There is a big gap in the Triangle real estate market. Real estate agents represent the seller. Builder’s agents represent the homebuilder. But who is there to watch out for the buyer of a newly constructed house? New homes for sale fall into the same gap. And, as the buyer, you can be left out in the cold.

I Help Protect Buyers of New Construction

I’m an ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative) for the Triangle area. Ask anyone who has built a home recently, and they’ll likely say they wish they had someone on their side during the process. New homes for sale and new construction pose some interesting dilemmas that can make you wish the same thing.

There are so many new communities popping-up in Raleigh, North Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Durham & Chapel Hill area, you should have your own representation. Going to the site without a licensed Real Estate professional, working just for you, could be a costly decision.

For example: How does this potential new home compare to other available new communities? Will they negotiate? If so, by how much? What about extras? What should you chose for good resale and what's over-kill? Is the builder doing a good job? Because a home is "new" folks often assume that this means "perfect" and it can be quite the opposite and anyone in Real Estate has seen this many times. It's not always deliberate that important items are over-looked but simply a mistake...it still needs to be found and fixed! I will bring my negotiating skills to the table for you and whatever there is to get-we'll get it.

Ten Things to Know About On-site Agents

1. On-site agent represents only the builder's interests - It is always better to have your own agent in a meeting with the builder's agent. We will make sure that your interests are represented.
2. On-site agent is told not negotiate - In new home sales, the price is often fixed and the builder hires on-site representatives to "close" without negotiating. It's simply their job! A third, objective, party can almost always get a deal better than list price.
3. You will not have any means to comparison shop - The on-site agent cannot investigate other communities that may better suit your needs- they would be fired on the spot. We will make sure you are informed of the other new community options out there.
4. You might not be told of information that may affect the future value of the home - What if there is an amusement park or a concert venue going in next door? What if the homeowner's dues don't cover the exterior maintenance...or only part of it? We will thoroughly investigate these issues and make sure you know about them...before...not after you've signed on the dotted line.
5. You will likely be required to use the builder’s attorney. While this is an acceptable practice, you will want a professional on your side to be sure that the contract is being interpreted fairly and accurately. We will help you sort out the complex details of the deal, including the division of closing costs
6. You will pay the same price whether you have a buyer's agent or not - The discount you may be seeking by directly talking to the builder's agent doesn't really exist. Whether you have an agent or not, your price will be the same. Our fee will be paid by the builder. If someone else would pick up the tab, you would have a professional do your taxes, right? Why not let the builder pick up the tab for a professional Realtor to represent your interests in purchasing a new home?
7. You may be led to think that you have no choice in lenders - Selling companies often put together "package deals" with their own lenders. Some of these plans are great, while others have hidden costs. We will always be able to explain your choices and alternatives to the builder's plans.
8. You may be encouraged to make custom selections - You may end up with some very wonderful upgrades, but maybe you really don't need gold-plated fixtures. We'll help you stick to your plans and chose the options that will make you happy and help you sell your home when the time comes.
9. Guidance on choices that will greatly enhance your resale value - Should you buy a ranch, 2 or 3-story home? Should you pay a premium price for an end unit - and how much of a premium? Is it worth the cost for a champagne bath or a kitchen island? We will help you make the decisions that will greatly help the value of your home when it's time to sell.
10. Insider knowledge of community, builder and neighborhood features - We have the experience and industry knowledge to give you the absolute best advice on location, builder reputation, HOA dues, competition, options, community benefits/drawbacks, industry perceptions and so, so much more!