Yes, you absolutely need a buyers' agent when contracting to buy a newly constructed home – and you need that agent with you the first time you visit a contractor's model home.

 

All too often buyers look at contracting to purchase a home in a new subdivision as something like ordering a new car. You go in, look at the models available, choose your options, and place your order.

 

When you buy that new car you know that the sales person is working for the dealership. You don't even question the fact. If you've done a little research, you probably even have a pretty good idea about how much they can or will negotiate with you.

 

Unfortunately, buyers are sometimes lulled into thinking the agent at that model home is working for them. And it just isn't so. That agent is working for the seller and only the seller.

 

When you work with a buyer's agent who is familiar with new construction, you can save thousands of dollars because your agent will know how to negotiate with the builder.

 

Agents know what you can ask for in terms of upgrades and will guide you as you read builder specifications, to ensure that the floor coverings, counter-tops, heating and cooling systems, fixtures, and appliances that come with your new house are the quality you expect.

 

Agents also know about builder reputations – and that does count! You want someone who can be counted on to keep his or her word, and who won't try to hide shoddy construction behind the walls.  

 

So why take your agent along on the first visit?

Why can't you just look around to see which models you might like before you take up any of that agent's time?

 

Because if you're not represented on that first visit, you will be "working with" their in-house agent whether you like it or not. Most builders won't allow you to bring in your own representation once initial contact has been made. Some new home builders here in the Indianapolis Area will honor your agency relationship if you present your agent's card at the first visit and some will not.

 

So be safe – call me before you tour model homes here in Indianapolis and the surrounding area. I'll be glad to go along and represent your best interests.