As a buyer, have you ever wandered into a new home community to "look" at their models? Did you happen to notice the sign on the door that read something like this: "If you come into this community without a Realtor, you will not be able to have Realtor representation," "Or if you don't bring your Realtor the first time....", or "Your Realtor must accompany you....." Bottom line, the builder is trying to warn you that if you come into the models without a Realtor, you will be on your own - without personal representation!
In the Phoenix Valley, there are so many new home builders with builder agents ready to assist you with your purchase, that it doesn't occur to many home buyers - that THEY need a professional Realtor to help them with the transaction and purchase of a brand new home. I've listed just "some" of the reasons I believe that a buyer needs a professional Realtor to help them purchase a resale or new home, or sell their home.
For instance - here are some questions to consider when going out alone to find or look at a new home!
1. Buyers, are you aware that the agent sitting at the new home site
works for and represents the builder? They do not represent you as the buyer. So that means, if there are any misunderstandings or concerns on your part, that you - alone - must work it out - somehow - with the builder. I have sat in on many new home sales transactions where the builder's agent will say: "I do not represent you - I represent the builder." It's a disclosure to you, the buyer.
2. Are you aware that the builder pays the agent? It has no reflection on what you pay for the home - that commission is paid by the seller (builder) to the buyer (your agent) agent.
3. Are you aware that if you walk into a new subdivision to just check out the models, that you will no longer be able to have buyer representation? Many times, without thought, the looker/buyer signs a little card with their name and address. The builder then keeps track of who has been in their homes. That prevents you from bringing in a Realtor to represent you.
4. Are you familiar with all of the builders, their customary practice, their customer service, the reputation of the builder? Do you think this might be important to you as a buyer?
5. Are you aware, as a buyer, that the builder has their "own" contract? It is not the one that is used by the Arizona Association of Realtors which is used always or almost always, on a resale contract. Many builder contracts (most) are slanted to favor the builder - not the buyer.
6. Do you know what a Public Report is - and why it might be important to you to "read" before committing to build a home with that builder in that area?
7. Have you ever read/looked at the CC&R's before you sign a
contract.....do you think it might be important to know what the rules are for that community? How about what is projected to be coming in around you? Airport? Freeway?
8. How about your earnest deposit? Colorizing fee? Are they refundable to you if you don't qualify, or if things change drastically before you're ready to move in.
9. Does the builder accept a contingency - meaning that they are willing to let you start building a home while you are in the process of selling your home? What if your home that you are selling does not sell, or if it doesn't close as planned? What are your options?
10. Are you financing through the builder - or your own lender - and do you shop for your loan instead of just accepting the builder's incentives?
Bottom line: if you are not a professional Realtor, and familiar with the basics of building a new home, your rights, your remedies - never mind the recommendations made by a Realtor as to the areas that could be affected by potential freeways, potential growth, etc., then my suggestion: find yourself a professional with whom you feel comfortable, trust, and one that knows the builders, the areas, and will be of assistance to you in deciding which floor plan and why, how many bedrooms, garage size, lot size and location, etc. You could be saving a TON of money by working with a professional Realtor.
The market is turning. Don't wait too long! Many of the builders are offering great incentives to buy their homes, including granite counter tops, appliances, landscaping, and huge discounts for their inventory homes. Call me.......I'll be happy to help you find your next home - and list the one you live in, marketing it all over the internet as well as the MLS.
Today, May 21, we have 54,200 active listings (many of these are not in Maricopa or Pinal County), as well as 7,497 currently pending - or under contract. Every day, the active listings are going down, and the pending are going up. What does this mean for you? Probably never a better time than now to buy a home or a rental! Many experts believe that it will be a long time - if ever - that our market will be any better for a buyer. Interest rates are low, there are many available listings, and the sellers typically will negotiate! New homes are available with many builders offering incentives of granite, appliance, yard landscaping and great loans........don't be one of those who waits to see "how low it will go" before you make your move. That's when everyone else will be making it as well, and the bargains will have disappeared.
Thinking about relocating to Mesa, Arizona or the Phoenix Valley? Call me at: 480.216-3334 for information on purchasing or selling a home in Mesa, Arizona or surrounding towns. OR email me: Teri@TeriEllis.com. OR visit one of my websites: HomesAzRE.com, MoveToSunnyAz, or AzLadyInRed.com, 
for photos of models, floorplans, new construction, resale and more.
Mesa, Arizona Real Estate *** Teri Ellis, Broker, ABR,CRS,GRI,ePRO,MRE
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Teri,
Excellent, a little long for my short attention span but very good information for Buyers. Good job.