Quick Answer
Buying a brand-new home is still a real estate transaction. The builder's sales representative represents the builder, so buyers should understand contracts, incentives, financing, upgrades, lot premiums, inspections and timelines before committing.
Should You Bring Your Own REALTOR®?
If you want your own real estate representation, involve your agent before or during first contact with the builder, following the builder's registration policies. Do not assume you can bring an agent in after negotiations are already underway. See why you should have your own agent when buying new construction.
How Do Builder Incentives Work?
Builders may offer closing cost contributions, rate incentives, upgrade credits, financing incentives and quick move in promotions. The largest headline incentive is not automatically the best overall financial choice, so compare the whole transaction before choosing. Start with the builder incentives explainer.
What Are Lot Premiums?
Some lots cost more because of location, size, orientation, views, corner placement or adjacency. Ask whether the premium makes sense for your plans and how it changes your total purchase price. Learn more in what is a builder lot premium.
What About Upgrades?
Separate upgrades into improvements that matter to you now, improvements that may be easier to add later, and structural options that cannot easily be changed after construction. Use the true cost of upgrades guide as a starting point.
Do New Homes Need Inspections?
New does not mean inspection-free. Buyers may choose to hire independent inspectors at appropriate stages, depending on the property and the construction process. See should you get a home inspection on new construction.
How Do You Find Current New Construction?
When the IDX and new construction search feed is connected, live listings and community inventory will appear here. Until then, tell Lisa what you are looking for and she can help you narrow the options.
