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        <title>Charter One Realty Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Learn more about the Lowcountry including Daufuskie Island, Beaufort, Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. Blog articles from Charter One Realty about real estate for sale, design, homes staging, Lowcountry events and more.</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-home-selling-strategy-fall-2026.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-home-selling-strategy-fall-2026.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>More Homes Are Hitting the Market: What Lowcountry Sellers Need to Do Differently in Fall 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The Fall 2026 housing market is giving buyers something they have not enjoyed in several years: more choices.


For sellers, that does not mean homes have stopped selling. It means the margin for error has narrowed. A property that is priced accurately, presented beautifully and marketed to the right audiences can still attract serious interest. A listing that enters the market with an aspirational price, dated photography or an incomplete marketing plan is more likely to be compared, postponed or passed over.


That distinction matters throughout the South Carolina Lowcountry, including the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Okatie and Beaufort real estate markets. Buyers are no longer forced to compete for every acceptable property. They can compare homes, communities, carrying costs and condition before deciding which listing deserves an offer.


What is changing in the national housing market?


Redfin reported that new listings rose 2.1 in one week on a seasonally adjusted basis during the four weeks ending August 30, reaching their highest level since August 2022. New listings were 8 higher than a year earlier, while active inventory increased 2.4.


Demand did not keep pace. Pending sales slipped to their lowest level since February and were down 2.5 year over year. The share of listings with price reductions climbed to 20.9, median market time reached 45 days and the average sale-to-list ratio stood at 98.7.


The latest completed-sales data reinforces the imbalance. In August, U.S. existing-home inventory reached 1.62 million homes, up 5.9 from a year earlier and the highest level since November 2019. Existing-home sales fell to a 14-month low, while available supply expanded to 4.9 months.


In plain English, buyers have more homes to inspect and more room to negotiate. Sellers are competing not only with the house next door, but also with every credible alternative displayed beside it online.


What does this mean for Lowcountry real estate sellers?


National statistics do not determine the value of a particular home in Sea Pines, Palmetto Bluff, Belfair, Hampton Hall, Hilton Head Plantation, Habersham or downtown Beaufort. Lowcountry real estate is highly local, and conditions can differ by community, property type, price range, view, condition and club membership.


Still, current Beaufort County indicators show why sellers should take the broader shift seriously. Zillow reported 2,352 homes for sale in Beaufort County as of July 31, 2026, with 525 new listings and a median 43 days to pending. In the latest available sale-to-list data, 78.1 of county sales closed below the asking price and the median sale-to-list ratio was 97.4.


In the city of Beaufort, Realtor.com characterized August as a balanced market. Homes sold for approximately 98 of asking price and spent a median 78 days on the market.


These figures do not suggest that every seller must discount heavily. They show that buyers are distinguishing sharply between homes that feel properly positioned and those that do not. The best listings can still outperform the broader market. The middling ones are where market time accumulates.


Seven things Lowcountry sellers should do differently this fall


1. Price for the market you are entering, not the market you remember


The first list price is a marketing decision, not a wish written into the MLS. Buyers see recent sales, active competition, days on market and price history. If the price exceeds what the home's location, condition and features support, better-informed buyers may simply wait.


A strong pricing analysis should account for more than square footage. In the Lowcountry, value can turn on water or golf views, flood zone, age and condition of major systems, insurance considerations, club costs, short-term rental rules, renovation quality and even the ease of obtaining community approvals.


The objective is not to underprice the home. It is to establish a defensible position that creates activity before the listing begins to look overlooked.


2. Treat condition as part of the price


When buyers have choices, deferred maintenance becomes a comparison point. A tired exterior, dated lighting, visible moisture concerns, worn flooring or an aging roof may be translated into a larger mental deduction than the actual repair cost.


Before listing, prioritize the work buyers will notice immediately or flag during due diligence:






Pressure washing, landscaping and a clean, welcoming entrance






Fresh paint where wear or strong colors distract






Working doors, windows, lighting, plumbing and HVAC






Clear documentation for the roof, systems, permits and major improvements






Attention to moisture, wood-destroying organisms and other Lowcountry-specific concerns






Clean garages, storage rooms, porches and outdoor living areas






The goal is not to remodel every room. It is to remove uncertainty and make the property feel well cared for.


3. Stage for the lifestyle buyers are trying to purchase


Lowcountry buyers are rarely shopping for bedrooms and bathrooms alone. They may be picturing morning coffee on a screened porch, visiting grandchildren, a golf cart in the garage, boating access, a home office or easy one-level living.


Staging should clarify those possibilities. The National Association of REALTORS® found that 83 of buyers' agents said staging made it easier for buyers to imagine a property as their future home. The living room, primary bedroom and kitchen were the three spaces buyers' agents considered most important to stage.


Decluttering is useful, but emptying a home of all personality is not the point. The strongest presentation gives each important space a clear purpose, allows rooms to photograph well and directs attention toward the property's best Lowcountry features.


4. Make the photography earn the showing


Most buyers meet the listing on a screen before they ever enter the neighborhood. Photography is therefore not a record of the rooms. It is the first showing.


NAR's 2025 staging research found that buyers' agents considered photos, physical staging, video and virtual tours important to clients, with photography ranking highest. For Hilton Head homes for sale, Bluffton homes for sale and Beaufort homes for sale, the visual package should establish the property's setting and lifestyle as clearly as its interiors.


That may include:






Professional interior and exterior photography






Correctly timed light and weather conditions






Drone imagery when it genuinely explains location, views or proximity






Twilight images for homes with strong exterior lighting or entertaining spaces






Floor plans and virtual tours for relocation buyers






Short-form and cinematic video adapted to the property's price and story






If a listing has been on the market through a season change, replacing the lead image or refreshing the full photography set may give buyers a reason to look again.


5. Rewrite the listing around buyer decisions


Generic copy makes even an exceptional home sound interchangeable. A useful listing description answers the questions a serious buyer is already asking:






What makes this home or homesite difficult to duplicate?






How does the location change daily life?






Which meaningful improvements have already been completed?






What should a relocation buyer understand about the community?






Does the property offer golf, boating, beach, equestrian, walkable or club access?






Which layout features solve common needs such as a first-floor primary suite, office, guest separation or storage?






Precise copy also helps a property surface in increasingly conversational searches, including questions asked through Google and AI-assisted search tools. “Beautiful home in a great location” is pleasant but nearly useless. Specificity is what distinguishes a listing.


6. Distribute beyond the MLS


The MLS is essential infrastructure, but it is not a complete marketing strategy. A seller should know how the property will reach likely buyers and the agents who advise them.


Depending on the home, a coordinated plan may include brokerage websites, major property portals, email campaigns, social media, paid digital advertising, video, public relations, luxury and relocation networks, agent-to-agent promotion, broker events, targeted print and direct outreach to feeder markets.


For the Lowcountry, feeder-market strategy matters. Many prospective buyers begin their search outside South Carolina. Marketing should reach people considering a move from markets such as Atlanta, Charlotte, the Northeast, the Midwest and Florida, then give them enough context to understand both the property and the community.


More exposure is not automatically better. The goal is relevant exposure, consistent presentation and enough repetition to move a qualified buyer from awareness to inquiry.


7. Review performance early and respond decisively


A listing should not sit for months before anyone asks what the market is saying. Establish review points before launch, then monitor:






Online views, saves, shares and inquiries






Showing volume and feedback






Competing new listings and pending sales






Changes in price, condition or incentives among direct competitors






The number of days similar homes require to secure a contract






Whether buyers repeatedly raise the same objection






If the listing receives strong online attention but few showings, price or presentation may be creating friction. If it receives showings but no offers, condition, value or an unresolved objection may be the issue. If it receives little attention at all, the positioning and distribution need an immediate review.


A price adjustment should be meaningful enough to change the buyer pool or value equation. Tiny reductions that do neither tend to extend the conversation without changing the result.


What should owners do with a stale Lowcountry listing?


A stale listing does not need cosmetic tinkering. It needs a candid relaunch audit.


Start by reassessing the competitive set and pricing from today's buyer's perspective. Then identify the property's strongest differentiator and rebuild the presentation around it. This could mean new photography, selective physical or virtual staging, revised listing copy, updated video, corrected property facts, stronger community context or a new campaign aimed at feeder-market and relocation buyers.


The relaunch should feel materially different to the market. Changing three adjectives and rearranging the same photographs will not fool buyers, and frankly, it should not.


The advantage has shifted, but opportunity remains


Fall 2026 is not a market in which Lowcountry sellers should panic. It is a market in which preparation and precision matter more.


