Realtor: Thinking of buying new build? You still need representation

Maricopa has seen a recent surge in new home construction. Currently, nearly two-thirds of the active Maricopa listings in the MLS are new construction. People find it enjoyable to tour model homes, and soon find themselves contemplating a brand-new house.

If you’re looking, it’s time to contact a Realtor.

Commonly, people believe there is a financial penalty to using a Realtor when buying a new home. Not true. It’s cost-free to use your own agent. The commission is paid by the builder. Also, it’s wise to take your Realtor along when you begin looking at models, because typically a builder will not allow you to have an agent once you complete a registration form.

The seller will not give a discount because a buyer purchases without an agent. Often with completed spec homes, the opposite is true. Your Realtor can research how long a home has been on the market and help negotiate a reduced price or additional upgrades, such as appliances or landscape packages.

Another misconception is that a Realtor isn’t needed when you buy a brand-new home. Keep in mind the sales agents at the model homes are the builder’s employees. They represent the builder’s best interests, not the buyer’s. A local agent can help point out things about the community, its location, and details such as HOA fees, amenities offered, the home’s orientation and exposure to the sun or proximity to the train tracks, road noise, etc.

Your Realtor may recommend a home inspection before closing; another practice that occurs with resales but is often overlooked with new homes.

When I moved to Maricopa in 2006, I bought a new home and the sales representative convinced me I didn’t need an inspection because the home came with a builder’s warranty. Twelve months later, the builder went bankrupt, corporate offices were closed. The possibility of requesting repairs vanished.

Fortunately, the house had no structural issues. I have heard many examples, however, of home inspectors finding major problems such as missing insulation in walls or attic, disconnected AC ducts, or missing roof tiles. Items like these won’t be easily discovered during your closing walkthrough. Anything that was installed incorrectly, if not caught prior to closing or during the warranty period, may cost hundreds or thousands of dollars when you plan to sell. The average home inspection costs about $400. It is worth the peace of mind to have it done.

Dayv Morgan is a Maricopa Realtor and owner of HomeSmart Success.

This sponsored content was first published in the July edition of InMaricopa Magazine.