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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:48
Average Price:$3,395,806
Highest Listing Price:$12,000,000
Average Days On Market:156
Average Price/SqFt:$989
Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC currently has fourty-eight (48) for sale on MLS. Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC listings have an average sales price of $3,395,806 ranging in price from $384,900 to $12,000,000. The average sq ft home size of Historic Homes For Sale Charleston SC Charleston SC is 3,434 square feet. The largest property for sale is 11,737 sqft and smallest 384 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 156 days on the market.

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Number of MLS Listings 1 - 9 of 48

Welcome to the Captain John Morrison House at 125 Tradd Street. Circa 1805, this rare, four-window-wide Charleston Single-style residence has been extensively renovated both inside and out. The interior showcases a refined blend of luxurious modern finishes and preserved historic architectural details throughout. The first floor features a grand living room, an elegant dining room, a well-appointed kitchen, and a spacious family room located in the attached kitchen house, seamlessly opening to the garden for effortless indoor-outdoor living.Upstairs, the second floor hosts a beautifully finished primary suite along with a stunning drawing room overlooking the charm of historic Tradd Street. The third floor includes three additional bedrooms and two thoughtfully remodeled bathrooms.The second level of the kitchen house offers a private guest suite with sweeping views of the manicured grounds. Exterior highlights include triple-tiered piazzas that provide abundant outdoor living space, a gated entrance, and a deep, reimagined garden offering total privacy, complete with a new swimming pool and pool house (contains an additional 266 square feet of conditioned space not included in the overall square footage). Featuring distinctive details and top-tier finishes throughout, 125 Tradd Street is a truly exceptional property located in the heart of Charleston's prestigious South of Broad neighborhood. Exterior easement with Historic Charleston Foundation.
View details Beds - 5 Baths - 4 Sqft - 5442
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
MAGNIFICENT 9.139-ACRE HISTORIC WATERFRONT ESTATE ON EDISTO ISLAND A RARE OFFERING IN THE HEART OF THE ACE BASIN - ALONG SCENIC STORE CREEK Step back in time and experience the grandeur of Lowcountry living on this breathtaking 9.139-acre estate with approximately 535' on the water, nestled along the banks of Store Creek in the heart of South Carolina's protected ACE Basin. This remarkable historic property features five unique structures, each brimming with character, history, and timeless Southern charm.THE MAIN RESIDENCEBuilt in the early 1800s, the main house spans approximately 5,010 sq. ft. and showcases elegant Neoclassical design. With 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 2 half baths, the home was thoughtfully constructed one room deep to maximize ventilation andcapture the the prevailing sea breezes from its southern-facing rear overlooking Store Creek. The interiors reflect understated grace and classic proportions, making it both inviting and functional. The home is sold furnished, with a few exceptions. THE GUEST COTTAGE-"THE COTTON HOUSE" Originally used for drying and storing bales of cotton and speculated to have once served as the overseer's residence, this historic structure was carefully dismantled and restored in 2008, preserving as much original wood as possible. It now serves as a charming 1,072 sq. ft. guest cottage with 1 bedroom, 1 full bath, 1 half bath, and a cozy living/kitchen area. The nearby bell, once used to call workers from the fields to meals, remains a tangible link to the past. Most of the furniture remains. THE PAVILION-OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING AT ITS FINEST Perfect for gatherings, the pavilion features a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, cookware, a half bath, and a brick masonry wood-burning fireplaceideal for entertaining amid the sights and sounds of nature. DR. POPE'S HISTORIC MEDICAL OFFICE An authentic piece of history, this preserved building once served as Dr. Pope's medical office. Still housing his original equipment, bottles, and doctor's bag, it has been carefully updated to include climate control and a bathroom, offering a fascinating glimpse into early medical practice. THE DEEPWATER DOCK Enjoy direct access to Store Creek and beyond via the large Deepwater dock, complete with a covered pier head, ramp and floating dock. With approximately 40 feet of water depth, it accommodates a wide range of boating and recreational activities year-round. MODERN COMFORTS