Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time to Buy a Home in Seabrook Island, SC

Just a few miles away from the historic and bustling city of Charleston lies Seabrook Island, a private oceanfront community that’s gaining attention from aspiring homebuyers. It has sandy beaches, warm weather, and a serene coastal way of life. However, this is not a tourist resort area, this place is enjoyed predominantly by its residents.

If you’re looking for a place that’s far from the crowds and noise, yet looks like the location of an upmarket beach holiday destination Seabrook Island might be the perfect place for you, and now might just be the right time for you to invest in the area.

Getting to Know Seabrook Island, SC

Before we look at why you should seriously consider Seabrook Island as a place to buy a home and possibly retire in, let’s find out a little more about it.

The history of Seabrook Island shows evidence that it was once home to native Americans, possibly as far back as 1400 BC. Europeans discovered the island in 1666, when Robert Sanford, a British lieutenant-colonel sailed here under an exploration campaign initiated by the British Monarchy.

The beach town takes its name after William Seabrook, an English businessman who actually purchased the island in 1816. The land remained under the Seabrook family until William’s descendants decided to sell the island in 1863. Seabrook Island changed ownership several times before it became incorporated as a town in 1987.

Today, the island has grown into a welcoming oceanfront community where nature’s splendor meets luxury living. With a total population of only 2,048 as of 2023, and with a land area of 2,200 acres, Seabrook Island serves as a quiet piece of paradise away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Why Buy Now in Seabrook Island, SC?

Being located in a private, gated island community, and set in a beautiful natural area, Seabrook Island, SC homes are more expensive than the national average, however, for what you get, the prices are not exorbitant. Indeed, some would say that it’s a steal. Whether you’re planning to buy a luxury waterfront estate or a single-family home, you’re sure to experience the magic of the Seabrook Island way of life.

The median selling price for a Seabrook Island, SC home as of Jan 2024 was $845,000. In February 2021 that figure was $613,750. This means that in a little under 3 years, the median price of a home rose by over 27% While this is not meteoric, it does show stable growth.

If we look at the numbers over these 3 years, what emerges is that there has generally been an upward trend. Even when the Federal Bank raised interest rates in the first quarter of 2022, home prices were only minimally affected and the recovery was quick and continuous.

What is different is that Seabrook has become a buyer’s market, something that has not been the case for many years. There are more homes now in the area than the traditional demand catered for and a window of opportunity has opened.

For the first time in a long time, sellers are pricing their homes according to much more sustainable market values. An example of this is that in May 2023 the median listing price for a home was $1,225,000 while the median price for a home sold was $690,000. The expected asking price was almost double what the market was willing to pay. In January 2024 the median listing price was $769,000 while the median sold price (as we’ve seen) was $845,000.

The market is more balanced yet still tilts towards buyers.

Seabrook Island home prices are expected to rise in the foreseeable future, with signs of recovery and stable growth since March 2023. So, the earlier you can get in on the market, the less you’re likely to pay.

Interests Rates

The fact is that interest rates are still high at the beginning of 2024 and some may think it prudent to hold out until interest rates lower. However, there is no certainty that interest rates will lower throughout 2024, and if they do, the window of opportunity to own a home in Seabrook Island, SC will gradually become smaller. This will be due to the increased competition buyers are likely to face when the market becomes more friendly toward first-time buyers or others.

If you have the means to pay by cash, or you can manage current interest rates, then the best time to buy a home in Seabrook Island, SC is now.

Benefits of Owning a Seabrook Island, SC Property

Having looked at the financial aspects of buying a home here, the question arises: Why Seabrook, SC?

Getting easy access to pristine beaches is just one of the many reasons why people are taking a keen interest in Seabrook Island real estate. However, aside from enjoying a year-round beach lifestyle, there are other possible benefits to owning a property in one of South Carolina’s prime locations.

• It can be a great source of passive income. Unlike its neighboring beachfront community Kiawah Island which attracts plenty of tourists each year, Seabrook Island has a quieter, more residential feel. There are no hotels on Seabrook Island, which helps prevent overcrowding of tourists in this serene, gated barrier community. Visitors looking to stay here can book a rental villa or condo instead, which presents a lucrative investment opportunity to property owners.

Once you’ve purchased a property on the island, you can use it as a passive source of income by renting it out as a vacation home. Average Airbnb daily rates for an entire house is at $204, while condo rentals usually start at around $100 per day. This can go up or down depending on the overall condition of the property, amenities, and proximity to the beach and tourist attractions.

• South Carolina’s tax laws are also favorable for retirees. Social Security benefits do not get taxed. Plus, the state offers homestead exemption for homeowners over the age of 65 to provide retirees with significant property tax savings.
• Unspoiled Natural Beauty. Seabrook Island is a tropical paradise boasting 3.5 miles of uncrowded, stunning beaches that stretch across the Atlantic coastline. It’s a place where you’ll be reminded of the pleasures that come from the simple things in life that often go unnoticed –– from beautiful sunrises, quiet summer evenings, and the calming sound of ocean waves.

While Seabrook Island is known for its peaceful and less crowded beaches, this coastal community offers more than just the sun and the sand. You’ll find abundant wildlife, lush greenery, and plenty of walking trails in this seaside town, inviting you to relax and unwind by communing with nature.

Government officials and locals work hand in hand to keep the unspoiled beauty of Seabrook Island. Sustainability practices and policies are being implemented to preserve the island for generations to come, such as wildlife conservation, energy efficiency, and transportation.

Seabrook Island is the first community in South Carolina to receive the prestigiousAudubon International Sustainable Community certification. This certification shows the community’s dedication to creating sustainable environments where people can live, work, and play.

