Thinking about buying a new construction home?

 

Today we are going to discuss the importance of having your Realtor represent you when you're looking at new homes.

 

So you are out driving around having brunch, stopping at yard sales, just enjoying your weekend and BOOM there is a giant sign; "Beautiful custom built NEW Homes starting in the mid 2's" and you think "hey let's go walk through the model homes and see what they are like. Just a quick peek. We don't need to bother Mellissa on her weekend.

 I'm here to tell you STOP! DONT! Please, DO BOTHER ME. First of all it's not a bother. Most Saturdays are my Mondays.

When you visit a new home construction site, you'll be asked to sign in, either physically or digitally. Once you are signed in and since you are unrepresented at that moment you are now in their hands.  The builder and the agents on-site are hired to represent the interests of the developer, not the buyers. They may offer you incentives that are not in your best interest. You must be represented by your agent at the first viewing. 
Without someone representing your interests and knowing how to navigate the new built world, you're at risk of ending up unhappy or out of pocket for thousands of dollars extra that you weren't expecting.

When you buy a car, there's a base model and a fully loaded version. It's the same with new homes. You'll choose from different "packages" of upgrades, and in my experience, the upgrades can be very expensive and that initial price is not what you will pay in the end.

The model home is what you'll see when you visit a construction site. It's perfect, beautiful, fully loaded and completely decorated.

I live in a model home that was built in 1989. I purchased it a few years ago, and it's beautiful. 
After I moved in, a home with the same floor plan as mine came on the market in my neighborhood. I was shocked at how tiny and boxy it seemed. If I had seen that home when I was shopping, I wouldn't have purchased it. My home has three times the amount of windows, three patio doors, a patio, fireplaces in the primary suite and the family room, a pool and so much more. I still to this day can not get over the difference of this home and the "base home"

The upgrades that come with a fully loaded model home make a big difference. By the time you add these upgrades, your low 200's price range can easily be in the 3s.

Another thing to keep in mind is that new home builders often do not pay your agent's entire commission if any. This means that you may have to come out of pocket for some or all of this expense. If I'm not your agent, please make sure to ask yours about this. Know ahead of time what their commission is and what happens if the seller isn't going to pay all or possibly even any of it.

 

And then there is the home inspection for your new construction property.  I understand that you may be thinking, "What could be wrong with a brand new home?" However, it is important to have a home inspection completed regardless of the age of the property. There are many things that can go wrong during the construction process, and it is important to have a professional inspector look for any potential defects. A home inspection can help you to identify and address any issues before they become major problems.

Have you ever seen the videos online? Seriously look them up!  

I would be happy to recommend a reputable home inspector who can complete an inspection for your property. 

Please let me do my job of protecting you and your interests. If you see a new home construction site that you're interested in, pull over and call me. I can often register you with the builder as a represented buyer with just a phone call or by logging into a website. This way, you and your interests will be protected.