THOUGHTFULLY INTEGRATED While steeped in history, this exceptional estate has been carefully updated with modern conveniences to enhance comfort and functionality. Notable improvements include a whole house reverse osmosis water system with a 1,000-gallon filtered water storage tank and deep well that services the main residence, guest house and pavilion. A property backup generator ensures peace of mind during power outages, providing uninterrupted service to all major structures. Inside the main house, all bathrooms have been tastefully renovated with updated vanities, countertops, fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and custom tile walk-in showers. The kitchen has been completely transformed, featuring stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, quartzite countertops, and modern plumbing upgrades, blending historic charm with everyday ease. Edisto Island is a small sea island nestled in the heart of the protected ACE Basin, Edisto Island lies just 42 miles south of Historic Charleston, yet feels a world away. You approach the island via the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, a stunning 14-mile drive beneath a canopy of ancient live oaks draped in Spanish mossa serene prelude to the relaxed pace of island life. Edisto has preserved its natural charm. Wildlife thrives on Edisto. Dolphins glide through the creeks, deer roam the woodlands, and birdwatchers can spot everything from pelicans and egrets to the vibrant painted bunting. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, Edisto Island remains one of South Carolina's most peaceful and treasured coastal escapes. This one-of-a-kind estate offers the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern comfort, all within the protected serenity of Edisto Island. Rarely does a property of this provenance and privacy become availableschedule your private viewing today. To help protect and preserve the plantation, Middleton Plantation has a conservation easement with the Edisto Island Open Land Trust. PLEASE NOTE: Additional detailed information is available upon request, including a recorded plat, room-by-room details for the main residence, the Middleton Historic Timeline, and more.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 3 Sqft - 5010
Like stepping onto a Slim Aarons set, 42 South Battery, also known as the Robert Murray House is a must see! Built in 1802 & prestigiously located at the corner of King & S Battery, with views of White Point Gardens, the Battery & Charleston Harbor.This iconic estate boasts historically significant gardens designed by Loutrel Briggs which were restored in 2021, with new hardscaping & irrigation added. The crown jewel of the majestic gardens is a round plunge pool surrounded by towering palm trees & hedges. The beautiful grounds are large enough to host a party fit for the Great Gatsby!The original architectural features have been remarkably retained with preserved period details such as heart pine floors, moldings & Adams mantels.This home was extensively renovated in 2024-2025, adding exquisite curated interiors to match the exterior beauty. Notable features include: an elevator to 3 floors, bespoke Degournay wallpaper with lacquered wood trim in dining room, a heated & cooled 4th floor room was added for storage or playroom (hence the additional square footage from previous listings), exterior paint changed from yellow to pink, all new custom baths, kitchen, custom cabinetry, custom closet designs in every bedroom, tankless water heater added, interior completely repainted, double wraparound piazzas, large separate wine fridge, flex space off of the living room was repurposed to potentially be used as an extra bedroom, if not used as an office. In addition, the roof was recoated in 2025. Custom draperies & all light fixtures to convey with sale. The seller is also willing to sell the custom painted grand piano in the living room. The 2nd floor is currently entirely dedicated to the primary suite with 2 full baths; however it could be reverted to its original use of 2 bedrooms. Each bedroom has its own en suite bath & each custom designed in differing unique & notable styles. In addition, the 3 main bedrooms all have fireplaces. This gated estate boasts room for parking approximately 5-6 cars depending upon size, still leaving ample room for outdoor entertaining & enjoyment. Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to own & enjoy a legacy estate for years to come! See attached for Floor Plans (completed July 2025). If sqft is important, please measure. The information herein is furnished to the best of the Listing Agent's knowledge, but is subject to verification by the purchaser & their agent. Listing Agent assumes no responsibility for correctness thereof, nor warrant the accuracy of the information or the condition of the property. Buyer to verify schools.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 5 Sqft - 4637