Buyers still want the lifestyle offered by Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Beaufort. They are simply better able to compare their options and more willing to negotiate when a listing falls short. Sellers who understand that shift can respond before excessive market time weakens their position.


Charter One Realty combines deep local market knowledge with strategic property marketing across the South Carolina Lowcountry. Whether you are preparing to sell or reconsidering a home already on the market, our real estate advisors can help you evaluate price, presentation, positioning and the most effective path forward.


Considering selling a home in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Okatie or Beaufort? [Contact Charter One Realty] to request a confidential property and marketing consultation.


Frequently asked questions about selling a Lowcountry home in Fall 2026


Is Fall 2026 a bad time to sell a home in the Lowcountry?


Not necessarily. Homes are still selling, but buyers have more choices and are more selective. Accurate pricing, strong condition, compelling visual presentation and targeted marketing are more important than they were in a highly supply-constrained market.


Are buyers negotiating more in Hilton Head, Bluffton and Beaufort?


Current Beaufort County data shows that many homes are closing below list price, but results vary considerably by community, price range, condition and property type. Properly positioned, move-in-ready homes can still attract strong interest and may outperform broader averages.


Should I reduce the price of a listing that is not selling?


Price may be the issue, but it should be evaluated alongside photography, staging, condition, listing copy, exposure, showing feedback and direct competition. If a reduction is warranted, it should be large enough to improve the value proposition or reach a new group of buyers.


Does professional staging help sell a home?


Staging can help buyers understand the scale, function and lifestyle of a home. NAR reported that 83 of buyers' agents said staging helped buyers visualize a property as their future home.


What matters most when marketing a Lowcountry luxury home?


Luxury property marketing should combine precise pricing, refined photography and video, a distinctive property narrative, targeted digital exposure, agent relationships, luxury and relocation networks and outreach to qualified buyers in relevant feeder markets.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 12:03:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/charter-one-realty-earns-two-leadingre-relocation-awards.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/charter-one-realty-earns-two-leadingre-relocation-awards.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Charter One Realty Earns Two LeadingRE Relocation Awards</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Charter One Realty Earns Two LeadingRE Honors for Relocation and Referral Excellence


Charter One Realty has been recognized by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® with two distinguished honors: the Highest Residential Seller Referral Award and the Goal Achiever Award.


The awards were presented during the 2026 LeadingRE Relocation Forum, held in Chicago from August 31 through September 1. Nicole Adkins, Relocation Director at Charter One Realty, accepted the honors on behalf of the brokerage.


For Charter One Realty, the recognition reflects more than referral volume. It represents the strength of trusted relationships, attentive relocation support and the ability to connect clients with experienced real estate professionals wherever life takes them.


A National Honor Connected to a Record-Setting Lowcountry Sale


The Highest Residential Seller Referral recognition celebrates a landmark transaction: the $15 million sale of 393 Old Palmetto Bluff Road, known as Heron Hall.


Keene Reese of The Ussery Group at Charter One Realty closed the sale of the May River estate in June 2026. According to RESIDES MLS data, the transaction established both the highest residential sale ever recorded in Beaufort County and a new all-time sales record for Palmetto Bluff.


Situated on approximately 10 waterfront acres with more than 658 feet of May River frontage, Heron Hall represented one of the most significant luxury real estate offerings in the South Carolina Lowcountry. The successful referral behind the transaction demonstrates what can happen when strong local representation is paired with trusted relationships extending well beyond the region.


What the LeadingRE Awards Represent


The Highest Residential Seller Referral Award recognizes Charter One Realty's performance in a seller-side residential referral that led to an extraordinary closed transaction.


The Goal Achiever Award recognizes the brokerage's success in meeting referral performance goals within the LeadingRE network. Together, the honors point to a relocation program that does not merely exchange names and telephone numbers. It helps manage introductions, match clients with capable professionals and support the relationship through the transition.


Leading Real Estate Companies of the World is a global network of independent, market-leading real estate firms. The organization reports a presence in 70 countries, with approximately 500 firms and 129,000 sales associates. Charter One Realty's affiliation combines the reach of that international network with the local knowledge and accountability of an independent Lowcountry brokerage.


Why a Global Referral Network Matters to Lowcountry Sellers


The buyer for a Hilton Head Island, Bluffton or Beaufort property may already live across the state, across the country or overseas. For sellers, access to a strong referral network can place a home in front of qualified buyers whose search begins well beyond the Lowcountry.


That reach is especially valuable for distinctive properties, including waterfront estates, luxury homes, second residences and homes within private golf and lifestyle communities. These buyers are often introduced through long-standing professional relationships and expect a high level of market knowledge, discretion and service.


The sale of 393 Old Palmetto Bluff Road is a compelling example. A global connection became a local transaction, and that transaction established a new benchmark for Bluffton real estate and the wider Beaufort County luxury market.


What the Network Means for Buyers Relocating to the Lowcountry


Relocation is rarely just a home search. Buyers may also need to compare communities, understand insurance and flood considerations, evaluate club memberships, learn travel patterns and decide whether Hilton Head Island, Bluffton or Beaufort best fits the way they want to live.


Charter One Realty's relocation team helps buyers move from broad questions to informed decisions. Whether a client is exploring Hilton Head homes for sale, comparing Bluffton homes for sale in private communities or researching Beaufort homes for sale near the water or historic district, local expertise can make the process more focused and considerably less daunting.


The LeadingRE connection also works in the other direction. When a Lowcountry resident moves outside the area, Charter One Realty can introduce that client to a vetted real estate professional in the destination market while remaining a trusted point of contact.


Local Expertise, Global Connections


The best relocation service brings two strengths together: meaningful reach and genuine local knowledge.


Charter One Realty has served the Lowcountry for 40 years and is the No. 1 ranked real estate brokerage serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Beaufort. Its agents understand the distinctions among island, mainland, historic, waterfront and private-community living. Through LeadingRE, that local experience is connected to a worldwide community of independent real estate leaders.


For clients, the advantage is straightforward. A seller receives broader exposure and access to referral-driven buyers. A relocating buyer gains a knowledgeable local guide. A client moving away can leave with a trusted introduction rather than an internet search and crossed fingers.


These awards belong to the relocation professionals, agents and referral partners who make those connections work, and to the clients who trust Charter One Realty with some of life's largest transitions.


Planning a Move to or From the South Carolina Lowcountry?


Whether you are buying, selling or relocating, Charter One Realty can connect you with the right real estate expertise in the Lowcountry or nearly anywhere your next chapter leads.


Explore Hilton Head real estate, Bluffton real estate and Beaufort real estate, or contact Charter One Realty to speak with a local agent or relocation specialist.


Frequently Asked Questions


What awards did Charter One Realty receive at the 2026 LeadingRE Relocation Forum?


Charter One Realty received the Highest Residential Seller Referral Award and the Goal Achiever Award at the 2026 LeadingRE Relocation Forum in Chicago.


Who accepted the LeadingRE awards for Charter One Realty?


Nicole Adkins, Relocation Director at Charter One Realty, accepted the awards on behalf of the brokerage.


Which sale was associated with the Highest Residential Seller Referral Award?


The recognition was connected to the $15 million sale of Heron Hall at 393 Old Palmetto Bluff Road. The June 2026 closing set a residential sales record for both Beaufort County and Palmetto Bluff according to RESIDES MLS data.


How does Charter One Realty help with relocation?


Charter One Realty assists buyers moving to Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and surrounding Lowcountry communities. The brokerage can also connect clients leaving the area with qualified real estate professionals through its LeadingRE network.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 11:41:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-lori-hunter-relocation-advice.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-lori-hunter-relocation-advice.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>How to Choose the Right Lowcountry Community: Lorri Hunter’s Advice for Relocating Buyers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 






What type of buyer or property do you know best?


Lorri Hunter: I have a broad knowledge of communities throughout Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, and Okatie. I work with buyers considering waterfront homes, private golf club communities, resort neighborhoods, and land on which to build.


Selecting a home can feel overwhelming when the options are so different. I begin by listening carefully and helping buyers determine which community and lifestyle suit them before we narrow the search to individual properties.


How do Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort differ?


Lorri Hunter: Hilton Head Island is ocean-oriented and resort-influenced, with full-time and seasonal neighborhoods, extensive dining choices, beaches, and numerous golf courses.


Bluffton complements the island with a more casual, river-oriented lifestyle. Buyers will find everything from eclectic neighborhoods near Old Town to traditional residential communities and private golf clubs, along with a growing restaurant and live-music scene.


Beaufort is a historic river town known for traditional Southern architecture, a laid-back pace, and families with deep generational ties to the area.


All three are distinctly Lowcountry, but daily life can feel very different in each.


How should buyers think about hurricane risk and insurance?


