Do I need a realtor to buy a new house?
Don’t let the pristine facade or shiny appliances of a model home deceive you: buying new construction will be as complex as any old real estate transaction, and for that, you do need a Realtor® to buy a new house. You’ll need to navigate the fine print of builder-friendly contracts, resist the temptation of fancy upgrades, maximize resale value, and trust that a bunch of boards and concrete will become a suitable place to live on budget and on time. The average cost of building a new home is $365,000. That’s not much more than the average price of a resale home. And don’t forget about the high materials costs and builder escalation clauses that could add thousands to a home’s base price. These are all areas where a knowledgeable buyer’s agent with extensive new-build experience and local builder connections can be invaluable. And if you thought buying new construction without an agent would save you a few bucks in commission, think again.
Advocates for your best interests
The builder’s real estate agent can be a good resource in the new construction process, but don’t forget they’re representing the builder in the sale. Seller’s agents in new homes work hard to maintain relationships with the builders, and at the end of the day, they will prioritize the builder’s interests over yours. With a real estate agent in your corner, you’ll have someone on your side who is invested in your happiness with the home. “Obviously, builders want happy customers at the end of the transaction, but they are looking out for themselves. If you hire a Realtor® as a buyer’s agent, our goal then is to help protect you. A seller’s agent doesn’t want the buyer to have a bad experience, but their fiduciary duty lies with the builder. Because of the commission structure, the seller’s agent is legally obligated to serve their client’s best interests.
My 30 years of building experience will help you navigate the questions and numerous decisions you will need to make.
