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Historic homes for sale in SC, Charleston. Historic properties for you maybe be different to someone else, but as far as Charleston SC is concerned it usually refers to any house built before 1850. Here in South Carolina downtown Charleston SC homes are where the vast majority of historic homes for sale will be found since Charleston was one of the largest port cities in the world when we were but 13 colonies. Columbia SC also has historic homes, but they don’t go back to the 1600s like some do in Charleston. Owning historical property in downtown Charleston SC can be both very cool yet challenging at the same time as they are much different than a newer home. 

Some of the historic houses of downtown were so large they have been split up into smaller homes or condos to accommodate today’s lifestyle vs the massive plantation style homes of yesteryear. 

MLS Listings Data

Total Listings:36
Average Price:$4,034,805
Highest Listing Price:$22,250,000
Average Days On Market:149
Average Price/SqFt:$1,044
Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC currently has thirty-six (36) for sale on MLS. Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC listings have an average sales price of $4,034,805 ranging in price from $559,000 to $22,250,000. The average sq ft home size of Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC Charleston SC is 3,866 square feet. The largest property for sale is 9,709 sqft and smallest 400 sqft. View property listings for sale by price, street, subdivision, age, property type, location, features, size, and listing date, and time on MLS with an of 149 days on the market.

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Number of MLS Listings 1 - 9 of 36