Lorri Hunter: Coastal buyers need to evaluate insurance and property risk one home at a time. Location near deep water can affect both exposure and cost, but it is not the only consideration.


I encourage buyers to investigate the flood zone, elevation, construction, roof age, wind coverage, flood insurance, and the property’s specific insurance history. Obtaining professional insurance guidance early can help prevent an unpleasant surprise after a buyer has fallen in love with a home.


Insurance cost and availability can significantly affect the true carrying cost of a Lowcountry property. Buyers should obtain property-specific quotes before making a final decision.


What mistake do out-of-state buyers make repeatedly?


Lorri Hunter: Some buyers explore the area, fall in love with it, and then return home undecided. Two or three years later, they come back and discover that prices and available choices have changed.


I would never tell someone to rush such an important decision. I do encourage serious buyers to define what they need, understand current conditions, and make a deliberate decision rather than waiting indefinitely for a perfect moment that may never arrive.


Where do you believe Lowcountry home prices are headed?


Lorri Hunter: In my professional opinion, the region’s natural beauty, lifestyle, and mild winters will continue attracting buyers. That demand can support prices over time, although individual communities and property types will not necessarily move at the same pace.


Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Daufuskie Island, and Beaufort have each developed their own demand patterns. Buyers and sellers should look at recent, community-specific data instead of relying on a single regional headline or general forecast.


What is the first question you ask a new client?


Lorri Hunter: I often ask, “Where are you from?”


Many of us relocated here from somewhere else, and that shared experience has helped create a friendly, social environment. New residents are often reassured by how easily people connect.


I have even had clients move into a neighborhood and discover former classmates or past neighbors nearby. I sometimes describe Bluffton and Hilton Head Island as a serendipitous community because of the relationships I have watched reconnect here.


What financial question should buyers ask earlier?


Lorri Hunter: Buyers should ask how South Carolina’s property-tax classifications may apply to their intended use of the home. A qualifying legal residence is generally assessed differently from a second home, rental, or investment property.


That difference can affect the property’s annual carrying cost, so I address it early. Buyers should verify estimates and eligibility with the county assessor or a qualified tax professional before relying on any projection.


How has the online home search changed?


Lorri Hunter: Buyers have access to more listing information than ever, but popular real estate portals can still contain delayed, incomplete, or misleading information.


I help clients separate an attractive online listing from the realities that matter locally, including community fees, membership structures, property condition, location, flood considerations, and comparable sales. The photographs may begin the conversation, but they rarely tell the entire story.


What is an underrated neighborhood buyers should consider?


Lorri Hunter: Hilton Head Lakes Traditions, the original neighborhood within Hilton Head Lakes, is underrated in my opinion.


I recently helped clients purchase a beautiful home there, and most importantly, they are thrilled with their decision. It is a good example of why buyers should look beyond the community names that appear first in an online search. A less familiar neighborhood may offer a better match for their priorities.


How do you help buyers choose between very different lifestyles?


Lorri Hunter: I listen carefully and then repeat what I have heard, emphasizing the priorities that seem most important. That often helps buyers recognize where their preferences align or conflict.


I encourage them to discuss their goals and think about how they want an ordinary Tuesday to feel, not simply how a property looks during a showing. Golf, boating, privacy, walkability, dining, social life, and maintenance all shape the experience of living here.


The right home in the wrong community is still the wrong move.


What is a CL-100, and why does it confuse new buyers?


Lorri Hunter: The CL-100 is South Carolina’s official wood-infestation report. It addresses visible evidence of wood-destroying organisms and certain moisture-related conditions in accessible areas.


It is separate from a general home inspection. Whether it is required, who obtains it, who pays for it, and how findings are handled depend on the purchase contract and any lender requirements. When the transaction requires a report, timing matters because the standard contract language calls for it to be dated no earlier than 30 calendar days before closing.


What first brought you to the Lowcountry?


Lorri Hunter: My husband’s grandfather built a home in Port Royal Plantation on Hilton Head Island in 1977. We visited and were smitten.


I can still remember sitting on the screened porch and smelling the salt water and pine. We dreamed of moving here someday. Thirty years later, we made it and never looked back.


What does your off-duty Lowcountry life look like?


Lorri Hunter: My husband and I joined a local boat club and have enjoyed exploring the waterways. I also spend time reading and gardening.


Burnt Church Distillery has become one of our favorite places for a quick and delicious bite.


What would you do if you were not selling real estate?


Lorri Hunter: I would probably learn to design home plans or apprentice under one of the area’s many talented chefs.


Both appeal to the part of me that enjoys understanding how individual elements come together to create something people genuinely enjoy.


What is your advice for someone still undecided about moving here?


Lorri Hunter: Understand what is holding you back and gather the information needed to make a sound decision. The area continues to appeal to people because of its natural beauty, lifestyle, and people.


I have worked with buyers who were afraid to act and returned five or ten years later to a very different market. No one can guarantee what prices will do, but waiting is still a decision, and it can carry its own cost.


What should clients know about working with you?


Lorri Hunter: Authenticity is important to me. I take great care with my reputation and want my name to stand for integrity.


During our first meetings, clients often tell me they appreciate the time I spend explaining the area and sharing information they did not know to ask about. My goal is to help them make a decision they understand and feel confident owning.


Which Lowcountry traditions do you look forward to?


Lorri Hunter: Mayfest and the Historic Bluffton Arts &amp; Seafood Festival bring talented artists, musicians, and chefs to Old Town Bluffton.


Hilton Head Island also offers memorable food, wine, seafood, and golf events, including the RBC Heritage in Harbour Town.


One of my favorite experiences was a tour of historic homes along the May River. After living here for more than 20 years, it gave me a new view of a place I already loved.


What is the most Southern thing that has happened to you here?


Lorri Hunter: I come from “Yinz” country, and now I catch myself saying “y’all.”


Where would you take a friend visiting for 48 hours?


Lorri Hunter: I would take them to the Beach Club in Sea Pines, Daufuskie Island, and Old Town Bluffton.


Together, they offer a wonderful blend of coastal beauty, history, and fun.


What have you had to relearn since moving here?


Lorri Hunter: I moved from a smaller college town. I have learned that a broader range of business, dining, and entertainment options also brings traffic.


Understanding seasonal patterns and travel times is simply part of learning how to live here well.


Find Your Lowcountry Fit


Choosing among Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Okatie, and the surrounding communities requires more than scrolling through listings. The most successful search begins with an honest conversation about lifestyle, priorities, budget, and how a buyer wants everyday life to feel.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 11:46:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-chip-wedgeworth.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-chip-wedgeworth.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Lowcountry Living Starts With Lifestyle: Chip Wedgeworth on Finding the Right Community</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 






A local perspective on choosing a Lowcountry home


Chip’s advice begins with lifestyle, then works backward to the community, property type, and individual home.



What type of buyer or property do you know especially well?


Chip Wedgeworth: I love working with couples who are moving here for retirement or buying a second home they eventually plan to retire to.


This usually is not just a real estate decision. They are trying to figure out what the next 10 or 20 years of their lives will look like. Do they want Hilton Head or Bluffton? Golf or boating? A house or a villa? Do they want to ride a golf cart to dinner? Would they prefer a large social community or more privacy? Where will the children and grandchildren stay when they visit? Will they live here for six months each year or eventually become full-time residents?


One of the questions I hear most often is, “What is the best community?” I love that question because there really is not one best community. It is subjective. It is almost like asking which is better: a Lexus, Mercedes, or BMW. They are all excellent cars, but different people will reach different conclusions about which is best for them.


The Lowcountry is the same way. We have many incredible communities, but they offer very different lifestyles and personalities. I love guiding that discovery process and helping people figure out which one feels right.




How do Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort differ?


Chip Wedgeworth: I usually tell people Hilton Head is the beach, Bluffton is the river, and Beaufort is the historic Lowcountry.


Hilton Head almost feels removed from the real world. You cross the bridge and have the beach, golf, boating, restaurants, bike paths, and beautiful established communities where people have been coming on vacation for generations.


There used to be an old adage that if you could afford Hilton Head for your housing needs, that was where you should focus. If you were driving 300 miles to reach the beach, why stop five miles short?


I think that has changed because Bluffton has become a destination in its own right. Bluffton offers the May River, Old Town, private golf communities, newer homes, restaurants, families, and conveniences that did not exist 20 years ago. That growth has changed the equation. Bluffton now gets the attention of many buyers in a way that it did not years ago.


Beaufort offers something different again. It is historic, slower paced, and probably has the most traditional Lowcountry feeling of the three.


I do not think there is one right answer anymore. The decision is about understanding how you want to live and finding the place that fits.


