The Bottom Line from the Darla Moore School of Business
- The South Carolina economy remains stable, having readjusted to more sustainable growth patterns following the end of the pandemic bubble
- Consumer spending — the biggest contributor to GDP — has slowed as the cumulative effects of inflation continue to weigh on purchasing power, and ongoing trade negotiations keep economic uncertainty elevated
- The U.S. is on pace to experience slower growth in 2025 compared to 2024
- If inflation rebounds, consumer spending will be constrained and limit economic growth; if inflation remains stable or trends downward, the Fed moves toward rate cuts in Q3/Q4 — which could boost market activity heading into 2026
How This Impacts the 2026 Real Estate Market
The economic outlook for 2025 closely mirrors what we're seeing in the real estate market. After the rapid growth and frenzy of the pandemic years, both the economy and housing market have shifted into a more stable, normalized phase. Buyers are more thoughtful, sellers are more strategic, and pricing is being driven by fundamentals again — not urgency.
If inflation remains steady and interest rates ease, this sets the stage for a healthier, more balanced real estate market heading into 2026. For Old Village and Old Mount Pleasant specifically, the neighborhood fundamentals remain unchanged: tight inventory, loyal demand, no HOA, and a Lowcountry lifestyle that never goes out of style.
Less frenzy. More clarity. Reach out if you'd like to talk through what this means for your specific situation. 843-991-9111.
Source: CTAR Annual Residential Market Update / Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina.