The do's and don'ts of buying new home construction

Here is some advice for people looking to build a home.

Do - use a real estate professional!  Many people make the mistake of thinking they will save money if they don't use an agent, so they navigate the process alone. This is not usually the case. Most builders have a realtor partner than represents the development for marketing purposes. A set commission has already been established and negotiated into the cost of new construction, whether you have an agent representing you or not. By not having your own agent, you are dealing with a builders representative directly who represents the builder....not you! An agent experienced in new construction will give you direction on must have features you should include for future resale.... They will help you negotiate with the builder on items such as which title company you close with to ensure the best rates, establishing provisions in the contract for inspection throughout the build process....such as surveying the lot for easements, radon testing, and various building inspections, pre and post drywall. 

Don't- be mislead by base prices  Builders often have a standards features list that is included in the base price but you will need to add Many more options before its said and done. It's important that you choose your options carefully. Don't give up something structural for things that can be added to your home at a later date. Example, giving up 3 car garage, premium lots, or things like ceiling heights for crown moldings, upgraded flooring, and counter tops. Don't do it! 

Do- consult your realtor professional about matching your home style to your lot choice. Yes! This one is huge and most people don't think about it until they get penalized at resale. There are usual demographics for different styles of homes, and lot choices. For example, the typical buyer for a 2 sty home is a younger couple with 2.5 kids. That demographic is looking for yards to play in, so busy streets or lots that back to water are not the best lot matches to the that style of home and demographic, and can negatively affect your values at resale. Build a ranch home on that smaller lot that backs to a pond and suddenly a problem lot for one style of home becomes a premium sought-after home site for a different style of home. Building a home is an investment....I've seen people make critical mistakes that cost them tens of thousands of dollars....DON'T give up your rights to agent representation by signing in at a new home community checking the box that you don't have an agent!