The builder's sales representative is there to represent the builder and the builder's interests. Your Realtor is there to represent you and your interests.

Having your own Realtor gives you someone who can help you compare communities and builders, understand what's included in the advertised price, evaluate incentives, review your options, keep track of important dates, coordinate inspections, and help you navigate the process from your first model-home visit through closing.

And remember the nicest model home isn't always the best community, floor plan, homesite, or deal for you. Having someone who knows the local market can help you look beyond the model and compare the bigger picture.

Call me first.

Many builders have specific policies regarding Realtor representation and buyer registration. Depending on the builder, your Realtor may need to accompany you or be registered with you during your first visit.

If you're thinking about touring new construction, connect with me before walking into the sales center. We can make a plan, narrow down the communities worth visiting, and make sure you understand your representation options before you register.

Builder compensation policies vary. In many transactions, a builder may offer compensation to a buyer's brokerage, but this should never be assumed.

Before we begin, we'll discuss representation, compensation, and any potential costs so you understand exactly how it works.

Sometimes—but new construction negotiations aren't always about lowering the base price.

Depending on the builder, community, inventory, and current market, there may be opportunities involving closing-cost contributions, financing incentives, design options, upgrades, lot premiums, appliances, or move-in-ready inventory.

Part of my job is helping you look at the total cost and value of the home, not simply the advertised starting price.

You don't necessarily have to.

Builders may offer incentives for using an affiliated or preferred lender and title company. Those incentives can be valuable, but it's still important to understand the loan terms, interest rate, fees, and overall cost.

Compare the complete numbers - not just the incentive.

A new home is still built by people, and issues can happen.

Independent inspections can provide another set of eyes during the construction process. Depending on the home and stage of construction, buyers may consider inspections at different milestones as well as before closing.