Located on High Battery, with sweeping and uninterrupted views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter, sits one of the grandest homes in the city, the John Ravenel House. This historic residence, circa 1848, is one of Charleston's most recognized homes and was recently reimagined during a multi-year renovation. Rebuilt after the 1886 earthquake, the stuccoed brick home showcases stunning Italianate entablature and lintels, creating an instantly recognizable facade. Inside, the spacious, three-story home retains beautifully preserved details including period fixtures, original mantles, hardwood floors, restored moldings and door surrounds, and ceiling medallions that are historically inspired re-creations.Large formal rooms and generous bedroom suites create an inviting layout for everyday living and unparalleled entertaining. The private walled grounds are equally spectacular, featuring formal gardens designed by Perry Guillot who revamped the Rose Garden at the White House, a private pool and spa, and lush landscaping that creates an oasis of beauty and privacy. A detached three-bedroom carriage house complements the mother-in-law/staff/guest wing in the main home, affording ample room for family and friends. The meticulous multi-year renovation was led by renowned industry professionals, including Richard "Moby" Marks (builder), Glenn Keyes (architect), Richard Keith Langham (decorator), and Perry Guillot (landscape architect). This conglomeration of talent resulted in the extraordinary in-town compound. The meticulousness is matched only by the artistry that went into the re-creation. The foyer features an intricate custom patterned floor designed by local artist and decorative painter Karl Beckwith Smith, who also hand painted wallpaper in the second floor powder room and crafted exquisite gilded valence holders in the parlor. The first floor includes an office, a sleek cinema room, and a kitchen with high-end appliances and a soapstone center island. But perhaps the most unique room on this floor is the grand sunroom. The home's original porch was enclosed with glass created by an artisan from Northern Italy to capture the same effect as Villa d'Este on Lake Como. Natural light bathes this room throughout the day which contains not only charming seating areas but also plentiful dining spaces. Of additional note on this floor is a vast pantry and laundry space. On the second floor, you will find a library with custom bookcases by Richard Marks Studio, a living room spanning the width of the house with glistening views of the Charleston harbor, and a formal dining room outfitted with exquisite custom wallpaper. An upstairs serving kitchen with warming trays, built-in China cabinets and a bar make for seamless entertaining. Expansive piazzas seamlessly offer outdoor living and dining spaces and stunning views of the water, with easy access from multiple rooms on this floor. Tucked in the rear of the home is the mother-in-law wing, a separate space which includes a bedroom with an en suite bath, kitchenette, and an additional room (currently configured as an exercise room). This space could also be utilized as two bedrooms with a shared full bath. The uppermost floor of the home features the primary suite, which opens to a private piazza overlooking the harbor, and includes multiple closets and an updated en suite bath with custom dual marble vanities, a fireplace, shower, and a cast iron tub. Two additional bedroom suites and a family room with built-in bookshelves complete the floor. A striking feature of a home of this grandeur is the fact that the family spaces are as warm and inviting as the entertaining spaces are grand, a true testament to the dream team who reimagined it. The home also offers an elevator, a state of the art sound system, four full bars, ample wine storage, a two car garage, stand-up air conditioned attic space, as well as a generator. In addition to the home's double covered piazzas, there is also a breathtaking rooftop deck, which offers a panoramic view of the water and picturesque sunrises and sunsets over Charleston Harbor. The property's formal gardens were reconstructed during the renovation and are complete with a pristine pool area, enclosed by privacy hedges. In this rear area of the property you will find not only a separate pool house but also a detached guest house with a living room, kitchenette, and three lovely bedroom suites. Situated within walking distance to Charleston's finest parks, shops, restaurants, and galleries, this iconic home presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Charleston's storied past.
View details Beds - 8 Baths - 7 Sqft - 9407
Welcome to a truly unique property nestled on 68 acres of lush, Lowcountry landscape. This magnificent marshfront estate offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history and experience the epitome of luxurious Southern living. It is located in northern Beaufort County with easy access to Charleston, Beaufort, Hilton Head and Savannah. Impeccably maintained, the estate boasts a grand 7,724 square foot main house, complemented by a host of other various residences, including two charming guest houses and a manager's house. The estate also features a stately library and a traditional lantern, along with additional structures such as a thriving greenhouse with potting shed, two equipment sheds, a workshed with a bathroom, and a 4-car garage. There are also an array of outdooramenities like an inviting swimming pool, fire pit, and a tidal creek dock to enjoy. Main House: The expertly preserved main house greets you with its classic Southern charm and grandeur. With over 7,000 square feet of living