So you want to build your own home. Should you use a Salt Lake real estate agent? Or will you save money by buying directly from the builder?

A well qualified REALTOR will save the buyer and the builder money and time in the transaction because they educate and prepare the buyer for the many decisions that may arise, and help to prevent issues that needlessly waste valuable time on behalf of both parties.

Time, experience, knowledge, and resources can help to make your building experience more rewarding, and efficient. Here are some questions you might ask yourself that will help you determine whether the professional services of a REALTOR will benefit you.

Do you know exactly what you want to build?
Do you know which builder can do it for you?
Do you have access to the land you want to build on?
Is the builder's site acceptable to you?
Do you have knowledge of previous work by the builder?
Can you honestly evaluate the work of the builder and the worth of the home?
Can you sort, select, and evaluate lenders and loan types that benefit you, not the builder?
Can you objectively negotiate with the builder?
Can you negotiate through the contingencies that arise after the contract has been signed?

Some quick facts on New Construction.

The builder wants to sell a home, the buyer wants to buy a home.
The builder's representative is supposed to make money for the builder, and can only represent the builder.
A REALTOR representing a buyer, negotiates and advises exclusively for that buyer.
Builders are willing to compensate Buyers agents because they bring educated, qualified buyers to the builder.
The builders representative will identify only the positive features of their product.
A good REALTOR will objectively help the buyer identify positive and negative features of all homes they are considering.
Ultimatley, the REALTOR saves the buyer and builder money and time in the transaction because they educate and prepare the buyer for the many decisions that may arise, and help to prevent issues that needlessly waste valuable time on behalf of both parties.

For example...

The builders representative will identify only the positive features of their product.
Builders representative calls the open greenbelt on the east side of the community a park.
A REALTOR representing a buyer, negotiates and advises exclusively for that buyer.
Buyers agent identifies and makes buyer aware that the open greenbelt was previously the county landfill.

I can also help you because…

As a Certified New Home Specialist I have exclusive trianing in new home construction, sales, and marketing.

Having an extensive background as a contractor and being involved in several construction projects I have a practical knowledge as well.

My relationship with local builders may help you to get the home you want sooner, or get special priority on their waiting list.

I can provide you with color photos, floor plans, and specs of the model you are interested in, saving you a needless trip to a property you don't like.

I can help you make objective comparisons between new homes, and pre-existing homes, and how they may or may not appreciate according to surrounding areas, amenities, and potential developments.