Do I need a Realtor to buy a new home from a builder?

This is a question I was asked many times during my career as a new home sales counselor. Often your search for a new home just starts off with curious visit to a model home. 

“I’m not in the market but I want to know what the inside of a model home looks like!”

Needless to say, once you go inside one of the finely decorated model homes, you are very likely to become dissatisfied with your current living arrangements and “new home fever” kicks in!

Perhaps this has happened to you? If so let’s answer your question:

“Do I need a realtor to buy a new home from a builder?”

The simple answer is no.

In Texas you can buy directly from the builder without an agent and that’s exactly what the builder hopes you will do.

Not having an agent “on the deal” puts more profit in the builder's pocket, and that’s why they are in business in the first place!

However if you do sign a purchase agreement without an agent you are putting yourself at some risk.

- My clients know that I will use my years in the new home business to negotiate them the best price and package that may include extra incentives like upgrades or additional closing costs.  

-My clients know that I will (before they sign the contract) keep an eye out for future pitfalls. 

Does the home have qualities that will make it difficult for you to resell someday?

Does the patio face west?  (The builder rep will certainly not point out the sun sets in the back making it impossible to enjoy evening cook outs during the summer due to heat.) Do you need a fireplace to re-sell the home in this neighborhood?  Do I need a bathtub in the master or is a big shower fine?  Does a master bedroom upstairs plan make it hard to sell?  

If you don't know the answer to these and many more questions, then you need a Realtor.

-Are there similar pre-owned properties that are on the market with similar floor plans and features and a better price?  Without an agent looking out for your best interest you can’t get walk inside nearby pre-owned homes to judge for yourself.

-Plus, an agent with my background will be very valuable when the time comes for you to do the walk-through process on your new home. I have punched out hundreds of new homes in my career and know the places that paint and caulk get missed and how to look for the things a builder may “hope you don’t notice.”

In short, there are many advantages you will find when you hire me as your buyers agent. An extra set of eyes, ears and my experience will help assure you get the most value for this important investment.

And the best part? It doesn’t cost you a thing! Because the seller will pay for my services, not you!

By the way there is a BIG misconception that if you buy a new home without an agent, they will discount the purchase 3 percent.  This is not true.  Most builders employ full time marketing people who spend their time trying to attract Realtors with clients.  They want Realtor business and do not discount to buyers without Realtors because the builder knows if they got that kind of reputation, NO REALTOR would EVER refer their buyers there.  

Please contact me and we can talk about whether or not an agent to protect your interests is the best decision for you!

Charley Wasson

Cell: 210-478-8555