space, this elegant residence exudes a harmonious blend of timeless architecture and modern comforts. The expansive wraparound front porch measures over 2,750 square feet and is oriented to ensure constant breezes from all angles of the property. Beautifully appointed interior spaces reflect thoughtful and tasteful design. High ceilings, intricate moldings, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape are just some of the highlights that make this house a true masterpiece. Guest Houses: Enhancing the allure of this property are two charming guest houses that offer a perfect retreat for friends and family complete with fireplaces. These thoughtfully designed dwellings provide all the privacy and comfort one could desire, ensuring an unforgettable stay for your guests. Library: For the book lovers and intellectuals, the stately library provides a serene and scholarly environment. Adorned with rich wood paneling and a fireplace, this room creates a warm ambiance that invites you to relax and immerse yourself in your favorite literature. Manager's House: The convenience of a manager's house on the property allows for seamless management and care of this vast estate. Ensuring the property is well looked after, the manager's house provides a practical and comfortable living space for a full-time caretaker. Outdoor Oasis: Nestled amidst the vast greenery, a 4-car garage, equipment shed, and potting shed offer ample storage space for all your needs. The property also features a delightful lantern that adds an enchanting touch to the outdoor space, creating an idyllic atmosphere during evenings. A fishing pond is a nice feature, and there is also a tidal creek dock so you can explore the surrounding waterways. Swimming Pool and Greenhouse: Summers are best spent by the pool, and this estate offers just that. A private swimming pool beckons you to unwind and soak in the sunshine, while the fire pit area is perfect for cooler evenings. Additionally, for the gardening enthusiasts, a well-maintained greenhouse provides the perfect space to nurture a variety of plants and flowers year-round along with magnificent gardens complete with pigeonniers. Land: Spanning 68 acres, the marshfront estate offers endless possibilities for recreational activities, agricultural pursuits, and natural beauty, including two private islands. Experience the tranquility of the countryside, tidal creek dock, and revel in the breathtaking views that surround this remarkable property. The property offers 3200' of river shoreline fronting Huspah Creek. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own this Southern gem. Immerse yourself in the rich history, abundant amenities, and unparalleled beauty of this Seabrook plantation. Schedule your private tour today and embrace a life of luxury, sophistication, and serene living.
View details Beds - 10 Baths - 13 Sqft - 9709
Nestled in the Ace Basin, this 731-acre 18th-century plantation property, ''Dawn of Hope'', seamlessly blends historical charm with modern luxury. With over 80% high ground, the meticulously maintained property highlights the serene Lowcountry beauty, boasting approximately 2.5 miles of Ashepoo River frontage, a deep-water dock, and a boat launch. An elegantly renovated and rebuilt early 19th-century home, fully furnished with 5 bedrooms, offers a perfect juxtaposition of historic elegance and comfort. Complete with captivating views of the river and a 25-acre flooded rice pond. A grand center hall offers views of the pond and gardens from the entrance to the inviting outdoor terrace across the back of the home.This main hall centers the seamless flow of the property, connecting the grand Cypress Room with a magnificent cathedral ceiling and a stately brick fireplace which is one among several gracing the property. The Cypress Room transitions into an elegant office space and an adjoining sunroom, offering panoramic views of the meticulously curated gardens and magnificent grand oaks. The dining room beckons with glass doors that unveil an enchanting view of the 18th-century garden. The 4 guest suites are located off the center hall, each a sanctuary of refined comfort and relaxation. Accessed through its own private entrance surrounded by grand old camellias and an arbor of bougainvillea, the primary suite wing features a cupola, a fireplace, and a luxurious bath. The center hall leads into the large family room which connects to the outdoor terrace through a folding glass wall to create an ideal gathering space. The designer kitchen features a LaCornue stove, top-of-the-line appliances, and finished wooden countertops with brass capping, all while offering captivating views of the serene Lowcountry landscape from every vantage point. The outdoor kitchen can be accessed from the outdoor terrace. The plantation is adorned with majestic Live Oaks, creating a scenic backdrop, while water features include stocked ponds, a 10-acre duck impoundment, and over 200 acres of cultivated quail fields. Abundant diverse wildlife including deer, dove, and turkey, caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Additional amenities include a horse stable, a hay barn, a shooting range, a hunting cottage, and an outdoor pavilion on the pond overlooking the home. This estate is located approximately 50 minutes from Charleston and 14 miles from the Lowcountry Regional Airport in Walterboro. The Lowcountry Land Trust holds a conservation easement on the property.
View details Beds - 5 Baths - 5 Sqft - 4108
