Currently inventory in Utah for homes is at an all time low. People are scrambling to find a home and are many times being outbid by competition. Because of the current competition and high demand many people are offering many times $50-75k over asking price in order to get the home. This is problematic for me when I am representing buyers because I do not want my clients overpaying so much for a home but also need to help them get into a home. A great alternative that we have been using to solve this problem is helping them build a brand new
home instead. We have become experts in New Construction homes in Utah and representing buyers in the process from start to finish.
Many people assume that they don’t need or should not use a buyers agent when they build a new home. Here are 5 reasons why you should always have a new construction agent expert help you build your home.
1. You don’t pay us anything.
Some people think that if they hire an agent to help represent them in building a home that it will cost them extra money. The truth is that the builder prices the home the same whether you are being represented by an agent or if you come by yourself. So if you have an agent to represent you then the price of your home will be the same as someone who goes to the builder without an agent.
2. You have an expert in your corner.
Most people will build only a few homes in their lifetime. We have helped hundreds of people build homes over the years. When you use an agent to help you build a home we will make sure the process is done correctly and that you are represented throughout the process. Because we have helped so many people we know how to negotiate with builders and make sure that you get the best bang for your buck with your new home.
3. You will save so much time.
We know Utah Builders. We have specialized in new construction for over 20 years. We know the different builders and know their products. We can help you know that you are getting the best deal as we know what all of the builders pricing is. We can help make the process simple and easy for you. Working with our agents will save you time as you will not need to drive around to all the different model homes or wonder if you are getting the best price. We have all of that info and can help direct you to the best deal and help walk you through the models that will be most advantageous to you.
4. You will Save Money.
Living in Utah my entire life and being involved with New construction for the last 20 years helps us know the market here. The market in Utah is appreciating very quickly, up to 11% last year and continues to appreciate a lot this year. With new construction you can lock in your price when you start the process, because the market is continually appreciating by the time your home is finished you will have equity in the home. You may have gone under contract for $400k but by the time the home is finished the home is actually worth $440k. On average the clients we have helped build the last couple of years have had $35-65k equity in their home by the time that we close on the home.
5. You will be heard.
We represent you, not the builder. This process is about you not the builder. We want what is best for you. We are listening to you and making sure that your home building experience is the best possible. If you go to a builder unrepresented than an agent that works for the builder will meet you and help you. It is important to understand though that the builder’s agent represents the builder. He/she is going to do whatever is best for the builder not you. When you have an agent represent you in the process you have someone in your corner who will fight for your best interests and also someone who will be willing to have uncomfortable conversations if needed with the builder. Having an agent in your corner ensures that you will be treated the right way and get the best deal and that your home will be finished the way that the builder promised from the start.
I love representing buyers when they build homes. It is always fun to see an empty dirt lot turn into a beautiful home and it is fun to see buyers’ desires for what their home will be to be realized. We want what is best for our clients and will always fight to help them achieve their dreams.
Jason Knight
Principal Broker
Ivie Avenue Real Estate