How Buying a New Construction Home Works, Step by Step

Buying new construction runs in seven steps: talk to a lender, visit and narrow plans, pick a home and homesite, sign the contract, make selections, watch the build, then do the final walkthrough and close. The builder's sales consultant represents the builder. You can bring your own agent, and it's smart to decide that before your first visit.

How does the process of buying a new build house work?

Here's the path I walk people through. The order matters more than the speed.

1. Talk to a lender first. Know your comfortable payment before you fall for a plan. A verified preapproval also tells the builder you're ready.
2. Decide on representation. If you want your own agent, bring them or register them before your first visit. More on that below.
3. Visit and narrow it down. Walk the model and any homes under construction or ready now. Narrow it to two or three plans.
4. Pick a home and a homesite. Either a home that's already started, or a homesite and a plan to build. Ask what's included and what's an upgrade.
5. Sign the contract. It's the builder's contract. Read it, ask questions, and have your agent or an attorney review it. You'll usually put down earnest money.
6. Make your selections. Finishes, options and design choices, if the home isn't too far along. Get every choice and price in writing.
7. Watch the build, then close. Construction, inspections, a final walkthrough, and closing with an attorney. Then keys.

A home being built takes time. The Census Bureau's data shows homes built for sale took about 7.4 months from permit to completion in 2025. A home that's already finished can close much sooner.

Can you look at new builds without a realtor?

Yes. Model homes are open to the public, and you can walk in on your own.

Just know two things before you do. First, the sales consultant works for the builder. In North Carolina, agents have to review the Working With Real Estate Agents disclosure with you at the first substantial contact, so you know who represents whom. Second, many builders have a registration rule: if you want an agent to represent you, they may need to come with you or register you before your first visit. Ask the builder's policy before you go.

Should I get a realtor if I'm buying a new build?

It's your call, and it's a fair question. I represent the builder, so here's the honest version.

A good agent can help you compare builders and resale homes, read the builder's contract, think through options and lot choices, and push on timelines. They're also a second set of eyes on something big.

If you don't use an agent, you can still protect yourself. Hire a closing attorney, get an independent inspection if the builder allows it, and read every page before you sign.

What I'd avoid is deciding halfway. If you want an agent, bring them in at the start.

Who pays the realtor when buying a new build house?

It depends on your written agreement with your agent and what the builder offers.

Since August 2024, buyers working with a REALTOR sign a written buyer agreement before touring homes. NAR says it has to state clearly what the agent will be paid, and that the amount is negotiable. You can also ask the seller to cover your agent's compensation.

On new construction, many builders have a policy of paying a buyer's agent, often tied to registering the buyer on the first visit. Ask the builder what its policy is, and make sure your buyer agreement matches.

What happens if a buyer does not have an agent?

You buy unrepresented. The builder's sales consultant still helps you through the process, but represents the builder.

That's a normal way to buy new construction. Just fill the gaps yourself:

• Read the contract carefully, and consider having an attorney review it.
• Ask what's standard and what's an upgrade, and get it in writing.
• Ask about inspections, timelines and the warranty up front.
• Compare Loan Estimates from more than one lender.

Who's writing this. I sell new homes for D.R. Horton at Collins Ridge in Hillsborough, so I represent the builder, not you. This guide is general education from my years on job sites and in sales. It isn't legal, tax or lending advice, and it doesn't describe any specific home, price or incentive. Check the sources linked below, and talk with your own lender, agent or attorney before you decide.