The Truth About Buying New Construction Homes

There’s something undeniably exciting about buying a brand-new home. The smell of fresh paint, the untouched floors, the ability to choose your finishes, it’s like walking into a Pinterest board that hasn’t been lived in yet. New construction can be a fantastic option for buyers who want modern features, less maintenance, and a home that feels like it’s truly theirs. But as shiny and new as it all seems, there are a few things you should know before jumping in headfirst.

First off: don’t skip having an agent just because you’re buying directly from a builder. Many buyers assume they don’t need representation when purchasing new construction, but here’s the catch, the builder’s sales agent represents the builder, not you. Having your own real estate agent means you have someone looking out for your best interests, helping you negotiate upgrades, timelines, warranties, and more. Bonus? The builder usually covers the commission, so it costs you nothing to have someone in your corner.

Speaking of upgrades, this is where things can get tricky. You’ll often walk through a beautifully staged model home with all the bells and whistles, but what’s included in the base price might be a very different story. That gorgeous waterfall quartz island and built-in wine fridge? Probably not standard. It's easy to get swept up in all the possibilities, but it's important to know your budget and stick to it. Decide ahead of time which upgrades are worth it now (like electrical or structural changes), and which ones you can add later on your own time and dime.

Another thing to keep in mind is the timeline. Builders often give estimated completion dates, but weather, supply chain issues, and permit delays can cause things to shift. If you're selling your current home or ending a lease, it's smart to build in some flexibility. On the flip side, sometimes homes get finished ahead of schedule, and that’s not a bad surprise to have! Just be prepared for some wiggle room.

Lastly, don’t assume “new” means “perfect.” Even brand-new homes can have issues. That’s why it’s still a good idea to get a home inspection, yes, even on new construction. An inspector can catch things like wiring mistakes, plumbing issues, or incomplete finishes that might otherwise go unnoticed until after move-in. And make sure to ask about warranties: what’s covered, how long it lasts, and who to contact if something needs fixing.

Thinking about buying new construction and not sure where to start? I help buyers navigate the process every step of the way, from choosing the right community to negotiating upgrades and understanding your warranty coverage. If you’re ready to tour model homes or just want to ask a few questions, I’m all ears. Let’s make that dream home a reality, without the guesswork.


Taylor Tebeau
Realtor® | Realty ONE Group
HouzAZ & Associates
Serving the Phoenix Metro
623.624.9855
taylor@houzaz.com
@azhomeswithtaylor