Good catch! You're absolutely right to question that.

"Families" is NOT Fair Housing compliant because it could be interpreted as:

• Discriminating against single people
• Showing preference for familial status (a protected class)
• Steering toward or away from certain household compositions

Let me fix all instances:

The Housing Affordability Crisis in South Carolina: Market Data Every Buyer and Seller Should Know

The Home Builders Association of South Carolina just released their 2026 Housing Attainability Index with important data about our state's housing market.

56% of South Carolina households cannot afford the median-priced home in their county based on current income and lending qualification standards.

If you are considering buying or selling in the Midlands, this report contains market information that may be relevant to your decision.

The Numbers Behind the Report

Here is what the 2026 Housing Attainability Index found:

Statewide averages:

• Median home price: $239,186
• Income needed to qualify: $72,818
• Median household income: $85,500
• Down payment required: $8,371 (3.5%)
• Households who can afford to buy: 44.1%
• Households who cannot afford to buy: 55.9%

Local Market Data: Richland and Lexington Counties

Here are the numbers for the two counties I serve:

Richland County:

• Median home price: $238,959
• Income needed: $74,295
• Median household income: $92,000
• 57.9% of households cannot afford the median-priced home

Lexington County:

• Median home price: $266,613
• Income needed: $80,119
• Median household income: $92,000
• 49.9% of households cannot afford the median-priced home

Factors Affecting Home Prices

The report identifies several factors influencing costs:

Regulatory costs: South Carolina's regulatory costs are 40% higher than the national average, making up as much as 33% of new home prices.

On a $300,000 home, approximately $100,000 goes to permits, impact fees, delays, and compliance costs.

Examples from the state include:

• Impact fees in some counties exceeding $35,000 per home
• Permitting processes taking 3-6 months
• Each month of delay adding approximately $2,500 in carrying costs

Other factors mentioned in the report:

• Construction costs
• Labor shortages
• Supply chain challenges
• Interest rates
• Available inventory

Current Market Conditions Locally

Here is what I am observing in the Columbia and Lake Murray areas:

Inventory levels remain below historical averages. Homes priced under $350,000 that are move-in ready tend to receive attention from buyers.

New construction pricing reflects current costs. Builders are factoring in material, labor, and regulatory expenses.

Buyer activity continues. Qualified purchasers remain active in the market across various price points.

Price ranges vary by area. Different neighborhoods and communities offer homes at different price points.

Information for Buyers

If you are looking to purchase, here are some considerations:

Financing preparation: Getting pre-qualified or pre-approved helps you understand your purchasing power and shows sellers you are a serious buyer.

Market knowledge: Understanding current inventory, pricing trends, and market conditions in your areas of interest is valuable.

Property criteria: Determining which features are essential versus preferred can expand your options.

Professional guidance: Working with a licensed real estate professional provides access to market data and transaction expertise.

Information for Sellers

If you are considering selling in Richland or Lexington County:

Current market data matters: Pricing should be based on recent comparable sales and current market conditions.

Property condition affects market response: The condition and presentation of your home influences buyer interest.

Market timing varies: Consult with a real estate professional about timing specific to your property and situation.

Professional marketing: Proper marketing and exposure help attract qualified buyers.

Explore the Data

The Home Builders Association created an interactive map showing affordability data by county:

View the 2026 Housing Attainability Index Map

Richland and Lexington Counties are among the areas I serve in the Greater Columbia region.

The Bottom Line

Housing affordability data shows market challenges affecting many households in South Carolina.

However, real estate transactions continue to occur across all price points throughout the state.

Success in any market requires accurate information, realistic expectations, and professional guidance.

Whether buying or selling, working with a licensed real estate professional who understands local market conditions and has access to current data can help you make informed decisions.

I provide market analysis, transaction guidance, and professional service to buyers and sellers throughout Richland and Lexington Counties and the surrounding areas.

What are you seeing in the local market? I welcome your observations and questions.