Autumn in the Lowcountry arrives quietly. The air turns crisp, the marsh glows gold, and the days grow shorter, drawing us indoors for long evenings by the fire and unhurried dinners with the people we love most. It is a season of gathering in, when the rhythm of life slows and home becomes the center of it all.
Charleston Real Estate Market Update. The summer slowdown we usually expect never really came. From June through September, closed sales in Charleston County ran 11% ahead of the same months last year. Through September, sales are up 6.3% for the year (6,116 versus 5,755). The average sales price is up 6.5% to about $970,000, and total sold dollar volume is up 13% to $5.9 billion. Pending sales are up 8.5%, which bodes well for closings heading into the fall. Supply tells the other side of the story. New listings are up 3.5% for the year, but nearly all of that came in the spring. Over the summer, new listings were flat compared with last year. Active inventory at the end of September was down about 4% from a year ago. Translation: buyers kept coming, sellers slowed down, and that gap is what’s keeping prices firm.
The Charleston Single House. The Charleston Single House has been defining Charleston’s architecture since the 1700s. Known for having at least two stories, with the narrow end facing outward toward the street, these charming homes are easy to spot as you stroll around town. The single house is typically associated with 18th century Charleston architecture, as it became the common residential form after the fire of 1740. Other defining architectural features include piazzas facing the interior of the lot and chimneys and kitchens at the rear of the home. You’ll often find the piazzo ceilings painted a light shade of blue. This traces back to the Gullah belief that this hue wards off restless spirits, while others believe the sky-like shade prevents insects from nesting.
Fall Events in the Lowcountry. While we are biased and love living in Charleston year-round, fall in the Lowcountry feels extra special. When temperatures and humidity dip just a little, you’ll find us back outside soaking up the sunshine. Whether it's a blissful morning walk on one of the many pristine beaches or admiring historic homes South of Broad, there are so many ways to enjoy fall in Charleston.
William Means' Guide to James Island. The Town of James Island was founded in 1992, and after years of legal battles struggling to exist, the Town succeeded in 2012 with its fourth and final incorporation. Life on James Island centers on the outdoors and local connection, with a touch of history, culture, small-town living, and laid-back beach vibes. Residents of James Island often enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to walking and biking around local parks. With a great location and access to so many local amenities, James Island is a unique community that offers the best the Lowcountry has to offer.
Explore the Fall edition of the William Means Luxury Insider, here.
