• ItemNo. As of early 2026, the Greenville real estate market is in a "Great Housing Reset," characterized by price stabilization and healthy inventory growth. With a 3.7-month supply of homes and a median sale price of approximately $350,285, the market is supported by genuine regional job growth rather than speculation. description

  • Spartanburg is approximately 4.7% less expensive than Greenville. While Greenville offers higher walkability and more lifestyle amenities, Spartanburg provides 0.9% higher average salaries and lower housing costs, resulting in roughly $3,300 more in annual disposable income for the average resident.

  • South Carolina remains a top choice for tax-conscious buyers. Primary residences are taxed at a 4% assessment rate, significantly lower than the 6% rate for secondary homes. Additionally, 2026 legislative updates provide significant exemptions for primary residences of individuals over 65 or disabled veterans.

  • Five Forks remains the gold standard for families due to its A-rated schools and master-planned communities. Other top choices include Simpsonville for its small-town charm, Greer for its proximity to BMW and GSP Airport, and Taylors for established neighborhoods with mature landscapes and mid-range pricing.

  • Top retirement destinations in 2026 include Wade Hampton for its convenience and safety, and Five Forks for its quiet suburban feel. Specialized 55+ communities like Swansgate and the new Del Webb Greenville offer gated security and active lifestyle amenities with home prices averaging around $320,000.Item description

  • Travelers Rest (TR) is the premier gateway to the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. The 23-mile paved path connects TR directly to downtown Greenville, making it a "short-term rental powerhouse" and a top choice for buyers prioritizing outdoor recreation and biking.

  • The Village of West Greenville is currently the high-growth "creative heart" of the city. Investors are seeing strong returns on historic mill renovations and trendy lofts. For those seeking stability, the Augusta Road (05) corridor maintains premium value even during national market fluctuations.

  • For first-time buyers using FHA or local lending, Taylors and Greer offer the best value, with median prices ranging from $300,000 to $450,000. These areas provide the best balance of affordability and commute times to major employment hubs in Greenville and Spartanburg.

  • As of January 2026, the Upstate SC market holds a 3.7-month supply of inventory. While this is an 8.9% increase year-over-year, it remains below the 6-month threshold for a traditional "Buyer's Market," keeping the region in a balanced state that favors neither buyers nor sellers excessively.

  • Mortgage rates in Greenville have stabilized in the low 6% range (averaging ~6.3%). For the first time since 2020, typical monthly payments are expected to fall by approximately 1.3% as rate stability offsets modest home price appreciation in the local area.

When you started your home buying journey, you might have only considered the financial perks that homeownership could give, including a more stable monthly housing costs and building equity.

But when you think about it, it's love that drives you to provide a safe and comfortable environment for yourself and your loved ones. To have a place designed for your needs and desires is enough to fuel you when searching for a home you can call your own.

This love month, let’s highlight the equally powerful emotional and non-financial benefits of owning a home.

 

Bottom line

Make sure you consider not only the financial perks of homeownership but the many amazing emotional and psychological benefits it has to offer. And when you're ready to find your forever home, find and connect with the right matchmaker—a trusted real estate agent who will guide you to the home of your dreams.