Beautiful weather all year round. One of Seabrook Island’s charms is that it’s a four-season destination. You can visit here any time of the year and still enjoy this coastal town.

The island is warmest in July, with temperatures reaching up to 89°F. Come January, temperatures can drop to 57°F. But thanks to its oceanic climate, winters in Seabrook Island are not as cold as other areas in the country. So if you’re someone who enjoys taking a dip during summertime or someone who loves going to a seaside escape during cold winters, Seabrook Island is the perfect place for you.

The mild coastal temperature on the island makes it ideal for many outdoor activities. Fly kites along the beach with your kids or grandkids, go kayaking with friends, or take a leisurely walk on the trails with your pets.

Proximity to Charleston. What makes Seabrook Island, SC homes even more attractive to aspiring homeowners and potential investors is its proximity to Charleston. Seabrook Island is just 30 minutes away from Charleston by car. It’s the oldest and largest city in South Carolina known for its Lowcountry cuisine, historic homes, southern hospitality, and rich history. Charleston also has an international airport which is accessible from the island via private car or public transport.

Additionally, Charleston is known as a cutting-edge and innovative destination for corporate America, with major companies from big industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, defense, and IT establishing their offices in the city. Young professionals who invest in Seabrook Island, SC homes have access to plenty of job opportunities and a working environment projected to grow.

Living on the island is like getting the best of both worlds –– you get to enjoy a slow-paced, simple coastal lifestyle while just being approximately 25 miles away from the buzz and energy of Charleston.

Family and Retiree-Friendly Community

When you live on Seabrook Island, you have access to fantastic amenities and activities. From schools and medical facilities to attractions and social events, Seabrook Island offers you everything you need to live a balanced, productive, and healthy life.

• Schools. Being located near Charleston means being in proximity to some of the best schools in South Carolina. You have the Porter-Gaud School in West Ashley, which is ranked first for best overall private school, college preparation, and teachers.The school maintains a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio. There’s also Ashley Hall School, an all-girls private school on Rutledge Avenue, and the Palmetto Christian Academy in Mount Pleasant.
• Medical facilities. Seabrook Island residents have access to world-class medical care. The island is just a drive away from top medical facilities in Charleston, such as the MUSC, and Roper Hospital. In 2024, the new Sea Islands Medical Pavilion by MUSC will officially open to provide life-saving care to Seabrook Island, Kiawah Island, and John Islands residents. It will also offer primary and specialty care as well as outpatient and clinical services.
• Community events. It’s not just amenities and facilities that make Seabrook Island a perfect place to build a family. Once you witness and participate in any of their community events, you’ll get to experience firsthand the highlight of a Seabrook Island experience –– being part of its warm and friendly community.

Seabrook Island residents love to celebrate the island life all year round. During spring, residents hold the annual Easter Egg Hunt, an event cherished and looked forward to year after year by locals and visitors alike. Come summer, children enjoy the weekly Kids Camp at the Seabrook Island Beach Club. You also have the annual 5K fun run and fireworks display during Independence holiday week. In the fall, the highlight of the island’s events is the Alan Fleming Tennis Tournament, featuring top-level players from the southeast.

Abundance of Outdoor Adventures and Recreational Activities

The island has a way of capturing your heart. While this can primarily be attributed to the island’s natural beauty, it’s also because Seabrook gives you various ways to create unforgettable experiences.

• Explore Seabrook Island’s beaches. The island has two pristine beaches: Pelican Beach and North Beach. Both beaches offer equally beautiful views and crystalline waters, but each of them has unique charms that tourists and locals love. If you’re into chasing sunsets or just basking in the beauty of the ocean, Pelican Beach is perfect for you. The area is also known for its gentle currents, making it a suitable spot for families with children. North Beach on the other hand is great for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Make the most out of Seabrook Island Beach Club’s luxury amenities. The beach club is equipped with various amenities that will allow you to relax, unplug, and experience the Seabrook Island life to its fullest. Enjoy an al fresco or pavilion-style breakfast from any of the award-winning restaurants, lounge by their oceanfront pools, or work up a sweat by playing a game or two in their championship golf courses, tennis courts, and pickleball courts. The beach club also has an equestrian and fitness center.

Visit their page today for the full list of their amenities and to learn more about their membership tiers.

• Set sail on a pirate voyage. Take your family on an ocean adventure! Explore the high seas of South Carolina in this 1.5-hour cruise offered by Pirates of Charleston. On this cruise, your kids or grandkids can dress like pirates, get their faces painted, and enjoy treasure-hunting games while onboard.
• Go dolphin watching. Get a chance to encounter the island’s local friendly dolphins and other beautiful marine creatures! Dolphins are usually spotted during low tide at Cap’n Sam’s Inlet in North Beach. You can go on a DIY adventure, but we encourage you to join a guided tour or cruise instead for a better chance to see these intelligent mammals and learn more about the island’s diverse ecosystem.

Find Your Dream Home in Seabrook Island, SC

Find the property of your dreams and enjoy the quiet, coastal lifestyle you’ve been wanting with the help of our team.

We are a real estate brokerage firm with more than 17 years of experience in the industry. Because of our in-depth knowledge of the locality and unmatched expertise, we have helped many satisfied clients achieve their real estate goals.

Our team is committed to helping you find the best properties available in Seabrook Island, SC, and nearby areas based on your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a simple single-family home or a luxury waterfront estate, you can count on us to provide you with a seamless experience from start to finish.

Schedule a consultation with our team today. You can reach us at 888.210.3348 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you!