Columbia, SC real estate: buy or sell with a local AXEN agent
Columbia has historic neighborhoods near the university, lake homes on Lake Murray nearby and newer suburbs in the northeast. South Carolina rules on closings and property tax matter here. An AXEN agent who works here walks you through them.
Columbia neighborhoods buyers ask about
Every one prices differently. Ask your agent for the latest sales in the ones you like.
Also near Columbia:
Buying a home in Columbia: what to know
The steps are the same everywhere. These are the South Carolina and Columbia details that trip people up.
Get pre-approved →-
Will it be your main home? South Carolina taxes a primary residence at a 4% assessment ratio and second homes and rentals at 6%, so your tax bill depends on how you use it.
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Plan for an attorney closing. In South Carolina a licensed attorney must oversee the closing.
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Older home? Inspect the big items. Many homes near downtown are decades old. Check the roof, wiring, plumbing and crawl space for moisture.
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Using a VA loan? Many buyers near Fort Jackson use VA loans. Talk to a lender early and plan for the VA appraisal.
Selling a home in Columbia
Fill out the disclosure
South Carolina sellers must give a Residential Property Condition Disclosure. Be complete; it protects you.
Know your closing costs
South Carolina charges a deed recording fee of $3.70 per $1,000 of price, usually paid by the seller.
Fix the easy items
A pre-listing inspection and a few small repairs can keep buyers from asking for more later.
Columbia real estate questions
Do I need an attorney to close in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina requires a licensed attorney to oversee the closing.
Why is my South Carolina tax bill higher on a second home?
A primary residence is assessed at 4% of its value and second homes and rentals at 6%, so the same home can have a much higher bill if it is not your main home.
What does it cost to sell in South Carolina?
Besides agent pay, the state and county deed recording fee totals $3.70 per $1,000 of price, usually paid by the seller.
Does it cost anything to talk to an AXEN agent in Columbia?
No. Talking with an AXEN agent about buying or selling in Columbia is free.
Buying or selling in Columbia? Talk to a local agent.
An AXEN agent who works in Columbia answers your questions for free. No cost to talk. No pressure to sign anything.