If you’re wondering whether now is a good time to buy or sell a home in Beaufort, the short answer is: it depends on your goals — but yes, there are solid opportunities.
The market is neither wildly overheated nor in deep decline.
Prices are showing modest gains, inventory is increasing, and buyer behavior is shifting — which means both buyers and sellers can benefit if they act strategically.
Home Prices & Inventory Are Performing
Here’s what current data shows for Beaufort and Beaufort County in 2025:
- In the city of Beaufort, the median listing home price in May 2025 was approximately $499,000, up about 7.3% year-over-year.
- According to Zillow, typical home values in Beaufort were about $407,771, a slight increase (+0.8%) over the prior year.
- In Beaufort County, the median listing price was around $575,000 in September 2025, but that represented a −4% year-over-year change in listings.
- Inventory is rising: Beaufort County saw more homes available and longer days on market in several segments.
Interpretation for Buyers & Sellers:
- Sellers in well-positioned homes (strong condition, good location) may still capture good value.
- Buyers have more room to negotiate than they did during the height of the frenzy — especially if the home requires updates or isn’t in a premium zone.
Neither extreme “seller’s market” nor “buyer’s market” conditions dominate — the market is more balanced.
Why Some Homes Are Slower — And What That Means
Some homes in Beaufort are taking longer to sell or requiring more concessions. Key reasons:
- Homes in lower price ranges or needing significant updates are seeing more supply and less competition.
- Days on market have climbed in some areas — for example, 92 days median in some listings.
- As prices moderate and inventory grows, buyers are taking more time to decide and are more discerning.
What this means: For sellers, condition and presentation matter more than ever. For buyers, more patience and negotiation leverage are possible.
Who This Market Favors — Buyers, Sellers or Both?
For Sellers:
- If your home is updated, in a desirable neighborhood, and listed at a realistic price, you’re in good shape.
- However, overpricing or delayed preparation may lead to longer time on market or needing price reductions.
For Buyers:
- There is less upward pressure than earlier years, and more choices mean you can find value if you search carefully.
- Be mindful of condition, maintenance, and location — homes needing work may require negotiation or investment.
- Locking in a rate (or preparing for finance) remains critical given rising cost environment.
Bottom line:
If you’re selling a strong asset, now may be a “good time.” If you’re buying, now may be opportune — especially if you target condition, timing, and value. A balanced market like this offers opportunities for both sides who are well-prepared.
Strategic Tips Based on Your Goal
If You’re Selling:
- Get a local market analysis and prepare early — condition and presentation count.
- Price smart from the start to generate interest and avoid being stuck in a stagnant listing.
- Highlight lifestyle features (coastal access, historic charm, etc.) that attract Beaufort buyers.
If You’re Buying:
- Pre-qualify for financing and be ready to act — good homes still move.
- Consider homes that are well-maintained, as those may hold value better.
- Negotiate with intent — longer days on market can work in your favor.
If You’re Neither Rush Seller Nor Buyer:
- Watch the market. Trends suggest moderate growth, not explosive gains.
- Explore home improvements and repositioning your real-estate strategy for the next 12-18 months.
Looking Ahead — What’s on the Horizon for Beaufort?
Based on current indicators and market commentary:
- Price growth will likely remain modest rather than rapid.
- Inventory may continue rising slowly, which gives buyers more choices and places more pressure on sellers to execute.
- Homes that stand out (location, condition, unique features) will outperform.
- External factors — interest rates, insurance/flood risks in coastal zone, local development — could have outsized impact.
- For sellers who prepare and price smart, the next 12 months remain a favorable window.
Take the Next Step With Local Insights
If you’re thinking of buying or selling in Beaufort, you don’t want generic “statewide” advice — you want local insight.
At Carolina Properties at Lake Marion, we monitor the Beaufort and Lowcountry market daily. We’ll help you:
- Understand recent comps and neighborhood-specific trends
- Determine the right timing, whether you’re selling or buying
- Navigate coastal issues (flood zones, insurance, resale).
Call Carolina Properties Today for a custom market consultation in Beaufort.