Buying a New Construction? Why You Need Your Own Real Estate Agent

Buying a New Construction?   Why You Need Your Own Real Estate Agent

If you are house hunting, the allure of new construction right now is undeniable!  You get to be the first to live in the pristine home.  It’s full of brand-new appliances and the finishes and treatments that you picked to fit your aesthetic. And you won’t have to worry about making any cosmetic or structural upgrades for years.

If you are interested in buying a new construction, the builder’s agent will be ready to help you with the process. But make no mistake: You need your own real estate agent – a Tony Clark Realtor- working for you from the very beginning Even if it seems simple with the builder’s on-site agent, you’re going to want someone representing your side of the deal.

What is a builder’s agent?

When you buy a new construction, the home’s builder is considered the seller, and the agent representing the builder is called the builder’s agent.  Knowing this you should remember – The builder’s agent will always have the builder’s best interest in mind. After all, the job of the builder’s agent is to get the highest price for the homes the builder is selling so the agent is not going to be as eager to negotiate down.

Why you should hire your own real estate agent
It’s a good idea to have your real estate agent accompany you on your first visit to the new construction. Why? Because the builder will be responsible for paying the commission, and needs to know if you’ll have a real estate agent representing you. So bringing your agent to the first visit will make it clear that the builder’s agent will be on the hook for paying commission. Some builders might even refuse to pay your agent a commission if you don’t register the agent the first time you visit the home on a new construction site.

When buying new construction, here’s what your real estate agent will help you with that you might miss out on if you stick with the builder’s agent:

• Negotiating extras: Want upgraded counters or appliances in that new home? Your agent can help you with all those extra perks, amenities, and upgrades.
• Recommending financing: A builder typically will have a “preferred” lender that it will try to steer you to, but your real estate agent can help make sure that you’re getting the mortgage that works best for you and your specific financial situation.
• Overseeing a home inspection: The builder’s agent is unlikely to push for or offer up an inspection, so it’s up to you and your real estate agent to make it happen.

How the builder’s agent can help you
All that said, the builder’s agent can be a valuable resource for learning about your potential new home. The sales agent will be knowledgeable about the construction and available amenities, as well as future plans for the outlaying areas.  You can rely on the builder’s agent for background information—just don’t make this individual your sole point of contact on the buying and selling process.

Everyone wants to walk away from buying a home—whether it be a new construction or not—with peace of mind. Having a real estate agent in your corner will ensure that you have peace of mind!

Your Realtor will help you thru critical phases-  3 critical sets of walk-throughs:

There are 3 critical walk-through when building a home, according to Tony Clark of Tony Clark Realtors.

1. After the home has been surveyed and staked (an ideal time to make sure it’s situated properly)
2. After framing is completed and mechanical installation is underway (this is the best time to address any problems within the walls, like electrical wiring or ventilation)
3. The final walk-through, where you and the builder will review the punch list (more on that later)

Before closing, developers or builders will walk you through your newly built home and let you point out any defects or imperfections that need to be fixed before moving day. If there’s anything wrong—from disconnected light switches to broken cabinetry to scratches on the wall—now is your opportunity to bring it up. Kentucky- like most states – has mandated construction warranties for new homes, often backed by the builders and usually spanning one or more years. Making a claim on your policy is the best way to fix latent problems caused by errors, poor craftsmanship. Homebuilding is a complex process that’s subject to all sorts of things like changing weather conditions, Its important to be flexible with your timeframe.

Tony Clark Realtors®, LLC represents home buyers, home sellers, and property owners since 1976.  We are trusted by many property owners to manage their rental properties, having one of the largest portfolios of rental properties available in the area. When you choose Tony Clark Realtors® for your real estate needs, you can have peace of mind as to the high value and quality of service you’ll receive.