Home Buying Process

Is buying a house in your near future? Buying a house is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience for anybody, whether it's your first time, you're an investor, or you're wanting to upgrade. Some people mistakenly believe that buying a house is much like renting, except that you get to keep pets and do things like paint the walls and put in new appliances. These advantages are accessible to homeowners, but they also come with responsibilities such as paying a mortgage and taxes and maintaining the property. Planning for homeownership requires an examination of both financial resources and personal goals. I have included a list of questions you should answer and a detailed guide to the home-buying process to help you get started after you have made your selection.

Are you prepared to purchase?

You need to be prepared to keep up with your property throughout the years, knowing that a portion of your income and your time will likely go into repairs and maintenance, rather than just being able to enhance or decorate whatever you wish. It has to do with being willing to take on the responsibilities and potential benefits of homeownership.

What can you manage to pay month-to-month?

It's disheartening to learn that you can't afford the house of your dreams. However, if you must spend a large portion of your income on the mortgage alone, becoming a homeowner may become more of a financial burden than a source of joy. It's wiser to start with a smaller house and save up for the one you really want over the course of a few years.

What is your debt-to-income ratio?

Financial institutions take this very seriously. You shouldn't have more than 40 percent of your income going toward debt payments, with a maximum of 32 percent going toward mortgage payments. Where you reside will have a significant impact on how much you can afford.

Here's a general step-by-step guide for the buying process:

Now that I have the answers to some preliminary questions, I can walk you through the purchasing process. It may seem daunting, but I will be there to guide you through each stage.

Do your homework/research

Now is the time to find out what is currently offered. Using our MLS Search, you may look for available Grand Strand real estate properties.

What's important to you in an area, you want to live or invest in?

  • Direct Oceanfront
  • Neighborhood or Retirement Community
  • School district
  • Commuting to Work
  • Rental Potential

Determine your price point!

  • Calculate how much you can afford monthly
  • Do you need to sell a property?

Schedule a meeting with your Realtor

  • The buyer's agent acts as an advocate for the buyer and helps with the negotiation and closure of the purchase agreement.
  • Tell your realtor what kind of features, location, price range, etc. you're hoping to find in a house or condo.

Get pre-approved

  • Are you paying cash?
  • Have proof of funds available when ready to submit an offer.
  • All offers must have preapproval letters. This document shows the seller that you meet the very minimum requirements for home financing.
  • Condotel financing is often done via a local bank. A list of local lenders that focus on this kind of financing may be obtained from your broker.

Search listings and schedule viewings – MLS SEARCH

  • Search the MLS using the MLS SEARCH for homes based on your criteria.
  • Your real estate agent may make recommendations for homes you might want to see.
  • If you find a home that meets all the criteria that you want to purchase, it’s best to “act fast," as it may not be on the market if you decide to wait.

Make an offer

  • Your agent will prepare the contract for purchase along with any addendums. our agent will handle all negotiations with the sellers on your behalf; they will ensure
  • You get the best price possible.
  • The contract and addendums will spell out all contingencies and responsibilities required by both the buyer and the seller.
  • The buyer and seller must both sign any documents related to the purchase agreement.

Choose an attorney

  • Your buyer’s agent should be able to give you a list of local real estate attorneys; the attorney you choose will prepare all closing documents for closing.

Get a home inspection

  • Your buyer’s agent can provide you with a list of licensed home inspectors
  • A licensed home inspector will inspect the property and provide you with a detailed report with any discrepancies that might need to be addressed prior to closing.

Closing - It’s time to close!

  • Your agent can schedule a walk-through to ensure nothing has changed on the day before or the day of your closing.
  • Your agent can conduct the walk-through on your behalf if the closing is by mail.
  • The HUD settlement statement will be signed on the day of closing.
  • You will not be able to take possession of the property until after the deed is recorded by the attorney.

Myrtle Beach & Surrounding Area Property Search

$499,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 2423492 MLS
Discover the charm of country living with room to grow! This delightful country estate is set on 2.74 acres, just a 20-minute drive from the beach and the conveniences of both Myrtle Beach and Conway. Relish the liberty and versatility of having your own fruit orchard and vegetable garden, ideal for farm-to-table living. This remodeled all-brick 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom ranch-style farmhouse combines modern amenities with rustic allure. The comfortable living area has white oak floors, a gas fireplace and built-in shelves. The updated gourmet kitchen features ample storage, quartz countertops, fresh cabinetry, and state-of-the-art appliances, complete with a built-in wine fridge in the island. Two of the four bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms. The master bedroom is spacious and bathed in plenty of natural light. The master bathroom features an oversized walk-in custom tiled shower and stylish double sink vanity. Leading off the dining room is an ample sized deck perfect for summertime gatherings or a relaxing moment with the natural surroundings and quietness. The additional property features are NO HOA, seven out-structures; a partially finished manufactured home that can serve as extra living space or a guest cottage, a greenhouse, an original meat house, and a classic storage building with two bays and an attached chicken coop, which includes nine egg-producing hens. Additionally, the homesite is equipped with two septic tanks and two wells. Public utilities are available with tap fee. Zoned for business, farm and residential. Option to also purchase recorded four half-acre road frontage lots with utilities. Serious inquiries only.

5051 Old State Highway 90, Conway

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Ryan Korros Team (Cell: 843-455-6580) from Listing Office: RE/MAX Southern Shores.

