|
Should I Use a Realtor to Buy New Build Construction or Model Homes? During my years selling real estate, one question that I´ve heard come up a number of times has been, "Why would I want to work with a Realtor when I´m just going out to look at builder´s models or new construction homes?" Whether you are buying a Wayne county home, a Livingston county home or an Oakland county homewouldn't you like somebody on your side? Yes is the answer. You need somebody to look out for your interests. The builder model person looks out for only the builder. Who is going to negotiate the best price for you? Prices are not always just standard. Builders do deal! If it were always that simple, then you most certainly would not need a Realtor to represent you. Complicated things done well, often appear to be simple. I'm not saying that builders will cheat you, but some builders are notorious for not getting the job done, or done right. They are always making promises that they don't keep or excuseson why it isn't done. A realtor will help you cut through some of the problems and work on your behalf.
Having a professional Realtor, working as your Exclusive Buyer´s Agent, can be an invaluable tool when you are searching for a home, even if you´ve decided that you´re only going to look at new construction. Always keep in mind that the on-site model home agent is working as an employee of the builder and their responsibility is often legally dictated as being to work in the builder´s best interest and not for you, the buyer. The good news is that almost all of the professional builders on the market have already arranged to pay for you to have representation by a professional Realtor, who will be working in your best interest. That means that a home being offered for, let´s say, $300,000 with a builder, will also cost you $300,000 if you go through their on-site representative, and it will cost you the exact same amount even if you´re being represented by your own Realtor. Be sure that you are accompanied by your Realtor when visiting the models or the builder may not be willing to pay for your representation if you try to come back with your Realtor later. What are the benefits to hiring a Realtor to represent you? First, your Buyer´s Agent should be familiar with the various communities in the area that are available, and that will have homes suiting your specific price range and needs. The buyers agent will be able to show you comparable homes so you know whether the home you are buying is competitively priced. They should be able to tell you about the positive aspects of the community and surrounding area, as well as diligently representing you to be sure you understand any potential negatives that may arise. For instance, knowing that the vacant field behind your potential new home is going to be turned into a factory, or that a highway will be running behind your property line can have a significant impact on your future resale. I have heard many times from a builder "oh we are buying that property too, so that won't be there. Only to see years later that same ugly commercial building still sitting there. Your Realtor should have a thorough understanding of what the purchase contract that you´re signing means, and be able to explain the relevant parts to you in plain English. Many builders´ contracts look like a small, local area telephone directory. The builder had professional representation writing up your contract; shouldn´t you have a professional helping you understand it? Often times the builder´s contracts are not negotiable and can not be changed by your Realtor, but understanding the ins and outs of what the paperwork says, especially in terms of completion dates, escrow money due, and what happens if one party or the other fails to perform, may mean the difference between going forward with the purchase and walking away. Financing from the builder, or their preferred lender, is often wrapped up in attractive package giving you closing discounts for using them. Your Realtor will be able to help you determine if there may be a better financing option for you, possibly going with an outside lender. You stii should have a professional home inspection done after the home is complete and before the closing date. Then you will have a list of what needs to be fixed. too many times I have seen people not represented by a real estate agent letting unfinished items go beyond the closing date or not having money escrowed. The items never get fixed or the home owner has to chase the builder around. When it´s time to choose which options you´ll want to put into your new home, your Realtor can provide valuable insights into which options can have the most impact in terms of getting the best appreciation on your investment. You real estate agent may be able to tell you what not to get done now by the builder. You may be able to get it done more reasonable at a later date. As the closing date draws near your Realtor will be there as you do the final walk-thru of your home, helping you to make sure that any issues that need to be addressed are done before closing. When your final settlement statement has been prepared, the "Hud-1," your Realtor will go over it with you to be certain that there haven´t been any additional charges. Finally at the closing table your Realtor (Russ Ravary) will be there to represent you through the final steps of signing all the documents required to close the transaction. With an real estate agent you will get your keys and should have peace of mind that everything is finished. A real estate professional will be able to help you through all the problems that may arise. Little Cedar Lake waterfront homes for sale Learn more about Clam Lake Waterford Michigan & Orchard Lake Beaver Lake homes for sale now, find them here first! Watch this short and informative Susin Lake Video
|