Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor

Yesterday I received an email from a builder about one of their new developments.  Since my clients often want to see new homes along with resale homes, I try to keep up with the new home market.

On the builder's web site under "Frequently asked questions" was this question: "Do I need a real estate agent to buy a new ***** home?" Their answer is "No, you do not need a real estate agent to purchase a new **** residence. Our experienced sales staff can assist you throughout the home buying process."  They are right, of course; and they are also wrong.

You don't need an agent to represent you when buying any new home from a builder in the sense that one is required by law.  You do need an agent to represent you though in the sense that you could be at a great disadvantage without an agent. 

The "agent" for the builder is the sales person you meet at the sales office.  The key words in that last sentence are "for the builder".  She is working for her boss, the builder, not for you.

When I take my clients to a builder's sales office, I am an agent for the buyer. I work for you, not the builder.  Most home buyers negotiate with a new home builder maybe once in a lifetime.  I negotiate with new home builders for my clients several times a year.

So, although you may not "need" an agent to purchase a new home, you definitely need someone with experience to guide you through the maze and protect your interests.

One more thing today.  If you want to look at new homes, call me first. Most builders have a notice posted that to be represented by an agent that agent must accompany you on your first visit to that builder.  I can represent you (and the builder will pay my fee), but I need to take you to the builder's sales office on your first visit there. 

Other questions about this?  Call me.  More in the next post.