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Writer's pictureBK Katragadda

The Advantages of Using a Realtor When Buying a New Build Home

Updated: Sep 21, 2023

The Advantages of Using a Realtor When Buying a New Build Home

Ready to explore new build options?
Ready to explore new build options?

Buying a new build home is exciting, but it comes with challenges. Some think a realtor isn't needed for new builds, yet an experienced realtor can make a big difference. You might think skipping a realtor gets you a discount, but builders usually budget for realtor commissions, so prices remain steady. A realtor provides guidance, negotiation skills, and representation—worth the commission. Let's delve into the benefits of using a realtor when buying a new build home.

Market Insights and Expertise: Realtors possess extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, including new construction developments. They can provide you with valuable insights into different neighborhoods, builders, and the latest trends in the market. This information can help you make an informed decision about the location and type of new build that suits your needs.

Negotiation Expertise: One of the significant benefits of involving a realtor in negotiations is their ability to "remove emotion from the equation". When it comes to price discussions and negotiations, realtors act as intermediaries and help facilitate a more objective and rational approach.

Remember, the seller's agent aims for a higher selling price, which might not align with the buyer's best interests.To protect your interests, choose a buyer's agent who represents you.

buyer agent vs non buyer agent with new construction
To protect buyer's interests, always choose work with a buyer's agent

Navigating the Complex Process: Purchasing a new build involves a complex process, from selecting the right floor plan and features to negotiating contracts and handling inspections. A realtor can guide you through each step, ensuring you understand the terms and conditions and making the process smoother and less overwhelming.

Builder Reputation and Quality Assessment: Not all builders are the same, and the quality of workmanship can vary. Realtors often have insights into the reputations of different builders based on their experience and feedback from past clients. They can steer you away from builders with a history of issues and guide you toward reputable ones known for their quality.

Understanding Upgrades and Customizations: New builds offer the opportunity to customize your home with various upgrades and options. A realtor can help you navigate the multitude of choices, advising you on which upgrades might add the most value and align with your preferences. Quick tip builders apply a markup ranging from 20% to 50% or more, depending on the specific item and the builder's policies. For instance, simpler upgrades tend to have a smaller markup, whereas premium or luxury upgrades might come with a higher markup.

Contract Review and Protection: The contracts and agreements associated with new builds can be intricate and filled with legal terms. A realtor can review these documents to ensure your interests are protected, and you're aware of your rights and obligations as a buyer.

Inspections and Due Diligence: Even though new builds are constructed from the ground up, it's crucial to have inspections done to catch any potential issues early on. A realtor can help you coordinate these inspections and address any concerns with the builder.

Builder Communication and Advocacy: Realtors can act as your advocate and point of contact with the builder. This can help facilitate communication, address any questions or concerns you have, and ensure that your preferences are taken into account throughout the construction process.


Conclusion: In the world of real estate, having a realtor represent you is about more than just finding a property. When buying a new build home, a realtor's market expertise, negotiation skills, and guidance through the process can provide you with peace of mind and confidence in your investment. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, partnering with a realtor is a wise choice that can help you navigate the intricacies of purchasing a new build home.



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