Pros and Cons of Using a Realtor for New Construction: Guide

When you’re buying a house, especially a brand-new construction, you might wonder whether it’s worth bringing a realtor on board. After all, there’s a lot to consider – from navigating the construction process to dealing with builder’s agents. Let’s break down the pros and cons of using a realtor for new construction so that it makes it easier for you to decide what’s best for your situation.

If you’re leaning toward buying new construction, there is usually a builder’s agent to guide you through the home-buying process. But don’t be fooled – you may still need your own real estate agent from the start.

That said, it’s a good idea to read the pros and cons of using a realtor for new construction below and decide for yourself.

The pros of using a realtor for new construction

They provide expert guidance in the construction process

A good realtor or real estate agent can guide you from start to finish. They’ll help you understand what to expect, identify potential pitfalls, and make sure everything is moving along as it should. Moreover, they’ll keep you in the loop about any changes that might impact your sale price or timeline.

A realtor holds your hand through each step, from selecting the right home builder to ensuring that the construction stays on track. They can also recommend third-party inspectors to ensure your new home is up to code and free of defects.

They incessantly negotiate on your behalf

Builders might seem firm on their prices, but a savvy realtor knows where there’s wiggle room. Whether it’s negotiating the sale price or getting upgrades and incentives thrown in, having someone skilled in real estate transactions can save you money in the long run.

Realtors have a sound knowledge of the local market

A good realtor who knows the local market can offer valuable insights that you might not get elsewhere. They can advise on whether the area is up-and-coming, how it compares to buying a resale home, and what the future resale value of your construction home might look like.

They are the ultimate home inspection advocate

Even new homes can have issues, and a realtor will ensure that a thorough home inspection is conducted. They’ll also push for any necessary repairs or adjustments before you close the deal.

They represent you against the builder’s agents

Remember, the builder’s agents are working for the builder, not for you. Hiring a realtor for new construction means you have someone in your corner who’s looking out for your best interests and not just trying to make the sale.

Your realtor may assist you with financing options

A realtor can connect you with trusted mortgage lenders and help you explore financing options that suit your needs. They can also advise you on builder-specific financing offers.

The cons of hiring a realtor for a new construction house

They come with potentially high costs

Sometimes, hiring a realtor can add to your expenses. While the builder often pays the realtor’s commission, in some cases, those costs might be factored into the sale price. It’s wise to clarify this with your realtor and builder upfront to avoid any surprises. It’s important to weigh whether the benefits outweigh any additional costs.

There could be a possibility of realtor redundancy

If you’re comfortable negotiating and have a good understanding of the home-buying process, you might feel like you don’t need a realtor. Some buyers prefer to handle the transaction themselves, especially if they’ve done it before.

They might have a limited influence on builders

Not all builders are keen on working with realtors, and some might even offer incentives to buyers who don’t use one. If the builder has strict policies, your realtor might have limited influence in negotiating or advocating on your behalf.

How is a realtor’s role different from that of the builder’s agent?

The builder’s agent works for the builder, meaning their primary goal is to sell homes for the highest possible profit. Your realtor works for you, aiming to get you the best deal and ensure the home meets your expectations.

What should I look out for when buying new construction?

Beyond the excitement of a brand-new home, be cautious about the builder’s reputation, the timeline for completion, and the quality of materials used. An experienced realtor can help you spot red flags and ensure everything is up to standard.

Is hiring a realtor for a new property worth it?

Ultimately, deciding whether to buy a realtor for new construction depends on your confidence in navigating the construction process and real estate transactions. A realtor can offer peace of mind, expert advice, negotiation skills, and even know of the available amenities/pitfalls. And, these can save you time, stress, and even money.

However, if you’re experienced in buying a home and feel comfortable dealing directly with a home builder, you might choose to do it alone.

Just remember, whether you’re buying a new construction home or a resale home, the key is to make informed decisions that best suit your needs and situation. A good realtor can be a valuable asset, but the choice is yours to make. We hope this helpful guide on the pros and cons of using a realtor for new construction will make the choice easier.

Pros and cons of using a realtor for new construction was last modified: June 11th, 2025 by Ramona Sinha

Written by Ramona Sinha. November 4, 2024

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.