Midlands Areas, Lake Murray Areas Brad Allen Midlands Areas, Lake Murray Areas Brad Allen

Batesburg-Leesville

Halfway between Columbia and Augusta is where you'll find the town of Batesburg-Leesville!


ABOUT THE AREA

Halfway between Columbia and Augusta is where you'll find the town of Batesburg-Leesville! In the 1800s they were actually founded as two separate towns. Batesburg served the Augusta and Saluda side when it came to trading posts while Leesville served the Columbia and Lexington side. Since there was so much overlap, in 1992 they became one town! They now have a joint schools and Chamber of Commerce.

Batesburg-Leesville has some amazing local eateries for you to check out! One of our favorites is the iCrave Cafe which actually started as a pastry and coffee truck. They now have an established location and make some of the best treats and frappuccinos. There's also Homeland Craft Beer and Wine where you can not only go grab a drink, but also enjoy different activities such as yoga, trivia, and others that get the community involved. Lastly is The Root Cellar which has some fantastic food. One of our favorites on the menu is their hot honey fried chicken sandwich! 

One of the main draws to the area is Lake Murray as it's only a stones throw away! You can enjoy different lake activities such as boating, camping, and more. Just outside of Batesburg-Leesville is The Big Mo drive in movie theater which is a great activity for a date night or family night. They have three different screens that date back to the 1950s and they're open from late spring until early fall. 

When it comes to housing in the area, many people choose to live here that work in either Columbia or Augusta, but don't necessarily want to live in those areas. The good thing about living in Batesburg-Leesville is that housing is quite affordable. You can find great homes all the way from $70K up to the millions, it just depends on what you're looking for. The area is truly the epitome of a southern town. 

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington School District 3

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Gilbert

The town of Gilbert, SC was founded in the early 1700s  when Jonathan Gilbert settled on the land just southwest of Columbia.


ABOUT THE AREA

The town of Gilbert, SC was founded in the early 1700s  when Jonathan Gilbert settled on the land just southwest of Columbia. Gilbert was really put on the map due to trains coming through from Columbia to Aiken. You can even visit the Gilbert Train Depot which was recently renovated in 2012 and it has now become a museum for the town. 

Looking for fun things to do in Gilbert? Then you have to check out the Clinton Sease Farm especially in the Fall. The whole family will enjoy corn mazes, pumpkin and strawberry picking, and spooky trails for Halloween. For food in the area, you can't go wrong with Joey's Sandwich Shop which has amazing pulled pork sandwiches, clubs, and more. For wine lovers, Mercer House Winery is a staple in the area. They specialize in Muscadine Wines and you can sample some of them through one of their wine tastings.

One thing comes to mind when talking about housing in Gilbert and that's the Whiteplains Plantation which is an entire community based around airplanes. Every house in the neighborhood has their own private hangar that they can use as they please. Many people choose to live in the town because of its close proximity to Lake Murray and Downtown Lexington. It's also close to I-26 making travel to Augusta and Aiken a more feasible commute. As areas such as Lexington and Columbia begin to fill up, people have started moving towards Gilbert. 

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington School District One

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Chapin

Chapin, SC also known as the capitol of Lake Murray, was founded in 1890 and it's one of the most charming towns in all of Columbia.


ABOUT THE AREA

Chapin, SC also known as the capitol of Lake Murray, was founded in 1890 and it's one of the most charming towns in all of Columbia. Chapin has a good mixture of being both a rural town and a lake town. It's location is very convenient as you can get to Downtown Columbia in only 30 minutes and Greenville in about an hour. The area is also very popular because of it's variety of neighborhoods as well as great schools and infrastructure. 

When it comes to housing in Chapin there are two types of people. There are those who move to the town because they want to live on the lake or at least have access to it and the other type wants the small southern town charm where they can get more square footage for a more attractive price. Homes in Chapin can range anywhere from the low $100,000s all the way into the millions. If you're looking for new construction Chapin just might be the place for you since they have the space to accommodate it. 

Eateries in Chapin are mainly locally owned and we have a few favorites such as Higher Ground Char House, Catch 22, and the Coffee Shelf. Since it's located on a lake, many activities in Chapin are water related but there is also the Crooked Creek Park. The park has several walking trails, a disc golf course, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields and it even has indoor facilities such as a gym and conference rooms. 

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington/Richland School District 5

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Lexington

Lexington is one of the fastest growing areas in South Carolina and located right next to the state capital, Columbia.


ABOUT THE AREA

Lexington is one of the fastest growing areas in South Carolina and located right next to the state capital, Columbia.

You can enjoy walking the Lake Murray Dam, appetizing meals at local eateries, and grabbing a few beverages at popular breweries. This is the location for several events that happen throughout the year: Lexington County Chili Cook-Off, Lexington Rescue Run, Lexington County Blowfish Baseball Games, and that's to name a few!

It's a 15-20 minute drive from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, 30 minutes from Downtown Columbia, and minutes from Lake Murray..

