by Brad Jordan
Carolina Forest is a fast growing community that is located adjacent to Myrtle Beach proper. Members of the community enjoy a close proximity to the beach and all that Myrtle Beach has to offer in entertainment and dining.
The area is very attractive to those who are looking to relocate to Myrtle Beach. From the census taken in 2000 to the one taken in 2010, Carolina Forest experienced a growth in population of 500%. After the next census is conducted in 2020, it is expected that the trend will continue.
Carolina Forest’s location makes it a highly desirable area in which to live. With the growth in population, there has been a need for additional infrastructure and schools. Horry County has added a new elementary school on Carolina Forest Boulevard called Ten Oaks Elementary. It also has begun the widening of its main artery for travel on Carolina Forest Boulevard that connects with River Oaks. Also, International Drive has recently been completed, connecting Carolina Forest with Conway. Newly added to the area is a new CVS and several other commercial properties servicing the area.
As a result of this growth, Carolina Forest has seen a great deal of boost in real estate sales transactions and new development. From 2012 to June 2018, the average sales price in the Carolina Forest area has increased by 34%. In 2012, the average sales price was $190,714 per home, while the sales price in 2018 was $290,882 per home.
The time it takes for a home listed on the market has been steadily trending downward. In 2018, the average number of days on the market were 142. It is a great time to sell your home if you are thinking of doing so; conversely as the interest rates start to climb, it is also a good time to buy before the rates go higher.