When Buying from a Builder

Do I Need an Agent when Buying from a Builder?

Posted by Joe Quirk

If you are purchasing a home from a homebuilder, you might think that you don’t need a real estate agent. However, a homebuyer can be at a big disadvantage if they don’t use a real estate agent and just go directly through the buyer. The real estate agent’s job in this type of transaction is to represent the buyer and assist them throughout the transaction. The agent’s responsibility is to get the buyer the most value for the least amount of money. You may currently be working with the builder representative at the model home, but that representative is not a real estate agent working for you. They are a salesperson for the builder working toward the best interest of the builder. When you work directly with a builder, you will be responsible for negotiating. As a homebuyer, you may be unaware of what incentives are typical, alternative financing, who pays for what, what upgrades should cost, etc. Real estate agents negotiate on a daily basis. They know what questions they should ask on behalf of the buyer that the buyer may not even think about. Real estate agents are licensed and governed by strict laws and a code of ethics. Agents have the motivation to work in your best interest as a homebuyer because they also rely on your referrals and repeat business, which is a powerful incentive for providing the highest level of service. Have someone in your corner when working with a homebuilder, and hire a real estate agent when building a home. www.cobblestonefl.com