Buying a new construction home along the Grand Strand in 2025 might finally feel achievable again. After two years of rising prices and bidding wars, South Carolina’s market is shifting in buyers’ favor. Inventory is up nearly 16% year-over-year, homes are sitting longer (around 85 days on market), and price drops are becoming common. Translation: builders are competing for your attention.

Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or looking for a coastal investment, several Myrtle Beach–area communities now offer brand-new homes below $400,000—without compromising proximity to the beach or access to strong schools. Here’s your insider’s look at the five neighborhoods offering the best value this winter.

1. Carolina Forest: The “Mini-City” of Myrtle Beach Growth

Carolina Forest has long been the benchmark for planned development in Horry County—and for good reason. It’s a self-contained community with top-rated schools, nature preserves, and a short drive to both Myrtle Beach and Conway.

What’s new: Builders like Mungo Homes and Lennar are expanding in subdivisions such as The Parks and Bella Vita Gardens, offering new townhomes and single-family options starting in the mid-$300s.

Why it matters now: According to the latest Houzeo data, South Carolina’s average sale-to-list ratio has dropped to 97.5%, meaning buyers in 2025 have more room to negotiate upgrades, closing costs, or rate buydowns.

Local tip: Carolina Crafted Homes frequently builds in nearby Forestbrook and Socastee—ideal if you want Carolina Forest amenities without HOA overload.

2. Conway: Affordable Charm on the Rise

While Myrtle Beach commands the spotlight, Conway continues to attract steady growth from locals and newcomers priced out of coastal ZIP codes. The downtown revitalization and easy access via Highway 501 make Conway the budget-friendly heart of the Grand Strand.

Median new construction price: Around $330,000, with larger homes still available below $400K—particularly west of Highway 701 and in the Aquila Estates and Coastal Point West communities.

Market snapshot: The Houzeo report notes inventory across South Carolina up 6.7% YoY, providing buyers in Conway more choice than in recent years. Builders are sweetening deals with appliance packages and flexible closing dates.

Why Conway works: You get modern layouts, walkable downtown charm, and a low property tax rate—all within a 25-minute drive to the beach.

3. Surfside Beach: The Laid-Back Coastal Alternative

Dubbed “The Family Beach,” Surfside blends small-town comfort with quick access to everything in the Grand Strand. While oceanfront lots are scarce, the west side of Highway 17 offers attractive new construction under $400K, especially in communities like Ocean Palms and Mallard Landing Village.

Current trends: Price growth has slowed statewide (only +1.7% YoY, per Houzeo), which means Surfside buyers are finally seeing realistic asking prices from smaller custom builders.

Neighborhood perks: Surfside’s strict zoning keeps density low and resale values high—making these under-$400K builds a sound investment as interest rates hover around 6.6%.

Local favorite: Carolina Crafted Homes’ designs in Surfside emphasize coastal architecture—metal roofs, board-and-batten exteriors, and smart energy efficiency features.

4. Market Common: Lifestyle Meets Location

If you want new construction that doesn’t feel suburban, The Market Common remains the Grand Strand’s lifestyle hub. Once an Air Force base, it’s now packed with boutiques, restaurants, and green space.

Price perspective: Entry-level townhomes hover near $390K–$400K, while small single-family cottages occasionally dip below the threshold in early phases of expansion near Farrow Parkway.

Buyer advantage: Houzeo’s April 2025 data shows that only 11.5% of homes statewide sell above list, indicating the peak bidding frenzy is over. Developers here are offering concessions on closing costs and lot premiums to move inventory before spring.

Why it’s hot: Market Common appeals to professionals and retirees alike seeking a turnkey coastal lifestyle—without the chaos of Ocean Boulevard.

5. Murrells Inlet & Prince Creek: Coastal Sophistication Under $400K

Heading south from Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet and its Prince Creek corridor remain top contenders for those craving natural scenery and golf course living.

What you’ll find: Builders like DRB Homes and Beverly Homes are unveiling smaller, efficient floorplans that stay under $400,000, particularly near the Highway 707 corridor and Wachesaw Road.

Why now: South Carolina’s median home price as of April 2025 sits around $380,900, right in line with these neighborhoods’ offerings. Combine that with rising inventory and you get negotiating power and long-term appreciation potential.

Lifestyle bonus: Access to the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, Brookgreen Gardens, and Huntington Beach State Park—essentially, paradise within a 10-minute drive.

Bonus Picks: Little River & Pawleys Island

Little River: New waterfront-adjacent builds from the mid-$300s; perfect for those seeking quiet marinas and lower insurance premiums.
Pawleys Island: Limited supply under $400K, but Pawleys Plantation North offers smaller-lot options for buyers seeking upscale zip codes at approachable prices.

What’s Driving the 2025 Buyer’s Advantage

According to the Houzeo South Carolina Housing Market Report (April 2025):

Inventory: 28,056 homes (+15.8% YoY)
Median Price: $380,900 (+0.89% YoY)
Days on Market: 68–85 days (+5% YoY)
Sale-to-List Ratio: 97.5%
Homes Above List: 11.5%

It’s the first winter in three years where buyers clearly hold the cards. Whether you’re shopping in Carolina Forest or Conway, builders are adapting to a more balanced market by keeping prices competitive and adding incentives.

Where Value Meets Lifestyle

The Grand Strand’s winter 2025 market represents a rare moment of balance. With prices steady, inventory up, and mortgage rates stabilizing, homebuyers can afford to be selective.

Each of these neighborhoods—Carolina Forest, Conway, Surfside Beach, Market Common, and Murrells Inlet—offers something distinct, but all share one theme: attainable new construction near the coast.

Ready to find your perfect Grand Strand home?

Carolina Crafted Homes specializes in building smart, stylish homes throughout the region—from Conway to Pawleys Island. Schedule a consultation today to explore floorplans, pricing, and local incentives.

FAQs

1. Is Myrtle Beach still affordable in 2025?
Yes. With the South Carolina median home price around $380,900 and increased inventory, buyers in Myrtle Beach can still find new homes under $400K, especially in Conway, Forestbrook, and Surfside.

2. Are mortgage rates expected to drop in 2026?
Not significantly. Rates hover around 6.6% in late 2025, with gradual easing projected in mid-2026 as inflation stabilizes. Builders often offer rate buydowns or credits.

3. Where is new construction booming near Myrtle Beach?
Carolina Forest, Conway, and Murrells Inlet lead the pack, followed by new phases in Market Common and Forestbrook.

4. How long do new homes stay on the market in 2025?
Homes in South Carolina average 68–85 days on the market—up slightly from 2024—giving buyers more leverage.

5. Are builder incentives common now?
Yes. Many Grand Strand builders offer design credits, closing cost assistance, and reduced premiums to attract buyers during the winter season.