When you begin the process of searching for a new home in the Carolina Forest, South Carolina area, it is essential that you hire a buyer agent who has extensive experience in new home sales. Here are just a few things that you should know:

1. The onsite agents work for the developer/builder. Onsite agents do not have your best interest at heart. In fact, when I walk into some of the onsite sales centers in the Carolina Forest area there is a sign on the wall that says “These agents represent the builder/developer.” That should be reason enough alone why you should hire a buyers agent. Hiring a buyer agent insures that someone knowlegable and experienced is looking out for your best interest – helping with negotiations, pulling up comparable sales in the area, and giving you other tips to help you get the most for your money. IT’S FREE! It does not cost the buyer one dime to hire an agent because in South Carolina the seller pays the buyer agent fee. You will not get a lower price by not having a buyer agent. The seller already has that fee worked into their marketing budget.

2. Be smart when choosing your upgrades. Start by adding square footage in the form of a bonus room and/or sunroom. After the structural upgrades I would suggest upgrading the kitchen, the master bath, and the carpet. All these upgrades will add value to your home when you resell.

3. Choose your lot wisely. Pay attention to how the property is situated within the neighborhood, if the property is too close to another home on any side, including the back yard. The most common complaint from potential buyers when I show properties is that the neighbors are too close. Homebuyers want privacy. If at all possible, choose a lakefront lot or a lot that backs up to wetlands.

4. Choose your mortgage lender wisely. Typically the builder’s finance company will pay a small percentage of closing costs, however they are not always the best option. They might include hidden fees or increase the rate to make up the difference. My advice is talk to the builder’s lender but always shop around when looking for a mortgage.

5. Get an inspection done. It is a common misconception that when purchasing a newly constucted home, the buyer doesn’t need to have an inspection performed. However, I always recommend hiring a licensed inspector to look over the home before closing. This will insure that any possible repairs that need to be completed are handled.