Do You Need a Realtor for New Construction?

A lot of buyers walk into a builder's model home alone. It feels simple, but it's one of the most common mistakes in new construction.

The sales agent works for the builder. They're friendly and helpful, and their job is to get the best deal for the builder. You deserve someone on your side too.

It usually costs you nothing. In most cases the builder pays your agent's commission, so having representation doesn't add to your price.

Register your agent on the first visit. Many builders require your agent to be with you or registered on your first visit. If you go alone first, you may lose the chance to have representation on that home.

What a good agent negotiates:

• Rate buydowns and closing cost credits
• Upgrades or price, depending on which saves you more
• Lot premiums and timelines
• Terms in the builder's contract, which are written to protect the builder

What a good agent checks: independent inspections at pre-drywall and final walk, the total tax rate including MUD, and how the home will resell against the next phase of new homes.

As a Realtor® and builder through El Toro Development, I know new construction from both sides of the table. If you're looking at new homes in Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Porter or New Caney, call or text me before your first visit at (281) 865-1845. Se habla español.