Bottom line for a relocating buyer Hilton Head Island centers much of its lifestyle around the beach, Bluffton around the river and its varied communities, and Beaufort around history and a slower pace. Each area deserves to be experienced in person.




What misconception do buyers have about hurricane risk, flood zones, or insurance?


Chip Wedgeworth: People sometimes assume that because we are on the coast, insurance will be impossible to obtain or automatically cost an outrageous amount. That should not be assumed, but buyers absolutely need to understand the specific property they are considering.


Two houses a mile apart can have different flood elevations, construction characteristics, flood-zone designations, and insurance costs. The age of the house, its elevation, the roof, and whether it will be a primary residence or second home can all affect the picture.


I tell buyers not to be scared simply by the words “flood zone,” but not to ignore them either. Get the relevant property information, speak with qualified insurance professionals, obtain quotes, and understand the risks before making a decision.


Why this matters Flood exposure and insurance costs are property-specific. Buyers should obtain current professional guidance and quotes rather than relying on assumptions about an entire neighborhood or town.




What mistake do you see out-of-state buyers make repeatedly?


Chip Wedgeworth: They try to pick the community before they understand the lifestyle.


People call and say, “We have decided we want Palmetto Dunes,” or, “We definitely want Bluffton,” because they have spent six months researching online. Then we start talking, and sometimes everything they describe points somewhere completely different.


You can learn an incredible amount online, but you cannot fully understand how these places live from Zillow. I would rather spend our first day exploring different lifestyles and communities than spend three days looking at houses in the wrong place.


Down here, I think you pick the lifestyle first and the house second.




Where do you think Hilton Head, Bluffton, Daufuskie, and Beaufort prices are headed?


Chip Wedgeworth: I do not expect the next few years to look anything like 2020 through 2022. That was not a normal market, and I do not think anyone should pretend it was.


My long-term outlook for the Lowcountry is positive. There are only so many places with this combination of weather, beaches, boating, golf, natural beauty, and quality of life. There is an even more limited supply of some of the real estate buyers seek most, including waterfront property, homes in established golf communities, and well-located Hilton Head properties.


In my opinion, certain pockets will continue to perform better than others. Strong properties that are priced appropriately should attract buyers. Properties with meaningful compromises or unrealistic prices may remain on the market longer. I view that as a healthier, more balanced market.


I would not tell someone to buy here because I expect a house to appreciate by a particular percentage next year. I would tell them to buy because they want to own and enjoy it for the next seven, 10, or 20 years.




What is the first question you ask a new client?


Chip Wedgeworth: “What does a really good Saturday look like for you once you live here?”


That tells me more than asking how many bedrooms someone wants. Are you playing golf at 8 a.m.? Taking the boat out? Riding bikes to the beach? Walking into Old Town for lunch? Sitting around the club pool with your children or grandchildren? Do you want neighbors and activities around you, or space and privacy?


Once I understand how someone actually wants to spend time, I can usually narrow the real estate choices fairly quickly.




What should buyers ask their real estate advisor but often do not?


Chip Wedgeworth: “What would keep you from buying this house?”


I think that is a much better question than, “Do you like it?” Buying a home is emotional. You walk through the front door, love the kitchen, see the view, and begin picturing your family there. That is completely normal.


I am paying attention to things a buyer may not be considering in that moment. What is behind the house? What could eventually be built next door? How difficult might this property be to resell? What is the flood elevation? How old is the roof? What should the buyer investigate about insurance? Is there a special assessment under consideration? What is the street like during the busiest part of the year?


A good real estate advisor should not simply give you reasons to buy something. They should be equally comfortable discussing the reasons not to.


Local insight An attractive house can still carry location, condition, ownership-cost, or resale considerations that are not obvious in listing photographs.




How has the way buyers search for Lowcountry homes changed?


Chip Wedgeworth: Buyers know more before they ever call us. They have looked at Zillow, Google Maps, flood maps, previous listings, tax records, neighborhood Facebook groups, and probably 50 houses.


I think that can be a good thing. My value is not opening a door and reading an MLS sheet. Buyers can access plenty of basic information themselves.


My value is helping them make sense of that information and explaining what the internet does not know. I can discuss why one street tends to appeal to buyers more than another, why two similar villas may have different values, what buyers consistently like or dislike about a community, or why a house that looks perfect online might be one I would advise my own family to examine very carefully.


That is where experience matters.




Which Lowcountry communities do buyers tend to oversimplify?


Chip Wedgeworth: I think people underestimate how different the established Bluffton golf communities are from one another.


Colleton River, Belfair, Berkeley Hall, and Oldfield can all look like “private golf communities in Bluffton” when you are researching online. They are not interchangeable.


The club culture, golf, housing, social atmosphere, geography, and relationship with the water can be completely different. Those nuances are difficult to understand online, but they can make a tremendous difference when someone is deciding where to spend the next chapter of life.




How do you help buyers compare golf, waterfront, and walkable living?


Chip Wedgeworth: One of the great things about the Lowcountry is that your social calendar is not entirely dictated by where you live.


Joining a private club can be a great way to expand your social opportunities, especially when you are new to the area. But this is also one of the easiest places I have seen to make friends, and your friends generally do not care which neighborhood you live in.


There is no single “it” neighborhood where you must live to participate in the community. I think that takes pressure off the decision.


You can own a cottage near Old Town and drive 10 minutes to play golf, or you can have a marsh-front home inside a private golf community. They are completely different lifestyles, but neither is the wrong answer.


My job is not to convince someone that one choice is better. It is to help them understand the tradeoffs well enough to make the right decision for themselves.




What first brought you to the Lowcountry, and what made you stay?


Chip Wedgeworth: This one is easy because my wife and I both grew up here. We were actually next-door neighbors growing up, and now we are raising our four children here.


I have also been fortunate to travel extensively, including visiting all seven continents. I honestly have not found anywhere I would rather call home.


It is the people, the natural beauty, being surrounded by water, and the quality of life. It is also the opportunity to raise a family in a place where so much of life happens outside.




What does off-duty life look like for your family?


Chip Wedgeworth: With four children, “off-duty” probably is not the right phrase.


We are usually boating, riding in the golf cart, going to the beach, playing golf, or playing some version of flag football or baseball in the backyard.


For my wife, off-duty often looks like taking the family to lunch or dinner. Some of our favorites include Java Burrito, Amigos, Hudson’s, and Fiesta Fresh.




If you were not selling real estate, what would you be doing?


Chip Wedgeworth: I would be a custom home builder.


I love the building process. I like the details, the structure, and figuring out how all the moving parts come together. There is something fascinating about looking at a homesite and a set of plans, then watching them become someone’s home.


I am probably one of the few people who genuinely enjoys looking at surveys, setbacks, and floor plans. If I were not selling houses, I would probably be building them.




What advice would you give someone who is still unsure about moving here?


Chip Wedgeworth: Come down, but do not spend the entire trip looking at houses. Spend a couple of days actually living here.


Go to the grocery store. Drive around at 5 p.m. Have dinner in Old Town. Walk the beach in the morning. Drive through several communities. Sit beside the May River for an hour.


I also tell clients to talk to as many people as possible. Talk to someone at the park, the people beside you at dinner, someone at the golf course, or the person standing in line for coffee.


I am a real estate advisor, so I understand that people may assume I am trying to sell them on the Lowcountry. I love when they have been here for a few days, talked with enough people, and come back to say, “You are not selling us anything. Everyone is telling us the same thing.”


Exactly. It is all true.




What should clients know about working with you specifically?


Chip Wedgeworth: Before real estate, I spent five years as a process consultant in New York City, working with dozens of Fortune 100 companies on how they could improve their processes and deliver more value to their customers.


I did not realize at the time how much of that experience I would carry into real estate.


My clients continually mention my professionalism and responsiveness, and those things are very important to me. I like details. I like being prepared. I also enjoy paying attention to all the moving parts that help a transaction reach the closing table.


I love negotiating. It is not always about defeating the other side or claiming the last dollar. It is about understanding what matters to each party, knowing when to push, when to be patient, when to listen, and how to bring a transaction together without giving away something important to your client.


I love that part of real estate.




 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 12:05:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/is-the-housing-market-going-to-crash-in-2026-what-the-data-says.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/is-the-housing-market-going-to-crash-in-2026-what-the-data-says.html</link>
        <author>KevinKing@CharterOneRealty.com (Kevin King)</author>
        <title>Is the Housing Market Going to Crash in 2026? What the Data Says</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Worried About a Housing Crash? The Numbers Tell a Calmer Story.


If you’ve been waiting to buy or sell a home because you’re worried about a housing market crash, you’re certainly not alone.


