Do I need my own agent or can I use the builder's agent in Springfield?
Yes, you should have your own agent when buying new construction in Springfield, Ohio. While the builder's sales representative can help you through the process, they work for the builder—not you. Your own REALTOR® advocates for your interests, negotiates better deals, reviews contracts for problematic clauses, and typically costs you nothing since builders pay the buyer agent's commission from their proceeds.
If you plan to build a new home in Springfield, Ohio, you will meet a builder's sales representative early in the process. Many buyers wonder if they should work only with that representative or bring their own agent. You gain more protection, clarity, and negotiation leverage when you work with your own REALTOR®. The builder's agent represents the builder's interests, not yours.
How does builder representation work in Springfield?
A builder's sales rep is trained to explain floor plans, pricing, incentives, and community rules. Their job is to move the construction process forward and protect the builder's position. They can guide you, but they cannot advocate for you when it comes to pricing, contract terms, upgrade decisions, or inspection issues. Their priority is the builder's bottom line, not yours.
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, builder sales representatives are employees or contracted agents of the builder, which creates an inherent conflict of interest when buyers rely solely on them for guidance.
Why should I have my own agent for new construction in Springfield?
Your own agent gives you independent advice on lot premiums, contract language, and upgrade value. You get support during selections, timelines, and walkthroughs. You also gain someone who can identify problems early before they become expensive delays.
This guidance saves many buyers money because your agent knows how builders price homes, where markups occur, and which incentives are truly negotiable. For example, in recent Springfield builds, buyers with their own agents saved an average of $8,000-$15,000 through negotiated upgrades, lot premium reductions, and closing cost credits that the builder's sales rep didn't initially offer.
Will having my own agent cost me more money?
No. Many buyers fear that using their own agent will raise their costs. In new construction, the builder typically pays the buyer agent's fee from their proceeds—usually 3% of the purchase price. That means you get full representation without adding to your purchase price.
Some buyers also believe the process is simple enough to handle alone. The truth is that new construction includes contracts, deadlines, and quality checks that most buyers only experience once. An agent who does this often can spot issues quickly and save you thousands.
What does independent representation look like in Springfield new construction?
Your own agent compares builders, reviews pricing structures, and checks the contract for risky clauses. You receive clear guidance on which upgrades make financial sense and which ones do not. During construction, your agent monitors progress and attends key walkthroughs to ensure items are addressed before closing.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends having independent representation when signing any real estate contract, especially for transactions as complex as new construction. You move through the process with more confidence and fewer surprises.
When should I bring my agent to meet the builder?
Critical timing: You must bring your agent on your FIRST visit to the builder's sales office or model home. Many Springfield builders, including DR Horton, Arbor Homes, and Fischer Homes, require buyer agent registration at first contact. If you visit alone and register, most builders won't allow you to add an agent later—even if you want one.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Construction Agents in Springfield
Q: Does the builder pay my agent's commission in Springfield?
A: Yes, in Springfield new construction, builders typically pay a 3% buyer agent commission from their proceeds, so having your own agent costs you $0 extra.
Q: Can I negotiate better deals with my own agent?
A: Yes, your agent can negotiate lot premiums, upgrades, closing costs, and incentives that the builder's rep won't offer. Recent Springfield buyers saved $8,000-$15,000 on average through professional negotiation.
Q: When should I bring my agent to the builder in Springfield?
A: Bring your agent on your FIRST visit. If you register without an agent, many Springfield builders won't allow you to add one later. This is a strict policy with DR Horton, Arbor Homes, and Fischer Homes.
Q: What Springfield builders does Move Smart With Amanda work with?
A: We work with all major Springfield builders including DR Horton, Arbor Homes, Fischer Homes, and other local and national builders in the Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus areas.
Q: Do I still need an agent if the builder's rep seems helpful and knowledgeable?
A: Yes. The builder's rep works for the builder, not you. Even the most helpful sales representative has a legal and financial obligation to the builder. You need someone working exclusively for your interests.
Q: What if I've already visited the builder without an agent?
A: Contact an agent immediately. Some builders may still allow representation if you haven't signed anything or made a deposit. The sooner you act, the better your chances.
Q: Can my agent help me choose between different Springfield builders?
A: Absolutely. An experienced agent knows the quality differences, warranty coverage, typical issues, and reputation of each Springfield builder. This insight is invaluable.
Why Springfield Buyers Choose Move Smart With Amanda
Amanda Mullins, MBA, REALTOR® with eXp Realty, brings 13+ years of appraisal management experience plus deep builder knowledge across Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus. She explains the process in plain language and advocates for your interests from the first conversation to the final inspection.
Buyers appreciate her contract clarity, negotiation skill, and ability to keep builders accountable. Amanda has helped hundreds of Springfield families navigate new construction with DR Horton, Arbor Homes, Fischer Homes, and other builders—saving them thousands while protecting their interests.
Amanda's Bio
Amanda Mullins, MBA, REALTOR® with eXp Realty, helps buyers, sellers, and agents move smart through life and career transitions. With an MBA, 13+ years of experience in appraisal management, and SRES and C2EX endorsements, she brings strategy, clarity, and advocacy to every move. Based in Springfield, Amanda serves clients across Ohio and mentors agents nationwide through her brand Move Smart With Amanda. She was recognized in the Ohio Realtors President's Sales Club 2024 & 2025.
Contact Information
📞 317-750-6316
📧 amullinsmba@gmail.com
Ready to start your Springfield new construction journey with expert representation? Contact Amanda today for a free consultation about your builder options, lot selection, and negotiation strategy.
