BEST ANSWER
In my experience builders do offer many incentives, especially for homes that are already on the ground. Yes many times they will pay the agent a 3% commission and still give incentives to the buyer. I have helped three buyers purchase new homes from builders and they liked it much better for a few reasons.
First there really was no pressure, my presence and ability to keep a hard closer from pestering is huge. Many times when you have a Realtor with you it is easy to step out easier and avoid a pressure pitch. Secondly I was able to help them view first the pre-owned and foreclosure inventory to make sure they were not missing any great deals. Finally, When sitting down with them I could bring prices and amenities from all builders at one time instead of driving around to many different builders in many different communities.
After all is said and done a Builder can not offer you a better price if you do not use a Realtor. 99% of them are happy to work with Realtors, or at least they always seem that way.
My guess is that they are able to write off the commissions as advertising and save at tax time.
I would love to help you and can send you a daily updated search of what is available in these areas and mail you information on any builder or subdivision you would like. As an added bonus my lack of a large name broker allows me the ability to rebate you 20% of my commission after closing.
Thanks for your time and good luck on your move to Texas i hope you enjoy it here.
RJ
214-682-0598
Mon Jun 8 2009, 15:23