At a glance
- The friendly person in the model home works for the builder. Your BLEU Advisor works for you.
- Bring your advisor on your first visit. Many builders ask for that before they'll work with your agent.
- Builder contracts are usually the builder's own forms, so read them closely.
- New homes still deserve an independent inspection.
Start with your first visit
The sales team in a model home is there to represent the builder, and they're often wonderful to work with. It still helps to have someone whose only job is looking out for you.
Many builders ask that your agent come with you, or be registered, on your very first visit. So before you stop by, give your BLEU Advisor a call.
Read the builder's contract closely
Builders usually use their own contract, and it's generally written with the builder in mind. It's worth a careful read before you sign.
- What the base price includes, and what's extra
- How and when the builder can change the completion date
- What your earnest money covers, and when it can be refunded
- What happens if the home isn't finished on time
- How changes and upgrades are priced and approved
Upgrades, incentives and lenders
Design choices are the fun part, and they add up quickly. Decide what matters most before the design appointment, and ask which upgrades are hard to add later.
Builders often offer incentives for using their preferred lender. Those can be a great deal, so compare the whole picture, including the rate and fees, against at least one other lender. You can choose any lender you like.
Inspections and your warranty
Brand-new doesn't mean perfect. An independent inspector can catch things before they become your problem, often once before the walls are closed and again before closing.
Before closing, walk the home and list anything that needs attention. Then keep your warranty handy, and note what it covers and for how long.
New or resale?
| New construction | Resale home | |
|---|---|---|
| Move-in timing | May take months if the home isn't finished | Often sooner |
| Choices | Your finishes and floor plan | What's already there |
| Maintenance | Newer systems and a builder warranty | Varies with the home's age |
| Trees and lots | Often newer landscaping | Often more established |
| Negotiating | Often incentives over price | Price and terms |
New construction questions
Do I need my own agent for new construction?
You don't have to have one, but it's a smart idea. The builder's team represents the builder, and your BLEU Advisor represents you. Just bring your advisor on your first visit, since many builders ask for that.
How is my agent paid on a new build?
Your written buyer agreement states what your agent will be paid. Builders may offer to cover it, and your BLEU Advisor will go over the details with you. Here's how compensation works.
Can I negotiate with a builder?
Often, yes. Builders may prefer incentives, like closing costs or upgrades, over lowering the price. It depends on the builder and the home.
Do I have to use the builder's lender?
No. You can choose any lender. A builder's incentive may depend on using their preferred lender, so compare both before you decide.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Builder terms, incentives and warranties differ. BLEU is a real estate brokerage, not a lender or builder. Your written agreement controls.