Hilton Head Real Estate Market Update — November 2025

As we move through November 2025, Hilton Head Island’s real estate market continues to show why it remains one of the strongest and most resilient markets in the Southeast. Inventory has shifted from the ultra-tight conditions of previous years, but demand from buyers, second-home owners, and investors remains steady—and in some price points, intense.

This update is designed to give you a clear, practical look at what’s happening right now in Hilton Head and the surrounding Bluffton and Lowcountry areas, and what it means if you’re thinking about buying, selling, or holding property here.

Big Picture: What’s Happening in November 2025

In short: Pricing remains strong in desirable neighborhoods, inventory is more balanced than the past few years, and well-positioned properties are still moving quickly.

While exact numbers change month to month, a few clear themes stand out:

• Buyer demand remains healthy for well-located homes and villas.
• Serious buyers are still stepping up for quality STR and second-home opportunities.
• Properly priced properties in Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, Shipyard, Folly Field, and Hilton Head Plantation see steady showings.
• Interest rate conversations continue, but buyers in this market tend to be more lifestyle- and asset-focused than purely rate-driven.

Inventory: More Choice, But Still Limited in Key Areas

Compared to the extreme low-inventory conditions of 2021–2022, buyers in late 2025 have more options. However, “more options” does not mean oversupply—especially in high-demand areas close to the beach or within gated communities.

• Beach-proximate and golf community homes still see tight supply.
• Some higher price brackets have normalized inventory.
• Updated properties and those with strong STR potential remain in high demand.

For buyers, this means there’s a bit more breathing room to evaluate options. For sellers, it means pricing and presentation matter more than simply “being on the market.”

Pricing Trends: Strength with Some Segmentation

Prices across Hilton Head and the surrounding area remain historically strong. That said, the market is more segmented now:

• Turnkey homes and villas in top locations continue to command premium prices.
• Properties needing significant updates may sit longer or require sharper pricing.
• Ultra-luxury segments remain more sensitive to buyer selectivity and uniqueness.

Overall, sellers who price realistically and present their homes well are still achieving successful outcomes.

Short-Term Rental & Investment Market Check-In

The STR market remains an important pillar of Hilton Head’s overall real estate performance. Investors continue to prioritize:

• Proximity to the beach or resort amenities
• Floor plans and bedroom counts that fit family vacations
• Communities with strong guest appeal like Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, and Shipyard

Properties that combine lifestyle appeal with rental potential still see strong interest from buyers, especially those who understand cash flow, seasonality, and tax strategies such as depreciation and cost segregation.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, November 2025 presents an opportunity to:

• Explore a slightly broader range of inventory than the ultra-tight years behind us.
• Negotiate more thoughtfully while still recognizing strong local demand.
• Time a purchase before the spring 2026 demand wave.

If you’re an investor or STR buyer, this is also a good time to:

• Identify properties to renovate in the winter months.
• Prepare for peak rental seasons in spring and summer.
• Coordinate purchases with your tax and financial planning.

What This Means for Sellers

Sellers still benefit from a strong, well-recognized market—but success is no longer automatic. The properties that sell fastest and for the best prices tend to be:

• Accurately priced based on current data, not yesterday’s headlines.
• Presented well through staging, photography, and marketing.
• Easy to show, especially in resort communities and during high-traffic periods.

Proper pricing strategy is critical: list too high and you chase the market; list smart and you leverage remaining pent-up demand.

Frequently Asked Questions — November 2025

Is the Hilton Head market cooling off?

The pace has normalized compared to the frenzied years, but demand remains solid. Well-located, well-presented properties are still selling at strong numbers.

Is now a bad time to sell?

Not necessarily. It depends on your property type, location, and goals. Many sellers are still achieving excellent results in 2025.

Should I wait until spring 2026 to list?

Spring typically brings more buyer activity, but there are advantages to listing in late fall or winter when competition is lower. The best timing is specific to your property and situation.

Is Hilton Head still a strong market for investors?

Yes. Hilton Head continues to be a sought-after market for both lifestyle buyers and STR investors due to strong demand, tourism, and long-term fundamentals.

Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest in Hilton Head or Bluffton, it’s important to make decisions based on current local data—not just national headlines.

I can help you:

• Understand current pricing, competition, and buyer demand.
• Evaluate investment or STR opportunities based on your goals.
• Build a timing strategy around your next move.

Want a personalized November 2025 analysis of your property or buying plans? Reach out and I’ll walk you through it.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult with appropriate professionals regarding your specific circumstances.

About the Author

By: Donna Gilmore – Realtor & Director of Operations for the #1 eXp Team in South Carolina

Expert Real Estate Mentor & Team Transition Specialist | AI Systems Strategist for Top-Producing Agents & Teams | Creator of the Systems-to-Scale AI Implementation Method™

Helping agents, teams, and leaders implement AI, automation, and high-performance systems to grow smarter, scale faster, and dominate their markets.