Any advantages of using an agent when buying a house at a new construction? I know sites like Ryvenco.com

Sean
Home Buyer
19044

give a cash back if the buyer chooses them as an agent. Thank you.

Answers (11)
Gita Bantwal, A...
Agent
Bucks County, PA

Your question was posted in July. Hopeyou have purchased a house. I am answering this for the benefit of others who may read this post. It is to your advantage to work with a Buyers agent. . The others have already given good reasons why you should use you own buyer's agent. I am an accredited Buyers Representative and hold the ABR designation.Look up my web site http://www.gitabantwal.com for information about agency and advantages of using a buyer's agent.

Thu Oct 9 2008, 08:35
Edward Carboy
Agent
19468

This site is nothing more than advertisement for the builder. You mention the site the builder has to pay ryvenco.com. Does this website represent you?Negotiate for you?Give advice on any extras? If you don't use an agent-then the representative of the builder is,also, representing you.....Ed Carboy 610-792-5900

Thu Oct 2 2008, 20:08
Marcia Clark /...
Agent
St. Charles County, MO

In the St Louis area you always have the right to have representation. Always remember the agent sitting in that subdivision is working for the BUILDER! You pay the same amount for a home with or without an agent, why would you not have representation. Realtors can suggest choices or options that you might not think of, of course it is always the buyers decision.
Remember they have to sell every lot in the subdivision to move to their next location. The good Realtor representing you will look out for your best interest, they could be listing this house in the future. We also have the latest info on what builders might be in trouble, who has the most call backs, and the leverage to get you help. We can save you thousands and help you to make the best possible choices.

Wed Sep 24 2008, 20:53
Cheryl R. Suppl...
Agent
Schwenksville, PA

I would use an agent as a tool to get cash back, incentives, the Seller/Builder info. - are they in foreclosure, desperate, etc. You can also have an agent do comparables and get you the best deal, help you get the deposit lowered, etc. You do not have to pay for a realtor, so you should have one. I assure you whatever they offer you, an agent can get for you and then some. At least I can.... :)

-Cheryl Supplee
Coldwell Banker Preferred
610-812-6575

Thu Jul 17 2008, 14:53
Gayle Castillo
Agent
Lynnwood, WA

As a REALTOR I would certainly advocate using an agent; two reasons buyer representation which doesn't cost you anything (seller pays commission) and as a buyer's agent I would be working for you not the builder. Especially in new construction where the "site agent " works for the builder, and they certainly don't want to give away more than they need to sell the property. I sit new construction and know that I would offer a better purchasing package as a buyers rep, than the site agent.

Fri Jul 11 2008, 14:58

Assuming that rebates are legal in your state, there's no reason not to go with a rebate company IF they are able to secure the best possible price for you. Often, the best deals are with standing inventory- please make sure that you are aware of all incentives being offered, and ask for MORE. I hope that your outcome is a phenomenal discount (as many builders are offering right now) and a rebate- it doesn't get much better than that. Good luck.

Web Reference: http://optionsrealty.com
Fri Jul 11 2008, 14:37
The Somers
Agent
Philadelphia, PA

The huge benefit is buyer agency - being that you will have representation throughout the entire process, from the negotiation to settlement. Typically that representation will be worth much more than some sort of rebate off the sales price. You will have someone on YOUR side throughout the entire process.

For more helpful hints visit our website below:

Fri Jul 11 2008, 13:15
Harry Postlethw...
Agent
Littleton, CO

There is great advantage. First, brokers often negotiate amenities that will not be suggested by the builder/developer(s). Knowing which builders are open to certain additions, amenities and closing costs may bring a greater value to your purchase. Some builders recommend a lender that may be beneficial to the Buyer, but often not. An agent can recommend an inspector and guide you through the process of pre-drywall inspection and final inspection. A recent inspection found a natural gas leak in the water heater gas line, and that was for a good builder of "built green" homes. Builders use subcontractors who may take shortcuts. E.g., 1/2" piping from basement to second floor bath may result in a cold shower when water is turned on elsewhere in the house. (It should be 3/4" piping to within a couple of feet of the spigot.)

For your own protection, you should always consider using a real estate agent and/or a real estate attorney whenever buying or selling property, new or "pre-owned." Protect your investment up front! It is a lot simpler than trying to correct a bad transaction after the fact.

Fri Jul 11 2008, 12:59
Dennis Strange,...
Agent
Southampton, PA

In PA you don't need an attorney or an agent to purchase property. however i would recommend one or the other or both. Since the agent deals with the home buying process daily they should have a better understanding of the customary cost(transfer tax, fees, charges, etc.) and they can help explain what are/arenot fair charges. The attorney may be versed in contract law and can explain all the legal jargon and what you are liable for, on the same note an experienced agent should know all of the required paperwork inside and out.
Remember that the sales person at the model home is also a licensed agent employed by the builder and their job is to sell you the home and upgrades. when you have a buyers agent represent you there are a lot benefits, you dont pay the agents commission and the builder has some assurance that you won't forget to complete your requirements and delay closing or default on your contract.
If you have any further ?'s feel free to give me a call

Dennis Strange
Keller Williams Real Estate
267-767-8558

Fri Jul 11 2008, 11:11
Edmund Choi
Agent
Devon, PA

Realtors structure deals everyday. New construction is not an exception. One of my recent clients paid $30k less and got more options than their neighbor who didn't use an agent.

As for rebates, it's illegal and, besides, wouldn't you agree that I earned my commission for my client? They would agree.

Fri Jul 11 2008, 11:09
Lynn911.com Dal...
Agent
Dallas, TX
FIRST ANSWER

Yes you are covered under that agents e & o insurance policy you dont know contract law and agent is trained. http://www.homes-for-sale-dallas.com
http://www.lynn911.com

Web Reference: http://www.lynn911.com
Fri Jul 11 2008, 10:06

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