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington School District One

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Cayce- West Columbia

The Cayce and West Columbia Areas are just across the Congaree river from all that Columbia has to offer.


ABOUT THE AREA

The Cayce and West Columbia Areas are just across the Congaree river from all that Columbia has to offer, but with a culture all their own.  These areas have a small-city feel with historic homes, condominiums and friendly neighbors.  Since these areas are so affordable compared to the city center of Columbia, many professionals, families and even students enjoy living just minutes from the hustle and bustle of city life.  

These neighboring cities offer many attractions to midlands residents with the Cayce and West Columbia Riverwalks, which offer paved trails and water sports, as well as the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens.  The Zoo even has a zipline over the river so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery these areas have to offer. The popular State Street area has local bars, restaurants and shoppes as well as a beautiful view of the Columbia Skyline.

Cayce and West Columbia are being utilized for their proximity by builders and developers with new condos and student housing currently underway. Condos and apartments are not the only housing options, though.  There are many neighborhoods such as the Avenues with bungalows that still have their historic charm.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington School District Two

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Lake Murray, SC

Completed in 1930, Lake Murray is one of the biggest man-made lakes in the state with a shoreline of over 600 miles.


ABOUT THE AREA

Located to the Northwest of the City of Columbia, Lake Murray is conveniently located for residents of Downtown Columbia, Lexington and the surrounding areas. Completed in 1930, Lake Murray is one of the biggest man-made lakes in the state with a shoreline of over 600 miles, and serves as a recreational getaway for residents of the Midlands. Lake Murray is encompassed by the towns of Irmo, Chapin, Prosperity, Gilbert and Lexington. 

Each of the areas have gorgeous lakefront homes and condos, as well as communities that include incredible amenities such as club houses, private lake access and more. With low maintenance condos all the way to multi-million dollar estates, there's something for everyone on Lake Murray.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington School District One

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Irmo

Irmo has two distinct sides which are the Harbison side and the Lake Murray side.


ABOUT THE AREA

Established in 1890, Irmo, SC is located about 15 miles Northwest from Downtown Columbia, between the Saluda and Broad Rivers, and at the Southeast corner of Lake Murray. The town of Irmo began as a refueling stop for people on the way from Columbia going to the Upstate. The founders of the town's infamous railway, Mr. Iredell and Mr. Moseley, are also known for having the town named after them.

Irmo has two distinct sides which are the Harbison side and the lake side. The town is nestled right against Lake Murray which is one of the biggest recreational activities in all of South Carolina. The Harbison side is most known for having Columbiana Mall which is one of the best indoor malls in all of the state. 

The town has integrated several master plan developments such as Harbison, Ascot, and many others on the lake. Whether you're looking for a starter home or a multi-million dollar lakefront home, Irmo has something for everyone. 

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Lexington-Richland School District 5

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Blythewood

Blythewood, SC  is about 25 minutes north of Columbia, right up I-77 on your way to Charlotte!


ABOUT THE AREA

Blythewood, SC  is about 25 minutes north of Columbia, right up I-77 on your way to Charlotte! A fun fact is that the town wasn't called Blythewood until 1877 and before that it was known as Doko, which is a Native American term for "watering place". As it progressed, it became an actual watering stop for the railroad between Columbia and Charlotte. The town of Blythewood is now a bustling suburb of Columbia.

You know we love the food scene, so we have a couple spots that you have to check out! For some amazing coffee there's the Bloomin' Bean which is a unique spot as it also has its own florist. The Doko Station Pub and Eatery is another one for you to try for some delicious pizza, burgers, and wide variety of craft beer. Lastly, there's Doko Smoke because what's a good southern town without some amazing BBQ? 

For some fun things to do, check out Doko Meadows Park which as huge recreational facilities, walking trails, and a 2,500 person amphitheater where you can enjoy local live talent. Locals came together to create a historical society to preserve the towns rich history which you can learn more about at the Blythewood Historical Museum. 

Blythewood is really neat when it comes to housing. They have some of the largest developments in the Midlands along with some of the most appointed neighborhoods in the area. There's Cobblestone which is a gated community with a 27 hole golf course and other amenities. You can also check out LongCreek Plantation which is a master plan development with about 20 neighborhoods and 2 different golf course. Their prices range anywhere from starter family to million dollar homes. Blythewood truly has so many options when it comes to housing! 

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Richland School District 2

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Lugoff-Elgin

Located between Columbia and Camden is where you'll find Lugoff- Elgin which are two small towns!


ABOUT THE AREA

Located between Columbia and Camden is where you'll find Lugoff- Elgin which are two small towns! Lugoff is an unincorporated area in Kershaw County while Elgin is an incorporated town founded in the late 1800s. Only about a mile square, Elgin is a small town with a lot of rich history.

One of the most well-known things in Elgin is their annual Catfish Stomp which is held in December. It's really like a festival with parades, food trucks, and their infamous catfish stew! The town of Lugoff got its name from a Russian engineer who was helping to build the railroad as it came through the area. The cool thing about Lugoff is that Highway 1 runs right through it! 

