New Home Construction - Reasons To Have Realtor Representation

Buying a new home is exciting, and home construction is on the rise. You get to build your home the way you want it to be. But like any home purchase, new construction is an expensive transaction with many financial implications.

Here's why it’s a good idea to obtain representation from a Realtor when considering new construction:

Sales Reps Work For The Builder. Builders usually have their own agents or representatives on site to discuss the home construction process, and help with a potential purchase. They can explain how the builder compares to competitors, differences between models and floor plans, go over your financing options, upgrades and specials, etc. But it’s important to know that builder reps represent the builder.

Fiduciary Duties. When you use Realtor representation, their responsibility is to you. You have a local expert who is looking out for your best interests, who’s contractually obligated to protect you. A buyer's agent can help you navigate the contract and help you understand the specific clauses, riders and upgrade, making sure you know what you need to before you sign on the dotted line.

Negotiating. Finding the right model and choosing your upgrades is fun, and you should truly try to enjoy the experience. The contracts and negotiating terms and options is the not-so-fun part, and can be quite daunting.  Most buyers don't know they can even negotiate with a builder. Your agent can also present other financing options or possibly work with the builder’s lender directly to get you a better rate for your mortgage.

Navigating You to Closing. Signing a contract with a builder is step one in the process. You must also line up financing, work with title companies, attend numerous inspections and make sure completion of the home meets the deadline. Your Realtor can manage that process to ensure you’re not missing anything at each stage of your new home's construction.