Expert advice on new construction purchases

If you're scoping out newer developments hunting new construction, having the right agent at your side can be the difference between a good home buying experience and a bad one. will help you navigate the myriad of new homes today to pick one that's right for your family.

People that buy new construction in a neighborhood don't like to see houses sold after theirs go for less money. Knowing this, the builder or developer often won't 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 property 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 just completed, don't count on being able to get a deal.

In situations where a builder won't budge, try getting a break in other areas. Ask for them to pay a share of the closing costs, or more amenities, like appliance upgrades, a garage door opener, a sprinkler system or landscaping, or an extended home warranty. Or take the contrary route. If a home is nearing completion, you can often save money by passing on suggested upgrades from the builder and installing things yourself.

While you should always negotiate a home warranty so problems can be fixed, get a home inspection before your purchase regardless. Inevitable problems can be repaired (by the builder) before you move in and larger issues identified before it's too late. Since an inspection is relatively inexpensive, some new home buyers get an inspection after being in the home for 10 or 11 months - that way, the builder can make the repairs before a 1 year warranty expires.