$260,000
2 Beds 2 Baths 2423485 MLS
Welcome to one of the most desirable condo developments in Myrtle Beach—The Village at Queens Harbour II! This beautifully upgraded third-floor unit offers a perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Pride of ownership shines through in every detail of this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom spacious gem, with thoughtful upgrades that make it one-of-a-kind! A standout feature is the enclosed Carolina room, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors year-round while enhancing energy efficiency and providing a peaceful retreat to relax. The unit also overlooks a peaceful pond, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. Inside, the home conveniently features NO carpet anywhere, with luxury flooring and tiling throughout, perfect for beach living. The kitchen and bathrooms boast beautiful subway tile backsplash designs, giving the space a clean, modern feel. Cozy up by the electric fireplace (which conveys!) in the open living space. This home also includes ceiling fans throughout, ensuring comfort in every room. The spacious primary suite offers a private retreat with smooth 9' ceilings for an airy feel. Queens Harbour provides an oversized ELEVATOR for easy access, outside storage, clubhouse and a resort-style swimming pool that feels like a vacation getaway at home! The HOA fees cover internet, cable, water, trash pickup, elevator service, common area maintenance, and more—making this an incredible value. The location is ideal, with everything you need and want nearby, including shopping, dining, and the beach just a few minutes from your home. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enjoy Myrtle Beach living in style!

141 Ella Kinley Circle Unit 302, Myrtle Beach

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Robert Grabeklis () from Listing Office: Keller Williams Innovate South.

$235,000
2 Beds 2 Baths 2423473 MLS Building A BLDG.
Welcome to this beautifully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located on the second floor of the gated Myrtle Beach Resort. Tastefully decorated with a bright, coastal-inspired theme, it boasts two sets of sliding doors leading to a spacious balcony, ideal for soaking in the ocean breeze. The thoughtfully coordinated furniture, flooring, and area rugs create a warm and inviting ambiance, complemented by updated countertops and a new HVAC system for added comfort. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence, a vacation retreat, or a savvy investment, this property offers flexibility to meet your needs. Myrtle Beach Resort is a 33-acre oceanfront community with 24-hour security and an array of amenities, including four lighted tennis courts, six swimming pools (two indoors), a lazy river, hot tubs, a fitness center, a bocce court, a game room, and over 700 feet of sandy beach frontage. This resort is located in the heart of the Grand Strand, you're close to everything Myrtle Beach has to offer—world-class golf courses, top-rated schools, fine dining, entertainment shopping, medical facilities, and easy access to Myrtle Beach International Airport. And, of course, you're just moments away from the stunning beaches! Don’t miss the opportunity—schedule your showing today!

5905 South Kings Hwy. Unit A450, Myrtle Beach

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Amber Roy () from Listing Office: INNOVATE Real Estate.

$1,100,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 2423469 MLS
33 Gippy Place is nestled on a serene, tucked-away street in the heart of beautiful North Litchfield Beach, just moments from one of the healthiest and most pristine beaches along the Carolina coast. The inviting front, screened porch offer your first glimpse into this charming beach retreat, where many lasting memories have been made. Enjoy the morning light that fills the vaulted ceilings in the main living and dining area, as well as the bright kitchen, which overlooks the pool. The main floor includes 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, with the primary suite featuring a large custom-built "closet" room, perfect for all of your storage and organizational needs. On the ground floor, you’ll find additional living space, accessed by interior steps with the convenience of a chair lift. This lower level includes an extra bedroom, full bath, a comfortable living area, and a spacious laundry room. Step outside to relax around the stunning pool oasis, and rinse off the sand in the outdoor shower after a day of fun at the beach. This home is being sold fully furnished, including a golf cart—just bring your family, friends, and beach essentials. Come experience one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Pawleys Island with Huntington Beach State Park and Brookgreen Gardens just a few minutes north and plenty of great dining and shopping all around!

33 Gippy Pl., Pawleys Island

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Peace Groat Property Advisors () from Listing Office: Peace Sotheby's Intl Realty PI.

$299,900
2 Beds 2 Baths 2423463 MLS Dunes Pointe BLDG.
Relax and Unwind, fully furnished Beachside Retreat with spectacular MARSH VIEWS! Nestled in the desirable Dunes Pointe community, just off Shore Drive in the Arcadian section of Myrtle Beach, this charming first-floor condo is perfect for a beach getaway, vacation rental (short term rentals allowed), or a cozy permanent residence. Featuring LVP flooring, stainless steel appliances, freshly painted walls and stylish touches like pendant lighting and a glass backsplash, the kitchen boasts granite countertops, including a dry bar. The master bath includes a walk-in shower with tile and pebble flooring. Both the living room and master bedroom open up to the spacious screened-in porch, offering stunning views of a serene saltwater marsh, freshwater lake, and the prestigious Dunes Golf & Beach Club. Enjoy watching egrets, wood storks, eagles, and more while sipping your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine in this tranquil setting. Only three blocks from the beach, Dunes Pointe provides excellent amenities such as indoor/outdoor pools and hot tubs, tennis and pickleball courts, a clubhouse with a grill area, and a recreation room with a pool table. Golf carts and pets are welcome! Conveniently located near Ocean Annie's, Tanger Outlets, Restaurant Row, and all that Myrtle Beach has to offer, this move-in-ready furnished condo is a must-see. Priced to sell—don’t miss your chance to own this slice of paradise!

501 Maison Dr. Unit E-5, Myrtle Beach

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Jenny Edelman (Cell: 843-424-9353) from Listing Office: RE/MAX Southern Shores NMB.

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Provided courtesy of The Coastal Carolinas Association of REALTORS®. Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. Copyright 2024 of the Coastal Carolinas Association of REALTORS® MLS. All rights reserved. Information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use, that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.