New Build Homes Look Easy… Until You’re Buying One Alone.
For the average or first-time homebuyer, the idea of walking into a new build construction sales office alone, choosing your upgrades, signing on the dotted line, and eventually walking away with the keys to your brand-new home sounds amazing and painless.
The best part? You did it all on your own.
Who needs a real estate agent, right?
But before you get ahead of yourself too quickly, you may want to take a step back.
Chances are, you’re about to make one of the largest and most important purchases of your life. And if you choose to go through that process alone, without the help of an educated advisor, it can start to feel lonely, overwhelming, and even a little daunting.
Would you consider representing yourself in court without the help of an attorney?
Unless you’re an attorney yourself, probably not. And you probably shouldn’t.
The builder has their own team. They have representatives, strategists, contracts, experience, and deep pockets. So why would you buy a home without proper representation on your side?
You may think the salesperson at the builder’s office is there to help you, and in many ways, they are. But it’s important to remember who they represent and who signs their checks: the builder.
Everything in life is a negotiation, and the same goes for buying a new construction home. Having a strong and educated real estate advisor by your side gives you a professional who can help you with price guidance, contract review, upgrade strategy, lot premiums, negotiations beyond the base price, and more.
For many buyers, purchasing a home is emotional. Sometimes buyers get overly excited about choosing upgrades, or they get competitive and want to “win” against the salesperson. But a knowledgeable advisor can be the calm in the storm. They can help guide you, keep you grounded, and make sure you don’t lose sight of your ultimate goal.
In many cases, the builder may also offer incentives where they’re willing to cover the cost of your agent. Please note, that is not a guarantee. Every builder works differently, and it also depends on the current market.
Disclaimer: Commission structures and builder policies vary, so buyers should confirm this upfront.
Also, keep in mind that builders likely won’t pass those savings on to you just because you choose not to use an agent. In many cases, those costs may already be baked into the price of the home.
One last tip: try not to sign in to view model homes or register online if you have not hired a real estate advisor yet. This is one of the biggest mistakes buyers make without even realizing it. If you happen to fall in love with a home after signing in on your own, there’s a chance the builder may not allow you to bring in your advisor later, or they may not cover the cost of your representation.
Ultimately, it benefits you as the buyer to have representation when purchasing a new build home. Interview multiple advisors. Find the one you feel best suits you and the one you trust to properly represent your best interests.
Purchasing a home should be a joyous moment. So make sure you have a strong team in your corner — one that helps protect you and puts your needs first.