New construction

Why Independent Representation, Construction Knowledge and Early Guidance Matter Before You Choose the Lot, Sign the Contract or Select the Upgrades

By Aubre J. Stacknick, Global Real Estate Advisor, Piatt Sotheby's International Realty. Originally published on aubrestacknick.com.

You can buy new construction without your own real estate agent, but having independent representation can be valuable because the builder's sales team represents the builder's interests—not yours.

And new construction is where my two careers collide beautifully.

I've been involved with custom homes, renovations, project management, budgeting, property evaluation and contractor coordination for decades.

So when I walk onto a construction site, I'm not simply choosing countertops.

Representation Starts Earlier Than Most Buyers Think

Ideally, I want to be involved before you:

choose the lot, sign the builder agreement, select major options, or make expensive design decisions.

Why?

Because those choices can affect:

Budget

Function

Future marketability

Resale

Construction timeline

Builder Eyes During Construction

I'm looking at:

lot orientation grading allowances change orders layout decisions selections construction progress walkthrough items.

I also help clients understand where they may be over-improving relative to the property or neighborhood.

New Doesn't Mean No Inspection

Independent inspections can still be useful with new construction. The CFPB recommends independent inspections generally because they help buyers understand a home's physical condition.

The Bigger Question

Don't ask:

"Do I technically need an agent?"

Ask:

"Would I benefit from having an experienced advocate on my side of this very large purchase?"

For many buyers, my answer is yes.