Buying a Brand New Home? First Do These 5 Things.

I’ve worked with a number of superb builders in the Phoenix Valley area. I’ve also worked with a few who were far less impressive, the majority of whom are no longer in business. I make a practice of becoming familiar with as many of the local builders as I can, and have had a genuinely positive experience dealing with most of them.

There’s a difference between working “with” a builder and working “for” a builder. As a potential buyer of a New-Build home, you are of course free to visit construction sites, tour model homes and speak with the sales agent… the one that works for the builder. I would discourage you from doing that but not for the reasons you might think.

Years ago, Realtors fought hard to redefine exactly who they were working for. Even though they interacted with home buyers they were, at the time, always obligated to work in the interest of the home seller. Not fair… wouldn’t you agree?

Now Home Buyers have the representation that should always have been rightfully theirs. But did you know that the minute you visit a construction site alone, attend an open house or tour the model homes, you give up that right? The sales person at that beautiful model home does not, and will not ever have your best interest in mind or work to your benefit. They are hired by, and obligated to the Builder. Your own Realtor will not only work in your best interest but they will represent you at no charge. There is no downside here.

— Check out our New Construction discount, then give me a call —

Number one on the list below, 5 Tips for Buying a New Construction Home, provided by RIS Media, is to choose an agent who works with builders. Notice it does not say ‘works FOR builders’. There is a distinct and valuable difference.

5 Tips for Buying a New-Construction Home

Thanks to the shortage of available inventory in most markets, you can expect to start seeing more and more new construction. Buying a new-construction home is different than buying an existing home, however, so be ready to attack the process with a different mindset and specific strategies. Here are five important tips to keep in mind from U.S. News and World Report:

1. Choose an agent who works with builders. Start by selecting a real estate agent who has expertise working with builders and new-construction properties. He or she will be able to steer you toward a reputable firm whose designs suit what you’re looking for, in the location you desire.

2. Research the builder. Be sure to do your own research on the builder to determine the quality of their product and their overall credibility. Check online reviews, the state licensing board, local court records and even Google to find out if the builder has any pending lawsuits, complaints or disciplinary actions. Take it a step further and talk directly to past clients. A reputable builder will be happy to offer referrals.

3. Spend your money on size and location. When building from scratch, it’s tempting to spend your money on upgrades such as high-end countertops and bathroom fixtures, but that can quickly put you over budget. Instead, focus on choosing the right location and getting the square footage you need. Upgrades can always be made down the line.

4. Learn how to read a floorplan. Floorplans are foreign territory for many of us, so talk to your builder and real estate agent about how to accurately interpret them. Many builders offer virtual reality technology that turns the floorplan into a realistic 3D experience. Better still, visit a home that was designed with your floorplan so that you can get a firsthand feel of what you’re buying.

5. Get a warranty and an inspection. Most builders offer warranties, so be sure to ask if yours does and, if so, what exactly it covers. Certain companies, for example, offer a one-year warranty on workmanship, a two-year warranty on mechanical and electrical elements, five years on water leaks and 10 years on structure. Also, be sure to get an independent inspection before you move in. A home inspector will help identify any problems before the builder’s warranty expires.

The above guidelines will help make your new-construction buying experience a happy and successful one.

If you need more information about Builders and New Construction, feel free to contact me.

For more information, Call or Text: 602-999-0952
eMail: golfarizona@cox.net
Bill Salvatore / Arizona Elite Properties
Residential Sales, Marketing, and Property Management

Founder: AZVHV ⋅ MEMBER: Heroes Home Advantage
Voted East Valley Tribune’s: Best Gilbert Realtor

Thinking about buying a brand new home? Our New Construction Discount is perfect for you! Don’t visit construction sites without your agent. Representation is FREE and remember, the sales person at the construction site works for the builder, not for you!