Business Details
23 Years
experience
Trusted Real Estate Appraisal Services in Charleston, SC
Charleston Area Appraisals has been a trusted provider of professional real estate appraisal and brokerage services since 2003. Our team of six dedicated professionals brings over 70 combined years of local expertise to residential and commercial properties across Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley counties. Certified by the Appraisal Institute and licensed as real estate brokers, we combine rigorous industry standards with advanced technology to deliver accurate, timely valuations. Clients rely on our deep market knowledge and commitment to ethical practices for critical business and lending decisions. Our affiliations with the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors and ongoing participation in continuing education programs underscore our dedication to excellence.We specialize in diverse property types, including waterfront homes, commercial developments, and institutional facilities, ensuring tailored solutions for every client. Our office in Mount Pleasant, SC, equipped with modern resources, enhances our ability to serve clients efficiently. Transparency and client-centric service guide every interaction, reflecting our belief that trust is earned through consistent professional excellence. With roots in the Charleston community dating back to 1984, we remain focused on maintaining the highest standards of appraisal integrity. Our leadership team includes Managing Partner Gary Schwab, whose career spans three decades, and other specialists with certifications in residential and commercial valuation.
Services
Residential Appraisals
Commercial Appraisals
Real Estate Consultation
Feasibility Studies
Litigation Support
Tax Valuation
Wetland Mitigation
Portfolio Analysis
Brokerage Services
Property Inspections
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Over 70 years of combined experience in Charleston's real estate market.
- Certified appraisers with MAI designations from the Appraisal Institute.
- State-certified residential and commercial real estate valuations.
- 24/7 client contact available via phone or email.
- Commitment to technological advancement and continuing education.
Associations and certifications
- Appraisal Institute
- Charleston Trident Association of Realtors
Services
Residential Appraisals
Our certified residential appraisers deliver accurate property valuations for single-family homes, multi-family units, and specialty properties. With expertise in historic homes and waterfront properties, we provide detailed reports meeting industry standards. Clients receive comprehensive analysis supporting mortgage lending, refinancing, and real estate transactions.
Commercial Appraisals
We specialize in commercial real estate valuations for office buildings, retail centers, industrial properties, and mixed-use developments. Our MAI-certified appraisers conduct thorough market analysis and income projections. Clients benefit from detailed reports compliant with banking and regulatory requirements for acquisitions, financing, and portfolio management.
Real Estate Consultation
Our consultation services include feasibility studies, tax valuation, and portfolio analysis for residential and commercial clients. We provide expert insights on property development potential and market trends. Clients receive data-driven recommendations to support strategic investment decisions and litigation cases.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct technical feasibility assessments for proposed real estate projects, including subdivisions and commercial developments. Our analysis covers market demand, zoning compliance, and financial viability. Clients gain actionable intelligence to minimize risks and optimize returns on potential investments.
Brokerage Services
As licensed real estate brokers, we represent buyers and sellers in residential and commercial transactions. Our team offers local market expertise and negotiation skills to achieve optimal sale prices. Clients receive full-service support from marketing to closing for a seamless transaction experience.
People
Gary W. Schwab
Managing Partner, Broker-In-Charge
A Charleston native with 30+ years of appraisal experience, Gary Schwab is an MAI-certified appraiser and licensed broker. He founded Charleston Area Appraisals in 2003 after starting his career at Charleston County Assessor's office in 1984. University of South Carolina graduate.
Harold (Trey) O. Mathisen III
Managing Partner, Residential Manager
Trey Mathisen has specialized in residential appraisals for 25 years. A Citadel graduate and licensed real estate agent, he contributes expertise in Charleston's housing market. Joined the firm as managing partner while maintaining active appraisal practice alongside brokerage responsibilities.
Robert J. McGahey III
Commercial Appraiser
Robert McGahey joined in 2004 as a commercial appraiser. Certified General Appraiser with MAI designation from Appraisal Institute, he specializes in complex commercial properties. College of Charleston graduate with extensive experience in retail centers, industrial complexes, and multi-family developments.
Mark R. Dooley
Residential & Commercial Appraiser
Mark Dooley joined in 2005, contributing to appraisal services while building real estate brokerage expertise. Clemson University marketing graduate, he provides valuation and sales services for residential and commercial properties. Represents clients in Charleston real estate transactions as licensed broker.
Michael C. McGahey
Commercial Appraiser
Michael McGahey joined in 2006 as commercial appraiser. Clemson University graduate specializing in industrial properties, office complexes, and retail developments. Certified General Appraiser with focus on income-producing properties and commercial land valuation for developers and investors.
Questions
What services does Charleston Area Appraisals offer?
We provide residential and commercial real estate appraisals, feasibility studies, litigation support, tax valuation, wetland mitigation consultation, portfolio analysis, and brokerage services for properties across Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley counties.
What areas does Charleston Area Appraisals serve?
We serve Charleston County, Dorchester County, and Berkeley County in South Carolina. Our local expertise covers properties ranging from historic downtown Charleston homes to commercial developments across the greater Charleston region.
What certifications does your team hold?
Our appraisers hold MAI designations from the Appraisal Institute and state-certified licenses for residential and commercial valuation. We are also licensed real estate brokers affiliated with the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors.
How long has Charleston Area Appraisals been in business?
Founded in 2003 by Gary Schwab, our firm builds on over 30 years of local appraisal experience. We've operated continuously at our Mount Pleasant location since 2014 with a staff of six specialized professionals.