Do Greenvillians Like Basements, Pools, And Golf Course Homes?

Quick vibe check: features that are “must-haves” in other parts of the country play a little differently in the Upstate. In this episode of Selling Greenville, I break down how basements, private pools, and golf course addresses perform in our market—and what to keep in mind before you buy or list with any of the three.

Do Greenvillians Like Basements, Pools, And Golf Course Homes?

Do Greenvillians Like Basements, Pools, And Golf Course Homes?

Short answer: yes—when the feature fits the lot, lifestyle, and price point. Do Greenvillians like basements, pools, and golf course homes? Many do, but the value premium depends on condition, location, and how turnkey each feature is.

Basements In Greenville: When They Shine (And When They Don’t)

Greenville’s rolling topography makes daylight/walkout basements more common than full below-grade ones. Buyers relocating from the Midwest often expect basements; locals tend to view them as a nice bonus—especially if they’re finished, permitted, dry, and usable year-round.

• Pros: Expand living space for media rooms, guest suites, or home gyms; great for multigenerational setups; easy access with walkout lots.

• Watchouts: Moisture control, proper egress, and documented permits matter for appraisal and resale. Radon testing is smart anywhere you have below-grade space.

• Pricing reality: Finished, dry, permitted space commands a premium; “bonus rooms” without permits or with moisture issues don’t.

Pools: Lifestyle Win Or Maintenance Headache?

Our long warm season (spring through early fall) makes private pools appealing, but buyers weigh ongoing maintenance, insurance, and HOA rules.

• Best sellers: Newer or recently resurfaced pools with updated equipment, safety features, and a simple backyard layout. Saltwater systems score points with many buyers.

• HOA & permitting: Some neighborhoods restrict private pools if there’s a community pool; always verify before you dig—or before you buy.

• Value impact: Turnkey, low-maintenance pools can help a home stand out; dated or high-maintenance setups can narrow your buyer pool.

Golf Course Homes: Who Loves Them (And Why)

From Thornblade and Green Valley to Chanticleer, Pebble Creek, Cherokee Valley, and The Cliffs communities, golf course homes attract buyers who value views, manicured surroundings, and club amenities.

• Pros: Scenic fairway or tee views, community amenities, strong neighborhood identity.

• Considerations: HOA fees and club dues vary; membership isn’t always included with the home. Expect early-morning maintenance noise and occasional stray balls depending on course position.

• Resale: Lots with buffer trees or elevated views typically appeal to the widest audience.

Who Buys What In Today’s Market

• Basements: Relocators seeking flexible space (offices, teen suites, in-law quarters).

• Pools: Households prioritizing outdoor living—or buyers choosing private yards over neighborhood amenities.

• Golf course: Retirees, executives, and avid golfers who plan to use the club and social scene.

Seller Playbook: Maximize The Feature You Have

If you’re listing with any of these features, lead with usability and documentation.

• Basements: Address moisture, add dehumidification if needed, and gather permits for finished areas.

• Pools: Service records, safety barriers, and a tidy equipment pad matter; small landscape edits can showcase the pool better.

• Golf course: Map the lot’s position (tee/green/fairway), disclose membership details, and highlight privacy buffers.

Buyer Game Plan: How To Shop Smart

• Basements: Focus on walkout designs with good natural light; review permits and look for mechanicals kept out of finished spaces.

• Pools: Ask for equipment age, liner/resurface dates, and average maintenance costs; confirm HOA rules and insurance.

• Golf course: Walk the lot line at different times of day to assess noise, privacy, and ball flight paths.

Watch Or Listen To The Selling Greenville Podcast

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Bottom Line

Basements, pools, and golf course addresses all sell in Greenville—when they align with the lot, lifestyle, and price. Prep well, document everything, and market the feature that truly adds daily value. Want a read on your specific home—or a shortlist of properties with the right setup? Reach out and I’ll tailor a plan for you.

Ien Araneta

Journal & Podcast Editor | Selling Greenville