Are you thinking about buying a new construction home in Nashville? That is super exciting! But first things first you need to be represented by a real estate agent. Why? The main reason is that real estate agent you meet at the model home represents one party: the builder. So they will work in the best interest of their client and with any big transaction you need representation. Also, unless you personally buy many new construction homes in this area – you probably don’t do this often enough to know all the in’s and out’s of buying a new construction home! For example, did you know most builders in this area do not include a refrigerator?? Having representation when you buy ANY home – new construction or existing – it is so important!
So why is it important:
Negotiate contract on your behalf
A myth that many people believe is that you will save money if you don’t hire a real estate agent.. this is definitely not true. Builders have a marketing budget in which they include the buyer’s agents commission so that price is built in whether you have an agent or not. Second, we often times negotiate things into the deal on your behalf.. so it can actually save you money to have an agent. For example – we recently had a client who we were able to negotiate in railings on the back and front patio areas that weren’t included – she has young kids so this was very important to her. The builder was willing to do this as opposed to the lowering the purchase price so he could maintain the comps in the area. We know things builders will and won’t do.. so we can use this to our advantage and create a strategy for the offer that can really pay off for our clients.
Know the in’s and outs of contingencies/inspections
When you hire a real estate agent make sure they really understand your financial situation and priorities when buying a home. They can outline when and what inspections you can have as well as recommend reputable inspection companies that fit in your budget. For example, we had clients recently buy a new construction home that had serious concerns about mold issues. We were able to schedule a pre-drywall inspection and final mold inspection for them. A great agent will be able to make sure you get any and all inspections you need to feel good about purchasing your new home.
Help with design and any upgrades
One of my favorite parts of this job is helping clients purchase new construction in Greater Nashville. You get to watch the whole house be built from lot to the completed project. It is truly amazing to help client’s really create their dream home. We know what sells aesthetically and can really help guide you to make design choices that will increase the value of your home. Many times.. clients can go a little overboard (and that is their prerogative) but we often times can help guide you to choose upgrades that increase the value of the home and educate you on the upgrades that maybe don’t make financial sense… i.e. finishing off the upstairs may increase the value of the home by A LOT where adding those 10 extra electrical outlets will not. Now if those outlets are important to you, then by all means get them. But at least you will make this decision knowing you may not get that money back out when you go to sell.
With anything – the decision is yours. But we truly believe a professional real estate agent adds so much value to our Nashville new construction buyers. If you are interested in buying a new home never hesitate to reach out to us with specific questions or anything at all! Sammi & I are always happy to help! Call us at 615-310-8661 or email me at lisa@nashvilleonthemarket.com or contact us here.
Lisa Stigliano
Local Real Estate Agent | Co-Owner
Nashville on the Market Real Estate
Office 615-541-5114
