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208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483

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For Sale

$3,290,000

6 beds • 5 baths • 2 half baths

Estimated Payment

$ 16,931 /mo. †

6.67% APR for 30 yrs.
$0 in taxes
Change Loan Terms

  • Single Family Detached
    Property type

  • Over 50 Years Old
    Age

  • Fireplace
    Heating System

  • Fireplace
    Fireplace

Explore this Property

The Elizabeth Arden House, a storied estate in Summerville, is a timeless symbol of elegance and grandeur. Spanning nearly 8,400 square feet, the property features a stately 6,300+ square-foot main house accompanied by three charming cottages, offering a total of nine bedrooms, eight full baths, and four half baths. With four kitchens, a luxurious pool and pool house, a multi-car garage, and 1.2 acres of beautiful gardens designed by landscape architect Robert Marvin, fully fenced with antique wrought iron fencing and electric gate, this estate is a rare blend of pedigree, history, and sophistication. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from downtown Charleston and close to nearby beaches, it offers an unmatched lifestyle in the Lowcountry.Arguably the most iconic residence in Summerville, this stunning Victorian home, widely known as the Elizabeth Arden House, was originally built in 1891 by A.J. Braid for Charleston attorney Samuel Lord. Later, the renowned businesswoman Elizabeth Arden acquired the property as a summer retreat, selling it in 1954 while establishing her global cosmetics empire. It is said that Arden would paint the front door a different color to match each season, though it now remains red, inspiring the signature entrances to her salons. While Arden is the most famous resident of this estate, other notable figures have also called it home. The property was once owned by Lillian Bostwick Phipps an Ogden Phipps of New York. Ogden, a stockbroker, hailed from a prominent family in thoroughbred horse racing, co-founding the renowned Wheatley Stable, which produced champions like Seabiscuit and Bold Ruler. Lillian, an American socialite, came from the family behind Bostwick Field, a celebrated polo venue in Old Westbury, New York. She later became a successful thoroughbred horse owner and philanthropist. Notably, Lillian's eldest daughter was iconic fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer. The home showcases timeless elegance with soaring 12-foot ceilings, heart pine floors, double piazzas, intricate hand-carved moldings, six fireplaces, automated shades throughout, and an elevator. The estate is enclosed by elegant wrought iron fencing and boasts meticulously designed formal gardens, including a life-size chessboard and a Secret Garden swing. It features three fully appointed cottages, expansive landscaping, and towering live oak trees, complemented by brick walkways and comprehensive landscape lighting throughout the property. Additional amenities include a pool with an adjacent pool house, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and guest bathrooms, as well as a detached garage. Main House - First Floor The main level offers an array of exquisite living spaces, including double parlors each with its own fireplace a formal dining room with a bay window providing breathtaking views, an office, two half baths, a bar, and a bright sunroom. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, equipped with high-end stainless steel appliances, including a Viking range with double ovens and a large range hood. Custom cabinetry includes a built-in desk and bench seat overlooking the rear garden, along with a spacious walk-in pantry. A cozy breakfast nook, adorned with built-in shelving and cabinetry, is perfect for casual meals. The sunroom features arched windows, French doors, exposed brick, and built-in shelving, with direct access to the rear patio and pool, making it an entertainer's dream. Second and Third Floors The second floor houses four generously sized bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. One bedroom also includes a flexible space ideal for an office or dressing room. The third floor offers two additional spacious bedrooms that share a beautifully designed bathroom with custom tile work. Outdoor Amenities The outdoor spaces are equally impressive including a 321 sq. ft. heated and cooled pool house featuring a covered seating area, ideal for relaxing with family and friends. An outdoor kitchen enhances the space, complete with drink refrigerators, a seating island, custom lighting, a grill, gas cooktop, dishwasher, farmhouse sink, and separate his-and-her guest bathroom perfect for elevating any entertainment experience. In addition to the main residence, the property features three fully-equipped cottages currently generating supplemental income through short-term rentals. These cottages offer the flexibility to be repurposed as living spaces for family members, making this an ideal setting for a multi-generational family compound. Casino Cottage: 741 sq. ft. featuring a living area, kitchen, laundry room, full bathroom, breakfast nook, and a spacious upstairs bedroom. Coastal Cottage: 562 sq. ft. offering a kitchen and living area, breakfast nook, full bathroom, and a bedroom. Tuscany Cottage: 359 sq. ft., with a cozy living area, a spacious bedroom with a bay window, and a full bathroom. Prime Location in Downtown Summerville Nestled on one of the most desirable streets in Summerville's historic district, this exceptional property offers a private retreat within walking distance of the town square, restaurants, shops, and tennis courts. Summerville is one of the fastest growing towns in the state, come see what makes it so special! The Elizabeth Arden House is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history while enjoying modern luxury and convenience. Each owner has made their mark on the estate and a list of upgrades is available as well as floor plans, pre inspection, rental numbers, and more.
MLS# 24031090

