Expert advice on new construction purchases

Having the right agent with you is key when shopping for new construction, and is here to help you navigate through your options in the Oklahoma City area.

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 buyers 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 the local market, builders have been known to allow a few concessions.

Consider a home 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 recently completed, it's unlikely you'll get a deal.

In cases where a builder won't budge, try getting a break with other aspects of the transaction. Ask for them to pay a share of the closing costs, or additional amenities, like appliance upgrades, a garage door opener, a fence 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.

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.