Going about taking on a transaction that is going to be one of your largest financial decisions without your own representation by an agent is not a good idea.

While builders are looking to grow their business and customer service is necessary, they don't wake up in the morning thinking about your bills, they are thinking about theirs.

Saving money right now is on everyone's mind, and some sellers and builders are trying to entice buyers to ditch their agents to come work direct and save 3%. While this is pretty appealing, I have been able to save my buyers far more than 3%.

Not to mention, a good buyers agent can help you identify which builders are reputable and which ones might be in trouble. There are a lot of great builders in the Treasure Valley, but there are also quite a few who have been hit pretty good with tough times and need to make a sale pretty bad, not good--you could be the recipient of a home that has had 'corners cut' so to say.

Lastly, working direct means someone is 'selling' you something. Working with a buyers agent allows you to remain in the drivers seat.

In what appears to be one of the best buyers markets we've seen (high inventory, low rates, low consumer confidence), the last thing you want to do is give up your strong negotiating position by handing it over directly to the builder.

If you'd like to talk to an agent who's experienced with negotiating in this market and has already successfully gotten lower prices and terms for buyers this year, please don't hesitate to contact me for a no obligation consultation. 208-724-7602

For some good buyers tips, especially about a buyers agent, check out my blog articles:

http://boiserealestatesoup.com/2009/02/18/5-pitfalls-to-avoi…
AND
http://boiserealestatesoup.com/2008/11/03/buying-a-home-in-b…

Yes, it is always good to have your own representation in any real estate transaction. Most likely there is room in the purchase price for a commission to be paid on your behalf anyway - especially if the builder has it listed with a realtor (or some of the large builders like CBH & Hubble have their own in house realtors). There are a few instances where people buy 'builder direct', this would be similar to buying 'for sale by owner'. This is where neither side has representation - sure it is cheaper, but there is a lot more risk involved for both parties.

I hope this helps answer your question! =)

Hi L.D.,
Using an agent is completely up to the discretion of the homebuyer or seller, but even in new construction using an agent to represent you can be a good thing..if you use the agent of the contractor you need to keep in mind that the agent is representing their client, the contractor..having someone on your side to make sure you get the best possible deal is beneficial to you, the buyer.