Save money when purchasing new construction

If you're exploring newer neighborhoods hunting new construction, having a knowledgeable agent on your team is important. will help you navigate the seeming infinite number of new homes today to pick one that's perfect for your family.

In real estate, negotiation is always an option. However, with new construction, it depends on the builder and how long the home has been available. Developers in new additions avoid bending on price because homeowners already in the area expect new construction to be comparably priced to what they already purchased. (You'll appreciate that same courtesy if there are undeveloped lots near the home you eventually purchase!) But, depending on how far along the project is and the local market, developers have been known to allow a few concessions.

For example, if the home is pretty much move-in ready, you have little to no negotiating powers. But if the home has been sitting fully furnished, like a show or model home, and there haven't been many offers - then the builder might be willing to work with you. The longer the home has been on the market, the more the builder has invested.

In cases where a builder won't budge, ask for assistance in other areas. Ask for help with the closing costs, or more amenities, like an allowance for window treatments, a garage door opener, a sprinkler system or landscaping, or an extended home warranty.Or take the contrary route. If a home is nearing completion, you can often save money by passing on suggested upgrades from the builder and installing things yourself.

While you should always negotiate a home warranty so problems can be fixed, it's also imperative you get a home inspection before closing. Inevitable problems can be repaired (by the builder) before you move in and larger problems identified before it's too late. Since an inspection is relatively inexpensive, some new home buyers get an inspection after being in the home for 10 or 11 months - that way, the builder can make the repairs before a 1 year warranty expires.