Monday, November 25, 2013

Buying a New home? Use a Realtor.






I would always recommend an experienced Realtor with a construction back ground to represent you in a new home purchase. I have represented many clients purchasing new homes. “Why would I need a realtor to buy a brand new home”, you ask? Here is some of the most important task a buyers Realtor can perform for a new home buyer. The greatest part is the service is free to you. The builder pays the commissions. Builders realize how important Realtors are to their sales, and are happily pay the buyers side commissions.


1.       Research what other new homes in your future neighborhood sold for, and negotiate the lowest possible price for you with the builder. Builders may be stubborn on the price because of future sales comps, but an experienced Realtor can preform "back end negotiation's and have the builder throw in upgrades like pool at cost, backsplash, high end appliances etc.


2.        Realtors know the intangibles of what makes a property or neighborhood a good investment. Realtors are in the know about CDDs, (Community Development Districts) short and long term construction plans such as highways, road expansions, rezoning or any change that could affect a neighborhoods home value.


3.       Recommending local lenders to compete with the builder’s lender so you get the best rate and terms for your mortgage. This could be a huge money saver over 30 years. In the past we’ve had 2 mortgage agents at the closing table competing for the loan.


4.       Picking out upgrades from a small sample can be overwhelming for a new home buyer. A Realtor can assist with finding options that fit the buyers taste, and help the home appreciate in case they ever want to sell.

5.       Although not a home inspector, (which may be an option) a Realtor with construction experience can monitor the quality of work, inspections, timelines, and even take pictures of the progress for out of town buyers.

6.       Check the title and purchase history of the land the home is being built on. The way builders borrow money, lots can be bundled together and it’s important that the title is clear of liens at the day of closing.

7.       Monitor the closing for a smooth transaction. Available to answer any question through the process.

8.       Provide move in check list and utility company contacts.

9.       Provide reliable movers, contractors, and handy men, to hang pictures, paint, and install window coverings and upgrades. Realtors use and recommend these business constantly. We know who shows up when they say, and who does quality work.

10.   A Realtor is there to guide you and make your closing and move as smooth as possible.




Witten by David A. Foster, Realtor, GRI, E-pro

Cannot be copied or duplicated without written permission.  www.davefoster1.realtor