Even though they're smaller towns, Lugoff- Elgin has an awesome food scene! First there's Show Me Nutrition which has a variety of delicious shakes, teas, and a seasonal menu that is always being updated. The staple in the area is Lugoff's House of Pizza which stays busy and has been operating for many years. For the beer lovers, there's Random Tap which has over 30 different beers on draft. 

For something fun to do in the area, check out Goat Daddy's Farm where you can not only purchase humanely raised products, but also participate in some cool events. The area also has a distillery called Gorget that produces vodka, rum, whiskey, and bourbon that you can even take a tour of!

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

Kershaw County School District

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Northeast Columbia

The area between I-77 and I-20, the Northeast Area has a small city feel just minutes from all of the action.


ABOUT THE AREA

Best defined as the area between I-77 and I-20, the Northeast Area of Columbia includes a number of areas that stretch from Downtown Columbia to Blythewood, Lugoff and Elgin. Thanks to the close proximity to all of the major highways, the Northeast Area has a small city feel just minutes from all of the action. This area of town is newer and continues to grow quickly, with many residents moving here to be close to jobs and to enjoy the suburban lifestyle.

With a number of larger communities throughout the Northeast Area, including Spring Valley, Woodcreek Farms, Lake Carolina, The Summit, and Greenhill Parish, you can be sure to find a home that suits your needs. Each of these communities feature both established residence, as well as ample new construction opportunities. Many of these neighborhood have great amenities, including their clubhouses, pools, golf courses and more.

In addition to the many fine neighborhoods, there are ample shopping and dining opportunities available within a short drive. One of the most notable shopping destinations, The Village at Sandhills, provides outdoor shopping and dining locations with many recognizable name brands, as well as local shops and restaurants. Couple this with the growth and new development happening throughout the area and you’ll be sure to love calling the Northeast Area your home.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

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Forest Acres

With a wide variety of local shops, restaurants, and nationally recognized brands, Forest Acres is known as "A City Within A City".


ABOUT THE AREA

With a wide variety of local shops and restaurants, as well as numerous nationally recognized brands, Forest Acres has become known as "A City Within A City". Residents of the town enjoy a somewhat suburban lifestyle, but still remain within minutes of Downtown Columbia and plenty of shopping and dining options.

Forest Acres has created a true sense of community, and encourage events and festivals to take place within their city limits. Residents from all across the Midlands come together to enjoy events such as weekend Farmer's Markets and Rooftop Rhythms, a weekly music event that occurs during the fall months. 

Filled with parks, lakes, golf courses, tennis facilities, gyms, and more, Forest Acres has become a cultural hub in the heart of Columbia.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

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The Vista

The Vista is known as the charming and eclectic neighborhood that characterizes Columbia's art and entertainment scene.


ABOUT THE AREA

With a variety of shops, restaurants, studios, bars and more, The Vista is known as the charming and eclectic neighborhood that characterizes Columbia's art and entertainment scene. Sitting in the middle of Columbia, on the banks of the Congaree River, the neighborhood perfectly blends the historical buildings with hip and modern business owners. 

The Vista has transformed in recent years from abandoned warehouses and run down buildings into an upscale travel destination that anchors the city. With many great museums, including the South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture, the area now includes gorgeously restored historic buildings, tree-lined streets, progressive art galleries, upscale restaurants and plenty of bar options.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

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Five Points

Five Points is one of Columbia’s oldest and most well-known destinations for shopping, dining and nightlife.  


ABOUT THE AREA

Five Points is one of Columbia’s oldest and most well-known destinations for shopping, dining and nightlife.  Within walking distance to The University of South Carolina, Five Points has been a diverse shopping and commercial district for 100 years. Originally envisioned as a trolley hub for Columbia’s first planned suburban neighborhood, Five Points has transformed into one of Columbia’s busiest and most charming, pedestrian friendly, commercial neighborhoods. Five points is the host of many iconic community events including Five after Five and St. Pats in Five Points.  At night, Five Points turns into one of Columbia’s best entertainment districts, home to over two-dozen nightlife hotspots.

Five Points offers its patrons a unique experience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else in the U.S. From funky, independent, daytime merchants to creative bar and restaurant concepts and more, the 150-business district leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

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Main Street Area

Main Street is the city center for Downtown Columbia and home to the Soda City Market here on Saturdays.


ABOUT THE AREA

The city center for Downtown Columbia - Main Street District. Home to a variety of local shops, restaurants, apartment buildings, and businesses. You can catch the Soda City Market here on Saturdays where a section of Main is reserved for local vendors to showcase their goods. A short walk, but gorgeous view of the State Capital Building.

Other fun events include First Thursday on Main, Columbia's Greek Festival, Famously Hot New Year, and the Indie Grits Festival. You'll love everything that the heart of Downtown Columbia has to offer!

 
 

What Homes are Available in Your Budget?

 

2025 MARKET STATS

Sourced from the Columbia Multiple Listing Services.

 

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