Sumter, SC, is a popular tourist destination attracting vacationers and permanent residents with its southern charm, interesting history, and exciting arts district. It's an excellent choice for real estate investing, with steadily increasing home prices that are currently well below the national average.
Despite this, the real estate market in any area can be a minefield of complications and potential losses unless you do your homework before you invest.
One of the most successful investment strategies when searching for promising properties is to investigate up-and-coming neighborhoods first. These suburbs are almost guaranteed to provide good passive income from real estate investments, as they're highly sought-after by renters and vacationers alike.
Read on to explore Sumter's most promising neighborhoods before you start your home search.
Historic Downtown Sumter
Sumter's downtown area is undergoing a major revitalization, drawing an increasing stream of new businesses to this neighborhood. What's more, the city has partnered with financial institutions to offer a Low Interest Loan Program for buyers wanting to refurbish existing commercial and residential properties in this historic district.
The neighborhood offers a compelling blend of lovely architecture and vibrant culture with a thriving arts scene. It's a popular choice among entrepreneurs and young businesspeople wanting to enjoy convenience coupled with a trendy address and many entertainment options.
Millwood
Millwood is an excellent choice for investors if their target market is families, offering proximity to excellent public schools as well as the Sumter Career and Technology Center. This neighborhood offers a mix of modern and mid-century homes.
Due to growing demand, prices are a little higher in this part of Sumter, averaging about $40,000 above the city average. It's a clean, convenient, and homely area where neighbors dedicate their time to pursuits like gardening, home improvement, and barbecues.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake is named after the lake that brushes against its border with Millwood and is another family-friendly option, close to four highly rated schools. This area is a seller's market, but prices remain lower than the surrounding areas for now.
Although you'll need a car if you live in this neighborhood, it's well-known for its lovely environment and easy access to parks, walking trails, and the gorgeous Swan Lake Iris Gardens.
This is another tight-knit community where family comes first and recreational activities are geared toward all ages.
Timberline Meadows
Timberline Meadows is a new housing development located just five miles from downtown Sumter. Residents enjoy access to delicious dining opportunities, regular festivals and events, and peaceful natural attractions.
The neighborhood is close to Patriot Park, which offers a pavilion for private events and sports activities as well as nature trails and walking paths. Residents enjoy an easy commute to the city along Highway 378.
Large, upscale brick homes range between 2300 and 4000 square feet in size, and the community is governed by a covenant to ensure high building standards. If you're unsure about how this may affect your investment, a reputable property management company can help you navigate this aspect.
Wedgefield
Located about a 34-minute drive from the city, Wedgefield has a suburban-rural vibe and offers a peaceful, family-oriented environment. It's known for this happy blend of tranquility and convenience as well as its well-maintained, attractive neighborhoods.
Low crime rates are offset by the slightly higher cost of living in this sophisticated neighborhood. Residents enjoy access to hunting, fishing, and a nearby state park for their recreational needs.
Over 70% of Wedgefield residents own their homes, so there's a sizable rental market in this area for property investors to target.
Mayesville
Mayesville is a top choice for retirees thanks to its peaceful, suburban-rural atmosphere and country vibe. It's a small, friendly community where most people are on friendly terms and spend their time walking their dogs, enjoying time in nature, or gardening.
Mayesville has the distinction of being less crowded than most other areas in America. As more people are simplifying their lives by leaving the bustle of the city, this area could prove fruitful for investors wanting to attract these types of tenants or buy and hold a property for future sale.
Stonecroft
Stonecroft stands out for its warm southern culture and diverse and beautiful architecture. This residential enclave prioritizes aesthetics, so you'll find the gardens and parks well-maintained within a thoughtfully orchestrated infrastructure.
Residents enjoy access to an array of amenities such as recreational spaces, walking trails, and beautifully landscaped parks. Outdoor enthusiasts revel in the chance to form close bonds during regular community events and festivals.
This neighborhood is close to Shaw Air Force Base, ensuring a steady stream of renters, and is part of a thriving HOA, ensuring your investment is well protected.
Beach Forest
This new construction community offers a range of designs to choose from at varying price points. The designs are low-maintenance, with brick, stone, or fiber cement siding, and the land is flat with tree-lined avenues meandering among the homes.
Amenities in this community include a swimming pool and a clubhouse, which are conducive to creating a close community vibe. Many pretty freshwater ponds adorn the landscaped common areas, and the community offers sweeping waterfront views from most properties.
If you're looking for a home in an upmarket, well-located, and safe community, Beach Forest is a good choice for you.
Perfecting Your Real Estate Investing Efforts
Whether you're a first-time investor, a seasoned pro, or a home buyer, Sumter's up-and-coming neighborhoods are an excellent choice when it comes to real estate investing. The city abounds with luxury homes, cozy dwellings, and modern apartments to suit every preference.
How do you go about making the best choice for you? Partnering with a reputable property management and brokerage firm is a good place to start. These experts are well-versed in local real estate market trends to help you find the most profitable properties in town.
Southern Touch Property Management is the first choice for real estate investors in Sumter, SC. Ably led by Michelle, a real estate broker with over 15 years of experience in Sumter, our committed team provides every client with expert, personalized service and unbeatable prices.
Browse our blog for more property investment tips or reach out for expert assistance with growing and managing your property portfolio.