Are you ready to purchase a home in the Charleston area? Whether new to the area or a seventh-generation resident, whether this is a first home or just the latest, the things to consider in home buying are similar. After reviewing the newspaper and online listings for Charleston SC homes, one way to narrow down your options is to choose homes of a certain age. Here are a few pros and cons of historic versus new homes.

Landscaping: Different ages of home also come with different landscaping choices. Often, newer properties come with low-maintenance, planned gardens that can even have built-in sprinkler systems on a timer. Older homes can come with stately, mature tree cover. This can shade the home and help keep air conditioning bills down in the summer, and create a pleasant place for kids to play outside during the hot summer months.

History: Historic homes can come with a story that stretches back centuries. As one of the oldest communities in the nation, this means unique building features, potential antiques to be found in basements, attics, and even buried in the yard. Charleston SC homes for sale may have been lived in by statesmen or pirates, belles or scoundrels. It can be great fun discovering the secrets a new historic home can share.

Comforts: What historic homes have in history they may lack in comfort. Air conditioning or even the wiring to install it, grounded electrical wires, leaking pipes, degraded foundations, and crumbling roofs are all risks of a home that hasn't gotten upkeep. Worriers and people who aren't handy may want to consider the security of buying a new home, and knowing things will work.

Uniqueness: Architects tend to build communities these days, and the styles are complementary of all homes in an area. For those who like this, newer communities make a lot of sense. For those who prefer each house to have its own unique style, color, and decorations, an older neighborhood and home will guarantee a home no one will mistake for the neighbors' place.

Renting a vacation property for the summer in South Carolina is a great idea for families and couples who are looking for a great trip that doesn’t cost a lot of money. The following five reasons should be read by anyone thinking about renting real estate in Charleston SC.

1. Save money on meals. One of the main advantages to getting a vacation rental is access to a kitchen. Instead of spending money on meals in restaurants, it will be possible to cook a few simple meals.

2. Get more space than a hotel. In addition to a kitchen, most rentals come with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Put each family member in a separate room.

3. See Charleston at a self-determined pace. Unlike a hotel, most vacation rentals have flexible check-in and check-out times. Families that want to spend all day at the beach don’t have to worry about leaving early or arriving late to get in or out of their hotel on time. There are also no housekeeping services to schedule around, making them ideal for families that have small children who want to take a nap in the middle of the day.

4. Take advantage of the amenities of a rental. Just like many hotels, most vacation rentals provide access to pools, private beaches and a variety of other entertainment activities.

5. Save money over renting a hotel. In the middle of summer, finding a reasonable-priced hotel can be next to impossible. A lot of vacation rentals, however, lower their prices to attract first-time renters.

Renting real estate in Charleston SC is a great way to save money on a vacation while having a great time. It’s possible to have a much better vacation, and most people find they can save a lot of money with a rental.

Selling Charleston SC real estate for the highest price is any owner or investor's goal, and several easy tricks can transform an average property into a stellar home that attracts buyers and commands the highest price. The exterior is the first thing that prospective buyers see, and curb appeal is an integral component of total sale price. Bathrooms are another key draw for most buyers, and a new floor, tub and vanity are cost-effective ways to add value to a home.

Updating Appliances
New appliances that are designed for energy efficiency are another way for sellers to make their Charleston SC real estate more attractive. Today's fridges, freezers and stoves are also designed for maximum usability, and updating a kitchen with matching products is a great way to improve the likelihood of a sale. During the currently tight market conditions, standing out from the competition is essential, and a totally redone kitchen is a great way to meet this challenge. With a host of different textures that work well with any theme, owners and investors can also use appliances to enhance any interior renovations.

Renovating Bathrooms
The home's interior may not be as crucial to a first impression, but an updated bathroom improves a home's resale value and makes it more attractive to all types of buyers. Investing a few dollars in new tile floors is an affordable way to add value to a home, and many handy homeowners finish their own projects over a weekend or two. In addition, new tubs, vanities and counters all complement each other to create a quality look that is sure to sell in any market conditions.

Improving Curb Appeal
Having a crisp exterior is easy for Charleston SC real estate, and the inviting environment is conducive to verdant growth that adds color, height and shade. With an updated landscape, homeowners also create the lasting first impression that attracts buyers and wins them over.

A few easy projects make Charleston SC real estate more desired by buyers, raise the resale value and let buyers seal a quick sale in tumultuous times.

Vacations in Charleston, SC can be breathtaking. That is why Charleston real estate companies always have vacation homes available. This city has been memorialized in movies, books and history. The southern charm and grace people know about so well is lived daily here. Whatever the family size or reason for going, everyone can be served by Charleston real estate companies.

Charleston has been important to commerce, politics and two wars. In both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, Fort Moultrie had importance. This is a perfect place for history buffs, or just going for the beautiful views. If that’s not your cup of tea, take a walk down Chalmers Street, which holds the Pink House and many other historic buildings. A place with this much history certainly deserves multiple visits. There is a romance there that affects couples of all ages.

For the active person who loves the outdoors, there are top rated tennis courts and scenic beaches. Then, there is the golf. Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island have some of the nation’s finest courses. Start the day at Crooked Oaks golf course and end it at Isle of Palms beach. The town will keep even the most athletic too busy to ever be bored.

Charleston really has it all; charming people that live in the middle of history that spans centuries, relaxing on beaches thinking of all the great food, and many other wonderful things. All of this will keep you wanting to come back for more. Charleston real estate companies can help find a vacation home at the center of it all. It would never be hard to plan something that any member of the family could love. This is the way to wake up to grits and fun.

With an irresistible combination of historic charm and cosmopolitan sophistication, Charleston, South Carolina has been drawing new residents for decades with its beautiful beaches, lively cultural scene and gorgeous weather. Real estate in Charleston ranges from exquisitely restored historic homes to contemporary beachfront houses and luxury condos, and the following are a few of the reasons so many have chosen to settle here.

Beaches and Boating

Folks who love beaches, boats and sunshine flock to find real estate close to the popular waterfront. The area beaches are justly famous, and are great places to relax or play. Head to Folly Beach for surfing, to Isle of Palms for some cool kite-boarding or to Sullivan's Island for a lively beach bar scene. Boat-lovers appreciate the myriad of marinas and clubs catering to every water-borne interest from sailing to fishing, and the city hosts many local and international regattas.

Festivals and Events

The people of Charleston love a celebration, and many are drawn to the friendly small-town vibe of this southern charmer. Join old friends, new friends and neighbors at annual festivals, downtown carriage tours and elegant events at the city's historic plantations.

Art and Cuisine

Rich in theater, art and fine cuisine, Charleston boasts loads of excellent restaurants, intriguing art galleries and fine musical and theatrical venues. The city is home to a vibrant art scene, and gallery openings, open air installations and performances abound. Foodies flock to Charleston for its amazing chow, from haute cuisine to country shrimp and grits.

Awesome Outdoor Activities

Head off to a round of golf, a scenic hike or a wonderful ride through the enchanting Low Country, home to many of South Carolina's most beautifully preserved historic towns. The area around Charleston is a legendary golfing destination, and living here means that some of the nation's finest private and municipal courses are just a short drive away. Surrounded by natural and architectural beauty, Charleston residents love to stay fit by walking, whether through the town's grandly historic South of Broad neighborhood or along its sweeping beaches.

Diverse Communities

Charleston truly has something for everyone, resulting in an exciting, diverse group of residents, from retirees to young families to singles of every age. With its many draws and year-round temperate weather, this fine little city is a great place to raise a family, retire or just enjoy a beautiful community. Check out the real estate in Charleston SC today and see why so many people love this city!

We've all heard the story: an eager buyer purchases the home of his dreams only to be blindsided by a bevy of expensive problems. Here at Carolina One, we'll help you to avoid this common drama by advising you on the most important things to watch for when touring a Summerville property.

1. Neighborhood Specifics

Though Summerville is filled with safe and charming neighborhoods, be sure the home's location makes sense for your needs. For instance, houses situated next to a playground might be great for families, but someone who works from home could find the noise a little disconcerting. Conversely, young couples may love being close to a vibrant main strip, but Mom and Dad might want something slightly more peaceful. Drive around the area to get a feel for the local atmosphere.

