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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:42
Average Price:$3,619,394
Highest Listing Price:$22,250,000
Average Days On Market:151
Average Price/SqFt:$1,020
Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC currently has fourty-two (42) for sale on MLS. Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC listings have an average sales price of $3,619,394 ranging in price from $469,000 to $22,250,000. The average sq ft home size of Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC Charleston SC is 3,550 square feet. The largest property for sale is 9,709 sqft and smallest 393 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 151 days on the market.

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Number of MLS Listings 1 - 9 of 42

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
Phenomenal STR rental history!!! 60 & 60 1/2 Cannon Street is a 16BD/13BA trophy property providing investors with the rare opportunity to acquire an asset with tremendous presence, character, and scale in the city's most dynamic location. The property is situated on a deep 0.25-acre lot consisting of 13 off-street parking spots. It has already been condo'd into 5 separate tax map numbers split between a historic 1835 street facing triplex and 2004 rear duplex, each available for individual sale. TMS: 460-08-03-038 (All Units Combined), 60 A: 460-08-03-240, 60 B/C: 460-08-03-241 & 460-08-03-242, 60 1/2 A: 460-08-03-243, and 60 1/2 B: 460-08-03-244. All units will be sold fully stocked and furnished. *LEGAL & LICENSED BY THE CITY OF CHARLESTON, PERMIT 04872, 04873, 04432, & 04433.*This property is part of a partial portfolio sale consisting of the following addresses: 40 Spring Street A&B (6BD/6.5BA) TMS: 460-08-02-024 90 Spring Street A&B (8BD/6.5BA) TMS:460-08-03-181 65 Spring Street (Commercial Space) TMS: 460-08-03-053
View details Beds - 16 Baths - 0 Sqft - 7005
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
The Jacobson Building, c. 1794, at 19 Broad Street is one of the most recognizable facades in historic downtown Charleston. It's Greek Revival granite portico on the first floor currently houses Jake's Market, while the later stucco-over-brick second and third floors house rental apartments and the owner's suite. The entire building, with storefront, storage room, rear courtyard, 4 apartments, and a rooftop deck - along with restaurant equipment and most furnishings in the rentals - are included in the sale. This presents an excellent opportunity to reside atop one of the most famous addresses in Charleston, while maintaining a lucrative short- or long-term rental business, plus operate an eatery or other commercial or professional endeavor out of the storefront.The first 2 levels of the structure retain exposed brick, heart pine floors, soaring 16' ceilings with massive 14' windows overlooking Broad Street, and historic moldings. The third floor contrasts with a luxurious modern esthetic. All spaces have spectacular views of Broad Street and the iconic People's Building directly across the street. STOREFRONT The instantly-recognizable granite façade coupled with the bustling foot traffic along Broad Street make this an ideal business space. In addition to an eatery, it would also make an excellent office, art gallery, or shop. The restaurant fixtures convey if the new owner wishes to continue this line of business. It includes a half bath. To the back of the building is a large electrified storeroom which also has a half bath, that could be remodeled into an office space. To the left of the storefront, next to Oak Steakhouse, is an alleyway that leads behind the building to a courtyard and the storage space as well as rental unit D. Next to it is a staircase that leads to the second floor vestibule and units B and C, and then to the third floor owner's suite. There is also a private elevator that rises from the alleyway to the rooftop deck. UNIT D 1st Floor Studio | 1 Bed & 1 Full Bath | 700 sqft Stroll down the alleyway into a landscaped courtyard to access this loft-style apartment. The 12' high open space is dominated by a fireplace with stucco hearth topped with historic molding. Discover remnants of the building's architectural history in the exposed brick walls. Aged heart pine floors delineate the sleeping area. Enjoy meals and entertaining in the full kitchen with gas stove and large eat-in island. The full bath includes a stacked laundry closet. UNIT B 2nd Floor Apartment | 2 Beds & 2 Full Baths | 2000 sqft With show-stopping 16' ceilings and central fireplace with original brick hearth, the great room of this apartment is sure to impress. As will the full kitchen and 2 full baths, plus combo washer/dryer. Both bedrooms have their own sitting areas. The enormous primary bedroom is lined with 2 walls of 14' windows. It includes an en suite bath. Be sure to note some of the building's original architecture in the recessed area above the bath. The spacious second bedroom also sports a fireplace. UNIT C 2nd Floor Efficiency | 1 Bed & 1 Full Bath | 500 sqft 14' ceilings make the square footage of this efficiency apartment feel more expansive. Five 12' windows envelop the space. In addition to the bed, there's a sitting area and kitchenette with microwave, mini fridge, and bar sink. Enjoy meals from the dining table perched atop the pediment of the main door overlooking bustling Broad Street below. The full bath in this unit includes a separate tub and shower. This space can easily be opened to unit B through the vestibule to create a 3 bed/3 bath residence. UNIT A 3rd Floor Owner's Suite | 1 Bed & 1.5 Baths The third floor interior has been completely modernized by Buz Morris in 2012. With its dramatic curving lines and partial walls that keep the space open, it exemplifies his philosophy of being "faithful to the building or place's origins while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences." It includes a full kitchen with gas stove and marble countertops. Wood floors and stucco fireplaces in both the dining and living areas define the interior architecture. The bedroom has a built-in bed and cabinetry. Its en suite bath has dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a serene glass tile shower. Enjoy bird's eye views of downtown rooftops as well as the steeple of the Holy City's St. Phillip's Church past Broad Street. The cherry on the top: a private rooftop deck that can also be accessed from an elevator that reaches from the first floor alleyway. LOCATION 19 Broad Street is located in the oldest part of historic downtown Charleston, at the intersection of the South of Broad and French Quarter neighborhoods. It's one block from some of Charleston's most famous attractions, including the Battery and White Point Garden, the Market, Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park with its picturesque Pineapple Fountain, and even the oldest liquor store in America. Walk to the Four Corners of Law, St. Philip's Church, the Dock Street Theatre, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, the Nathaniel Russell House, the William's (formerly Calhoun) Mansion, and more. Dine at world-class restaurants on the same block including Oak Steakhouse, The Establishment, Brasserie La Banque and its below ground cocktail bar, La Vauté, and the Prohibition-era Blind Tiger Pub. The best restaurants, shopping, history, architecture, parks, art galleries, and museums that Charleston has to offer are all just footsteps away from the Jacobson Building. 19 BROAD STREET HISTORY The original structure at 19 Broad Street was built in 1794 by local merchant Andrew Kerr. Then in 1817 it was rebuilt to house a bank. It was remodeled with a new façade (the first floor of which remains) in 1840. It continued to serve as various banks until 1861 at the outbreak of the Civil War. In 1873, it became the headquarters of The News and Courier, a predecessor to today's Post and Courier. It served in this capacity until 1902. The earthquake of 1886 caused significant damage, but it was repaired, as evinced by its earthquake bolts. Afterwards, the top 2 stories became simple stucco over brick. The Jacobson Building (as well as Jake's Market) earned its current moniker from lawyer I.H. "Jake" Jacobson, who bought the building to start his law firm in 1953. For 20 years, he practiced law here until his death in 1973. At this point it was passed to his grandson, the current owner. He converted to the current inn/condo concept in 2002, while retaining the ground-level storefront. Now you have the opportunity to put your mark on this extraordinary building with 18th century roots.
View details Beds - 5 Baths - 0 Sqft - 5700

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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