Contact Raavstar to begin your new construction search, since the seller typically pays the commission, it costs a buyer nothing to be represented by a real estate agent, and many builders are happy to work with agents. An agent who regularly deals with builders and knows the local communities will provide lots of helpful information.

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Know exactly what you need to do as Buyer

When it comes to purchasing new construction, there is a common misconception among buyers that the process is pretty straightforward: walk into the builder's office, pick a lot and design, and sign on the dotted line. What many potential buyers don't consider is that the friendly and helpful salesperson working for the builder at a new-home site is representing the builder—and is there only to look after the builder's best interests. As Raavstar real estate agent, it's our job to know that buyers who are not represented by their agent are taking a big risk with what is probably their biggest investment.

Some new-home buyers also believe that if they do not use a buyer's agent for purchasing a new home, the builder will reduce the home price by the amount of the commission that would have been paid. This is simply not true. Builders don't want to lower prices because that will have an impact on future home sales in that neighborhood. Furthermore, builders expect to pay commissions to buyers' agents, so they figure that cost into their marketing budgets. Buyers who opt out of working with their agent are not saving themselves any money. The commission that was not paid will go straight to the builder's salesperson, or the builder will keep it as profit.

If a builder is having financial problems, an agent is far more likely to recognize the telltale signs or to have heard from suppliers that the builder isn't paying their bills. An initial deposit on construction can be as much as 10 percent of the purchase price, so there is a lot of money at stake.

Buying a brand new home is a complex process. As a buyer's agent, it is our job to ensure that details of the sale are not overlooked. We will make sure that upgrades and custom features happen as they were agreed upon. You will be there for periodic walk-throughs of the new home, both during construction and at closing. There are myriad items with a new build that can easily be forgotten. As long as you ensure the correct documentation is in place, there should be no problem getting the builder to correct mistakes.

Prepare to negotiate

The builder's salesperson will usually give the impression that sale prices aren't negotiable. Although there is some truth to that, as a buyer's agent you know there is some leverage. Builders who won't budge on sales prices, for instance, may instead offer to pay closing costs or provide design upgrades.

Another important factor is the timing of the sale. Knowing when it's best for clients to buy or to hold off can save your clients a lot of money. For instance, if a new phase of construction is set to start, this can mean the purchase price of properties from the previous phase is set to go up. Reserving a property before that can mean big savings for buyers—as well as instant equity.

Unlike regular sellers, builders are not emotionally attached to their properties. Their decisions are based on what is best for their bottom line. Time is money, and every day a builder has a home sitting on the market is a day they are losing money. As a buyer's agent, Raavstar can seek out builder inventory that has been on the market for a while—and you can often negotiate a good deal.

Realize there are always additional costs

Every builder is different, and what is standard for one might be an upgrade for another. Most builders incorporate the best design options in their model homes, so the model isn't always representative of what buyers will get. The builder shows these options in their models because they are hoping buyers will like them and add them on.

Raavstar will make sure buyers know that these upgrades come at a cost. When touring the model home, find out exactly what options are standard and what upgrades are available for an additional cost. This will help to avoid any surprises later on.

Educate yourself on buying new construction homes

Learn about elements unique to the new-home market, including architectural design, blueprint reading, site design, construction methods and materials, and so forth.

If possible, shadow Raavstar agent to few home builders in your location. Not only does this provide you with a good way to get to know local builders, but you can also see close up how the new construction process works.

The bottom line: New construction offers exciting opportunities for buyers. When buying new construction homes, Raavstar will make sure our clients know how important it is that their interests be protected. Things to do when you buy new construction:

• Use a real estate agent if you can.
• Check out the builder
• Research the community.
• Choose square footage and location over upgrades
• Don't over improve
• Understand your floor plan
• Have a lawyer vet the contracts
• Ask about warranties
• Get a home inspection.
• Get multiple bids from lenders and closing agents