August 2015

Year to date, we’ve seen a 17.5% increase in the number of transactions when comparing the same months in 2014. This year it is estimated that 14,000 homes should sell by December 31, making it the 3rd busiest recorded in Charleston's history. Here are some stats as of August 15 for the current Charleston real estate market:

• Days spent on market: 84 (this is a 17% drop compared to last year); some of the hottest markets like James Island are seeing a 31% drop in days on market; West Ashley inside Interstate 526 is seeing a 33% decrease in time spent on market
• Median sales price: $243,500 (compare to $230,000 the year before)
• Properties sold so far this year: 8,587 closed (this is the 17.5% increase year over year); 2,008 homes are

One of Charleston's not-so best kept secrets is their collection of well-known islands that are home to glorious beaches with stunning sand dunes, abundant wildlife, rivers, marshes, mighty oak tree, sporting activities, championship golfing and various eateries. At the Keadle Real Estate Group, we believe anyone considering purchasing Charleston Real Estate, area should be familiar with the Islands of Charleston and Charleston beachfront property in order to choose the perfect place to live and be informed as to the perks of living in this amazingly diverse location. Here are some of the most notable islands that attract widespread attention for their overwhelming beauty, versatility in activities and remarkable real estate:

• Sullivan’s Island:

Buying a home is an exciting, life-changing experience. But it also comes with many responsibilities and costs that overzealous buyers tend to overlook. For a smooth home-buying experience, avoid making these top three mistakes.

Overspending

By far, the biggest mistake home buyers make is thinking they can afford more than they really can. Even if you get approved for a $250,000 loan, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can afford a home of that price. Can you easily afford your rent or mortgage payment each month, or will you be struggling to make ends meet?

Home buyers often make the mistake of only considering how much it costs to buy a home and not the costs of owning one. Just a few of the monthly costs you’ll need to consider include:

Various types of adverse weather can be found in any region. Living in Charleston, SC, requires that you know how to prepare for tropical storms and hurricanes. Since 1980, there have been 2 tropical storms and 4 hurricanes to make landfall in South Carolina. Though luck certainly favors the prepared when storm season is in full swing, Charleston beachfront properties can be at risk. Follow these 5 tips on how to prepare for a tropical storm provided by the Keadle Real Estate Group which will also assist you with general emergency preparedness:

1. Purchase essential items to last a period of 2 weeks. You will need 1-2 gallons of water per day per person and per pet to ensure there is enough water for drinking, sanitation and food preparation. You

The Old Village of Mt. Pleasant is home to some of the best schools in South Carolina. Ranked the second best in the state, homes in Old Village are in high demand because of the top-notch educational opportunities offered here. Three schools can be found in Old Village: Mt. Pleasant Academy, Moultrie Middle School and Wando High School.

Mount Pleasant Academy

Mount Pleasant Academy has had the distinct honor of being awarded a National Blue Ribbon of Excellence for the high performance of its students. Celebrating more than 200 years, the school is the oldest in South Carolina. Some of the many amenities the school offers are acoustic panel-lined walls in the music room, a special room for volunteers and PTA to meet and an art room with an