Do You Need a Realtor® for New Construction?
With the market as competitive as it is right now, I’ve had a lot of buyers think about buying a new build to avoid some of the common multiple offer situations we’re seeing with existing homes. New construction homes are a whole new ballgame, and open up a new realm of questions that many buyers run into. And one of the common questions is this: do you need a Realtor® for new construction? Because buyers have the ability to tour model homes and work with the builder’s agents themselves, you might think that you don’t need a Realtor® to buy a new construction home. But that’s not entirely true, and buying a new build comes with a whole set of challenges and risks that you should have a Realtor® on your side to help with. Here’s why you should still work with a Realtor even if you’re buying a new build:
They’ll Advocate and Look Out For You
Sure, builders have their own agents, but this is a common analogy I use to help buyers understand why working directly with them (and not having your own Realtor®) isn’t such a great idea. Imagine if someone were suing you, and you decided to hire the attorney of the same person that was suing you. It just doesn’t make sense! You need someone on your side, who only represents you in the transaction, to make sure you have someone looking out for your best interest. The builder’s agents are ultimately going to look out for the builder, while your real estate agent is going to represent and advocate for you.
They’ll Help You Through New Construction Paperwork
There’s a lot of paperwork that goes into buying any home, but when it comes to new construction, there’s even more confusing paperwork involved. Builder contracts can be completely different than standard purchase agreements, and it’s helpful to have a Realtor® with you to help guide you through the process and help decode what it all means for you. Plus, then your agent can help point out any potential issues to make sure you’re getting what you want.
They Can Help Keep Your Budget on Track
Buying new construction can definitely tempt your budget! Builders fix up their model homes with every upgrade available, and it can be extremely tempting for buyers to want all of it - even if your budget doesn’t agree! When you buy a new build, you’ll likely get to hand pick most of the design elements in your home, but it’s important to keep in mind that all of those choices come with a price tag. A builder isn’t likely going to help keep your budget in mind through all of these decisions, but that is something your Realtor® can (and should!) help you with!
They’ll Recommend the Best Financing Option for You
Many builders have preferred lenders they recommend to buyers, but that doesn’t always mean they’re going to give you the best deal or that they are the best option for you. Your Realtor® will have a better understanding of your financial situation, and can recommend lenders and financing options to help you get the best deal, and the best fit possible for you.
They’ll Work With the Builder
Buying a home can be a full-time job, and new construction can be even more involved! When you work with a Realtor® for new construction, they’ll be there to work with the builder. Your Realtor® will coordinate with the builder throughout the entire process and negotiate on your behalf, so you can take a step back and relax.
One Thing to Keep in Mind
Hopefully this helped to understand why having a Realtor® for new construction is so beneficial! One thing to keep in mind, though, is this: if you are thinking about working with a Realtor® for a new build, make sure you include them in the process as early as possible! In fact, many builders won’t even work with a buyer’s Realtor® if they aren’t present when you first go to look at their houses. So, before you get too involved, make sure to keep your Realtor® in the loop, so they’ll be able to help you as best as they can!
Got a question about new construction, or looking for a new construction home in Las Vegas? I’m your girl! Send me a message here and I can help you out!
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