2. Exterior Elements

This is one time when it's completely acceptable to judge a book by its cover. Before you begin touring a home, walk around the exterior to take a look at its structure. Pay special attention to anything that looks rotted, cracked or otherwise damaged — especially the roof and foundation — and keep your eyes open for materials that are designed to stave off rot and insects.

3. Interior Structure

SC real estate tours start with a peek at the interior rooms, but you'll want to watch for more than just the layout. Check that the walls aren't bowed, the floors aren't flexible and the stairs aren't cracking. Don't forget to spend a little time examining the craftsmanship of any tile work and moldings; these may seem like small details, but repairing several damaged elements at once can eat into your renovation budget.

4. Small Furniture (or Big Mirrors)

Worrying about furniture isn't usually necessary, but make note of anything that seems especially small, as it could be an attempt to disguise a tiny room. Similarly, look for oversized mirrors -- they create the illusion of width, and you might not realize how little space the room has until you try to furnish it.

5. Utilities

Water, heat and electric are crucial elements in every home, and you'll need to understand the specifics of each before signing on the dotted line. Make sure the house has adequate drainage and that nothing is water damaged. Then, inspect the attic's insulation, ask about the age of the heating and air-conditioning units, and check that the electrical wiring is in good condition.

If you're especially diligent about these details, you can avoid any surprises after you purchase a piece of Summerville SC real estate. Keep your eyes peeled, and don't be afraid to ask the tough questions -- they might just help you save thousands of dollars in the future.

A home in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina, is a perfect investment located in a prime vacation destination. Rental properties here are in high demand, as visitors flock to see the place that was voted the Top City in the U.S. in 2012. A summer vacation home in Charleston is a great investment that can be rented out easily when not in use, and with many exciting things to do in the area, there will be no end to the number of people interested.

Our knowledgeable agents can assist you in finding the right property in your preferred location, whether in a historic district or at the beach. Here are some reasons that purchasing Charleston, SC real estate makes sense:

Magnificent Historic District

As the site of the first shot fired at the beginning of the Civil War, as well as a place of strategic importance in the colonial era and the Revolutionary War, Charleston is full of historical significance. The city boasts many historic homes, such as the Middleton Place House Museum, the Nathaniel Russell House (built in 1808), the Heyward-Washington House (built in 1772), and the elegant Edmondston-Alston House (built in 1825), and welcomes the visitors who come to tour them.

Waterfront Park

People love the convenience, tranquility, recreation, views and lounging opportunities presented by this city gem and owning a residence close to the park gives vacationers the ability to walk, run, jog, and bike nearby. Lined by Palmettos and oak trees and sporting a central fountain and a pier from which some of the best sights in the city can be seen, this park offers lovely walks and a charm that suits the old city, despite its more recent construction (1990).

Beaches

Pristine beaches, golf courses and relaxation draw travelers to the area. Such local districts as Sullivan's Island, Kiawah Island, Folly Beach and Isle of Palms are premier destinations and the perfect location in which to own a vacation home.

Plantations

• Drayton Hall- Built in 1738, Drayton Hall comprises the oldest unrestored plantation and grounds in the country that is open to the public. Surviving the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and the earthquake of 1886, this home is a marvel simply because it has remained standing in more or less the same condition as in the 18^th century.

• Magnolia Plantation and Gardens- Also founded by the Drayton family, parts of the house were built before the Revolution, but much of it was burned in a fire during the Civil War and rebuilt afterwards. Parts of the garden, however, date back as far as the 1680s and are famous for their design elements.

• Middleton Place- A residence and rice plantation, Middleton Place consisted of several buildings constructed throughout the 18^th and 19^th centuries and famous formal gardens. The main house was burnt by Union soldiers during the Civil War, but one of the buildings still remains for viewing and the gardens have been restored, as well.

At Carolina One, we can help you find the best summer vacation home to enjoy, rent out, or both! With all of the many activities and attractions in the area, you or your renters will have plenty of reasons to come and to stay.

At Carolina One, matching our clients with a home that fits their ideal lifestyle is our highest priority. One of the most important aspects of finding the right property is distinguishing wants from needs. It can be all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of house hunting and make a decision you'll end up regretting. This issue is a common one in the real estate business.

