Tuesday, August 5, 2008

We All Live On the Edge of America

While the bulk of the article is about the attempt to regulate – or at least refine – the atmosphere of the town, the paragraphs below describe in microcosm what is happening throughout the Lowcountry. Just zoom out a step or two in Google maps, and today's blog title is clearly illustrated. From Folly to Summerville we all live on the edge of America, and while the coast isn't growing, the population is. Putting aside all social and sentimental questions and implications, I'll tell you one thing for sure: Right now is an incredible time to own property in Charleston!

"A decade ago, the total assessed value of Folly Beach properties was $11.2 million. This year: $64 million. Before 1997, America’s edge included not a single condominium complex. Today, there are 18 developments with roughly 400 units total.

In that same time frame, the city has revitalized the Center Street business district and grown it an extra block wide, where businesses such as the Lost Dog Cafe and the Surf Bar now reside, plus a brand-new City Hall.

In recent years, Folly Beach also has seen the addition of a Design and Review Board, several new parks and a revitalized pier. In 2005, Folly Beach fattened up by 30 acres and extended its reach toward James Island, annexing the property where Piggly Wiggly and the Treasure Island beach store now sit. It also picked up both Bowen’s and Peas islands.

At the same time, living on Folly Beach has become a much more expensive venture. Median home prices on the island have more than doubled, from about $200,000 during the first six months of 1998 to $413,000 during the same period this year. Five years ago, the median home price on Folly Beach was $330,900, meaning home prices have jumped almost 25% in the past five years."

For the full Charleston Regional Business Journal article: http://www.charlestonbusiness.com/current/14_16/news/12512-1.html

No comments: