Buying New Construction? You need a Realtor!
Buying New Construction? You Need a Realtor!
If you’re leaning towards a new construction home purchase, you may assume that a real estate professional simply won’t be needed. A brand-new home shouldn’t need repairs and most builders have standard set pricing for their units, right? Not always. If you want to experience a smooth transaction that works in your favor, enlisting the help of a local real estate agent is key. Here are just a few questions to keep in mind when deciding whether you need representation for your new construction home purchase.
Who’s on your side?
A new home builder will generally have representation for the transaction in the form of a sales representative. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this professional solely represents the seller’s needs. His or her job is to ensure the builder makes as much profit as possible from each unit sold.
So, who’s in your corner? Without your own real estate agent, you’ll have to fend for yourself and try to snag the best deal possible. Even if you love to negotiate and know you’re really good at it, the world of new construction and development can be a complicated one. A Realtor who is experienced in this field on your side can ensure your needs are being addressed and you don’t give up more money than you need to.
Do you know what’s included?
It’s easy to get lost in the dazzling recessed lighting, shiny granite countertops and eye-catching crown molding when touring a new construction model home. It’s important to ask the right questions during your tour so you can differentiate what’s included in the base price of the home and what’s not. The sales rep representing the builder is focused on selling you as many upgrades as possible to increase your sales price. With your own real estate professional representing you, you can assure the right questions are asked to get to the bottom of which upgrades you may need to add.
Don’t get caught in a bait-and-switch that can increase your sales price by over $100,000. If you take your model tour with your own professional representation, you can feel confident that you’ll get accurate information on what’s included in the base price and what’s not. Your Realtor can also help you to decide which features are important to you and whether you should include these upgrades or consider completing them later yourself.
Do you fully understand the contract?
Your home buying contract is the most important document you’ll sign. It can also be one of the most in-depth and confusing papers you’ll review, cluttered with real estate jargon, inspections periods and other specifics. Before you put pen to paper, make it a point to have your own real estate agent review the contract and ensure it includes all the details you agreed upon. Your own Realtor has your best interests at heart and will review every piece of the contract to ensure you’re getting the best deal that meets your needs.
The guidance provided by your real estate professional when writing a contract may also include advice about inspections. A home inspection is an important part of the home-buying process, especially with new construction. Your Realtor can help you navigate the inspection and assist you in understanding the results and your plan of action when the report comes back.
The best time to hire a Realtor during the buying process is RIGHT NOW! It’s important to inform a builder about your professional representation before you get into negotiations or even visit the community. If you’re in the market for new construction or simply want more information about the area, I’d be happy to help. Email, text or call me today so I can help you navigate the sales process and find your dream home!
New Construction homes in SWFL:
