With the final months of 2024 upon us, it's safe to say that the year has been simultaneously quiet and busy all at the same time. As buyers, sellers, and Realtors alike waited with bated breath to see what the rates would do this year, many markets had seen some stabilization and normalization from the first two years after COVID, when sales skyrocketed, and bidding wars were daily occurrences. Charleston was no stranger to the madness as our little cape by the sea has increased in popularity nationwide as a top place to live.
With skyrocketing prices and bidding wars followed by low inventory and high interest rates, having a knowledgeable Realtor to guide buyers through the market was vital. The Cassina Group, established in 2006 by co-founders Jimmy Dye and Robertson Allen, has been a cornerstone of the Charleston real estate market and monumental in the industry. For the past several years, they've been ranked as the #1 Boutique Real Estate firm in the area, and it's no surprise why.
Their passion and dedication to their clients, combined with a top-notch team, have contributed to the firm's tremendous success in the past year. Hard work and an efficient team "I like we’re seeing a return to a more normalized, pre-pandemic market, but there is still difficulty with inventory being very, very low," said Allen when asked about how 2024 compares with the previous post-pandemic years. He and Dye also agree that some parts of the area have seen growth in the past year, such as Upper Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, and Rural West Ashley.
Beaufort and Georgetown have also seen a lot of development and growth in recent years. No matter the region, low inventory and steep interest rates haven't stopped the market in this particular corner of the world. Dye and Allen report that the firm has already exceeded its numbers from last year and expects to finish with another record-breaking year.
"If the house is ready to go, turnkey, and priced properly, then it sells," adds Allen. Of course, Dye and Allen attribute their success to the top-notch team of agents they've assembled. They have focused on hiring agents with the same level of dedication and passion for the market that they carry themselves, and their efforts and careful selection have paid off.
"We're extremely fortunate to have a group of professionals under our roof," says Allen. "Our agents and staff keep Cassina doing what we do best." "We've created a really strong company culture," adds Dye, noting that while the team is competitive, they are all dedicated to pushing each other to pursue success and working together to succeed for the good of the firm.
They also attribute their success to the strong network they've built outside the agency. From brokers and mortgage lenders to home inspectors and staging companies, they acknowledge that it takes a village to sell a home in today's market, and The Cassina Group has built a strong village. Loving the location Today's Top Headlines Story continues below How did 14 of the world’s deadliest snakes end up in a South Carolina neighborhood? North Myrtle Beach's Alligator Adventure offers $6.
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2M Commentary: I'm tired of being called a book banner — and of our loss of common sense TGI Fridays says thanks as it exits the Charleston market on a Tuesday When clients ask him what the good side of town is, Dye enthusiastically answers, "All of them!" He notes that Charleston's growth in the past decade hasn't just been residential but also commercial. "25 years ago, you basically had to start your own business, but now there's so much industry and opportunity. We have history, phenomenal schools, colleges, hospitals, golf, and other activities.
It's a very diverse lifestyle," he adds. "The diversity of the area and the many different people you'll meet is why I love living here." Allen agrees that residents flock from all over for Charleston's beautiful living and career opportunities.
As a Charlestonian, he's seen the city's landscape change and expand. "I've grown up here. It's certainly changed, but there's so many good things that have been added," Allen says.
Both Dye and Allen agree that their team is equally passionate about what makes Charleston such a great place to live and are instilled with the same level of care. They are locals who want to help other locals, which makes all the difference in the level of service their team provides. Celebrating the present and looking to the future While the fourth quarter can be a bit of a toss-up in real estate, Dye anticipates a bountiful quarter with "strong listing inventory.
" Both partners expect the year to end on a strong note, setting them up for a successful year next year. "We're excited for 2025," says Allen. "Our goal is to beat what we did the year before.
" While the next year looks bright, there have also been plenty of shining moments this year as well. 1702 Ion Avenue offered double wrap-around porches and a quintessential view of Lowcountry living. It also holds the title of "largest surviving structure of officers at Fort Moultrie.
" 27 Lamboll Street, another notable Cassina Group sale, was a true South of Broad gem. It features a gorgeous gourmet kitchen, tall ceilings, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Other features include crown molding, high-end appliances, and luxury touches.
Whether a grand seaside sanctuary or a petite yet picturesque downtown townhome, every client who has the pleasure of crossing paths with a Cassina Group agent is met with the highest level of professionalism and attention to detail. "We're extremely proud of the company we've built," says Dye..
