Ready to make an offer to start building in a new subdivision. Do I need a realtor at this point? (flat fee)

[qiaoshiya]

We've decided on a lot, and we've chosen the plan we want to build. So, we don't need an agent to do any hunting for us. Now, I know a builder's on-site agent/sales person is working in the interest of the builder... not in MY interest. So, should I enlist the help of an agent to make my offer?

Any advice would be appreciated.

[lizinva]

I would have had an agent before I got to that point. Agents do far more than help pick out a home or lot.

Agents have access to what the other lots and homes have sold for in your neighborhood and will guide you in your offer. They will also negotiate any other issues that arise throughout the building of your home.

Years ago we had an issue with our VA eligibility and our agent helped us through that.

There will be inspections and the closing etc.

[Jkgourmet]

I'd agree - get a realtor. That said, in my area of Arizona, if you use a realtor for limited services (like the OP described or if you are purchasing a FSBO), most realtors will accept a lower, flat fee instead of the full commission rate.

Since the builder is paying your realtors commission and has certainly built that fee into their purchase price, I'd hire myself a realtor to represent and protect ME.

One warning: in our county in Arizona, if a buyer visits a builder subdivision on their own - even once - the builder is not obligated to pay a buyers agent. And they usually refuse to. In that situation, you're only recourse would be to pay the buyers agent yourself or tell the builder you will pull the deal if they don't 'reconsider.'

If your real estate rules are similar to ours, you have already screwed the pooch. Nevertheless, I'd STILL be hiring an agent, even if I had to pay out of my own pocket. I would expect a reduced, flat fee. (But I'd probably try to get the builder to 'reconsider' first).

[Seth Parker]

Obviously, this is going to sound a little biased coming from a Realtor...but you should go ahead and get one. It's not going to cost you any extra money and the extra set of eyes could really come in handy and potentially save you some money down the road and avoid problems during the process. We know what's normal and acceptable during the course of this...many of us have sold hundreds of homes over the years.

Can you finish things up on your own? Absolutely. I would say it depends on how many times you've bought/sold homes before...and I would also say that it depends on the builder that you are buying from. There's a couple of them that I would, at least, sorta feel safe. There's others that I wouldn't go in the neighborhood without an outside agent. If you've done it many times and maybe even have a little bit of experience in new homes, you'd be much more prepared than the majority of people out there.

[Southern Granny]

Might also want to ask questions about the builder. But beware, there are typically more 'horror' stories than "he's a good builder" stories. Ask other homeowners that used the same builder.

I know a really good realtor if you are interested. PM me if you do. (No I'm not a realtor)