Yes—you absolutely can, and often should, have a REALTOR® help you buy a new construction home in South Carolina.

While builders have their own on-site sales agents, those agents are legally and financially obligated to represent the builder’s interests—not yours. That’s why having your own buyer’s agent is one of the smartest moves you can make when purchasing a newly built home.

🏠 Your Advocate and Expert Guide

Here’s how working with a knowledgeable local agent protects you and adds value throughout the new construction process:

Dedicated Representation

Your agent’s sole job is to represent your best interests. The builder’s agent is focused on the builder’s bottom line. With your own buyer’s agent, you have someone in your corner from day one—guiding you through every step, asking the right questions, and helping you avoid costly mistakes.

Contract Review

Builder contracts are typically drafted to favor the builder. They can be complex, filled with fine print, and hard to decode. A trusted agent can walk you through the terms, clarify deadlines and contingencies, and flag anything that doesn’t work in your favor before you sign.

Negotiation

Even if a builder won’t budge on the base price, a skilled agent can negotiate for other perks, like:

• Closing cost credits

• Appliance packages

• Design center upgrades

• Flexible move-in dates

In some cases, your agent can even help secure price adjustments on quick move-in homes or when inventory levels shift.

Builder Knowledge

Experienced local agents are familiar with the builders in your area—who delivers quality, who stays on schedule, and who might be cutting corners. We know what to watch for, what questions to ask, and how each builder operates from contract to closing.

💰 It Typically Costs You Nothing Extra

In most cases, the builder pays your buyer agent’s commission. This cost is already built into the price of the home—so if you don’t use an agent, that commission amount simply goes back to the builder. There’s no discount for going it alone, but you do lose the benefit of professional representation.

⚠️ Important: Bring Your Agent From the Start

To ensure your agent is recognized and compensated, you must tell the builder—or their sales rep—that you’re working with a REALTOR® on your very first visit or point of contact. Some builders require your agent to register with them upfront. If you tour a model home or sign in without your agent, you may accidentally waive your right to free buyer representation.

Final Takeaway

Buying a new construction home in the Charleston, SC area is exciting—but it’s also a big investment with a lot of moving parts. Having your own REALTOR® gives you peace of mind, advocacy, and professional insight that builder reps simply can’t provide.

If you’re exploring new construction homes in the Charleston area, we’d be honored to use our experience to guide you through the process—from builder selection to contract negotiation to final walk-through.

Schedule Your Buyer Consultation

Let’s talk about your goals and help you make a smart move with new construction.  Schedule a buyer consultation today!

Warmly,

Laure, Tina and Gigi | Lauren Zurilla & Associates