When it comes to a new construction home, the #1 home buyers mistake is not using a REALTOR®.
Many homebuyers think they can save money by not using a real estate agent and, instead, they buy directly from the builder’s sales agent. This is a myth, and one that can lead to costly mistakes.
If you are buying a new construction home, consider the following reasons for being represented by a REALTOR® before making a commitment to purchase:
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A REALTOR® understands the community.
A real estate agent who is familiar with buying and selling in a given community will have the expertise to help you make better decisions when choosing your lot, your floor plan, and any optional upgrades.
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A REALTOR® represents you, not the Builder
The builder’s sales agents represent the builder, not you
The sales agents who work for builders are often very pleasant, friendly people. They are happy to show you the community’s selling points and each home’s fabulous upgrade options. However, at the end of the day, a sales agent’s job is to make sales and watch out for the builder’s interests.
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A REALTOR’s® services to home buyers are FREE!
While it’s true that REALTORS® do not work for free, builders pay their commissions, not you. Homebuilders want to create strong relationships with real estate agents because they know REALTORS® can help them promote their communities. Builders anticipate this cost and factor it into the price of their new homes, whether you use a Realtor or not. Builders do NOT discount the price of their homes if you do not have a Realtor represent you, so why wouldn’t you want someone looking out for your best interest as well.
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A REALTOR® may be able to negotiate to get you a better deal to save you money.
While you may consider yourself to be a savvy negotiator, REALTOR® have specific experience within a community that gives them an edge. They know what promotions may be coming up, and understand the community’s recent sales record. This is especially helpful when you are buying a home in another state, where you do not know as much about the area.
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A REALTOR® will consider your investment and the home’s resale potential.
A builder’s sales agents are primarily focused on the sale at hand. A good REALTOR® will have a more long-term interest in your investment. They will want to help you buy a home that will have a strong resale value down the line, especially because they might be the one you call to help sell that home someday! Also, REALTORS® work primarily based on referrals so they are focused on keeping you happy so you refer all of your friends and family to them as well
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A REALTOR® can explain all of your options.
Builder’s sales agents can tell you all of the options that are available for new home construction in their communities. Once your REALTOR® knows what you want, they can help you find it – even if that means expanding the search to a resale home, or to neighboring communities that fit your needs.
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A REALTOR® will help you understand the contract.
Even if you’ve bought and sold real estate before, the sales contract is likely to have some confusing wording. Misunderstanding the legalese can lead to some expensive mistakes, particularly if there are problems during construction. A REALTOR® can help you fully understand everything in the agreement before you sign it.
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A REALTOR® can watch over your home during construction.
When you are buying a new construction home, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the progress while it is being built. This is easier said than done if you are relocating to the area and currently live far away. Fortunately, many REALTORS® are happy to watch over your new home, attend construction meetings, take photos and videos to send you, make sure upgrades are on track, and even send you progress reports. This allows you to focus on the steps you need to take to move into your new home!
Are you interested in exploring communities of new construction homes in Delaware? Let the Active Adults Realty team be your guide! Contact us today and see how we can make buying your new construction home an easy process.
You can also download our FREE Home Buyer’s Guide HERE to get you started on the road to being more informed about this major decision in your life.
The post 8 Reasons to Use a REALTOR® When Buying New Construction appeared first on Active Adults Delaware Blog.