Incredible, deep renovation just completed, with everything done to the highest level of quality. No expense spared, nothing needs to be done for years, if not decades! Elegant, solid masonry construction for the main home and the guest house, all from the Greek Revival period of Charleston. Both main and separate one-bedroom guest house surrounds the professionally designed garden. Nothing was left untouched: systems, electrical, kitchen/baths, windows, doors, roof, piazzas, structure, even solar panels for additional electrical support. In the garden there is an all-new design, stone, planting, irrigation and draining, plus new gated parking, and a built-in car charger in the parking area.The main house features 3 generous bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, plus formal and second-floor library, which could be used as a 4th bedroom if needed in the main. The garden guest house to the rear of the property is equally charming, situated over two levels, all perfectly done in an English cottage style offering an additional bedroom and 1.5 bathrooms. In addition, near the guest house is generously enclosed storage for bicycles, scooters, or to be used as a workshop or studio. No conservation easements have been taken.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 4 Sqft - 4375
Welcome to 38 Hasell, a classically elegant, astonishingly grand solid brick estate offering 14 foot ceilings, intricate historic mouldings, period fireplace hearths, and over 1800 square feet of outdoor space on covered patios and wide porticoes. This property brings the outside in with formal living spaces opening to porches, amazing views of the gardens and incredible light in every season. Built in 1838 in a classic side hall single style, 38 Hasell is truly the Jewel of Ansonborough. The main living level provides a formal living room, formal dining room, informal dining, and an incredible spacious eat in kitchen with informal den/sitting area. Also on the main level is a nice private bedroom suite with full bath, perfect for one level livingor a mother-in-law suite due to the separate exterior entrance. Upstairs two front bedrooms and two bathrooms offer great closets and ample guest space and privacy. The comfortable office opens to the piazza with incredible views of the expansive gardens. A master wing completes this level, with a large dressing room, laundry, spacious bedroom with walk in closet and comfortable bath. Downstairs provides an entirely private apartment, perfect for live in help or as a rental for income. A private entrance and two bedrooms, an office and full kitchen make up this cozy retreat. Outside the gardens are sure to delight, laid out with sun dappled garden rooms and ample space for a magnificent pool or water feature. This exceptional home has not been to market in over 30 years. It has been lovingly restored by a local family, has hosted countless intimate dinner parties and comfortable summer soirees, and is certain to delight its new owners with the grand Charleston Lifestyle it can provide.
View details Beds - 6 Baths - 6 Sqft - 6511
Imagine owning a piece of Charleston history, a rare opportunity to purchase the historic McCauley Davis Building. Sitting amid a Broad St renaissance, this architectural marvel has been affectionately restored into a mixed-use of luxury private residences and commercial retail space. Sitting at street level on Broad, Unit A is a sophisticated retail space with open floor plan. Above, Unit C stands as a testament to luxury, a 3-story residence featuring 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths with rooftop deck, while behind sits Unit B, a stunning 2 bedroom/2.5 bath residence. The attention to detail is nothing short of exquisite, from the hand-milled carpentry to the exposed brick and craftsmanship of the kitchens, every detail throughout has been immaculately considered.Unit B is a fully furnished 1,500 sqft of luxury living. Character exudes throughout with all the classic Charleston features: exposed brick and wood beams, heart pine floors, custom kitchen, copper lanterns, master bed balcony, and private outdoor terrace with fountain and garden. Turn this masterpiece into your primary residence, lock-n-leave, high-end rental, or combine with unit C and transform into a grand 5 bed/7 bath masterpiece. Unit C you'll be greeted by 2,500 sqft open floor plan that includes a stylish living room with terrace and custom kitchen with windows overlooking Broad St. Gas fireplaces in both rooms provide the perfect ambiance for hosting! Two spacious bedrooms on the 3rd floor of Unit C each have their own private bathrooms, including outdoor space with a private terrace. The entirety of the 4th floor is occupied by the master bedroom and bath. This exquisite master suite boasts a wine refrigerator, a bar for mixing drinks, and stairwell access to a massive rooftop deck, providing 360-degree views of the Charleston skyline. The master bathroom is the epitome of sophistication, surpassing conventional standards. This unit also comes fully furnished. The property is nestled just a few steps away from the city's top-tier restaurants, art galleries, and high-end shopping district on King Street. 29 Broad Street presents a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury and convenience. Whether you're seeking the perfect property, an elite location in Charleston, or a sophisticated turnkey income-generating investment, 29 Broad Street is sure to exceed all expectations.
View details Beds - 5 Baths - 0 Sqft - 4750
