Buying a New Home? 

Excellent!  You get to choose your new neighborhood and there is a possibility of choosing many components of your home.   

You can go to the new home community on your own and buy your home through the Builder's agent.  But be aware that the agent almost always (I have never heard of an exception) represents the Builder, and you are not represented by an agent. Sometimes the Builder does not 'cooperate' with Buyer's agents, or they only pay a 'referral fee'.   Of course you can  hire representation yourself. 

However, sometimes the Builder 'cooperates'.  That is, the Builder will pay a commission to your Buyer's agent.  If this is so, you are usually required to have your Buyer's Agent with you the first time you visit the subdivision and to be registered at that time with your Agent.   So be sure to check with your agent before you visit the new home community. 

Here are some of the things you should keep in mind. 

1.  Be aware that not all upgrades will give a good return on investment dollars when you sell your home.  Not everyone will value the same things.  However, also be aware that not all return on investment is in dollars.  If the upgrade is something you have always wanted or that will add to your life while you live in the home, consider your pleasure the 'return on investment'.  If you don't get enough value in either dollars or pleasure, you may want to reconsider the upgrade. 

2. Don’t believe everything you read in advertisements and community brochures.  There can be mistakes, and there is usually a disclosure somewhere that things are subject to change.  Verify with the Builder or the Builder's representative, a professional, or personally that the things you are expecting will be there, what is standard and what is extra, that it really is 'only 10 minutes to shopping and schools', etc. 

3.  Check with the Builder's ' lender of choice'.  Check with other lenders, too.  Weigh fees, rates, any incentives, everything, one against the other.  Make the best choice for you! 

4.  Don't think just because the home is new that inspections are irrelevant.  The more professionals who examine whatever issues are relevant to the home you are buying, the better.  Be sure you are allowed to have inspections in addition to any the Builder may schedule with you. 

5.  Look at how your home sits on its lot.  For instance, where does the light come from?  How will it affect your life style?  How is your home situated compared to your neighbors? How will that affect you?  Is the home that is/will be next door one or two story?  Will it block sunlight or a view?  And so on, and so forth!! 

These are just a few of the things I feel you should keep in mind.  I would be happy to assist you with the purchase of your home in a new home community from a cooperating Builder. 

 Please just give me a call at 707-569-2167 or email me here http://www.sarahclarksells.com/contact.asp