Existing and potential homeowners are looking at real estate from all angles as the U.S. economy and local housing markets continue their recovery. For many, there is strong appeal in buying brand-new homes as myriad builder incentives and low interest rates create significant value.

Today’s new homes boast exciting floor plans and designs tailored for specific lifestyles — complete with a huge array of features and appointments. They include energy efficient products and building techniques, which reduce utility bills. new-home consumers love that their property’s features, from roofs to appliances, will not need replacement for many years.

At first glance it might not seem necessary to involve a realtor in a transaction when you can deal directly with a builder; however, by using a realtor as your buyer’s agent you gain a skilled professional to protect your interests and guide you along the right path.

In the Brandywine Valley area, builders often require that your realtor accompany you on your first visit. Ask your realtor to check with the builder before going unaccompanied to the site office or show house.  You do not want to give up your right to have your own buyer’s agent by going alone to talk with the builder’s representatives.

Here are 10 advantages to using a realtor when buying a newly constructed home.

Just as a realtor calls on experience and knowledge of an area to help buyers locate pre-owned homes in a community, he or she can also direct buyers to new developments and communities that match client specifications.

A realtor can suggest builders with reputations for delivering a high-quality product, for responding quickly to issues, and for being financially sound.

A realtor may be familiar with how a builder prices his products and where there may be room to negotiate price or upgrades.

Without representation, you are one buyer purchasing only one home. A realtor can significantly impact a builder’s bottom line by providing a steady supply of customers. This leverage may work in your favor at the negotiating table.

The lender approval process may go more smoothly if a Realtor schedules visits, accompanies you to lenders, and helps expedite required documents.

What may seem like a simple transaction can grow legally complex and risky. A realtor is familiar with the complexities and risks inherent in the home-buying process. When questions arise, a realtor can steer you to the right advisors and services you may require.

If your contract includes a contingency to sell an existing home your realtor can help with that negotiation.

When relocating to a new area, local realtors can be particularly valuable resources. They can provide local area information regarding schools, day care, elder care services, public transportation, proposed development, etc.  Once construction is under way, they can periodically stop by the work site, supply you with progress reports, and photograph phases of the construction.

A realtor can assist you as you face hundreds of design choices and consider which upgrades could potentially add value to the home when it comes time to sell.

In this real estate market the builder pays the realtor’s commission. You enjoy individual, professional support at no cost to you!

Builder incentives and heightened affordability have many real estate consumers considering brand-new homes. Rather than rely on builders’ agents, who are paid by the builders, savvy shoppers are using Realtors as their Buyer’s Agents to help them as they achieve the dream of home ownership.

* Jim DeFrank is a licensed broker/appraiser who has been active in local real estate for 34 years. Beth Alois is a licensed realtor and a member of the Jim DeFrank Sales Team at Prudential Fox & Roach Chadds Ford. They can be reached at 610-388-3700. Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.