5 Reasons to Work with a Realtor for a New Build Purchase

One of the more common misconceptions I get about working as a realtor is that I can only show you homes and condos that are listed for resale on Realtor.ca. Realtors have access to exclusive listings and are able to assist in a new build transaction, at no added cost to the client. It’s free (for you! - and the sales teams like to see us).

So why bother bringing a realtor into a new build transaction?

1 - Have someone on your side in the transaction

The salespeople in the new build office are lovely, but their best interests lie with the builder, their employer.

2 - Your realtor can be your guide in comparing builders

If you’re sure that you want a new build home, a realtor can help you shop around - with over 100 new home builders in Ottawa it can get overwhelming. We can compare standard finishes, deposit structures, closing dates, and promotions. I have likely dealt with houses built by the same developer on the resale market, we can discuss how your home will stand the test of time.

3- Increase your resale value

I can help you navigate getting the most bang for your buck.
What upgrades are worth completing through the builder and what upgrades could be completed by a general contractor after construction?
Which lot premiums are worth it?
Which lower-priced lots or units in a building are in a less desirable location and will suffer during resale?

4 - Arming yourself with as much information as possible

Most builders have way more floorplans than model homes! If there is no model home available ... we could potentially see it or a more similar home that might be on the resale market. Resale homes built by that same builder without the $100k in upgrades common in model homes might be helpful to your decision making process as well.

Builders will occasionally have realtor exclusive releases. I might have access to info about pricelists and availability a few days or weeks before the public. Lot selection is typically on a first come first serve basis, and a realtor can help you get in to reserve a lot early on.

5 - Recommendations and Perks

At the end of the day, this is what we do - realtors have connections in the housing industry.

I can offer you recommendations and communication with professional services (like a real estate lawyers, contractors, mortgage brokers, interior designers … etc.) I I can also provide you with discounts at furniture and appliance stores (most new build homes do not come with appliances! It’s good to know a guy).