Between higher mortgage rates, changing inventory, economic uncertainty, and years of headlines predicting what might happen next, it’s understandable that some buyers and sellers are hesitant to make a move.


But when you look at the housing data rather than the headlines, the picture is considerably calmer.


National home prices have leveled out, inventory growth has slowed, and mortgage rates have spent much of the past few years within a relatively consistent range. That doesn’t mean every market is behaving the same way, but it does give us important context for what’s happening in real estate right now.


Home Prices Have Been Relatively Steady


After the rapid price increases we saw earlier this decade, the housing market has moved into a much different period.


Data from the National Association of Realtors shows national home prices have remained relatively steady over the past four years.





That’s an important distinction when talking about the possibility of a housing crash.


A market where prices are growing more slowly, remaining relatively flat, or adjusting in certain areas is very different from one experiencing a widespread collapse in home values.


Current forecasts also point toward modest national price appreciation rather than dramatic swings.


For buyers, a steadier pricing environment can make it easier to evaluate a purchase without feeling the same pressure that existed when prices were rising rapidly.


For sellers, it means pricing a home based on today's market is increasingly important.


The Number of Homes for Sale Is Stabilizing


Inventory has also changed considerably over the past several years.


Housing supply dropped sharply during the pandemic and then gradually increased as more properties came onto the market. Now, according to Realtor.com data, national inventory is running close to where it was at the same time last year.





For buyers, more predictable inventory provides a clearer picture of how much competition they may face and how many options are available.


For sellers, it means understanding the other homes buyers will be comparing to yours.


And that matters here in the Lowcountry.


Inventory can vary considerably between Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, and individual communities within those markets. A buyer searching in Sea Pines may encounter completely different conditions from someone looking in Belfair, Oldfield, Hampton Lake, Palmetto Bluff, or Hilton Head Plantation.


There isn't one inventory number that tells the entire story.


Mortgage Rates Have Settled Into a More Predictable Range


Mortgage rates are another reason some buyers have remained hesitant.


Rates increased significantly in 2022, but since then, Freddie Mac data shows they have spent much of the past few years between approximately 6 and 7.





That range is certainly higher than the historically low mortgage rates buyers became accustomed to during the pandemic years.


But there's an important difference between rates being higher and rates being unpredictable.


Buyers and sellers have now had several years to adjust to the current financing environment. Buyers are factoring rates into their budgets, and sellers are making decisions knowing that today's buyer may have a different purchasing power than someone buying several years ago.


Waiting for mortgage rates to return to 3 before making a move could mean waiting for a market that may not return anytime soon.


So, Is the Housing Market Going to Crash?


No one can guarantee what housing prices or mortgage rates will do next.


What we can do is look at the information available today.


The current national data doesn't resemble the dramatic instability many people associate with a housing crash. Home prices have been relatively steady, inventory has become more predictable, and mortgage rates have spent years within a fairly defined range.


But national housing data should always be put into local context.


What We're Seeing in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island


The Lowcountry isn't one real estate market.


Conditions can change considerably depending on the community, property type, price range, condition, location, and even specific amenities.


A renovated home with a golf or marsh view in a gated Bluffton community may face a very different competitive environment from an older property requiring significant updates.


The same applies on Hilton Head Island. Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, Hilton Head Plantation, Long Cove, Wexford, and other communities each have their own inventory levels and buyer pools.


That's why broad predictions about the housing market can be misleading.


For someone considering a move, the better question usually isn't, “Is the housing market going to crash?”


It's “What's happening in the specific market where I want to buy or sell?”


That answer can be very different.


What This Means if You're Thinking About Buying


If you've been waiting for a dramatic drop in home prices before purchasing, it's worth looking closely at what's actually happening in the areas you're considering.


Some properties are selling quickly. Others are sitting longer and experiencing price reductions. In certain situations, buyers may have more negotiating power than they did several years ago.


That can create opportunities even without a major decline in home values.


The purchase price is only one part of the equation. Current inventory, days on market, previous price reductions, comparable sales, property condition, and the seller's circumstances can all influence how an offer should be structured.


What This Means if You're Thinking About Selling


Today's market also requires a different approach from sellers.


Buyers have more information and, in many cases, more choices. Homes that are priced appropriately and presented well can still attract strong interest, while properties that enter the market too high may take longer to sell.


The strategy that worked during the frenzy of 2020 or 2021 isn't necessarily the strategy that works in 2026.


Before listing, sellers should understand recent sales, current competition, buyer activity, and how their property compares with the other homes available in their community.


Making a Move in the Lowcountry?


If you're considering buying or selling in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Okatie, or the surrounding Lowcountry, national housing headlines are a useful starting point. They shouldn't be the deciding factor.


Kevin King Associates at Charter One Realty can help you look at what's happening within the specific community, property type, and price range you're considering, so you can make your decision based on the market in front of you.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:07:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-more-home-sellers-are-cutting-prices-in-2026-and-what-it-means-for-lowcountry-buyers.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-more-home-sellers-are-cutting-prices-in-2026-and-what-it-means-for-lowcountry-buyers.html</link>
        <author>KevinKing@CharterOneRealty.com (Kevin King)</author>
        <title>Why More Home Sellers Are Cutting Prices in 2026, and What It Means for Lowcountry Buyers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Sellers Are Cutting Prices To Meet Buyers Where They're At


If you’ve been looking at homes in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, or elsewhere in the Lowcountry and wondering whether today’s prices leave any room to negotiate, the answer may be more encouraging than you think.


The housing market has changed considerably from the frenzy buyers experienced a few years ago. More homes are available, properties are generally taking longer to sell, and buyers have become increasingly selective about what they’re willing to pay.


Sellers are responding.


Across the country, more sellers are reducing their asking prices, while others are choosing a more realistic list price from the beginning. For buyers, that can create opportunities that simply weren’t available when multiple offers and bidding wars were common.


More Than 4 in 10 Sellers Are Reducing Their Asking Price


According to HousingWire Data, more than 40 of sellers nationally are making a price reduction.





That’s a significant portion of the market.


A price reduction doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with the home. In many cases, it means the original asking price didn’t line up with what buyers were willing to pay.


Buyers today have access to more inventory and can compare properties closely. If two similar homes are available and one is priced noticeably higher, buyers have little reason to stretch unless there’s something about that property that clearly justifies the premium.


For sellers, pricing has become increasingly important. Starting too high can mean spending additional weeks or months on the market, followed by a price adjustment anyway.


Home Sellers Are Adjusting Their Expectations


Price reductions tell only part of the story.


Some sellers aren’t reducing their prices because they’re entering the market at a more competitive price from day one.


According to Realtor.com, July 2026 had the lowest median list price of any July in the past five years.





That does not mean home values are suddenly collapsing or that every property is selling at a discount.


It does suggest that sellers are paying closer attention to current buyer demand, affordability, competing inventory, and recent sales when deciding where to price their homes.


That distinction matters.


What This Means for Buyers in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island


National housing statistics provide useful context, but real estate is local. That’s especially true in the Lowcountry.


A home in Sea Pines can behave very differently from one in Hilton Head Plantation. The market for a golf property in Belfair or Colleton River isn't necessarily the same as the market in Hampton Lake, Oldfield, Palmetto Bluff, or a non-gated Bluffton neighborhood.


Even within the same community, pricing can vary considerably based on location, renovations, views, lot quality, membership considerations, water access, condition, and competing inventory.


That’s why buyers shouldn’t interpret national reports as meaning every seller will negotiate.


What they should take from the current market is that asking price isn't always the final word.


A property that has been sitting on the market, undergone a previous price reduction, fallen out of contract, or is competing against several similar homes may present an opportunity for a well-structured offer.


And negotiation isn't limited to purchase price. Depending on the property and circumstances, buyers may be able to negotiate repairs, closing costs, closing timelines, furnishings, or other terms that matter to them.


What This Means for Lowcountry Sellers


For sellers, this market puts more weight on the decisions made before the home ever hits the MLS.


Pricing a home based on what a neighbor received two or three years ago can be a costly mistake if today's inventory and buyer behavior tell a different story.


Buyers can see the same comparable sales, price reductions, days on market, and competing listings that sellers can.


If a property enters the market noticeably above its competition, buyers may simply wait.


The first few weeks on the market matter. Instead of pricing high with the assumption that there will always be room to reduce later, sellers should look carefully at what buyers are choosing today.


That doesn't mean automatically pricing below market value.


It means understanding the competition and positioning the property accordingly.


The Lowcountry Market Isn't One Market


This is particularly important across Bluffton and Hilton Head Island because our market varies considerably from one community and price point to another.


