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Local realtor Natasha Viswanathan is a Lowcountry native who loves the Charleston food scene, paddle boarding on Shem Creek, + helping folks find their next Charleston home. Here are some helpful tips she has shared on all things CHS real estate.
So, you want to move to Charleston, huh? Well, I guess I can't see why: this place is stuffed with beautiful beaches, absolutely packed with delicious restaurants, and was named the friendliest city in the world ... among other things! 😉 Okay, I guess I get it!

I am so grateful to be a Lowcountry native, born and raised on Hilton Head Island. I’ve called Charleston home for a while now, and I get to welcome people here daily! I thought I’d share some quick real estate tips if you are beginning your Charleston home search that may make the process a bit easier for you.

Three Charleston real estate tips:

1. Learn about flood zones + flood insurance – it can be costly depending on where you are looking. Talking to an insurance professional is important before you buy a home.

2. Know what you can afford by talking to a lender BEFORE you start shopping. The money conversation is never fun, but it is quite important. Taxes, insurance, flood insurance, + neighborhood fees are just some of what is considered to make up your monthly payment … so the sales price of a home you can afford may change depending on these factors. A lender can help! (Oh, and you don’t have to put 20% down, that is a myth! Often, 3% down can secure a loan for a new home!)

3. Learn about the homeowner association for a neighborhood you may like + what they offer you along with their restrictions. Homeowner associations can be great since they often help maintain the beauty of a community, but they come with a price. Knowing what their fees are is important to the overall picture.

My best piece of advice? Find a REALTOR® you like and trust - we have the skinny on all the things Charleston + we are all willing to help answer your questions. Good agents are constantly up to date on market trends, new and established communities, and new vs. used construction. And, they usually can make the process fun! So, don’t do it alone, and happy house hunting in Charleston! Welcome to the best city on Earth. 🙂

- Natasha Viswanathan