Real EstateBuying in Charleston SC: Red Flags & Other Things to Look For

It’s no secret that Charleston is chock-full of southern charm, and has continuously been voted as a top city in the U.S. to both live and vacation in. Most recently, we’ve been named as a top real estate market for 2017, so it’s no surprise if you’re looking to put down roots in this coastal city. Charleston offers up a variety of different lifestyles – from historic downtown living, to beachfront ocean views or boating and water sports along inland tidal creeks – the choices are endless.  Knowing what lifestyle suits you and your family best and being armed upfront with the information you need to make informed decisions will allow you to move quickly through the home-buying process, ultimately ensuring that you will find your Charleston dream home. 

Here are some key factors to keep in mind before, during and after buying in Charleston SC:

DRIVE THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Before you ask your Realtor to schedule a showing for a property, drive by it first to see if you like the area – you might find that you could be 10 minutes from a golf course, or 10 minutes from the water – or both! Determining whether obvious things exist that would completely rule out you living there mean those homes can come off your list in advance. This makes it possible to capitalize on the time spent with your agent looking at homes you feel are strong contenders. Cruising around the neighborhood before an initial showing of the property can help you eliminate up to 7 of every 10 potential houses.

WATCH FOR RED FLAGS

Be on the lookout for obvious red flags, such as lead paint, asbestos, moldy smells, wet or soggy yards, or standing water in the crawl space. With all of the moisture in Charleston, whether from humidity, changing tides or floods, it’s important to check for these potential issues when inspecting a house. Of course the first thing you want to do is make sure it has the items on your list (number of bedrooms, outdoor space, the perfect kitchen triangle, etc.), but don’t forget to put these potential red flag items on your checklist as well. 

BE PRESENT FOR INSPECTIONS

Attend your home inspections so you can ask questions about the property. This is a good time to measure for appliances, countertops, furniture, etc. as you will have ample time and access to the property during the inspection. You can also get a feel if you need to make any changes before you move all of your personal items in.

As is the case when purchasing real estate in various regions of the country, there are oftentimes additional inspections required by regulatory agencies or the mortgage company. In Charleston for example, you’ll need to have a CL-100 inspection completed before moving ahead with your purchase. This is an additional inspection requirement to confirm that the house is free of active termite infestation or advanced termite damage.

EDUCATE YOURSELF ON INSURANCE

Before writing an offer, check to see how much the insurance would be. This could greatly affect the success of getting the deal approved, so make sure you’re informed. For example, depending where you’re buying in Charleston you could likely need flood insurance. Make sure to check the FEMA flood zone maps for Charleston county while searching for your dream home. And when you find it? You’ll want to check the Elevation Certificate to make sure it is within the FEMA guidelines.

CHOOSE THE STREET BEFORE THE HOUSE

As you narrow your choices, keep in mind that it often makes more sense to buy a house “with potential ” on a nice street. If you have to choose between the two, choose the street. In the long run, it’s harder to fix the street than the house!

CHANGE THE LOCKS

Lastly, once you’ve crossed the t’s and dotted the i’s and the home is officially yours, we suggest replacing all exterior locks. Now this isn’t necessary, but since many people have had access to the keys while the house was on the market, this is more for your safety and privacy.

Note: Throughout the home-buying process, there’s plenty of tid-bits and tips to know, and an experienced Realtor in Charleston will know how to guide you through the buying process. Check out our newly re-designed “Buying Charleston ” page which offers a comprehensive one-stop source for articles, buying guides, checklists – if you’re considering buying in Charleston in 2017 you’ll want to start here today!