Nestled in the Ace Basin, this approximate 276 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 1.0 mile 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 20-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, featuring water features and stocked ponds, 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
A rare and sophisticated Southern residence awaits at the Humphrey Sommers House, c. 1778.Situated on a quiet corner of Bedons Alley in the old walled city of Charleston, this refined 18th century residence effortlessly marries period charm with contemporary grace. Located just steps from Charleston's sparkling waterfront, this South of Broad home sits on high ground in the X flood zone (no flood insurance required) and offers an easy Low Country lifestyle in the heart of the best historic Downtown has to offer. Walk to restaurants, bakeries, galleries andshops from this truly convenient lock and leave home.The gracious entryway offers a sweeping staircase upon entry, with access to the large formal living room and dining rooms, each with inviting historic fireplaces. The expansive kitchen offers an open plan and great light with updated appliances and high end countertops and cabinetry. Designed for entertaining, the appliance package includes double wall ovens, six burner gas cooktop with grill and a built in bar with discreet wine fridge. A comfortable sitting area features French doors leading to a serene courtyard garden, where manicured greenery, ambient LED lighting, and historic brick walls create a tranquil outdoor escape. Blooming magnolia and lemon trees bring fragrance and color to the landscape, and there's ample room to add a plunge pool should you desire a splash of luxury. Off the kitchen are charming stairs leading to a very nice two room guest suite with full bath, and access to the spacious laundry room with ample storage. Upstairs you'll find a luxurious and spacious primary suite with large sitting area, fireplace, walk-in closet and spa-like bath. Dual vanities, his and hers water closets, a soaking tub and separate shower complete the recently renovated bathroom, and the beautiful wall of windows offers amazing morning light for starting your day. Two additional closets are perfect for linens and luggage and multiple light and bright windows add to the appeal of this lovely suite. Across the hall enjoy a spacious upstairs library or office which includes its own balcony with peek-a-boo views of the harbor and charming Tradd street. The third floor features two large guest rooms with multiple closets, each featuring a private en-suite bath, and great light and city views. Downstairs, access to one of the two garages, directly from the kitchen, offers a convenience and a luxury unheard of in this historic section of the city, and allows for a truly turn-key, lock and leave property. With timeless architecture, lush outdoor living, and unmatched character, The Humphrey Sommers House is more than a home - it is a piece of Charleston's living history, waiting for its next chapter.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 4 Sqft - 5197
In the heart of Charleston's historic South of Broad neighborhood, on high ground, the Jacob Motte House at 61 Tradd Street is a rare and remarkable fusion of 18th-century charm and modern sophistication. Originally built in 1731 by provincial treasurer Jacob Motte, this Georgian-style single house stands as one of Charleston's earliest surviving residences. Carefully restored through a multi-year, comprehensive renovation, the home today reflects both its colonial heritage and contemporary design excellence.From the street, the classic Charleston single house facade gives way to gracious piazzas, with almost 1000 square feet of additional space, and an entry loggia, which have been thoughtfully preserved and reimagined. Once enclosed and adjoined to the home's dependency through a shared party wall, these spaces now house a beautifully reconfigured kitchen and bathrooms. The chef's kitchen, complete with GE Monogram appliances, Waterworks and deVOL fixtures, mudroom, and butler's pantry, sit behind the home's historic volumeseamlessly connecting to the living areas through restored historic openings. Brickwork from the home's original addition has been carefully repointed and left exposed, while salvaged stucco and a glazed steel entry door honor the original architectural elements. The home spans four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, each blending elegance with function. The second-floor primary suite has been completely redesigned to offer walk-in closets, a freestanding tub, and a private water closetall accessed through a preserved historic fenestration, allowing original paneling and casework to remain untouched. On the third