Posted on Tuesday, May 29th, 2007 at 8:44am.
People often ask us whether it is better to use the agent working at the model home. While these agents are very familiar with the neighborhood and option packages, they work for the builder and have his/her best interests in mind. They are hired to know the inventory and to represent the builder during all of the transactions.
You can still use these agents’ knowledge but have your own agent with you during the buying process. And builders (and their agents) are always happy to work with the buyer’s agent. We recommend having an agent to represent you and only you rather than rely on the builder’s representative. Since the seller (in this case, the builder) pays commission to the buyer’s agent, you don’t have to pay to have an agent represent you. So, it doesn’t cost you any money to have your own agent instead of using the builder’s agent.
Another recommendation we make to home buyers is to look for phases. If you see a good project beginning, go ahead and get in during the early phase of construction. Builders typically raise prices during each consecutive phase, so you can get a better deal early on. Be sure to talk with your real estate agent about the various construction projects happening in the Charleston area. He or she may know of recent price reductions and other incentives – real estate agents often get updates directly from builders.
He or she should also be able to offer advice about investing in Charleston (especially if your agent is an active investor) and offer suggestions as to neighborhood. Some neighborhoods we’ve recommended in the past include:
Dunes West in Mount Pleasant – our favorites are the John Wieland homes
Hamlin Plantation in Mount Pleasant – the John Wieland section in particular
Pembroke at Park West in Mount Pleasant – these homes are built by Ryland Homes
Hunt Club in West Ashley – these homes are built by Brentwood Homes
Eagle Run in Summerville – these are built by KB Home
Legend Oaks in Summerville – we specifically like the Saussy Burbank homes section
Summertrees on John’s Island – these homes are built by Brentwood, and this community is near the end of development
If you would like more information about buying homes pre-construction, just call or email us. We’d be happy to help you find what you’re looking for, and we can get you answers for any questions you might have.