Greenville real estate
Greenville is a typical old Southern plantation township, with long tradition and a colorful history. The area began to prosper during the late 1700s, with increasing numbers of settlers pouring in. The old town was developed around the present East Court and South Main localities. Today it is a fully developed town with all modern amenities and facilities. Now it stands along with Columbia and Charleston, as one of the most prominent cities in the state. It is also credited with being among the fastest growing counties in South Carolina. Influential members of the business and cultural section of the community are committed to raising the standards of the city to top international levels.
One of the principal reasons attributed to its growth is its strategic location, as it lies under the foothills of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, away from the hustle and bustle of the prosperous Charleston. Many of the wealthy citizens of Charleston developed residential sites in Greenville, to get away from the disease prone coastal area with its hot and humid climate. Another factor that contributed to its development was the rise of the textile industry in the area in the early 20th century. This led to a rise in demand for land and expansion of the city.
Greenville Real Estate
After a period of decline, the city began a process of revival during the 1970s. Educational, recreational and cultural facilities started coming up. Industrial development also gained momentum, especially in the automobile and hotel sector. Because of the overall economic development, employment opportunities are increasing and the area has a high level of education and per-capita income. With more people being attracted to the area the demand for residential and commercial properties rose considerably in the following years. In spite of the healthy demand for real estate and rise in values, the property prices are relatively lower compared to other similar cities.
Localities and Real Estate Agents
Real estate prices differ considerably from neighborhood to neighborhood, and can also fluctuate unpredictably depending on factors pertaining to each locality. Buyers and sellers can get good deals with the help of agents in each locality. Areas attracting a lot of interest include Greer, Simpsonville, Mauldin, Travelers Rest, Fountain Inn, Taylors, etc. Greenville, with Pickens and Laurens counties, seems to be going against the national trend with market conditions a little better than the same period last year. South Carolina realtors estimate an increase of around 5% to 6% for the area while sales in the coastal regions are down by around 15% to 30%. Houses do not remain on the inventory list for more than about 75 days. But some April estimates for sales in the Greenville MLS region (excluding places like Spartanburg, Anderson, Easley, Lake Keowee, and some coastal areas) have the sales figures down by nearly 40%. The home prices averaged around $140,000 in 2006 and at present vary from $100,000 to $1,000,000 depending on location and size. There are about 6000 homes up for sale. In spite of a little sluggishness, the demand for residential and commercial properties maintains a healthy growth.
There are several real estate agents in the area who provide valuable information, assistance and specialized services for buyers and sellers of real estate in Greenville. They include Greater Greenville Association of Realtors, Joe Murmello Exit Upstate Realty, Mike Skillin Exit Realty, Cheryl Teague, Bill Terry & Associates, Mike & Eddie Ryder, ERA Top Guns Realty, etc. Many other competent and reliable agents for specific areas can be located through the internet.
Conclusion
There is no difference of opinion regarding the fact that the US is witnessing a general drop in real estate sales during 2006 and that it is likely to continue into early 2008. Goldman Sachs expects it to be 3% and Merrill Lynch estimates a 5% drop. But an article published in ?Fortune? predicts a rise of about 5% to 6% in Greenville for 2007. This is probably because properties are still reasonably priced and the area is ideal for settling down. It is not prone to natural calamities and the quality of life is excellent.
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