Any agents here familiar with STR zoning laws for Charleston SC

[Christopher Young]

Hey BP fam, Im considering Charleston to start my STR journey. From what I've read it looks like Cannonborough-Elliotborough is the only zoning area for out of state investors. Just wondering if anyone can confirm this? also if anyone has STRs themselves in Charleston, how is it going for you? Thanks !

[Troy Gandee]

@Christopher Young I think you're referring to the STR overlay. That's in the Canonborough-Elliotborough area, but it's just a sliver in those neighborhoods. In order to operate an STR full time with no owner-occupancy restrictions, the property must be in the overlay and also zoned commercial. It's pretty difficult to find a property that checks both boxes. There are quite a few listed, but they're expensive. They're trading as more of a hotel than a residential rental.

City of Charleston has 3 "zones" and the STR overlay. You can technically STR in any of the zones, but they all have degrees of owner-occupancy restrictions, permitting restrictions, etc. Downtown is obviously where the cashflow would be the highest, but there are quite a permitting/zoning restrictions to overcome there. The City's website has some really helpful maps and information. We can certainly help you, but just wanted you to know that it is pretty difficult unless you've got the resources to basically buy a boutique hotel.