When you look through Charleston MLS listings, there are some times when you just have to think this home you found just has to be too good to be true. And you know the old saying, when it looks too good to be true, it usually is.

There’s really nothing wrong with it, it’s just marketing (and very good marketing at that) just like how most model homes at new home communities are upgraded to the max and beautifully decorated. The object is to present homes in the best possible light.

But the problem is that the price listed is sometimes the base price and all the options cost extra and so no, you really can’t buy a home that beautiful with granite counter tops, stainless appliances, crown molding, pendant lighting, etc., etc., for the base price offered.

If you don’t have a real estate agent and you visit a new home community, you can buy a home without an agent. But you should know that the site agent at the new home community represents the builder and not you and they will tell you that while you’re signing the contract. It is of course a little late at that point to decide to find a real estate agent to represent you and your interests in the transaction but that’s one of the problems that the do-it-yourself home buyer has. So do yourself a favor and at least read why you should bring a real estate agent with you when you are considering buying a new home in Charleston.