When entering the Port of Charleston, ships are guided in by expert harbor pilots – local experts that know every depth and every sandbar; every current and every tide.
These in-depth articles are here to familiarize homebuyers with the process of purchasing property in Charleston, authored by a local Charlestonian with knowledge of factors unique to the Lowcountry that are critical for smooth sailing.
![A circular cropped photo of real estate broker Bryan McElveen looking to his left. He has short brown hair, a longsleeve collared pink shirt with rolled up sleeves, and a silver wristwatch.](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Bryan-McElveen-2016-circle-300x300.png)
![The Renaissance Condominiums in Mount Pleasant](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Renaissance-Condominiums-1-300x225.jpg)
Condominium Guide
Charleston’s condominium market is as diverse as the city itself, offering a range of options from luxurious waterfront properties to charming historic buildings in the heart of downtown.
![Storm surge waves crashing over East Battery Street](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Hurricane-Irma-storm-surge-at-The-Battery-300x225.jpg)
Flood Insurance Guide
Owning property in a place we have lovingly christened The Lowcountry is clearly going to involve a conversation about tropical events. Most places around here
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Lowcountry Weather Guide
The Charleston weather patterns may fluctuate year to year as with anywhere else, here’s a fair assessment from a local who has seen it all.
![](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Park-Circle-homes-aerial-Glenshaw-Street-tax-values-300x300.jpg)
Property Tax Guide
Demystify Charleston’s property tax system with our in-depth guide. Unravel intricacies of tax rates, exemptions, and assessments impacting your property value. Whether you’re a homeowner or investor, navigate the tax landscape with ease.
![A street view of Charleston Single Houses in Ansonborough with a row of crepe myrtle trees along the sidewalk](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Charleston-Single-Houses-01-300x225.jpg)
Short Term Rental Buying Guide
Property owners that wish to operate a short term rental must be knowledgeable of all the various ordinances imposed by municipalities and homeowners associations, in addition to the desirability of the property on the rental market.
![People riding bicycles in downtown Charleston, SC](https://www.charlestonlivability.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/King-Street-bicyclists-e1425231629770-300x236.jpg)
Student Home Buying Guide
Undergraduate students attending College of Charleston often enjoy on-campus life for their freshman year, which can smooth the transition from high school to living as a