For years, real estate investors and second-home buyers have focused on the same major markets: Charleston, Nashville, Atlanta, Asheville. But now? Many are turning their eyes to places you won’t see on the top-10 lists.
Why? Because smaller markets offer something big cities don’t: affordability, lifestyle, and room to grow.
📍 What’s Driving the Shift?
1. Remote Work is Permanent (for Many)
More buyers can live where they want—not just where their job is. That opens the door to lake towns, mountain communities, and smaller cities with better quality of life.
2. Price Pressure in Major Markets
Big-city prices have pushed people out. In smaller towns, the same budget can buy you more home, more land, and more peace.
3. Short-Term Rental Growth
Places like Savannah Lakes Village or Edisto Beach have seen huge growth in Airbnb and VRBO demand—without the regulation headaches found in larger tourist hubs.
4. Long-Term Appreciation in “Up Next” Areas
Smart investors are always looking 5–10 years ahead. The towns that are “up and coming” now may be tomorrow’s hot markets.
Who This Strategy Works For
- First-time investors looking to get into the game at a lower price point
- Retirees ready to buy now, rent it out, and move in later
- Second-home buyers who want a weekend escape that pays for itself
- Out-of-state investors seeking cash flow without coastal price tags
Pro Tip: Look for Places With These 3 Traits
- Steady population growth (even small increases matter)
- Strong rental demand from either tourists or local tenants
- Limited new construction, which helps keep inventory tight
Sound like a place you know? I can show you a few.
If you’ve been priced out of traditional markets or are just looking for a smarter way to invest—small-town real estate could be your next big win. But the window of opportunity doesn’t stay open forever.
Looking for your perfect real estate match? Finding your dream agent is easy with www.kellarlawrence.com. Our team consists of top Real Estate agents to help you with any of your real estate needs! Call us at 864-942-8991. Or feel free to share our contact information with anyone you know who needs expert help in buying or selling their home.
