SO, WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF HAVING AN AGENT REPRESENTING YOU ON A NEW BUILD???

Sadly, in most cases there isn’t much of a benefit at all! Too many agents look at New Builds as being an easy commission. They sign you in at the sales office, walk you through a few models, and wait for their check to arrive at closing! I’m different and here’s why:

• As a former superintendent and home inspector, I’ve inspected over 3,000 homes under construction. I know where corners get cut and I know how to make sure they don’t! Construction Superintendents and Municipal Code Inspectors are often undermanned and overworked. Just because a house “passes code” does not mean it’s built correctly. (I could go on, on this subject, forever!) I strongly advise my clients to get the proper INDEPENDENT construction inspections, and I attend every inspection!
• I know which options and upgrades you should buy from the builder and which ones you shouldn’t. For example: If you want granite counter tops, you can save up to 70% if you have them done AFTER you close. In most cases, you’ll get a better selection and A MUCH BETTER JOB!
• The builder’s agent represents the builder, not you! I’ve heard horror stories where a salesperson had made false claims regarding the status of land surrounding a development just to make the deal. There’s nothing worse than waking up one morning and finding a Mini-Mall in your backyard!
• What type of lot is best for you? Is a western exposure always a bad thing? How do two-story homes stack up with one-story? Will local zoning and CC&R’s restrict your lifestyle? What about energy costs and Green Building considerations?