How it Works: From Lot to Move In
Buying new construction is exciting—but it can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. Our six-step process guides you from choosing a community to move-in day, making your journey smooth, simple, and stress-free.
STEP 1
Define Your Needs & Budget
What this means:
Before touring communities, it’s crucial to understand your goals, lifestyle, and budget. I will help you think through key questions:
What’s your ideal location or commute time?
Do you prefer a community with amenities like pools or walking trails?
What’s your maximum comfortable monthly payment?
Are you looking for a move-in ready “spec home” or a fully customized build?
Are there preferred schools or features like a home office or multigenerational layout?
What I can do for you:
Refer you to trusted lenders for pre-approval
Help match your needs to builders’ offerings
Provide a realistic view of what you can afford, including upgrades and lot premiums
STEP 2
Explore Communities & Compare Builders
What this means:
Once your goals are clear, the next step is visiting communities and understanding the differences between builders, locations, and home types.
Do you want a gated or master-planned community?
Would you prefer a local boutique builder or a national builder?
What’s included in the base price, and what’s considered an upgrade?
What I can do for you:
Create a shortlist of communities that match your criteria
Schedule and join tours of model homes
Hels you compare pricing, HOA fees, included features, and future phases
STEP 3
Select Your Lot, Floor Plan & Builder
What this means:
After narrowing down your favorite communities, it’s time to decide where you’ll live—and in what type of home.
Which lots offer the best privacy, views, or value?
Which floorplans work best for your family?
Are you choosing a quick move-in home or building from scratch?
What I can do for you:
Explain builder timelines, deposits, and selection options
Help you evaluate model homes vs. design options
Advocate on your behalf during contract negotiations
STEP 4
Design & Customize Your Home
What this means:
Now comes the fun part—making your house feel like home by choosing design finishes and structural upgrades.
Do you want to add a sunroom, extended patio, or third garage bay?
Which upgrades offer the best long-term value or resale ROI?
What’s included vs. what adds cost?
What I can do for you:
Prepare you for design center appointments
Offer advice on upgrade budgeting
Help avoid unnecessary expenses or common pitfalls
STEP 5
Monitor Construction & Conduct Walkthroughs
What this means:
As your home is built, there will be key milestones and walkthroughs. Staying informed helps reduce surprises at closing.
Foundation pour, framing, mechanicals, drywall, and finishing phases
Optional inspections: pre-drywall, final walk, and blue tape walkthrough
Builder communication and timelines
What I can do for you:
Keep tabs on progress and updates
Attend walkthroughs with you to ensure quality
Connect you with inspectors (if desired)
STEP 6
Closing Day & Move-In
What this means:
Your new home is almost ready! You’ll finalize paperwork, complete the final walkthrough, and get your keys.
Loan documents, builder certificates, and final funds due
Final punch list: make sure everything is completed or scheduled
Utility setup and warranty enrollment
What the expert does:
Review closing documents with you
Ensure all outstanding issues are resolved or documented
Provide moving-day checklists and post-closing support
Frequently Asked Questions About Document Scanning
Do I need an agent if I’m buying directly from a builder?
Yes. Builders represent their own interests. A new home construction expert protects your interests, helps review contracts, explains upgrade costs, and ensures you don’t miss important incentives or builder credits.
How long does the new home construction process take?
On average, new homes in Horry County take 6–12 months to complete, depending on the builder, home type, and materials availability. If you need to move sooner, we can also explore “quick move-in” homes already under construction.
What happens if construction is delayed?
Delays can occur due to weather, supply shortages, or builder schedules. I keep you updated throughout the process, advocate on your behalf, and help ensure your contract protects you in the event of unforeseen changes.
Can I make changes after construction begins?
Most structural choices need to be finalized early, but design selections may have some flexibility depending on the stage of construction. I’ll guide you through deadlines and options so you know exactly what’s possible.
Do I need to hire my own home inspector?
It’s optional but highly recommended. Independent inspections during key phases—like pre-drywall and final walkthrough—help ensure quality. I can connect you with trusted local inspectors familiar with new construction.
New Home Construction Resource Guide
Unlock insider knowledge with the free New Home Construction Resource Guide. Learn the process, avoid costly mistakes, and gain the confidence you need to buy or build your dream home.
Topics covered include...
- Benefits of buying new construction
- Challenges and considerations
- Step-by-step buying process
- Why you still need a realtor
- Key tools and resources
- Local market expertise
New Home Construction Resource Guide
Ready to Start Your New Home Journey?
Whether you’re just gathering ideas or ready to choose your lot, I’ll guide you through every phase of the new construction process—from the first conversation to move-in day. Let’s make the process smooth, stress-free, and exciting.