Inventory may be limited in one neighborhood while buyers have numerous choices in another. Certain waterfront, golf, renovated, or well-positioned properties can still attract significant interest when they're priced appropriately.


Other homes may require more time and negotiation.


The strategy should come from the specific property, community, recent comparable sales, current competition, and buyer activity, rather than a national headline.


Thinking About Buying or Selling in the Lowcountry?


If you're considering buying a home in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Okatie, or the surrounding Lowcountry, don't automatically rule out a property because the asking price feels slightly outside your range. There may be room for a conversation, particularly when the home's market history supports it.


And if you're considering selling, understanding how your home compares with what buyers can choose from right now is one of the most important parts of setting your pricing strategy.


Kevin King Associates at Charter One Realty works with buyers and sellers throughout Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, and the surrounding Lowcountry. Contact our team for a closer look at what’s happening in your specific community or price range.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:59:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-major-investors-continue-betting-on-hilton-head-island.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-major-investors-continue-betting-on-hilton-head-island.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Why Major Investors Continue Betting on Hilton Head Island</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Why Major Investors Continue Betting on Hilton Head Island


What major hospitality acquisitions, resort renovations, airport improvements and luxury sales mean for Lowcountry buyers and sellers


Hilton Head Island has never depended on one headline to make its case. Its appeal has been built over decades through beaches, boating, golf, protected natural beauty, established resort communities, and a lifestyle that repeatedly turns visitors into homeowners.


Still, the latest wave of major investment is worth watching. Travel + Leisure Co. has entered into an agreement to acquire Spinnaker Resorts as part of two transactions with a combined upfront purchase price of $343 million. Meanwhile, new ownership is preparing a substantial renovation of The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort &amp; Spa, and the Hilton Head Island Airport has opened a modernized terminal designed to improve the passenger experience.


These are different projects backed by different decision-makers, but together they tell a consistent story: sophisticated investors and public partners continue committing meaningful capital to Hilton Head Island.


For anyone considering Hilton Head Island real estate, the better question is not simply, “Who bought what?” It is, “What do these investments say about the island’s long-term appeal, and what should buyers and sellers do with that information?”


A Major Hospitality Company Wants More Hilton Head Inventory


In July 2026, Travel + Leisure Co. announced that it had completed its acquisition of Yes&amp; Vacations and separately entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Spinnaker Resorts. The combined upfront purchase price for the two transactions is $343 million, subject to adjustments, with as much as $10 million in additional performance-based payments. As of an article released Jul 15, 2026, the Spinnaker transaction was expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to customary conditions.


The distinction matters. The $343 million figure applies to both transactions together, not to Spinnaker alone. Precision is not terribly glamorous, but it keeps the saddle from slipping.


Spinnaker is expected to add six Hilton Head properties to Travel + Leisure Co.’s portfolio. Across both deals, the company expects to add 23 resorts and more than 100,000 vacation owners. Travel + Leisure Co. specifically identified Hilton Head and Maui as highly sought-after leisure destinations and said the transactions would add quality inventory in markets where new development is challenging.


That language gets to the heart of Hilton Head’s investment case. In an established island destination that actively manages growth and protects its character, well-located existing assets can be difficult to replicate. When a large leisure company wants a greater presence here, it is buying more than buildings. It is buying access to an established destination, a loyal vacation audience and a finite supply of comparable resort inventory.


The Westin Investment Reflects Confidence in Hilton Head’s Luxury Visitor


The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort &amp; Spa offers another signal. An affiliate of KSL Capital Partners acquired the 420-room oceanfront resort in 2025. At the time, hotel-investment reporting noted that the property had already received more than $47 million in capital improvements since 2012.


The resort is now scheduled to close temporarily beginning November 2, 2026, for a renovation expected to last at least five months.  A WARN notice states that 219 employees will be temporarily affected and are expected to be recalled when the work is complete.


The employee impact is significant and should not be treated as a footnote. For the real estate discussion, however, the relevant long-term point is that the owner is taking a major oceanfront hospitality asset offline to reinvest in it. That is a costly decision generally made with an expectation that an upgraded property can compete for future leisure, group and luxury travel demand.


The Westin project does not prove what an individual home will be worth. It does show continued confidence in the kind of visitor Hilton Head attracts and in the island’s ability to remain competitive as luxury travelers expect increasingly polished experiences.


A Better Airport Makes the Lowcountry Easier to Reach


Destination investment works best when people can get there conveniently. Hilton Head Island Airport’s terminal improvements help address that part of the equation.


Phase I carried a construction contract of approximately $30.9 million, funded through a combination of Federal Aviation Administration grants, South Carolina Aeronautics grants, state funds and airport revenue. Improvements include a new TSA screening checkpoint, redesigned gate areas, upgraded furnishings and technology, and passenger boarding bridges. The new terminal opened in May 2026.


For residents and property owners, better air access is practical, not abstract. It can make second-home ownership easier, shorten relocation travel, simplify visits from family and improve the arrival experience for prospective buyers. Access alone does not create a housing market, but it removes friction from a destination already in demand.


Luxury Residential Activity Adds a Fourth Vote of Confidence


The investment story is not limited to hotels and infrastructure. Hilton Head Island’s residential market continued to produce meaningful activity through the first half of 2026.


Charter One Realty’s mid-year market report showed 475 Hilton Head single-family home sales through June, up 5.1 from the same period in 2025. Another 449 condominiums sold, up 0.9. Pending sales also increased even as new listings declined. New single-family listings were down 10.4, and new condominium listings were down 6.3.


Recent luxury closings provide a more tangible view of the high end. Charter One Realty agents represented transactions including 37 Dune Lane in Forest Beach at $7.06 million and 11 North Calibogue Cay Road in Sea Pines at $5.48 million. These sales sit alongside multimillion-dollar activity in nearby Lowcountry communities, including Colleton River and Hilton Head Plantation.


The market is not indiscriminate. Hilton Head homes averaged 70 days on market through June, while condominiums averaged 93 days, both longer than a year earlier. Buyers remain engaged, but they are more selective than they were during the fastest pandemic-era market.


That combination is important: limited new supply, continued sales, notable luxury closings and longer marketing times. It points to an active but more discerning market, not a runaway one.


Why Major Investors Keep Choosing Hilton Head Island


Taken together, the recent announcements suggest four reasons Hilton Head continues to attract capital.


First, Hilton Head offers an established brand. Investors are not trying to persuade the market that the island is a leisure destination. Generations of visitors already know it as one.


Second, comparable inventory is difficult to reproduce. The island’s commitment to managing growth, preserving natural resources, and protecting community character is part of what keeps it desirable. It also makes existing, well-positioned resort and residential assets more strategically important.


Third, Hilton Head attracts a valuable mix of visitors, second-home owners, retirees, and full-time residents. Hospitality and residential demand are not identical, but they share the same underlying lifestyle appeal.


Fourth, the destination continues to reinvest. Resort renovations and airport improvements help Hilton Head compete without abandoning the qualities that made it successful in the first place.


What This Means for Hilton Head and Lowcountry Buyers


For buyers exploring Hilton Head homes for sale, institutional investment is a useful indicator of confidence in the destination, but it is not a reason to waive due diligence or chase a property at any price.


Buyers should evaluate each property on its own merits, including location, condition, insurance costs, flood zone, rental rules, community fees, renovation needs and long-term usability. A beautifully renovated resort down the road does not repair an aging roof or rewrite a condominium budget.


The larger benefit is context. Continued investment in access and hospitality supports the lifestyle ecosystem that makes Hilton Head attractive. Buyers who value golf, beach access, boating, dining, resort amenities and convenient travel may view that reinvestment as one more reason to take a long-term look at ownership.


It also helps to compare the broader region. Bluffton real estate offers gated golf communities, new and established neighborhoods, and convenient access to Hilton Head. Beaufort real estate appeals to buyers drawn to historic character, waterfront living and a more relaxed small-city rhythm. A relocation search should consider Hilton Head homes for sale, Bluffton homes for sale and Beaufort homes for sale before deciding which version of Lowcountry living fits best.


What This Means for Sellers


For Hilton Head property owners, major outside investment strengthens the marketing narrative. Buyers are not only purchasing a residence. They are buying into a destination where well-capitalized organizations continue improving the visitor experience and the infrastructure that supports it.


That story can help sellers, especially those offering homes with strong lifestyle connections such as beach access, views, boating, golf, walkability or proximity to resort amenities. But the story must be paired with sound execution.


In a market where days on market have increased, sellers need accurate pricing, exceptional photography, thoughtful property preparation and marketing that reaches both local and feeder-market buyers. Institutional confidence is a tailwind. It is not a substitute for getting the listing strategy right.


