Do You Need An Agent For A New Build?

As part of your home buying journey, you may wish to look at neighborhoods with new build homes for sale, but since agents are already on-site in most of these neighborhoods, do you really need an agent’s assistance for a new build? Let’s take a deep dive into the many ways it’s important to have an agent on your side when looking at those new build homes.

Planning On New Construction?

signing a contract with new build keys A real estate professional can advocate on your behalf throughout the process when you are looking to purchase a new build home.

A very important fact for homebuyers to understand is that the staff on location in these new build communities are really working for the builder. The On-site staff’s fiduciary duty lies with the builder, and they look out for the builder’s interests, NOT YOURS. A buyer’s agent’s fiduciary responsibility is to the buyer and yours will look out for your interests when you are going on-site at these new build neighborhoods. This is why it is critical to have an agent on your side, even with new build homes.

The Agent Role On New Builds

The agent you elect to engage with will help you understand key steps. They will thoroughly go over the Working With Real Estate Agents brochure with you so that you know who is representing who in the transaction. They will review the new build contract with you in detail so there are no surprises. For instance, they will ensure that the deposit and payment schedule is reasonable. They will help a buyer recognize and understand the financial ramifications of an escalation clause, if any is stated for your new build contract. Nearly every construction contract will have a “change of work” clause included. Your agent can assist you in hammering out the details for this as well.

Don’t understand what all of this means when dealing with a new build? Well, a real estate agent with new build experience, with the help of their attorney connections, will look for these elements in a contract and make sure that the agreement benefits both parties, possibly negotiating ways to minimize your risk. Most importantly, they’ll ensure that you’re protected if the builder fails to uphold their end of this new build endeavor.

Home Construction Steps

new home construction materials with partial walls built Your agent can also help you choose upgrades and manage negotiations, while staying within your budget from start to finish during the entire new build process.

They will assist scheduling timely inspections and assist you in negotiating if anything needs fixing. One important inspection that most don’t know about is a pre-drywall inspection. If at all possible, you want this done to ensure that wiring and plumbing items are correct before the walls are closed up on your new build.

They will also make sure that the correct color palate and finishes you selected are the ones actually installed and will work with the new build team for you to get anything swapped out if it’s incorrect. If any roadblocks should arise, you’ll be thankful to have an advocate on your side to work through them.

Don’t Delay Getting An Agent

As a side note, if you are considering working with an agent on your new build, don’t delay the decision. The further you get into the home shopping process, the more challenging it becomes to bring in an agent. In fact, if you’ve already registered with a new build community, it might be too late. Some builders will cut out the buyer side realtor and you are on your own.

So, if purchasing a new build is the right choice for you, work with a trusted real estate professional who can help you successfully navigate the path to your dream home. The Old Mill Group is here to help you, Contact Us and we will help you on this journey.