Lots of buyers, while well meaning, don't realize that they can hire a buyer's agent to represent them on a new home purchase from a builder. Buying new homes from a builder is really no different than buying a resale home. You're better off hiring a buyer's agent. For example, tonight I negotiated a transaction for a buyer in Natomas. She bought a brand new condo. Her next-door neighbor paid $237,000 for his condo, and it closed escrow 10 days ago.
My buyer bought the model -- which meant she got all the artwork and furnishings in the home, including a brand new gas BBQ grill -- for $22,000 less. You can bet her neighbor didn't get furnishings nor designer paint and window coverings. This buyer received $40,000 in upgrades, plus the furnishings. She paid $215,000, although the builder's asking price was much higher.
This was a brand new 3-bedroom, 3-bath, almost 1400 square-foot model condo in Natomas. The "home consultant" told me that since she lowered the prices two days ago and offered a co-op, all of a sudden agents are appearing with qualified buyers. Doesn't amaze me. She also told me our offer would not be accepted, but it was!
This builder has sold 20 homes out of 24. The time is right to buy right now! Buyers, don't go it alone with out an experienced agent. The builder pays the commission. Why would you do it any other way?
(Tip: You can almost always get the furnishing with the model, btw, especially if it's a close-out sale.)
Photo: Elizabeth Weintraub
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Certified HAFA Specialist
My Sacramento Real Estate Listings
Elizabeth Weintraub is an author, home buying columnist for The New York Times-owned About.com, a Land Park resident, and a Land Park real estate agent who specializes in older, classic homes in Land Park, Curtis Park, Midtown and East Sacramento. Weintraub is also a Sacramento Short Sale agent who lists and successfully sells short sales throughout the four-county Sacramento area. Call Elizabeth Weintraub at 916.233.6759. Put 35 years of real estate experience to work for you. Broker-Associate at Lyon Real Estate. DRE License # 00697006.
The Short Sale Savior, by Elizabeth Weintraub, available at Amazon.com.
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The views expressed herein are Weintraub's personal views and do not reflect the views of Lyon Real Estate.
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