Owners should also avoid assuming that investment across the island affects every neighborhood or property type equally. Rental-oriented villas, oceanfront estates, gated-community homes and primary residences each attract different buyers and respond to different variables. Hyperlocal advice matters.


The Broader Lowcountry Effect


Hilton Head is the headline, but the benefits do not stop at the bridge. Increased destination awareness and improved access can introduce more people to the entire South Carolina Lowcountry. Visitors who arrive for Hilton Head may ultimately consider homes in Bluffton, Okatie or Beaufort, depending on the lifestyle, space and community they want.


That is why the current investment cycle matters to Charter One Realty’s full market area. It reinforces Hilton Head’s role as an economic and lifestyle anchor while expanding the pool of future buyers who may discover other Lowcountry communities.


The Bottom Line


Why do major investors continue betting on Hilton Head Island? Because the island offers a rare combination of proven demand, limited comparable inventory, improving access and a coastal lifestyle with lasting national appeal.


The Spinnaker agreement, continued investment at The Westin, the airport terminal improvements and active luxury home sales are not guarantees about future property values. Together, they are credible evidence that major decision-makers still see long-term opportunity on Hilton Head Island.


For buyers, that supports taking a serious, well-researched look at the market. For sellers, it strengthens the destination story while raising the importance of expert positioning. And for the broader Lowcountry, it is another reminder that Hilton Head’s appeal continues to bring attention, capital and prospective homeowners to the region.


Charter One Realty is the Lowcountry’s leading real estate brokerage, with local experts serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and surrounding communities. Whether you are comparing communities, exploring a second home or preparing to sell, our agents can help you interpret the market at the neighborhood and property level.


Frequently Asked Questions


Why are major companies investing in Hilton Head Island?


Hilton Head combines established leisure demand, limited opportunities for comparable new development, improving air access and a nationally recognized coastal lifestyle. These qualities make existing resort assets and the broader destination attractive to long-term investors.


Did Travel + Leisure Co. buy Spinnaker Resorts for $343 million?


Not exactly. Travel + Leisure Co. announced two separate transactions involving Yes&amp; Vacations and Spinnaker Resorts with a combined upfront purchase price of $343 million. The company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Spinnaker, subject to closing conditions.


Will resort investment make Hilton Head home prices rise?


No single resort transaction determines residential property values. Hospitality investment can support destination visibility, amenities and long-term confidence, but home values still depend on supply, demand, location, condition, property type, insurance costs and neighborhood-level factors.


Is Hilton Head Island still a strong luxury real estate market in 2026?


Luxury buyers remain active, and significant multimillion-dollar homes continue to close. However, properties are taking longer to sell than a year ago, so correct pricing, presentation and targeted marketing are increasingly important.


How can buyers compare Hilton Head, Bluffton and Beaufort?


Hilton Head is closely tied to beach, resort, golf and second-home living. Bluffton offers a broad mix of gated communities, golf neighborhoods and mainland convenience. Beaufort is known for historic character, waterfront scenery and a relaxed small-city setting. A local advisor can compare costs, property types and lifestyle tradeoffs.


 
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    <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:29:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-lowcountry-luxury-real-estate-is-moving-differently-in-2026.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/why-lowcountry-luxury-real-estate-is-moving-differently-in-2026.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Why Lowcountry Luxury Real Estate Is Moving Differently in 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


What Relocation Buyers Really Want in a Lowcountry Home in 2026


If you’re thinking about selling a home in the Lowcountry, the most useful question isn’t just “What’s my house worth?” It’s “What are the people moving here actually looking for?”


In 2026, buyers relocating to Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort are less focused on pure square footage and more interested in how a home will fit the life they came here to live. Outdoor living, flexible spaces, first-floor living, easy access to golf or the water, storage, storm protection, and lower-maintenance ownership all rank high. They want a place that feels ready to enjoy, not a project waiting for them after the moving trucks leave.


National data backs this up. Zillow’s recent analysis of home searches and 2026 research both show buyers placing more value on outdoor features, water access, flexible rooms, and homes that already feel finished. That shift matters for anyone listing a property in the Lowcountry.


Quick Look: What Lowcountry Relocation Buyers Want Right Now


Buyers searching Hilton Head real estate, Bluffton real estate, and Beaufort real estate are especially drawn to homes with:




Usable outdoor living spaces


First-floor primary suites or true single-level living


A real home office or flexible room


Golf, marina, boating, or water access


Clear insurance and flood information


Storm-protection features


Garages that actually hold stuff


Updated kitchens and bathrooms


Low-maintenance landscaping and exteriors


Move-in-ready condition


Flexible space for guests, hobbies, or family visits




The through-line is simple: they want more time enjoying the Lowcountry and less time fixing problems.


Outdoor Living That Actually Works


Most people don’t move here to spend their days indoors. Covered porches, screened rooms, patios, pools, outdoor kitchens, and fireplaces let owners use the mild climate for much of the year. National builders’ research and Zillow search data both keep showing strong interest in these kinds of spaces.


You don’t need to build a full outdoor kitchen before you list. Just make sure what’s already there feels intentional. A screened porch should feel like another living room. A patio should look ready for friends. A pool area should suggest Saturday afternoon, not a long maintenance list. In this market, outdoor space is part of the product.


First-Floor Primary Suites Still Carry Weight


Buyers planning for retirement—or simply thinking long-term—often prefer a primary suite on the main level. Even younger buyers and multigenerational households see the flexibility. If your home has a first-floor primary, a guest bedroom downstairs, or a full bath on the main level, put that information near the top of the listing. It’s a searchable feature that matters.


Flexible Rooms Beat Formal Offices


Remote work didn’t vanish. Zillow’s 2025 Consumer Housing Trends Report found 51 of prospective buyers ranked an extra room for a home office as very or extremely important. What has changed is the expectation. Many buyers don’t need a huge dedicated office. They want a room that can shift between work, hobbies, exercise, or overnight guests.


That underused den, loft, or bonus room may be more valuable than you think. Stage it with a clear purpose so buyers can picture how it fits their life.


Golf and Boating Access Often Come First


A lot of relocation buyers choose the community before they choose the house. Some start with “Which Bluffton golf community feels right?” Others ask “Where can I keep a boat near Hilton Head?” or “Which Beaufort neighborhoods have marina access?”


If your property offers (or sits close to) a marina, community dock, boat storage, golf course, beach club, or good walking trails, lead with those details. “Ten minutes to the marina” can matter more to the right buyer than another description of the countertops.


Insurance Information Belongs Early in the Conversation


Coastal buyers ask about insurance sooner than they used to. They want a realistic sense of costs, flood considerations, and any features that might help. South Carolina’s Department of Insurance recognizes certain wind-mitigation improvements—stronger roof systems, better roof-to-wall connections, secondary water barriers, storm shutters, and impact-rated windows and doors—that can qualify for discounts depending on the carrier.


Helpful documents to have ready include roof age and type, recent insurance information, flood-zone details, elevation certificates when available, impact-rated openings, shutters or panels, generator details, and dates of major system replacements. You can’t promise what a new owner will pay, but giving them the facts they need to get accurate quotes removes a common source of friction.


Storm Protection Is Now a Feature, Not an Afterthought


Hurricane shutters used to sit in the garage and rarely made the listing. That has changed. A newer roof, impact-resistant windows and doors, shutters, a whole-home generator, or documented wind-mitigation work gives first-time coastal buyers real peace of mind. These improvements aren’t flashy, but in 2026 they signal lower risk—and buyers notice.


Garages and Storage Matter More Than Most Sellers Expect


Relocation buyers arrive with gear: golf clubs, bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, fishing equipment, beach chairs, tools, holiday decorations, and sometimes a golf cart. Usable garage and storage space becomes unusually important in a lifestyle market. Research from the National Association of Home Builders consistently ranks garage storage and two-car garages high on buyer wish lists.


An overflowing garage tells buyers the house is short on storage. An organized one with visible floor space and simple shelving tells them the opposite. Same square footage, completely different impression.


Turnkey Condition Is Winning


Buyers are paying a premium for homes that feel ready. Zillow’s 2026 research found that customized, turnkey homes can sell for roughly 3 more than comparable properties. That doesn’t mean every house needs a major renovation. It does mean deferred maintenance is harder to overlook.


Before listing, address the obvious: peeling paint, worn carpet, dated fixtures, damaged screens, fogged windows, leaking faucets, tired caulk, and overgrown landscaping. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s a house that feels cared for and ready for the next owner.