Courtesy Of The Boulevard Company

(843) 723-1988

Property Features

  • Age
    Over 50 Years Old
  • Amenities
    Porch, Patio, Wet Bar, Disabled Access, Elevator
  • Architecture Style
    Other
  • Exterior Type
    Wood Siding
  • Fireplace
    Fireplace
  • Heating System
    Fireplace
  • Lot Size
    1.2 Acres
  • Roof Type
    Metal

Map and Directions

Directions to 208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483

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Mortgage Calculator

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Monthly Payment Breakdown

  • Principle and Interest
    $16,931
  • Property Taxes
    $0
  • Hazard Insurance
    $0
  • Private Mortgage Insurance
    $0
  • HOA Dues
    $0
  • Total Monthly Payment:
    $16,931

Calculators provided for estimating purposes only. Consult with your lender to determine precise payment requirements.

Schools

Summerville Elementary School

Grades PK-5 Public School

Summerville, SC 29483 0.4 miles
835 s main st

492 total students
13:1 Student teacher ratio

School Rating: B

School Details

Rollings Middle School Of The Arts

Grades 6-8 Public School

Summerville, SC 29483 0.3 miles
815 s main st

774 total students
17:1 Student teacher ratio

School Rating: A+

School Details

Alston Middle School

Grades 6-8 Public School

Summerville, SC 29483 1.1 miles
500 bryan st

951 total students
16:1 Student teacher ratio

School Rating: C+

School Details

Summerville High School

Grades 9-12 Public School

Summerville, SC 29483 2.5 miles
1101 boone hill rd

3164 total students
19:1 Student teacher ratio

School Rating: B-

School Details
Other Nearby Schools Distance Type Grades School Rating
Bethany Child Development Center 0.2 miles Private PK-KG
Trinity Classical Academy 0.3 miles Private KG-8
James H. Spann Elementary School 0.5 miles Public PK-5 B
Charis Academy 0.6 miles Private 7-12
Summerville Catholic School 0.6 miles Private PK-8
Alston-bailey Elementary School 1.2 miles Public PK-5 C-
Flowertown Elementary School 2.2 miles Public PK-5 C+
Newington Elementary School 2.3 miles Public PK-5 C+
Gregg Middle School 2.6 miles Public 6-8 C-
Dr. Eugene Sires Elementary School 2.8 miles Public PK-5 B-
Knightsville Elementary School 3.2 miles Public PK-5 B-
Faith Christian School & Daycare 3.4 miles Private PK-12
Charles B. Dubose Middle School 3.4 miles Public 6-8 B+
Pinewood Preparatory School 3.4 miles Private PK-12
William M. Reeves Elementary School 3.6 miles Public PK-5 B
Nexton Elementary School 3.9 miles Public PK-5 C

Bethany Child Development Center

Distance: 0.2 miles

Type Private

Grades: PK-KG

Trinity Classical Academy

Distance: 0.3 miles

Type Private

Grades: KG-8

James H. Spann Elementary School

Distance: 0.5 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

B

Charis Academy

Distance: 0.6 miles

Type Private

Grades: 7-12

Summerville Catholic School

Distance: 0.6 miles

Type Private

Grades: PK-8

Alston-bailey Elementary School

Distance: 1.2 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

C-

Flowertown Elementary School

Distance: 2.2 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

C+

Newington Elementary School

Distance: 2.3 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

C+

Gregg Middle School

Distance: 2.6 miles

Type Public

Grades: 6-8

C-

Dr. Eugene Sires Elementary School

Distance: 2.8 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

B-

Knightsville Elementary School

Distance: 3.2 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

B-

Faith Christian School & Daycare

Distance: 3.4 miles

Type Private

Grades: PK-12

Charles B. Dubose Middle School

Distance: 3.4 miles

Type Public

Grades: 6-8

B+

Pinewood Preparatory School

Distance: 3.4 miles

Type Private

Grades: PK-12

William M. Reeves Elementary School

Distance: 3.6 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

B

Nexton Elementary School

Distance: 3.9 miles

Type Public

Grades: PK-5

C

School information does not guarantee enrollment. School service boundaries are provided as a reference only, may change, and are not guaranteed to be accurate. Contact the school district directly to verify school enrollment eligibility.

Local area information for Summerville, SC 29483

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Summerville, SC 29483

This community’s employment is highest in the sales and food industries. The area’s overall household expenses are below the national average.

90° July
Hottest Average Month
36° January
Coldest Average Month
22,486 Total Households in Area
4.4% Increase in population since the year 2010
33.4%
of households
have children
32 minutes
Median Commute Time

Household Expenses vs National Average

This location’s average annual expenditures by category compared to the national average. Index score (100=National Average)

Demographic facts
for Summerville, SC 29483

Summerville, SC 29483 has a population of 58,992 people in 22,486 households with a median age of 39.1 years old.

4.4%
Increase in population
since the year 2010
Population is Trending up
21,020
Total households as of 2010
6.7%
projected percent change in total
households in 5 years

Community Population By Age

The median age for this area is 39.1 years old. The smallest percentage group is 55-64 years and the largest percentage is the 85+ years age range.

Community Population By Ethnicity

White 66%
Black 21%
Hispanic 7%
Other 3%
Asian 1%
Native American <1%
The most prevalent ethnicity is White at 66%, followed by Black at 21%, Hispanic at 7%, and Other at 3%.

Economics
for Summerville, SC 29483

1,126 /sq mi
Population Density
$74,575 /yr
Median Household Income
$355,000
Median Sales Price
32 min
Median Commute Time

Household Expenses vs National Average

This location’s average annual expenditures by category compared to the national average. Index score (100=National Average)

Household by Income

Out of the households in this area, the largest income group is $50-74,999k representing 18.93% of the households.

Transportation to Work

  • Drive 89%
  • Work from Home 9%
  • Walk or Bike 2%
  • Public Transit 0%

Occupancy by Type

Owned 17,698 73%
Rented 4,788 20%
Vacant 1,603 7%

White vs Blue Collar Jobs







White Collar 73%
Blue Collar 27%

Family & Education Facts
for Summerville, SC 29483

39.1 Median Age

Average Household Size

2.6
persons per
household

55.6%

Married Households

Community Population By Education

High School Graduate 25%
Some College 24%
Bachelors Degree 19%
Associates Degree 12%
Some High School 10%
Graduate Degree 9%
Of the total people surveyed, the most prevalent educational attainment level is High School Graduate, representing 25.19% of the population.

Household Family Expenses vs National Average

This location’s average annual expenditures compared to the national average. Index score (100=National Average)
33.4% of households have children

Weather
for Summerville, SC 29483

The weather for this area ranges from a high of 90° F in July to a low of 36° F in January

90° July
Hottest Average Month
36° January
Coldest Average Month

Average Temperature by Month

Low (°F)
High (°F)
Jan
36°
59°
Feb
38°
62°
Mar
44°
69°
Apr
51°
76°
May
60°
83°
Jun
67°
88°
Jul
71°
90°
Aug
70°
89°
Sep
65°
85°
Oct
54°
77°
Nov
44°
69°
Dec
37°
61°

Average Temperature in Degrees Fahrenheit

Precipitation

Precipitation (inch)

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Copyright © 2025 CHS Regional MLS. All rights reserved. All information provided by the listing agent/broker is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Information being provided is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information being provided is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

Data powered by Attom Data Solutions. Copyright© 2025. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

This information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on in making any home-buying decisions. School information does not guarantee enrollment. Contact a local real estate professional or the school district(s) for current information on schools. This information is not intended for use in determining a person's eligibility to attend a school or to use or benefit from other city, town or local services.

† Based on a 30-year fixed rate of 3.38% with 20% down. The estimated payment is offered for convenience and is not an offer of credit. Due to market fluctuations, interest rates are subject to change at any time and without notice. Interest rates are also subject to credit and property approval based on secondary market guidelines. The rates shown are based on average rates for our best qualified customers. Your individual rate may vary. Rates may differ for FHA, VA or jumbo loans.

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