Are you ready to buy a home and considering going with a new build? It may seem like a simple process where create your dream home from scratch. However, there is some risk when it comes to new construction if you don’t have a real estate professional with whom you can consult. Just like any major project, new construction homes are not as trouble free as you might hope. The right expert by your side can help keep an eye open for the things that a you might miss because you don’t do this every day.

Below, we’ll dive into the many reasons you need an experienced real estate agent representing you in the sale. They are, after all, on your side.  It’s their responsibility to ensure you aren’t taken advantage of by the builders and their representatives during the transaction.

1. HIRING THE RIGHT BUILDER

The most important part of finding an agent is having a professional’s perspective when finding a builder with a great reputation. You will benefit from your agent’s network of vendors, lenders, and home builders. They have the industry expertise to connect you with a builder that matches your needs and, more than likely, have already established a good working relationship with them. If they haven’t worked with a builder you want to use directly, they have a vast network of other agents to get more information about what you can expect when working with this builder. They will help you find the builder that will give you an excellent experience as well as your dream home.

2. THE RIGHT LOT IN THE RIGHT NEIGHBORHOOD

Every lot in a new neighborhood has its pros and cons. In the excitement of the process, it’s easy to overlook important features of a property. An agent can look past the excitement to help you analyze the lot features so you make the choice that best meets your needs. They’ll be able to find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and has a home lot location that works for you. Whether you’re single with pets or a family with children, the lot location can make a huge impact…especially when it comes time to sell in the future. Your agent will help walk you through all the items to consider in lot selection so your decision works in your favor for the long term as well as short term.

3. UPGRADES AND PLAN MODIFICATIONS

Not only will your agent be able to make sure you get the upgrades and modifications that best suit your lifestyle but they will also help you make decisions that will increase the value of your home on the resale market. They are working for your best interest long term and, with an agent’s guidance, you can be sure to make modifications and upgrades that end up benefiting not only your lifestyle but also your finances.

4. HANDLING CONTRACTS AND PAPERWORK

A top-notch agent will coordinate the contract and all of the paperwork for you. They’ll  review it with you and ensure that it’s in your best interest. They will help you break down the best loan types, purchasing processes, and steps to take that benefit you, not the builder. They are, after all, working for you. They’ll make sure there are no overlooked terms in the builder’s contract that could end up hurting you during the building process or after you take possession. You want to make sure you have a professional who is experienced with the paperwork and contracts, knows what to look for and how to make revisions that make you happy.

5. NEGOTIATIONS

It is imperative in the purchasing process to have an agent that is able to represent you and negotiate for you. The building process is so much more than having the builder put in your favorite counters and floors. They will be able to get you a price that actually benefits you – not the builder. They will be able to run a comparative market analysis to ensure you are paying a fair price for the property. You don’t want to end up overpaying for the home – it could put you in a tough spot when it comes time to sell. They’ll also be able to negotiate terms around potential upgrades, closings costs, and so many other aspects of a contract of which you may not be aware.

6. BUILDER’S AGENT REPRESENTS THEM, NOT YOU

It may seem easy just to pop into an office of a model home and use their sales agent that’s onsite. However, keep in mind that this agent works for the builder, NOT for you. At the end of the day, their job is to make sure the builder gets the best deal. That’s who signs their paychecks, after all. By having a buyer’s agent of your own, you can ensure there is a professional on your side that can walk you through the process and help you avoid being taken advantage of during the transaction. Your agent also have a better handle on things when bumps pop up along the way. If you end up working with a builder who isn’t holding up their end of the deal, your agent has the savvy and knowledge to ensure the builder sticks to the terms of the contract and builds the best home for you.

Good, reputable builders are happy to work with experienced real estate agents. They know in the end this will help make the whole process easier and more pleasant for everyone involved. I’ve got strong relationships with a number of home builders in my area and they are always happy to work with me and my clients. If you have any questions about purchasing a new build, feel free to put it in the comments below or email me at Rachel@RachelKayla.com.