floor, previously unsympathetic alterations were reversed to restore the natural rhythm of the space, aligning rooms with original windows and fireplaces. A second bathroom was structurally reinforced and updated with modern finishes, while a mid century attic stair was removed to uncover hidden piazza windows. This restoration allowed the primary stair to extend to a new fourth-floor bedroom and bath, now fully integrated into the home. Throughout, the house features heart pine floors, soaring ceilings, and original cypress panelingtimeless details that evoke its storied past. Outside, the double piazzas offer peaceful retreats ideal for entertaining or enjoying Charleston's historic ambiance. This home is more than just a residenceit is a stewardship of one of the city's architectural treasures. Just steps from renowned dining, shops, and cultural landmarks, the Jacob Motte House offers the rare opportunity to live at the crossroads of preservation and modern luxury.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 4 Sqft - 4465
The Sottile-Glover Mansion is an exceptional building, which is listed in the prestigious National Register of Historic Places. The first recorded sale of 81 Rutledge Avenue, then known as 6 Rutledge Street, was in 1775.Estate OverviewThree buildings on 79 & 81 Rutledge AvenueMain building (built in 1826) - a grand residence ideal for entertaining, featuring large rooms and piazzasOriginal house (pre-1775) - now divided into:Four-bedroom long-term rentalTwo-bedroom short-term rentalThird building - former carriage house with three stories, now used for storageAmple parking availablePrime location - Walking distance to MUSC, King Street, Colonial Lake, Broad Street, and the College of CharlestonProperty Description " Carriage house (third building) " Originally housed carriages, a community room for servants, and seven small bedrooms " Middle house (original house) " Built before 1775, constructed using wooden pegs " Now divided into rental units " Main house " Built in 1826 by Dr. J. Glover with 18-36 inch thick brick walls " Formerly served as the Italian consulate " Original painted ceilings deteriorated, but gold leaf cornices in the living and dining rooms remain " Cornices were custom-made in France to fit windows, mirrors, and French doors Historical Significance " First recorded sale in 1775 - included the building now used as rental property " 1826 - Mansion built by Dr. Joseph Glover (1740-1840), a respected physician and advocate for urban greenery " Later ownership " Arthur Gordon Rose (1794-1880) - President of the Bank of Charleston " Early 1900s - Used as a school for girls, later purchased by the Benjamin Moise family " 1906 - Bought by Giovanni Sottile, Italian Consul, who added Italianate details " Hosted King Victor Emanuel of Italy " 1991 - Passed to Carmelina Sottile Thompson " 1999 - Purchased by the current owners Architectural & Preservation Details " Mid-19th & early 20th century - Italianate embellishments and ironwork added " Front doors feature ornate grille work, similar to those at 1 Broad Street (possibly linked to banker Arthur G. Rose) " Hand-carved vestibule door with fruit relief, made in England " Kitchen renovated in 2023 - New cabinets and appliances " Original floor plan remains intact - Owners prioritize historic integrity " Structural enhancements " Air conditioners added to rooms without them " Sump pump system installed to prevent flooding " Survived earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and war Gardens & Atmosphere " Ideal for entertaining - Hosted numerous parties, charity events, and musical gatherings " Lush gardens with over 80-year-old sago palms " Other plantings include loquats, pomegranates, camellias, hydrangeas, and azaleas, cared for by the current owner This historic Charleston estate offers a blend of grandeur, history, and tranquility, preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.
View details Beds - 11 Baths - 6 Sqft - 11737
Absolutely stunning renovated c. 1842 masonry South Of Broad home! Parking, high ground, guest house, pool, luxury gourmet kitchen, home office/den. This home checks all of the boxes for a Charleston residence in the city's most desirable neighborhood. Originally a bake house, this home was thoughtfully renovated to the studs by the prior owner in 2022 with architectural design by E.E. Fava including re-imagining the floorplan and adding a stunning room of windows overlooking the outdoor space, an expanded two story carriage house with a wall of glass overlooking the pool, and a primary suite with plentiful closet space and large bathroom. 2 additional spacious bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms in the main house.
View details Beds - 4 Baths - 4 Sqft - 3756

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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