7 Things Your Realtor Can Negotiate For You on a New Construction Home

Purchasing a new construction home involves more than just picking out a design and signing on the dotted line. A skilled realtor can be a powerful asset in the process, leveraging their expertise and industry connections to negotiate more favorable terms and enhancements for you. Here’s how your realtor can help you get the most out of your new construction purchase:

1. Price Adjustments: While builders often have set prices, realtors can use their knowledge and negotiation skills to:

• Seek Discounts: Request discounts on the base price or additional price reductions if the market conditions allow.
• Negotiate Upgrades: Instead of lowering the price, a realtor can negotiate for higher-end finishes or appliances at no extra cost to you.

2. Upgrades and Customizations: Realtors can advocate for a range of upgrades and customizations that enhance your home:

• Interior Features: Negotiate for premium kitchen and bathroom fixtures, flooring options, cabinetry upgrades, appliances and window treatments.
• Exterior Improvements: Secure enhancements to landscaping, siding, or exterior paint that might otherwise be considered extras.

3. Closing Costs and Incentives: Your realtor can help you reduce upfront costs and secure additional incentives:

• Closing Costs: Request that the builder cover or contribute to closing costs, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.
• Incentives: Negotiate for builder incentives such as free home warranties, HOA fee coverage, or even allowances for additional home improvements.
• Preferred Lenders:  Inquire about financing options. Oftentimes, the builder may partner with certain mortgage companies to offer special rates or discounts for working with their lenders. This may include interest rate buydowns, additional money towards closing costs or other incentives.

4. Timelines and Flexibility: A realtor can address timing and flexibility issues to align with your personal needs:

• Completion Dates: Work with the builder to ensure the home is completed by your desired move-in date.
• Payment Terms: Negotiate favorable payment schedules or reduced deposit requirements to lower your out of pocket costs to purchase the home.

5. Home Automation and Technology: Incorporating modern technology can add significant value:

• Smart Home Features: Your realtor can negotiate for smart home technology upgrades, such as smart thermostats, security systems, and automation features.
• Technology Packages: Obtain package deals that include these features at a lower cost or as part of the base offer.

6. Lot Selection and Location: When buying early in the construction process, your realtor can:

• Choose the Best Lot: Negotiate for a preferred lot or location within the development that meets your needs and desires.
• Optimize Orientation and Views: Ensure that you get a lot with the best possible orientation and view by negotiating early on.

7. Builder’s Reputation and Track Record: Leverage your realtor’s knowledge of the builder:

• Evaluate Track Record: Use the builder’s past performance and reputation to negotiate better terms or added benefits.
• Leverage Relationships: Realtors often have established relationships with builders and can use these connections to your advantage.

Tips for Working with Your Realtor:

• Communicate Your Needs: Clearly outline what you want and need from the negotiation process.
• Understand Market Conditions: Be aware of current market trends and conditions, which can impact what your realtor is able to negotiate.
• Be Open to Recommendations: Trust your realtor’s expertise and be open to their suggestions and strategies.

By utilizing a realtor’s skills and experience, you can significantly enhance your new construction home purchase. From negotiating price adjustments and upgrades to securing favorable terms and incentives, your realtor plays a crucial role in ensuring you get the best deal and a new home that exceeds your expectations.

Tiffany Brown, NC/SC Broker/Realtor

Access Granted Realty, Inc.

Charlotte, NC

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