Mortgage Answers / Buying Step by Step
The Short Answer
You may be able to buy from a builder without your own agent. But the builder's sales representative usually works for the builder. Your own agent can help you compare choices and understand the purchase steps. Confirm who represents whom, the services offered and who pays before you agree.
Finding and Buying the Right Home. Know whose interests each person represents before the first visit.
Explore Your OptionsKnow who each person represents.
Automatic protection
Read services and payment terms first.
Start with your priority
Explore a goal below. No contact information needed.
Clarify representation before visiting or registering with a builder.
Ask a buyer's agent about experience with the type of new home you want.
Ask the builder about registration and first-visit rules. Practices vary.
Understand services and payment obligations before signing or touring with an agent.
You can still ask about representation. Do not assume the first visit settled every option.
Save registration forms and anything you signed at the sales office.
Ask the builder and your chosen agent what options remain and who would pay.
Confirm representation and fees in writing before proceeding.
Make a plan for tasks you will handle yourself and questions needing professional review.
Track offer terms, deposits, inspections and contract dates.
Ask an attorney to explain legal rights and unfamiliar builder contract terms.
Check the final price, incentives and any fees rather than assuming a discount.
More than one path
Tap a card to see what matters.
Ask a buyer's agent about experience with the type of new home you want.
Ask the builder about registration and first-visit rules. Practices vary.
Understand services and payment obligations before signing or touring with an agent.
Save registration forms and anything you signed at the sales office.
Ask the builder and your chosen agent what options remain and who would pay.
Confirm representation and fees in writing before proceeding.
A helpful sales representative is not automatically your representative. Ask each person to explain their role. State rules and written agreements govern the relationship.
If you hire an agent, review the services, agreement length, cancellation terms and compensation. Compensation is negotiable. Do not assume the builder pays all of it or that buying without an agent guarantees a discount. A lawyer can review legal contract questions.
No. Payment depends on your agreement and any negotiated payment from the builder or seller.
No. Loan help and real estate representation are different services. Ask who is responsible for each task.
We were amazed at how quickly Troy closed our home loan. His speedy communication saved us so much time.
Willa Henderson
Fayetteville, NC
We were blown away by how fast and seamless our closing process was with Troy. He locked in a great rate quickly and handled every detail so we could move into our home on schedule!
Yara Mansfield
Show Low, AZ
Troy and his team got us to the closing table in record time. They were super efficient and kept everything moving fast!
Victor Salgado
Boulder, CO
Every buyer's situation is different. Let's find the right path for you.