New-Build Negotiation Playbook

01Before you walk into a model

1. 1Bring your own agent on the first visitMany builders require your agent to be with you on the first visit, or they won't work with your agent later.
2. 2Get pre-approved elsewhere tooCompare the builder's preferred lender incentive with an outside quote.
3. 3Decide your upgrade budget firstDesign centers are built to upsell. Know your number before you go.

02Incentives worth asking about

03Protect yourself

• Read the builder contract: it's the builder's form, written for the builder
• Get an independent inspection: even on new homes, before drywall and at completion
• Get the timeline in writing: and what happens if it slips