Purchasing New Construction?

When scoping out newer neighborhoods seeking new construction, having the right Realtor at your side is important to help you navigate the seeming infinite number of new homes today to make an offer on the one that's been built for you.

In real estate, negotiation is always an option. However, with new construction, it depends on the developer and the length of time that the home has been vacant. Developers in new additions avoid bending on price because homeowners already in the area expect new construction to be comparably priced to what they already purchased. (You'll appreciate that same courtesy if there are undeveloped lots near the home you eventually purchase!) But, depending on how far along the project is and current market conditions, a builder will often allow a few concessions.

For example, if the home is pretty much move-in ready, you have little to no negotiating powers. But if the home has been sitting fully furnished, like a show or model home, and there haven't been many offers - then the builder might be willing to work with you. The longer the home has been on the market, the more the builder has invested.

You can always ask for assistance in other ways when purchasing new construction. For example, closing costs are one way for you to save without lowering the price of the house. The same goes for amenities - ask for things an allowance for window treatments, a garage door opener, a sprinkler system or landscaping, or an extended home warranty.  Additionally, this can go the other way around, too. If upgrades are already in the plan, see if you can get the builder to omit them - you might be able to install them later yourself at a savings anyway.