Cheap land is gone, but good buys still abound on James Island and Johns Island, which serve as suburbs to Charleston, South Carolina.

James Island

"Across the river and harbor from historic Charleston, James Island is a large bedroom community," says Realtor Mary Carson. "James Island is a quiet residential area that enjoys good proximity to downtown Charleston and West Ashley, as well as Folly Beach."

Carson explains, "James Island offers new construction and resale town homes, condos, and single family homes. Average price range of closed properties since June 1, 2004 is $278,095. The median price range for the same period is $198,000. Average days on market was 47. Demand continues to increase. Some regional and national builders are trying to locate land to build new subdivisions on James Island. Several existing neighborhoods were started in the 1960s and 1970s."

Says Realtor Rhea Kafer, "James Island is close to the sights and sounds of Downtown Charleston, but only a 10-minute ride to Folly Beach. Its a small town community feel with the convenience of big city amenities."

About the market, Kafer says, "James Island has seen a flurry of activity from January to May 2004. We have seen 355 homes closed so far this year, and 102 homes, as of the end of May, are active on the market. Average days on the market for these properties to sell is 118 days. Median to average sales price from $177,900 to $210,716. Homes under $250k and priced right are staying on the market for mere days before being sold to the highest bidder."

Johns Island

"Johns Island, the east coast's second largest sea-island, is just a short drive from downtown Charleston and is ideal for relaxed living," says Kafer. "The maritime forest vegetation and beautiful live oaks give the island a true lowcountry feel.

"Johns Island is seeing more residential development as people are drawn to its natural appeal," suggests Kafer. "The average cost of single family home is $231,987. Water views and water access are main reasons for relocating to Johns Island, causing prices of deep-waterfront lots to soar into the 300-500k. Views can cost as little as $250k. The days of "cheap land" is over on this fast developing island."

Click here to view current Market Conditions in your location.

Published: June 24, 2004

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.