Is South Carolina a Buyer's or Seller's Market in Q2 2025?

As we settle into the second quarter of 2025, many are wondering: is South Carolina’s real estate market currently favoring buyers or sellers? The answer is nuanced — but here’s what the latest data and trends reveal.

🏠 Inventory Is Rising, But Still Tight

Across South Carolina, housing inventory has increased notably over the past year. Active listings were up by nearly 17% statewide as of early 2025, giving buyers more options than they've had in recent years. In the Charleston area specifically, new listings rose by over 10% year-over-year, and total homes for sale climbed as well.

However, while inventory is growing, it's still lower than pre-pandemic levels. This limited supply keeps competition relatively high — especially in popular areas like Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach.

Verdict: Slight edge to sellers, but balance is improving.

📉 Price Growth Is Slowing

Home values in key South Carolina markets like Charleston and Columbia continue to rise, but at a slower pace than in recent years. For example, Charleston's average home price increased 4.8% over the past 12 months — still significant, but not the double-digit surges seen during the pandemic housing boom.

This slowdown in price appreciation, combined with more inventory, gives buyers a bit more negotiating power than they had in 2021–2023.

Verdict: Favorable to buyers looking for better value — if they act quickly.

💸 Mortgage Rates Add Pressure

Mortgage rates remain a critical factor. With 30-year fixed rates hovering around 6.5% in Q2 2025, affordability is still a concern. These higher rates may be discouraging some buyers, which in turn softens demand and limits the advantage for sellers. That said, homes that are priced well and move-in ready are still attracting strong interest.

Verdict: Neutral — high rates pressure both buyers and sellers.

🧭 Overall Market Outlook

So, is it a buyer's or seller's market? In much of South Carolina, we’re entering what could best be described as a transitioning market. It's no longer the red-hot seller's market of 2021–2022, but it hasn’t fully tipped in buyers’ favor either.

For Sellers: You can still command strong prices — especially if your property is well-located and turnkey.
For Buyers: More choices and slower price growth give you leverage, but act decisively — desirable homes are still moving quickly.

Final Word: South Carolina’s real estate market in Q2 2025 is approaching balance, with local variations. In high-demand areas, sellers still have the upper hand, but rising inventory and stabilizing prices are creating more opportunities for patient, prepared buyers.

Would you like insights on a specific city or neighborhood in South Carolina? Contact The JAGER Group today to begin a conversation.

Charleston Sales Office (843) 224-7221 | Greenville/Spartanburg Sales Office (864) 404-8783