Myths  and  Facts  About  Buying  a  New  Construction  Home

Myth:

The builder will charge more for the house if I use a Realtor® to represent me.

Fact:

In Sarasota and Manatee Counties we have a Builder-Realtor Accord. The home costs the same if you use the services of a Realtor® or not. It doesn't cost you anything for me to represent you. Let me give you the benefit of my experience.

Myth:

You've lived in the area and are familiar with the local builders and subdivisions; you do not need Realtor® Representation.

Fact:

The on site salesperson represents the builder. They may or may not be acting in your best interest.

Myth:

Builders don't really like it when a Realtor is involved.

Fact:

The Realtor® can actually make it easier for the Builder. Some Builders brag that over 50% of their sales are Realtor® generated. You may wish to review our Testimonials (PDF File).

Myth:

There is an agent located in every model to help me.

Fact:

As a Buyer's Agent, I play a most important role - representing Buyers who are purchasing new construction homes. Many Buyers do not understand that the on-site agent at a new home model is acting as the Seller's Agent and is acting only on behalf of the builder. They don't represent you. Their loyalty is to the Builder only. They must act fairly and honestly but their job is to get the best deal for the Builder. Not only are you, the Buyer, entitled to have your own agent, you should absolutely have your own agent to look out for your interests - just like the Builder has a representative acting for their benefit. Remember, we are paid by the Builder so my services cost you nothing.

Myth:

You can go look at model homes and if you decide to buy, you can bring in a Realtor® later to represent you.

Fact:

The Builder-Realtor Accord requires that the first time you look at a model home you are accompanied by your Realtor. Otherwise, the builder may block representation and I will not be able to help you.

Myth:

The builder you are considering is a national builder. They wouldn't be so big if they weren't a good builder.

Fact:

Big isn't always better. National builders may be better in some parts of the country than others.

Myth:

The builder you are looking at has won many awards.

Fact:

The awards given out by the Home Builder's Association are for designs of the house, not for the construction quality.

If you are interested in building a new home, this is what I will do for you:

1. Introduce you to the best builders in the subdivisions that fit your needs and desires.
   
   
2. Help you choose the best lot and give you the pluses and minuses of certain locations and exposures for resale purposes.
   
   
3. Read and explain the Builders' Construction Agreement (PDF File) to you.
   
   
4. Help you find the best financing and insurance.
   
   
5. Suggest options that you might want to add to make your house more "live-able" for you and more "sale-able" down the road. (You may want to review the Artful Language of the ATC Invitation (PDF File) article.)
   
   
6. Go with to your "color selection" meeting if you desire.
   
   
7. Be your liaison and advocate in the event of a problem or "misunderstanding" with the builder.
   
   
8. Help you with your individual needs and agreements not mentioned above.
   
   

Don't you deserve the best representation on one of the largest investments you will ever make?   I think you do!

Let The Judie Berger, "Experience the Moves you" team work for you. Call us toll free 866-231-2348.