Buying a new construction home? Bring your own agent first.
The friendly person in the model home works for the builder. Their job is to get the builder the best deal. Bring an agent who works for you, and bring them on your very first visit.
Why your first visit matters
Many builders only work with your agent if the agent comes with you the first time you visit, or signs you in that day. Walk in alone and fill out the sign-in card, and you may lose the right to have your own agent on that home. So call your agent before you tour a model.
What your own agent does for you
- Reads the builder's contract. Builder contracts are written by the builder. They are not the standard forms, and they often favor the builder on delays, changes and deposits.
- Compares lots and upgrades. The lot, the view and the upgrades change what the home is worth later. Your agent helps you spend on what adds value.
- Negotiates what can move. Builders often hold the price but give on upgrades, closing costs or lot premiums.
- Watches the timeline. New homes can run late. Your agent tracks the dates and your rate-lock plans with your lender.
Four things to check before you sign
-
Builder incentives tied to a lender. Builders often offer credits if you use their lender. Get a Loan Estimate from at least one outside lender too, and compare the full cost, not just the credit.
-
Your own inspections. New does not mean perfect. Pay for an inspection before the drywall goes up and another before closing.
-
The warranty in writing. Know what is covered, for how long, and how to file a claim.
Where new homes are going up
Much new building happens outside big cities in fast-growing states. Start with a state guide: Arizona, Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia or Idaho.
NEXA Mortgage, LLC (NMLS #1660690) is the lender; AXEN Realty does not make loans. AXEN Realty and NEXA Mortgage are affiliated companies. You are never required to use NEXA Mortgage or any AXEN-affiliated lender. Compare lenders, and ask your agent for the written Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure before you choose. Rates, programs and approval depend on your credit, income, property and lender guidelines. Equal Housing Lender.
New construction questions
Do I need my own agent to buy a new construction home?
You are not required to, but the builder's sales agent works for the builder. Your own agent works for you, reads the builder contract and negotiates for you.
Does it cost more to bring my own agent to a builder?
How your agent is paid is agreed with you in writing before you tour. Many builders offer to pay the buyer's agent, but that is set by each builder, so ask your agent to confirm it.
Do I have to bring my agent on my first visit?
Many builders require your agent to come with you or register you on your first visit. Call your agent before you tour a model home.
Should I get a home inspection on a new build?
Yes. An inspection before the drywall goes up and another before closing can catch problems while the builder still has to fix them.
Touring a model home soon? Call your agent first.
An AXEN agent can meet you there or call the builder ahead of time. No cost to talk. No pressure to sign anything.