27 State Street is nestled in the heartof Charleston's French Quarter historicdistrict at the landmark corner of Stateand Queen Street. Built in 1814 withinthe original walled city of Charles Town,the three-and-a-half story, mixeduseproperty consists of a first-floorart gallery, a Bed & Breakfast, threeapartment units, and an owner's suite.The separate entities are grouped arounda courtyard and piazza, which is protectedfrom the street with Philip Simmons gates.The white marble steps in the courtyardwere salvaged from the St. John'sHotel (Mills House Hotel) when it wasdemolished in 1969. The bedrooms havefine Neoclassical architectural detailsdating to the time of construction. Thefireplace mantel in the owner's suite is aWellford composition.
View details Beds - 7 Baths - 7 Sqft - 7877
The grandeur of Downtown Charleston awaits at the Stephen Shrewsbury House in the coveted Ansonborough neighborhood. A solid-brick single house, 40 Laurens Street commands attention with two levels of iconic piazzas and a ground-level veranda courtyard. The circa 1809 home showcases exquisite Adamesque woodworking, including period mantels and mouldings, expertly curated by the original builder, who had a background in carpentry. With 4.5 living levels and over 6,000 square feet, this residence offers ample room to entertain guests for legendary house parties. The courtyard, separate from the generous gated off-street parking area, provides an idyllic walled sanctuary with minimal maintenance for the perfect lock-and-leave lifestyle.Extensively renovated in 2021, the luxury kitchen wows with high-end finishes and appliances like the Wolf six-burner range and Sub Zero refrigerator. A handsome fireplace, lovingly incorporated into the new kitchen design, infuses the space with character. A comfortable, informal dining area completes the space, with additional refrigeration drawers and bar stool seating. Accessible by the grand staircase and the three-stop elevator, the primary suite encompasses the entire second floor, featuring a library, primary bedroom, recently renovated bath, and walk-in closet. The fourth floor offers two spacious full-height guest rooms with a shared bath - also recently redone- and a third bedroom on the upper dormer level. The Garden Level, also accessible by the elevator, provides a spacious guest or nanny suite with a dedicated living space. The location of this stunning and well-preserved property is unbeatable, within two blocks of the grocery store, close proximity to the beating heart of the city's fine dining and nightlife, cultural performance venues, and Marion Square - truly walkable to all of the best that Downtown Charleston has to offer. Live like a local in grand fashion at 40 Laurens; schedule your showing today.
View details Beds - 5 Baths - 3 Sqft - 6165
The Adams-Ingraham House c. 1808 is a rare and exceptional historic home in the coveted Ansonborough neighborhood of downtown Charleston. Sited on a quiet block of Laurens Street the home features a unique curved marble stair leading to a charming Charleston piazza and offers grand rooms with fabulous light and scale. The central stair hall separates a grand formal living room and stunning formal dining room with gorgeous wallpaper murals. A comfortable library sits near the custom kitchen and wetbar and offers a quiet retreat for study. The grand kitchen with historic brick floor overlooks a sparkling pool with Glen Gardner designed gardens providing an incredible vista for daily enjoyment.Upstairs the master suite has a large bath ready for your dream finishes, and two large walk in closets. Also on the master level is another large bedroom, currently used as an office with a full bath as well as laundry. Upstairs the two large full height bedrooms share a hall bath with access to maintain the rooftop via staircase and hatch. This property includes 2 spacious rental apartments for separate and private guest spaces or an opportunity for additional income. The main house offers a total of 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 3624 Square Feet with the additional square footage in the back rental properties. Ample parking, a luxurious pool, room to add value, and an incredible storied history await at 50 Laurens.
View details Beds - 6 Baths - 5 Sqft - 3624

PURCHASING HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN CHARLESTON

When renovating homes in historic downtown Charleston we strive to achieve nothing but excellence with the goal of receiving the highest honor you can get; coveted Carolopolis award. The Carolopolis Award is a plaque placed on buildings that have been preserved, restored, rehabilitated or are outstanding examples of new construction downtown. The award is presented to those individuals, businesses or organizations that currently own the property.  Award program was created to recognize outstanding achievement in exterior preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and new construction in the city of Charleston.

Environmental – Economical – Educational :

  • Rehabilitating historic structures and improving existing infrastructure is more environmentally-friendly than to destroy and replace them.
  • Historic preservation initiatives and programs help to manage environmental effects of suburban sprawl, including increased traffic and environmental dilapidation.
  • By protecting and advocating for the reinvestment in the historic cores of Charleston and its Lowcountry environs, the effects of negative growth can be greatly avoided.
  • Learning the history of a community and its historical sites encourages a sense of neighborhood and appeal.When historic buildings and resources are protected, they are the focal point of revitalization in the community which is, in return, appealing to visitors for heritage tourism.
  • Preservation promotes positive growth and is a tool to revitalize and re-invest in neighborhoods, older communities and commercial districts.

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