New homes - use a Realtor? Why or why not?

8. May 2008 by TeriE.

In the Phoenix Valley, there are so many new home builders with builder agents ready to assist you, that it doesn’t occur to many homebuyers - that THEY need a professional Realtor to help them with the transaction and purchase of a brand new home. I’ve listed just “some” of the reasons I believe that a buyer needs a professional Realtor to help them purchase a resale or new home, or sell their home.

For instance:

1.  Buyers, are you aware that the agent sitting at the new home site works for and represents the builder? They do not represent you as the buyer. So that means, if there are any misunderstandings or concerns on your part, that you - alone - must work it out - somehow - with the builder. I have sat in many new home sales transactions where the builder’s agent will say: “I do not represent you - I represent the builder.”  It’s a disclosure to you, the buyer.

2.  Are you aware that the builder pays the agent? It has no reflection on what you pay for the home - that commission is paid by the seller (builder) to the buyer (your agent) agent.

3.  Are you aware that if you walk into a new subdivision to just check out the models, that you will no longer be able to have buyer representation? Many times, without thought, the looker/buyer signs a little card with their name and address. The builder then keeps track of who has been in their homes. That prevents you from bringing in a Realtor to represent you.

4.  Are you familiar with all of the builders, their customary practice, their customer service, the reputation of the builder? Do you think this might be important to you, the buyer?

5.  Are you aware, as a buyer, that the builder has their “own” contract? It is not the one that has been sanctioned and is used by the Arizona Association of Realtors and is used always or almost always, on a resale contract. Many builder contracts (most) are slanted to favor the builder - not the buyer.

Bottom line: if you are not a professional Realtor, and familiar with the basics of building a new home, your rights, your remedies - never mind the recommendations made by a Realtor as to the areas that could be affected by potential freeways, potential growth, etc., then my suggestion: find yourself a professional who you feel comfortable with, trust, and one that knows the builders, the areas, and will be of assistance to you in deciding which floorplan and why, how many bedrooms, garage size, lot size and location, etc.

The market is turning. Don’t wait too long because many of the builders are offering great incentives to buy their homes. Granite countertops, appliances, landscaping, and huge discounts for their inventory homes. Call me…….I’ll be happy to help you find your next home - and list the one you live in, marketing it all over the internet as well as the MLS.

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