As we move through the first quarter of 2026, the Beaufort County rental market continues to shift, creating both challenges and opportunities for property owners. While broader market data shows longer marketing times and softening rents in several segments, Middleton Street Property Management performance tells a more strategic and resilient story.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening.
Days on Market: Slower Market, Strategic Advantage
According to Realtor.com, rental properties in Beaufort County are spending an average of 99 days on the market.
At Middleton Street Property Management, we’ve seen our own average days on market increase from:
35 days in February 2025
To 67 days in February 2026
While that’s a notable rise year-over-year, we are still significantly outperforming the county average by 32 days.
What does this mean?
The market has clearly slowed compared to last year. However, strategic pricing, professional marketing, and proactive leasing systems continue to position Middleton Street Property Management’s properties ahead of the broader competition.
In a market where timing matters, beating the average by a full month can translate into thousands of dollars saved in vacancy loss.
Rental Rates in Beaufort County
Data from Zumper.com shows mixed trends across unit sizes in Beaufort County:
1 Bedroom: $1,495 (⬇ 9% YoY)
2 Bedroom: $1,699 (⬇ 7% YoY)
3 Bedroom: $2,200 (⬇ 7% YoY)
4 Bedroom: $2,600 (⬆ 9% YoY)
What We’re Seeing
Smaller units (1–3 bedrooms) are experiencing downward pressure year-over-year. This is likely due to:
Increased inventory in the mid-range segment
Tenant affordability sensitivity
More competition among similar properties
However, the 4-bedroom segment is up 9% year-over-year, signaling continued demand for larger homes. This trend is particularly strong in family-oriented neighborhoods and relocation-driven moves common in Beaufort County.
Middleton Street Property Management’s Portfolio Performance
While broader market rents for smaller units have declined, Middleton Street Property Management’s average rent roll has increased approximately 6.60% year-over-year for February.
This is a key indicator.
Even in a shifting market, strategic rent adjustments, strong tenant retention, and data-driven pricing have allowed our portfolio to grow revenue despite headwinds in certain segments.
Why This Matters for Owners
When market averages are softening, professional management becomes even more critical. Success in today’s market requires:
Accurate rent positioning (not overpricing in a cooling segment)
Professional marketing that reduces days on market
Strong renewal strategies to protect income
Data-backed decision making rather than guesswork
The difference between market performance and strategic performance is widening.
What Property Owners Should Consider Right Now
Pricing precision is critical. Overpricing can lead to extended vacancy in a 99-day average market.
Larger homes remain strong. Owners of 4-bedroom properties may still see upward rent pressure.
Professional marketing matters more in slower cycles.
Portfolio performance can outperform the market with the right strategy.
Markets naturally cycle. The key is not avoiding cycles, it’s navigating them correctly.
Get a Free Rental Analysis
If you’re unsure how your property fits into today’s market trends, now is the time to evaluate your strategy.
Please CLICK https://www.middleton.rent/#gsc.tab=0 for a free Rental Analysis!
About the Author
Malory Medaglia serves as the Property Management Advisor at Middleton Street Property Management. With a deep understanding of the local rental market, Malory's expertise has been instrumental in guiding homeowners through the intricacies of property management. Her passion for real estate and commitment to excellence ensures that clients receive top-tier advice and service. If you're considering diving into the world of property rentals or simply have questions about our services, Malory is your go-to professional.
📧 Email: malory@beaufort.rent
📞 Phone: (843) 595-8899
Reach out to Malory today and benefit from her wealth of knowledge in the Beaufort rental market.
