interest rates are at 40 year lows, and are close to all time lows. Mortgage money is cheaper, and this translates to being able to buy more house with your money and lower monthly payments. However, as a trade off, mortgage money is harder to qualify for.
As a result of the subprime meltdown, banks have tightened up their lending guidelines. Talking to a mortgage broker and getting pre approval is an important first step for all buyers., especially first time buyers, in the current Charleston SC real estate market.
It is also important to be familiar with your credit and have your credit in the best possible shape(be sure to check out our credit page for helpful info)
First time buyers don't forget about the $8000 first time home buyer tax credit! Buy a home in Charleston SC before April 2010 and you may qualify for this tax credit! See details on the "Articles" page
This website has a lot of helpful information and resources for those looking to buy a home in the Charleston SC real estate market. Be sure to check out our "articles" page.
Here are some of the services I provide my buyer clients:
Remember--the services of a Charleston SC Realtor are FREE to all buyers.
The sellers have a Realtor working for them, you should too!
Buyer Agency: Representing your interests and negotiating on your behalf.
Easier House Hunting: There are many real estate websites on the internet. However, many have limited information, or worse, outdated listings. I can help eliminate wasted time and frustration by providing you with current listings of homes for sale in Charleston SC that match your home buying criteria from the Charleston SC MLS (Multiple Listing Service) with plenty of information.
Relaxed Process: Buying a home in Charleston SC will be the biggest purchase of your life. I feel it is important to provide you with the information and answers so that you are aware of your options and can make the best informed decision that is right for you. I am not a high pressure salesman! While it is my job eventually to sell you a home, it is a process that moves at different speeds for different people. I will help guide you through the "getting ready" process until you are "ready" to buy your new Charleston SC home.
Mortgage Pre Approval
This is the most inportant first step in the process. I have many mortgage professionals I work with that will do an excellent job for you, and will have you pre approved right away so we can begin the process of buying a home in Charleston SC confident and worry free.
Easy Communication
I stay in touch any number of ways that might be most convenient for you--cell, email, text, Twitter and Facebook.
Viewing Homes: Once you have identified specific house that are of interest, I will set up showings that work with your schedule--no more having to wait for "Open Houses"
One-stop shopping: Preferred industry partners working as a TEAM to give you exceptional service.
Daily MLS Updates: Updates to keep you informed of new listings in your price range, or changes in price, and back on market listings
Provide Referrals: To competent lenders, home inspectors, and closing attorneys to help you to build YOUR team of professionals
Endless Free Information!: Any questions or concerns you have about the homebuying process I can help answer. I have a wealth of articles and reports I will share so that you are an Informed Buyer!! Knowledge is Power!
READY TO GET STARTED?
Simply fill out the form below, and I can start a search of the Charleston SC MLS and have homes that match your criteria sent to you right away!
*denotes required information. We do not sell or share your information with third parties.
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Charleston has joined a growing list of South Carolina towns and cities considering regulations to prohibit texting while driving. 
Authorities said a man led them on a 20-mile chase on Interstate 26 early Tuesday that didn't come to an end until the suspect's van burst into flames. 
Stephen Francois looked away from the two former Citadel football players at his side Tuesday as a judge credited him with helping detectives solve a home invasion that landed all three behind bars. 
