Where the Momentum Is Building—and Why It Matters
Not all growth happens at once. While the broader Myrtle Beach market remains active, certain neighborhoods are seeing sharper increases in buyer interest, inventory turnover, and long-term appreciation potential.
Whether you’re considering a move or watching your property’s value, paying attention to where the momentum is building can help you act more strategically.
Here’s a look at a few areas gaining traction this year—and what’s driving that shift.
1. Carolina Forest
Why It’s Moving:
Carolina Forest continues to be one of the most active submarkets west of the Intracoastal. With new construction options, solid school zones, and strong infrastructure, it offers value for both primary buyers and investors. Inventory is tight, especially in established sections like Covington Lake and The Farm, where resale activity remains high.
Who it’s attracting:
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Relocation buyers
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Families seeking newer homes without coastal premiums
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Investors targeting long-term rental stability
2. Surfside Beach
Why It’s Moving:
While always in demand, Surfside Beach is drawing new attention from buyers who want walkable coastal living without Myrtle Beach crowds. The return of seasonal tourism, combined with low resale inventory under $700K, has made this a competitive market—especially in communities like Surfside Beach Club and The Lakes.
Who it’s attracting:
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Second-home buyers
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Sellers trading up from inland areas
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Buyers looking for long-term rental income potential
3. Little River
Why It’s Moving:
Little River has long been undervalued relative to its Intracoastal location. That’s starting to change. With marina access, new construction under $500K, and proximity to North Myrtle without the traffic, it’s gaining attention—especially among retirees and out-of-state buyers looking for a quieter pace.
Who it’s attracting:
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Buyers relocating from the Northeast
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Retirees seeking low-maintenance living
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First-time buyers priced out of central Myrtle Beach
4. Pawleys Island & Litchfield
Why It’s Moving:
This area has always attracted a specific buyer—one seeking historic charm, privacy, and low turnover. But with more high-net-worth buyers looking for second homes with character (not just space), demand is increasing. Homes in The Reserve and Litchfield by the Sea are selling faster, with less negotiation.
Who it’s attracting:
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Discerning second-home buyers
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Retirees looking for architectural charm
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Sellers exploring whether now is the time to cash out
5. North Myrtle Beach (Cherry Grove & Tidewater)
Why It’s Moving:
While North Myrtle Beach remains a perennial favorite, certain pockets—especially Cherry Grove and Tidewater—are seeing sharper gains. Waterfront access, golf course frontage, and the ability to short-term rent have kept these areas active even as other segments cool.
Who it’s attracting:
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Vacation rental investors
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Buyers seeking water access without full-time resort density
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Locals trading up to larger homes with view corridors
How I Track Momentum
Market shifts don’t happen overnight. I track neighborhood-level data weekly:
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Days on market
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Price-to-list ratios
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Inventory movement
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Buyer activity by property type
This allows me to guide clients with more than just opinions—it’s advice backed by what the numbers show, not just what trends say.
Curious about how your neighborhood stacks up—or where to focus your search next? Let’s connect. I’ll walk you through what’s heating up, what’s holding steady, and where the opportunities really are.
