Spec homes vs. to-be-built
New construction generally comes in two flavors. A spec (or inventory) home is already built or nearly finished — you buy it much like a resale, just newer. A to-be-built home is one you start earlier in the process, often choosing a plan and some options, then waiting for construction to finish.
The right one depends on your timeline and how much you want to customize. Need to move soon? A finished spec home fits. Have time and want more say in the details? A to-be-built home may be worth the wait.
Bring your own agent — from the start
Here's the single most valuable thing to know: the friendly person in the builder's model home represents the builder, not you. Having your own agent means someone is looking out for your interests through the whole build. It costs you nothing extra to be represented, and it's one of the easiest ways to protect yourself.
Involve your agent before you sign anything or register at a community. Many builders ask that your agent be with you on that first visit, so loop us in early.
The model-home agent works for the builder. Bring your own representation to the first visit.
The builder's contract is its own animal
Builder contracts differ from the standard resale agreement — different terms around deposits, timelines, changes, and what happens if the schedule slips. Read everything carefully, ask questions, and don't assume it works like a resale purchase. Your agent can help you understand what you're agreeing to, and there are professionals for the parts that call for legal review.
Timelines and changes
Building a home takes time, and schedules can shift with weather, materials, and inspections. Build in some flexibility, keep communication open with the builder, and understand how options and changes are handled — including how they affect the timeline and the price. Knowing the process up front keeps surprises to a minimum.
Walkthroughs, inspections, and warranties
New doesn't mean skip the diligence. Buyers can still have a new home inspected, and there's typically a walkthrough near completion to note items for the builder to address. New homes also usually come with builder warranties covering certain elements for a period of time — ask what's included and for how long, and keep the paperwork.
Where to browse new homes
When you're ready to see what's actually available, Forturro's New Construction section is the place to explore new-construction communities and homes across the Strand. And if you're looking specifically at brand-new manufactured homes placed on their own land, our Home Placer section covers those.
Browse live new-construction homes in Forturro's New Construction section, and see Home Placer for new manufactured homes on their own land.
Quick answers
Frequently asked
- Do I need my own agent to buy new construction?
- It's strongly worth it. The model-home representative works for the builder; your own agent represents you through the contract, options, and build. Being represented typically costs you nothing extra — just involve your agent from the first visit.
- What's the difference between a spec home and a to-be-built home?
- A spec home is already built or nearly done and bought much like a resale. A to-be-built home starts earlier, often letting you choose a plan and some options, then finishes on the builder's schedule.
- Should I still get a new home inspected?
- Many buyers do. New construction can still have items to address, and there's usually a pre-completion walkthrough to note them. Ask the builder what warranties are included and for how long.
- Where can I see available new-construction homes?
- Forturro's New Construction section lists new-construction communities and homes across the Grand Strand. For brand-new manufactured homes on their own land, see the Home Placer section.
This is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. The Forturro Group is your real estate agent — not your lender, attorney, inspector, appraiser, or closing provider. Every transaction is different; confirm the details for your situation with the right licensed professional.