This new home buyer information is provided by RE/MAX Woodland as a service to our many existing and future clients. We want you to be informed of all new home buying possibilities available to you. Purchasing a new home from a production or custom builder is a very different process than buying a resale home, and we want you to avoid common mistakes.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to purchase a new construction home:

1. Do not go to a new home sales office without your real estate agent. If you visit a new home sales office or model home, the salesperson on duty will require you to register. By registering with the new home builder without your real estate agent, you will not be able to be represented by your own agent. The new home builder will not cooperate with your agent, if the agent was not present the first time you came to the new home sales office. The resulting relationship with the builder’s sales agent, is called a “dual agency”. Dual agency, while legal, means that the same sales agent that is employed by the builder is going to also be your representative in this transaction. You have to ask yourself the following questions: “Is this in my best interest?” “Can this person be an unbiased representative for me, negotiate on my behalf and look out for my needs?” Having your own RE/MAX Woodland agent represent you does not cost you anything. All real estate commission fees are paid by the builder.

2. Contact your real estate agent. For the reasons noted above, when you are considering looking at new homes, call your RE/MAX real estate agent first. If you do not have an agent relationship established, call us at RE/MAX Woodland and we have someone that will gladly represent you. We will take you around to all of the areas where new homes are being built and get you signed up with the builders. We will also let you know of areas where new homes are going to built in the future.

3. Contact your lender. As soon as you are considering a move, contact your lender if you have a relationship with one, or call us at RE/MAX Woodland and we will refer you to one of our preferred lender partners. Getting prequalified with a lender is required in all real estate transactions requiring a loan to purchase the property. By doing this early gives assurance to you and the builder that you will qualify for the loan to purchase the home.

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