4 Reasons You Should Hire an Agent When Building a House

With new home construction on the rise in the Greater Metropolitan Phoenix area, many homebuyers are contemplating the purchase of a new home. If you’ve not purchased a new home before, there are several things you should know before starting the process.  For instance, many homebuyers think they don’t need to hire an agent when building a new home. After all, you’re buying directly from the builder and they already have the sales associates, contractors, lenders and inspectors. Why should someone else be brought into the mix?

The truth is, buying any home without an agent can be a costly mistake.

Over the last 20 years, we’ve witnessed quantum improvements in the overall building construction and materials used in today’s houses — such as new flooring styles, 9’-10’ foot ceiling heights, LED/CFL lighting, upgraded fixtures and furnishings, stainless steel appliances, upgraded technology and surround sound, modern color palettes and more.

What you may not see, however, is engineered lumber that provides a stronger structure, energy efficient appliances and windows, higher quality insulation which provides better heating and cooling options, as well as better indoor air quality, and structured wiring for your families overall safety.  Many assume this just comes standard in any new home, but that is not always the case.

Therefore, it is important when buying ANY home that you have an experienced realtor asking the right questions and representing you throughout the process.

Here are four reasons to have a qualified agent on your side before visiting the sales office:

1. As a local expert, not only are we familiar with the subdivision, but we have established relationships with the builder and can tell you what plans the developer may have for that community.  We can also can set up home tours, answer questions and walk you through all the nuances of the closing process.
2. The onsite sales associate or listing agent – while friendly and knowledgeable — works for the builder, not for you. They’re there to get those homes sold vs. working with someone like The Cusick Group who is there to ensure you make the best decision for you and your family.
3. The builder’s preferred lender is often times owned by the builder itself. And while they may provide incentives to use their lender that may not be your best option. We recommend contacting at least two lenders to compare terms, fees, and rates and can help you find special funding programs.
4.  Lastly, much of the language used in the contract is written heavily in favor of the builder vs. protecting you.  Prior to the final walk through, we recommend a home inspection by someone you hire to ensure you’re getting the highest quality product for your money.

Having a professional, experienced Realtor negotiate on your behalf costs you nothing and could save you thousands in the long run.

The one caveat to this: the builder requires that the realtor accompany you on your very first visit to the community to let them know you’ve chosen to have free representation.

Need to sell your existing home?

The Cusick Group offers a 33% reduction in our commission to represent you in both transactions – saving you thousands that can be put towards your new home.

If you’re interested in searching new home communities or would like to find out what your home is currently worth in today’s market, please fill out the form below and a member of our team will email you shortly. For any other questions about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 602-790-7966 or email tcusick@cusickgroupre.com.