What’s happening in the Charleston real estate market as we close out 2025?

Despite national headlines and mixed signals, the Charleston area real estate market remains active and resilient—but it's anything but simple. Behind the numbers lies a story of shifting expectations, emotional negotiations, and a market trying to redefine "normal."

Not Just the Numbers: The Reality of the Market

Sales are happening. Prices are still up. Inventory is moving. But ask any local agent—including our team at Lauren Zurilla & Associates—and they'll tell you: this is the hardest we’ve ever worked to close deals.

Homes are taking longer to sell, and buyer-seller expectations often clash. Buyers think it’s 2008. Sellers think it’s still 2022. That disconnect is leading to multiple offers that go nowhere, deals falling through, and negotiations that feel more like standoffs than conversations.

The Emotional Landscape of Negotiation

In many cases, we're seeing two or three offers come in on a listing—but none of them convert. Offers fall apart due to mismatched timelines, unrealistic terms, or lack of clarity around commitment. It’s no longer just about price. It’s about:

• Move-in dates
• Due diligence terms
• Down payment amounts
• Seller confidence

The emotional tension is real. If a seller needs 60 days and a buyer needs 30, that alone can break a deal.

What "Normal" Looks Like in Charleston

We've heard people say, "I can't wait until the market goes back to normal."

But in real estate, "normal" is a moving target. Right now, 45 days on market feels like an eternity—even though pre-pandemic, that was standard. Lowball offers in the first week of a listing create distrust and stall any potential future negotiation. And when homes don’t sell immediately, assumptions fly.

The Charleston area is still one of the top relocation destinations in the U.S. Our average sale price in Charleston County hovers around $1.1 million. That’s higher than ever—and today’s buyers are demanding perfection. If they’re paying top dollar, they want updated finishes and move-in-ready condition. Anything less feels like a project they didn’t sign up for.

How Buyers and Sellers Can Actually Win

Here’s the bottom line: buyers and sellers can succeed in this market, but only if they come to the table with grounded expectations.

Buyers: Make fair offers that reflect the market, not fear-based assumptions.

Sellers: Stay open-minded, especially around timing and concessions.

Agents: Guide with empathy and data—not pressure.

If you're trying to figure out where your home or neighborhood stands in all of this, let's talk. Every pocket of Charleston has its own rhythm, and we can help you decode yours.

Final Thoughts

The Charleston real estate market in November 2025 is not broken—it's evolving. Yes, it's taking more effort to get to the closing table, but the demand is still here. If everyone steps back from the drama and focuses on facts, great deals are still getting done.

Want a clear picture of what's happening in your neighborhood?

Schedule a market update consultation with Lauren Zurilla & Associates to understand how today’s trends are impacting your area. Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or just staying informed, we’re here to guide you with clarity and confidence.

Warmly,

Lauren, Tina and Gigi | Lauren Zurilla & Associates

P.S. - Follow us on social media for the latest real estate news!  @laurenzurillarealestate or @livingincharlestoncountysc on YouTube