Your Guide to New Construction
Thinking about buying a brand-new home? I'll help you navigate communities, builders, contracts, upgrades, inspections, and the buying process from start to finish.
Why Work With Your Own Realtor?
The builder's sales representative represents the builder's interests. When buying a new home, having your own real estate professional can help you make informed decisions throughout the entire process.
Explore communities throughout the Bay Area
Compare homes and builders
Understand the buying process
Review available options and upgrades
Navigate builder paperwork
Keep track of important deadlines
Coordinate independent inspections
Prepare for walkthroughs and closing
This information is provided for educational purposes. I do not provide legal advice. Buyers are encouraged to review all contracts carefully and seek appropriate legal counsel when needed.
Contact Me Before Your First Builder Visit
Builder policies regarding Realtor representation can vary. Some builders require that your agent be registered on your very first visit. To protect your right to independent representation, contact me before registering online, touring a model home, or visiting a builder's sales office so we can understand the builder's current registration and representation requirements together.
Talk to Sabrina FirstThe New Construction Buying Process
From our first conversation to receiving your keys, here's what to expect.
Buyer Consultation
We discuss your goals, preferred locations, budget, timeline, and what matters most to you in a new home.
Explore Communities
We identify new construction communities across the Bay Area that fit your needs and vet builders for reputation and quality.
Tour Model Homes
We visit model homes together, ensuring you are registered with representation from your very first visit.
Select Your Home
We evaluate lot selection, floor plans, and pricing to help you choose the home that best fits your lifestyle and resale value.
Review Options & Upgrades
We guide you through the design center, helping you understand which upgrades add value and which may be better done after closing.
Construction & Inspections
During construction, we coordinate independent phase inspections to identify any issues while the builder is still responsible for fixing them.
Final Walkthrough
Before closing, we conduct a thorough walkthrough to confirm the home is complete and any agreed-upon repairs or items are addressed.
Closing & Keys
We guide you through closing paperwork and coordinate the final details so you can receive your keys with confidence.
What Should You Consider When Buying New Construction?
Understanding these key factors can help you make informed decisions throughout the buying process.
Builder Reputation
Research the builder and their previous communities. Look at reviews, completed projects, and how they've handled issues after closing.
Base Price vs. Final Price
Advertised base prices may not include every option, upgrade, lot premium, or other cost. Understand what's included before comparing prices.
Upgrades
Think carefully about which upgrades are worth prioritizing. Some add lasting value while others may be more cost-effective to complete after closing.
Timeline
Construction schedules may change and completion dates are not always guaranteed. Plan for flexibility and ask how delays are handled.
Inspections
Even with a newly built home, buyers may choose to obtain appropriate inspections during construction phases and before closing.
HOA & Community Costs
Some communities may have HOA dues or other community-related costs. Understand the full cost of ownership before committing.
Financing
Builders may have preferred lenders or incentives, but buyers should understand and compare all available financing options to find what's best for them.
Warranties
Understand what warranties the builder provides and what they cover. Ask about duration, coverage, and the process for addressing issues.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or warranty advice. Buyers are encouraged to review all documentation carefully and seek appropriate professional guidance.
Let's Find the Right New Home
Tell me what you're looking for and I'll help you explore new-construction opportunities that fit your goals.
Sabrina Romero-Caro
Realtor · SoldBySabrina · DRE 02283581
I help buyers and sellers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area navigate real estate with confidence. Whether you're exploring new construction communities or comparing resale homes, I'm here to guide you from your first question to closing day.
Thinking About Buying New Construction?
Let's talk before you start touring. I'll help you understand the process and prepare for your new-home search.