Dear Editor,

Affordable housing has become a statewide issue, and Charleston has not been spared of the burden. Rentals are averaging $1,300 per month with most minimum wage workers earning $1,200 per month. The average cost of purchasing a home in Charleston is $357,200: more than $153,000 above the overall state average. 

The South Carolina REALTORS® (SCR) are focused on promoting the standards of living that all South Carolinians deserve. As REALTORS®, we have unique resources and knowledge that enable us to lead the community to a sustainable and affordable future. 

We’ve utilized these resources to develop the South Carolina Good Life Initiative – a project aiming to preserve quality of life in South Carolina. Charleston’s affordable housing crisis is due in part to rapid population growth. Growth is great, however, traffic, taxes, overall affordability, and environmental impact are growing pains that have to be addressed. With large corporations expanding to South Carolina, the cost of living keeps increasing. Additionally, continued development in the Charleston area has led to more people living at or below sea level and more at risk for flooding issues. The S.C. Good Life Initiative works to ensure that South Carolina preserves livable conditions throughout the state. 

SCR is here to help voice concerns surrounding all issues related to growth, affordability, and the environment. For more information, visit goodlife.screaltors.org or email goodlife@screaltors.org.

Sincerely, 

Owen Tyler
2020 President of South Carolina REALTORS®
2014 Charleston Trident Association REALTORS®, REALTOR® of the Year recipient
2013 President of Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS®