Blog
New Construction / / 9 min read

New Construction in Myrtle Beach:
What Buyers Should Know


Kimberly Marsh, REALTOR®
New construction homes in a coastal South Carolina community

01

The Myrtle Beach area is one of the fastest-growing new construction markets on the East Coast. From production builders in master-planned communities to custom beach homes, there are more options for new construction buyers here than almost anywhere in the Southeast.

Why New Construction?

New homes in the Myrtle Beach area offer modern floor plans, energy-efficient construction, builder warranties, and the ability to customize finishes and options. In a market where resale inventory can be limited, new construction provides availability and consistency.

Many new construction communities also offer buyer incentives — including closing cost assistance, rate buydowns, and free upgrades — that can make a brand-new home price-competitive with resale properties.

Major Builders in the Area

The Myrtle Beach area is home to several national and regional builders, including D.R. Horton, Lennar, Meritage, M/I Homes, and local builders like Beaufort Homes and名 custom builders. Each has different quality levels, warranty programs, and options packages.

Understanding the differences between builders — their construction quality, reputation for customer service, and financial stability — is one of the most important parts of the new construction buying process.

Understanding the Contract

Builder contracts are different from resale purchase agreements. They're written by the builder's attorneys and tend to favor the builder. Key things to watch for include:

Completion timeline: Most new construction contracts include estimated completion dates, but these are often flexible. Understand the builder's obligations and your remedies if there are significant delays.

Options and upgrades: The base price of a new home often doesn't include many of the features you see in the model home. Upgrades and options can add 10-20% or more to the base price.

Warranty terms: Most builders offer a one-year workmanship warranty, a two-year systems warranty, and a ten-year structural warranty. Understand what's covered and how to file claims.

The Construction Process

From signed contract to closing, new construction typically takes 6-12 months depending on the builder and community. I recommend regular construction visits and professional inspections at key milestones — foundation, framing, pre-drywall, and final walkthrough.

Having a buyer's agent during the new construction process protects your interests and costs you nothing — the builder pays the commission, and I provide the representation and expertise you need.

New Construction vs. Resale

Both options have advantages. New construction gives you modern systems, energy efficiency, warranties, and customization. Resale homes are in established neighborhoods with mature landscaping, often in prime locations. I help you evaluate both options based on your priorities.

Considering new construction?

I work with all the major builders in the Myrtle Beach area and can help you compare options, negotiate terms, and protect your interests from start to finish.

Talk to Me About New Construction