Buying a new construction home is exciting! Everything is brand new, built to modern standards, and untouched by previous owners. But there’s one big question many first-time buyers ask:
“Should I hire a realtor when buying new construction, or can I just work directly with the builder?”
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a balanced look at why you might want a realtor in your corner — and when going without one could make sense.
Why Some People Skip a Realtor for New Builds
When you walk into a builder’s sales office, you’ll often meet a friendly sales representative ready to guide you through the process. This can make it tempting to skip hiring your own realtor entirely.
Common reasons people skip:
- They assume it will save money. Many buyers believe that if they don’t bring a realtor, the builder will give them a discount. In reality, builder pricing rarely changes — the realtor’s commission is usually already built into the sales budget.
- They think the builder’s agent works for them. The builder’s sales rep may feel helpful, but their job is to represent the builder’s interests, not yours.
- They want to keep things “simple.” Fewer people involved can seem like less hassle — but it can also mean fewer safeguards.
My spouse and I had the same question when we did a tour and spoke with a sales associate for a new build community. However, as first time homeowners, we knew we wanted someone with experience by our side throughout this daunting process.
How a Realtor Can Help in New Construction?
While new builds come with fewer “repair surprises,” the process still involves contracts, timelines, and negotiation. Here are five things a realtor can do for you.
1. Negotiate Upgrades and Incentives
Many builders advertise set prices and packages, but that doesn’t mean everything is fixed in stone. A skilled new construction real estate agent knows what’s actually negotiable. They might secure you upgraded flooring, premium kitchen counters, or even smart home features at little to no extra cost. Builders sometimes also offer closing cost credits or appliance packages, especially if they’re trying to sell the last few homes in a community. Without a realtor’s knowledge of builder patterns, you might not know these incentives are available — or how to ask for them without jeopardizing the deal.
2. Review the Contract
Builder contracts are very different from standard resale home agreements. They’re often written by the builder’s legal team and tend to favor the builder in terms of deadlines, delays, and design changes. For example, a contract may allow the builder to extend completion dates multiple times without penalty, or substitute materials if a specific item is backordered. A realtor experienced in new home construction can walk you through these details, flag potentially unfair terms, and even recommend when to bring in a real estate attorney for an extra layer of protection.
3. Recommend Quality Builders
Not all builders are created equal. Some have a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer service; others have a track record of delays, warranty disputes, or inconsistent finishes. An experienced buyer’s agent for new builds has often worked with multiple local builders and can give you insight that you won’t find in glossy brochures. They may also know which communities are more flexible with pricing, which offer better standard features, and which have strong resale value in the long run.
4. Keep the Process on Track
Buying a new build home isn’t a one-and-done transaction. You’ll have pre-construction meetings, design center visits, progress updates, inspections, and final walkthroughs. If you’re juggling a busy work schedule or relocating from another city, it’s easy to miss key milestones. A realtor can act as your project manager — reminding you of deadlines, verifying that construction is meeting agreed-upon specifications, and ensuring the builder follows through on promised updates. In some cases, they may even attend inspections on your behalf if you can’t be there in person.
5. Advocate During Construction Issues
Even with a brand-new home, things can go wrong — from layout changes you didn’t approve to paint colors being applied incorrectly. Builders usually have a set process for addressing issues, but you’ll often get faster and more thorough responses when you have a professional advocating for you. A realtor for new construction homes can document the problem, communicate directly with the site manager, and push for timely corrections before closing day. They’re also there to ensure your final walkthrough is thorough so nothing slips through the cracks before you take ownership.
Myths About Using a Realtor for New Construction
Myth 1: “It costs extra to use a realtor.”
In most cases, the builder pays the realtor’s commission out of their marketing budget. You get professional representation without extra cost.
Myth 2: “Realtors aren’t needed for new homes because everything is under warranty.”
Yes, most new homes come with warranties — but warranties don’t cover every dispute or protect you from contract issues.
Myth 3: “The builder will lower the price if I don’t use a realtor.”
While possible in rare cases, most builders won’t reduce the price because removing the commission doesn’t change their base pricing model.
When Going Without a Realtor Might Make Sense
- You have real estate experience yourself. If you’ve bought and sold homes before and understand builder contracts, you may feel comfortable handling negotiations solo.
- You’re purchasing from a builder you know well. Maybe you’ve worked with them before, or a close friend or family member is a trusted sales rep.
- You prefer complete control. If you’re confident in managing every detail yourself and don’t mind extra legwork, you might not feel the need for representation.
Tips If You Decide to Use a Realtor
- Bring them on from the start. Most builders require your realtor to register with you on the first visit, or they may not honor their commission.
- Find someone with new construction experience. They should know how local builders operate and what’s realistic to ask for.
- Ask about communication. Your realtor should keep you updated throughout the construction process, not just at contract signing.
Bottom Line
Hiring a realtor for a new construction home isn’t mandatory — but it can give you peace of mind, negotiating power, and a professional advocate in a process that’s more complex than it looks.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, the guidance can be worth its weight in gold, especially since it typically comes at no extra cost to you.
In short:
- If you want extra protection and negotiation leverage, hire a realtor.
- If you’re confident in handling the process and know the builder, you might not need one.
Either way, do your homework, read every document carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask questions before you sign. I hope you find the home of your dreams!
