Save money when purchasing new construction

While driving through newer developments seeking new construction, having a knowledgeable Realtor on your team is vital. is here to help you navigate the seeming infinite number of new homes today to pick one that's right for you.

In real estate, negotiation is always an option. However, with new construction, it depends on the developer and the length of time that the home has been on the market. Developers in new additions like to keep prices near their asking point because homeowners already in the area expect new construction to be comparably priced to what they already purchased. (You'll appreciate that same courtesy if there are undeveloped lots near the home you eventually purchase!) But, depending on how far along the project is and what the market is doing at that point in time, developers have been known to allow a few concessions.

For example, if it's a recently completed home, you have little to no negotiating powers. But if the home has been sitting fully furnished, like a show or model home, and there haven't been many offers - then the builder might be willing to work with you. The longer the home has been on the market, the more the builder has invested.

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 appliance upgrades, a garage door opener, a fence or landscaping, or an extended home warranty. That can go the other way around, too. If upgrades are already in the contract, see if you can 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.