Real EstateJames Island, SC – Harbor Views

By Tripp Smith, Realtor/Photographer

Some call it old school, others call it the best of both worlds, and I would not argue with either. As a Charleston native with a love for the beaches, the historic city, and a yard big enough for privacy, to me James Island is it! Situated between rustic, laid back, nearby Folly Beach, and the faster-paced downtown peninsula, with its culinary scene and art galleries … James Island is where I have called home since 1997. For me, the old-growth trees, meandering creeks, constant sea breeze, and Holy City views across the harbor are what make it so captivating. Not to mention the down to earth nature of the residents and slightly slower pace of living that the island seems to attract. As a photographer with a passion for the outdoors, there is no better place, or views, than those as surreal as Sunrise Park with the cityscape of Charleston and its surrounding Sea Islands as a backdrop. As a father and family man, the offerings of its central location and wonderful James Island County Park makes this island a proud place to call home.

As time has passed, I have seen James Island change, but thankfully, not to the degree seen in much of the surrounding areas. To me, the older neighborhoods and homes have character, but many could benefit from a little updating. However for buyers, these lend themselves to being more affordable with the potential to renovate and get the upgrades and design features they want. Mostly it’s the baths and kitchen that show their age, however, even some of the retro tiles and designs are actually making their way back into style and may be able to be incorporated into the new design. Unfortunately, as Charleston grows, some of the desirable green spaces that define James Island are disappearing and being replaced with modern housing developments that offer newly built homes. While these developments offer affordability and low maintenance, the downside is many of these are on small lots and lack the shade and privacy of old-growth trees.

Homes on James Island, both old and new, are being scooped up quickly due to strong demand, which has led to a resurgence in real estate appreciation in all of Charleston and surrounding areas. James Island still has reasonable and affordable living, and with its easy direct access to the downtown peninsula via the James Island Connector, it is certain to see continued growth and development in the years to come.

NOTE: Visit us on Pinterest to learn more about what it’s like to live in this quiet Lowcountry community. If you’re looking to call this area home, our real estate team includes agents that are experts on James Island  Have a look some of the homes currently on the market …