Low-Maintenance Living Has Real Appeal


Many people moving here are looking forward to golf, boating, the beach, downtown Beaufort, or dinner in Old Town Bluffton—not weekends spent on complicated upkeep. Durable finishes, updated systems, simple landscaping, and exteriors that don’t demand constant attention all help. This is especially true for second-home owners and retirees who travel part of the year. When a house looks easy to own, it often sells more easily.


What This Means for Sellers in 2026


The Lowcountry market remains active, but buyers are more deliberate than they were a few years ago. Homes generally take longer to sell than they did during the peak pandemic years, which gives buyers time to compare and makes presentation, pricing, and marketing more important.


The listings that stand out answer the real question buyers are asking: “Can I picture my life here?” That means highlighting the screened porch where friends will gather, the garage that fits the golf cart, the dock, the flexible office, the first-floor suite, and the storm-protection work that makes coastal living feel more secure.


Frequently Asked Questions


What features matter most to buyers looking at Hilton Head homes? Proximity to the beach or water, strong outdoor living spaces, boating or golf access, updated interiors, good storage, first-floor living options, and homes that don’t need immediate work.


What are buyers prioritizing in Bluffton in 2026? Many compare communities as carefully as individual houses. Golf memberships, club amenities, boating access, outdoor spaces, garages, storage, and first-floor primary suites all influence decisions.


What draws relocation buyers to Beaufort? Historic character, waterfront living, boating opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Access to downtown, golf, marinas, and quieter neighborhoods can all play a role depending on the buyer.


Do I need to renovate before selling? Not always. Major renovations don’t automatically return dollar-for-dollar. Most sellers get better results by fixing deferred maintenance, improving presentation, and talking through potential upgrades with a local agent before spending heavily.


Should sellers share insurance information? Yes, when you have it. Current premiums won’t predict what a new owner will pay, but details on the roof, flood zone, storm protection, mitigation work, and major systems help buyers get more accurate quotes earlier.


Ready to Sell? Start With the Buyer


Every property is different. A waterfront home in Beaufort shouldn’t be marketed the same way as a golf-course home in Bluffton or a beach-oriented property on Hilton Head. Local knowledge makes the difference.


Charter One Realty works every day with buyers relocating from across the country. That experience gives our agents a clear view of what people are asking for, what concerns shape their decisions, and which features help homes stand out. If you’re considering selling, we can help you see how your home lines up with current expectations, decide which details deserve the spotlight, and build a marketing plan aimed at the relocation buyers searching Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort real estate.


Selling a Lowcountry home isn’t just about putting it online. It’s about showing the right buyer why this is the place they want to live.


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    <pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:51:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/charter-one-realty-closes-53-million-waterfront-home-in-palmetto-bluff.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/charter-one-realty-closes-53-million-waterfront-home-in-palmetto-bluff.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Charter One Realty Closes $5.3 Million Waterfront Home in Palmetto Bluff</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Delcher and Delcher at Charter One Realty Close $5.3 Million Waterfront Home in Palmetto Bluff


Charter One Realty has announced the $5,300,000 closing of 307 Waterfowl Road, an exceptional waterfront residence in the River Road neighborhood of Palmetto Bluff. The property was listed by Duke and Linda Delcher of Delcher &amp; Delcher at Charter One Realty.


The sale adds to a strong year for Charter One Realty in Palmetto Bluff, where the brokerage continues to lead the luxury real estate market. Year to date, Charter One Realty has represented five of the six properties sold in Palmetto Bluff for more than $5 million.


Inside 307 Waterfowl Road


Located within Palmetto Bluff’s coveted River Road enclave, 307 Waterfowl Road combines timeless Lowcountry architecture with privacy, generous living spaces and extraordinary water views.


The home occupies a premier setting along the inland waterway, with more than 131 feet of water frontage. Its long-range views extend across the protected 120-acre River Road Forest Preserve toward the entrance of Moreland, creating a peaceful natural backdrop throughout the property.


Built by award-winning H2 Custom Home Builders, the approximately 5,580-square-foot residence was thoughtfully designed to complement its waterfront surroundings. Expansive windows and well-positioned living spaces bring natural light and Lowcountry scenery into nearly every room.


Notable features include:




Five private bedroom suites with en-suite baths


A main-level primary suite overlooking the water


A private elevator serving the two-story residence


A custom chef’s kitchen with premium finishes


A separate back kitchen and butler’s pantry


A spacious great room and second-floor family room


A 16-by-30-foot saltwater pool with an integrated spa


A screened porch with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace


More than 131 feet of inland waterway frontage


Potential for a private dock


A whole-house generator




The home’s outdoor spaces were created for year-round entertaining and relaxation. The screened porch, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pool and spa are all oriented toward the expansive water view, offering a seamless connection between the residence and its surroundings.


Waterfront Living in River Road


River Road is one of Palmetto Bluff’s most sought-after neighborhoods, offering a distinctive combination of natural beauty, recreational amenities and convenient access to Moreland Village.


A scenic waterfront trail near 307 Waterfowl Road connects residents with The Lodge, where amenities include a spa-style pool, fitness center, gathering spaces and a dog park. The property also offers water access to Wilson Village and Moreland, allowing residents to experience Palmetto Bluff from an entirely different perspective.


The possibility of a private dock made 307 Waterfowl Road especially compelling. Opportunities of this caliber are increasingly limited within River Road, particularly for buyers seeking substantial waterfront frontage and long, unobstructed views.


Charter One Realty’s Palmetto Bluff Market Leadership


The closing of 307 Waterfowl Road reflects Charter One Realty’s continued strength in Palmetto Bluff real estate.


Year to date, Charter One Realty has represented nearly 50 Palmetto Bluff buyers and sellers, resulting in more than $175 million in community sales. The brokerage has also represented five of the six properties sold in Palmetto Bluff for more than $5 million during the same period.


Through the years, Charter One Realty has successfully represented more Palmetto Bluff buyers and sellers than any other brokerage. That record is built on longstanding community knowledge, trusted client relationships and experience navigating the details of high-value Lowcountry real estate.


For buyers, this level of market activity provides access to informed guidance about Palmetto Bluff homes for sale, including properties that may not yet be broadly marketed. For sellers, it offers the advantage of working with professionals who understand how to position, promote and negotiate distinctive luxury properties.


What Does the Sale of 307 Waterfowl Road Mean for Palmetto Bluff Real Estate?


The $5.3 million closing demonstrates continued buyer demand for exceptional Palmetto Bluff waterfront homes, particularly properties offering privacy, newer construction, outdoor living spaces and direct connections to the community’s natural surroundings.


No two properties in Palmetto Bluff are precisely alike. Waterfront orientation, dock potential, neighborhood location, construction quality, preserve views and proximity to amenities can all influence market value. Buyers and sellers benefit from working with a real estate professional who understands how these characteristics affect pricing and demand within each neighborhood.


Frequently Asked Questions


How much did 307 Waterfowl Road sell for?


The property closed for $5,300,000.


Who listed 307 Waterfowl Road in Palmetto Bluff?


The home was listed by Duke and Linda Delcher of Delcher &amp; Delcher at Charter One Realty.


Where is 307 Waterfowl Road located?


The property is located in the River Road enclave of Palmetto Bluff, a luxury residential community in Bluffton, South Carolina.


What made this Palmetto Bluff home distinctive?


The approximately 5,580-square-foot residence offered more than 131 feet of inland waterway frontage, long views across the River Road Forest Preserve, five bedroom suites, a saltwater pool and spa, extensive outdoor living areas and the potential for a private dock.


Who can help me buy or sell a home in Palmetto Bluff?


Charter One Realty’s Palmetto Bluff real estate professionals provide community-specific guidance for buyers and sellers throughout the community. Year to date, the company has represented nearly 50 buyers and sellers and more than $175 million in Palmetto Bluff sales.


Explore Palmetto Bluff Homes for Sale


Whether you are searching for a waterfront retreat, a home near Moreland Village, new construction or a private Lowcountry estate, Charter One Realty can help you navigate thereal estate market with confidence.


If you are considering selling, our local professionals can provide a strategic assessment of your property, current buyer demand and recent comparable sales. If you are beginning a home search, explore the latest Palmetto Bluff homes for sale and connect with a Charter One Realty professional for knowledgeable, community-focused guidance.
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    <pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:29:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-sabeth-biangone-on-hilton-head--bluffton-real-estate.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.charteronerealty.com/blog/lowcountry-insider-sabeth-biangone-on-hilton-head--bluffton-real-estate.html</link>
        <author>PaigeRose@CharterOneRealty.com (Paige Rose)</author>
        <title>Lowcountry Insider: Sabeth Biangone on Hilton Head &amp; Bluffton Real Estate</title>
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    <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 14:48:00 -0400</pubDate>
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