Save money when purchasing new construction

When touring newer neighborhoods looking for new construction, having an experienced Realtor with you is crucial. is here to help you navigate the myriad of new homes today to pick one that's made for your family.

People that buy new construction in a neighborhood don't like to see houses sold after theirs go for less money, so builders aren't as apt to bend on price. (You'll appreciate this behavior after you've bought a home in a development of new construction!) Regardless, depending on the market and the status of the project, there's sometimes room for negotiation.

For example, if a home has been on the market a long time and the builder has a lot sunk into it, then you have some room. The same goes for show or model homes that have been sitting for a while. However, if a home was recently finished, don't count on being able to get a deal.

You can always ask for assistance in other ways when purchasing new construction. For example, closing costs are one way for you to save without lowering the price of the house. The same goes for amenities - ask for things an allowance for window treatments, a garage door opener, a sprinkler system or landscaping, or an extended home warranty. That can go the other way around, too. If upgrades are already in the plan, try to get the builder to remove them - you might be able to install them later yourself at a savings anyway.

Realize that just because a home is brand new, it can still have its share of flaws. Be sure to get a home inspection before purchase so that issues are handled and also negotiate a home warranty. Then, about 10 or 11 months after purchase it's worth it to pay for an inspection and get anything else repaired before the warranty expires.