A brand-new home sounds simple.

You choose the community, pick your lot and finishes, and eventually get the keys.

But buying new construction in Camas, Washougal or elsewhere in Southwest Washington involves more decisions than many buyers realize.

One of the biggest questions I hear is:

“Do I really need a Realtor if I’m buying directly from the builder?”

You can absolutely visit a builder’s sales office on your own. But it’s important to know that the sales representative works for the builder—not for you.

A buyer’s agent represents your interests throughout the purchase.

The Builder’s Sales Agent Represents the Builder

This distinction matters.

The builder’s representative is there to sell the builder’s homes and protect the builder’s interests.

As your buyer’s agent, my role is different. I’m there to help you evaluate the home, the community, the options and the transaction from your perspective.

I’m not there to sell you the house.

I’m there to help you decide whether it’s the right house for you.

The Lot Can Be Just as Important as the House

When you’re looking at new construction, it’s easy to focus on the floor plan and finishes.

Don’t overlook the lot.

Two identical homes can feel completely different depending on their location.

Consider:

• Privacy
• Backyard orientation
• Traffic and street noise
• Natural light
• Slope and drainage
• Proximity to amenities
• Views
• Surrounding homes
• Future development

A more expensive lot isn’t automatically a better lot. The best choice depends on what matters most to you.

Be Careful With the Upgrade List

One of the fun parts of new construction is choosing your finishes.

Flooring, cabinets, countertops, lighting, tile and appliances can quickly turn into a much larger bill than expected.

Before saying yes to every upgrade, ask:

“Do I really want this, or do I just love it because I’m standing in a beautiful model home?”

Some upgrades can make a home more functional and appealing when you eventually sell. Others may not provide much return.

Having someone outside the builder’s sales process can give you a useful second perspective.

Yes, New Homes Should Still Be Inspected

New construction doesn’t mean perfect construction.

Homes are built by many different trades, often on tight schedules. Problems can still happen.

Depending on the property and your circumstances, you may want inspections at different stages of construction, along with a final inspection before closing.

The goal isn’t to expect a brand-new home to have zero issues.

It’s to identify problems while the builder still has an opportunity to address them.

Don’t Underestimate the Final Walk-Through

Before closing, take the time to carefully walk through the home.

Check things such as:

• Doors and windows
• Fixtures
• Appliances
• Flooring and cabinets
• Plumbing
• Heating and cooling
• Electrical outlets and switches
• Garage and exterior areas
• Landscaping
• Any items specifically included in your agreement

Your builder will have its own process for documenting and correcting issues. Your Realtor can help you identify questions and make sure concerns are communicated before closing.

Understand the Builder’s Contract and Timeline

Builder contracts can differ from the agreements used when purchasing an existing home.

There may be specific terms involving deposits, financing, construction timelines, change orders, allowances and procedures for addressing issues.

Your Realtor isn’t your attorney, so legal questions should be directed to an attorney. But your Realtor can help you understand the real estate and transaction side and identify questions you may want answered before signing.

And don’t forget about timing.

Construction can be delayed by weather, permitting, materials, labor and other factors.

If you’re selling another home, moving from out of state or coordinating a lease, even a few weeks can make a big difference.

Look Beyond the Model Home

A model home shows you what the builder wants the finished product to look like.

It doesn’t necessarily show you what the neighborhood will look like five years from now.

Before buying, consider:

• Future phases of the development
• Planned roads
• Nearby development
• Community amenities
• Surrounding neighborhoods
• How the area may change over time

You’re buying more than a house. You’re buying its location.

Camas and Washougal Offer Different Experiences

New construction isn’t the same in every community.

Camas may appeal to buyers looking for established neighborhoods, community amenities, schools and convenient access to Portland and Vancouver.

Washougal can be especially appealing to buyers drawn to views, outdoor recreation, larger properties and access toward the Columbia River Gorge.

The best community depends on your priorities—not simply which builder has the most attractive model.

Think About Resale, Too

Even if you plan to stay for many years, it’s worth considering how your choices could affect resale.

You don’t need to make every decision based on what a future buyer might want. But spending heavily on highly personal upgrades may not translate into the same value when you eventually sell.

This is one area where a Realtor who works with both buyers and sellers can provide a useful perspective.

So, Do You Need a Buyer’s Agent?

Technically, no.

But you’re making one of the largest purchases you’re likely to make. Why not have someone representing your interests?

A good buyer’s agent can help you:

• Compare communities and builders
• Evaluate pricing and comparable homes
• Choose a lot
• Think through upgrades
• Coordinate inspections
• Track deadlines
• Communicate with the builder
• Attend important appointments and walk-throughs
• Think about resale
• Keep the transaction moving toward closing

Most importantly, you have someone in your corner who can help you slow down when you need to and ask the questions you may not think to ask.

Buying New Construction in Southwest Washington?

If you’re considering a new construction home in Camas, Washougal, Vancouver or another Southwest Washington community, I’d be happy to help you compare your options before you choose a builder or sign a contract.

You don’t need to know exactly what you want yet.

We can look at the communities, compare the homes and figure out what fits your budget, lifestyle and long-term plans.

Buying new should be exciting. Having someone in your corner can help keep it that way.

Nicole Dreyer
Windermere Crest Realty
Camas • Washougal • Vancouver • Southwest Washington