For example, you may fall in love with a home that has a spacious backyard, inviting swimming pool, marble countertops and a balcony that connects to the master bedroom. However, if you don't have the long-term financial security that's necessary for owning such a property, it will likely prove to be an unwise investment.

An effective method for finding the right home is to create a list of criteria for your new home and arrange it from most to least important. Would your life be significantly better if you had an extra bathroom, larger master bedroom or more room for kitchen amenities? Do you want to live in the middle of a city or a quiet suburb? Consider the future, as well. Is marriage a possibility or are children, perhaps? Asking yourself these important questions is a great way to narrow down your selection.

Before making a final decision, get all of the information on the homes that you're interested in from your Charleston real estate agent. If you're in a relationship, sit down with your significant other and discuss your options, making use of the aforementioned list. Contemplate every aspect of the deal without letting emotions cloud your reasoning. Be certain that the home you're buying is one that you'll be happy with. After all, home is where the heart is.

Prospective homeowners often pinpoint homes for sale in Charleston, SC for the many amenities of the location. Fortunately for them, we like to think that there is a home in the city that’s just right for everyone. Historic homes, newly constructed dwellings and upscale condominiums are all available. In fact, it’s this diversity that makes Charleston the perfect choice for young buyers.

However, homes for sale in Charleston, SC are in demand by young buyers for other reasons, too. Charleston boasts a lively entertainment and nightlife scene. With a wealth of one-of-a-kind theaters, bars and late night eateries, Charleston’s younger population can find the right kind of entertainment for any night of the week.

We recommend arts enthusiasts check out the offerings at the Dock Street Theater. The troupe that performs there has great prices for plays and musicals. These performances are the perfect beginning to an evening that includes a late night supper at Kaminsky’s Most Excellent Café. Open from noon to 2 a.m., Kaminsky’s is a great spot to sample some wine. Ordering dessert is a must. The mountain chocolate cake and the Italian cream cake are to die for.

For an evening of club hopping, we suggest starting out at the Blind Tiger Pub – a bar that has been in operation on this spot since 1803. Live jazz is played here, and the walled deck out back is the perfect place to meet new people. Next, you can visit Charleston landmark Chai’s. Friday and Saturday nights are busy here, but we recommend that people visit Chai’s on Wednesdays. It’s on this night that Chai’s is filled with the sounds of reggae.

An atmosphere of elegance and exclusivity is found at both Club Habana and Roof Top at the Vendue Inn. Each serves excellent spirits in a refined atmosphere that still manages to be casual. Another reason for visiting the Roof Top is the spectacular view of Charleston. With so many diverse entertainment and nightlife options from which to choose, homes for sale in Charleston, SC are attracting young home buyers for good reason.

Buying a second home is a dream for many of our clients, and we’re always happy to share why we think our hometown is the best place to purchase a vacation property. Charleston, SC real estate features a broad range of historic homes, new construction, and condominiums, any of which is ideal for a second home.

This property diversity is often the first thing that attracts clients with the hope of purchasing a second home. From there, we’re careful to point out all of the reasons why this city is the perfect home away from home.

It would be difficult to find a city with better cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue, fresh seafood, or something experimental, you’ll find it here. Try Cru Café’s poblano and mozzarella fried chicken or Hominy Grill’s okra and shrimp beignets. Most people need a lifetime to sample the diverse culinary offerings.

Many people are also drawn here by the city’s fascinating past. That history is on display in countless museums, historic homes and parks. This makes every visit a chance to experience the vibrant past in a meaningful way. Charleston also boasts a thriving arts scene. With galleries, live music performances and even theater troupes, there’s always something entertaining happening.

Although food and culture are huge factors in the decision to buy a second home, most people are ultimately swayed by the area’s natural beauty. Park spaces are readily accessible and offer views of scenic spaces. If that’s not enough inducement, there’s the nearby Atlantic coastline with its charming villages. The nearby salt marshes beg to be explored by kayak. The hushed, watery surroundings are the perfect backdrop for spotting manatees.

Charleston, SC real estate also makes the perfect second home because the city is popular with tourists. People from around the world long to visit here, meaning that your second home can be a fabulous source of income. With so much to gain, it’s no surprise that more people are choosing Charleston as their home away from home.