Buying/Building a New Home

Building or buying a new home is a thrilling endeavor, but it can also be overwhelming with the myriad of decisions to make and steps to take. From choosing the perfect lot and model to navigating financing and inspections, it’s essential to have experienced guidance every step of the way.

Why Choose Buyer Representation

While builder sales representatives offer valuable assistance, it’s crucial to remember that they represent the builder’s interests. As your dedicated buyer’s agent, I prioritize your needs and advocate on your behalf throughout the home buying or building process.

What I Offer as Your Buyer’s Agent:

1. Finding and Selecting a Builder

• • Custom Builders: I help you find and select a custom builder, whether they’re building on your existing site or on a lot I help you find.
  • Planned Communities: If you’re considering a new construction in a planned community, I’ll assist in identifying the right builder for your vision.
  • Screening Builders: I’ll vet builders, ensuring they have a solid reputation for quality work and clear communication.
  • Builder Comparisons: I provide insights into different builders’ strengths, pricing, and reliability.

2. Site Selection

• • Finding the Perfect Lot: Whether you want a custom build on your own site or need help finding the right plot in a planned development, I’ll assist in evaluating lot options based on your budget, location preferences, and long-term value.
  • Understanding Lot Characteristics: I’ll help you assess each potential lot’s topography, drainage, utilities, and other factors that could impact the build.

3. Negotiation and Contract Review

• • Builder Contract Review: I’ll review builder contracts and ensure they’re fair, clearly outlining the scope of work, deadlines, and any potential penalties.
  • Negotiating Upgrades and Incentives: I can help negotiate not just the price of the home, but also secure upgrades or special builder incentives.

4. Guidance on Customizations and Upgrades

• • Evaluating Upgrades: I’ll help you choose upgrades that will add the most value to your home, balancing your desires with long-term resale considerations.
  • Budget Management: I can guide you on how to manage your budget, advising which customizations are worth the investment.

5. Monitoring Construction Progress

• • Construction Check-ins: I’ll accompany you on site visits during the various stages of construction, helping to identify any potential issues with the build and ensuring everything is on track.
  • Builder Accountability: If there are any concerns or delays, I’ll work with you and the builder to resolve these issues efficiently.

6. Arranging Inspections

• • Scheduling Independent Inspections: I can help arrange third-party inspections at key stages (foundation, framing, final walkthrough) to ensure quality construction.
  • Final Walkthrough: I’ll guide you through the final walkthrough, helping identify any remaining issues for the builder to correct before closing.

7. Financing and Closing Assistance

• • Lender Guidance: I’ll assist in comparing builder’s lender incentives with other financing options to ensure you get the best deal.
  • Tracking Timelines: I’ll stay on top of deadlines, ensuring that the construction and financing processes stay on schedule, avoiding potential penalties or delays.
  • Closing Process: When it’s time to close, I’ll make sure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary documentation and that any outstanding issues with the builder are resolved.

8. Post-Construction and Warranty Support

• • Warranty Understanding: I’ll help you understand the warranties offered by the builder, ensuring you know what’s covered and how to make claims if needed.
  • Post-Purchase Support: If any issues arise after you move in, I can assist in facilitating communication with the builder for any necessary repairs or warranty work.

9. Market and Neighborhood Insights

• • Neighborhood Evaluation: I’ll help you assess the surrounding area and community amenities, giving you a sense of how the neighborhood will affect your home’s future value.
  • Resale Value Considerations: I’ll advise on design choices and upgrades that not only fit your style but also ensure the home’s long-term market value.

By providing these services, I ensure that the process of building your new home is as smooth, informed, and stress-free as possible, whether it’s in a planned community or a completely custom build.

The Cost of Buyer Representation

Contrary to common belief, utilizing my services as your buyer’s agent is often of little cost to you. The commission for buyer representation is typically already included in the purchase price, whether or not you choose to have your own agent. By working with me, you gain expert guidance.

How to Ensure Builder Pays for My Services

To have the builder cover the fee for my services, simply inform them during your initial visit that you are working with me and provide them with my name and contact information.