Buyers Agents with New Construction Homes

I have yet to understand why individuals interested in purchasing a new construction home don’t take advantage of a real estate agent to assist with the buying process.    Following is the list of reasons to take along an experienced real estate agent before you go into any model home.      YES, they must be with you on the first visit!!!!!!

1)       Representation -  I’ve worked with many builders’ listing agents who have been terrific to work with but keep in mind that they work for the builder.  When the pavement meets the road they are not serving you.     Work with an experienced realtor that has only your best interests at heart.

2)       Know what you can afford – New construction homes have many add on costs.  An experienced realtor, working with an experienced mortgage professional, will be able to guide you on what your final mortgage payment should be.  An experienced realtor understands the costs that go into a new home – upgrades during the design center visits, costs after close, ie blinds, shutters, landscaping as well as homeowners association fees.   Go into this purchase knowing all the facts.

3)       What Builder is Best for you – An experienced real estate professional will know the reputable builders in the area.     There is a definite advantage going with the top quality builders versus the medium to poor builders when you go to resell this home at a later date.     Homes built with the reputable builders demand a higher price.  

4)       Knowing the Community – Your realtor will stay abreast of amenities in the neighborhoods, restrictions and future nearby development plans.     For example you may find the home of your dreams, but were you aware that there are plans to put a grocery store in the lot behind yours?

5)       Contract and Negotiations – This can get involved.     There can be many factors to consider and navigate – spec homes, premium lots, upgrades, discounts, builders’ incentives.   Utilize an experienced realtor to direct you through these complexities.    

6)       Inspections – An experienced realtor can assist in the inspections of your new home and assist in working with the superintendents to guarantee corrections are made timely or at all.  

7)       Closing Date – A realtor can negotiate on your behalf to ensure any modifications to a closing date are managed.    There are circumstances where close deadlines cannot be met – ie weather constraints, but as a close date draws near any modifications to the close date needs to be negotiated and communicated with all parties.    An experienced realtor can assist with the stress this provides.

8)       No cost to you – Working with a realtor to purchase a new construction home costs you nothing!!!!   All costs paid to your buyers agent are paid by the builder.   Working with a realtor does not negatively impact you in any way. 

Why wouldn’t you take advantage of the assistance an experienced real estate professional can provide?