Do I really need a Realtor for new construction?

Absolutely. Builder sales agents represent the builder's interests, not yours. Amanda represents you exclusively, bringing 13+ years of residential appraisal management experience that builder agents do not have. Her representation costs you nothing because builders pay her commission whether you have representation or not. The question is whether you want someone with appraisal expertise protecting a six-figure investment.

Can you negotiate the price on new construction?

Yes. While base prices may be less flexible in strong markets, Amanda negotiates builder incentives worth $15,000 to $25,000 including closing cost credits, interest rate buydowns, free upgrades, and additional concessions. She also negotiates lot premiums, upgrade pricing, and contract terms that protect your investment. In slower markets, base price negotiations are often possible as well.

How long does new construction take?

Construction timelines vary by builder and market conditions. DR Horton typically completes homes in 4 to 6 months. Arbor Homes semi-custom builds take 6 to 8 months. Fischer Homes completes construction in 5 to 7 months. Spec homes already under construction may be available in 60 to 90 days. Amanda monitors construction progress and keeps you informed of any timeline changes throughout the build.

What about resale value?

Amanda's 13+ years of appraisal management experience ensures you buy in the right location at the right price. She guides you on which upgrades add genuine resale value versus those that waste money. Location, lot selection, and floor plan functionality matter more for resale than expensive finishes. Amanda helps you make decisions that protect your investment and maximize future appreciation.

Which builders does Amanda work with in Springfield Ohio?

Amanda works directly with DR Horton, Arbor Homes, and Fischer Homes across Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus markets. She has established relationships with each builder's sales teams and construction managers, providing clients with access to communities before public release, exclusive incentives, and priority lot selection. She also works with custom builders and other production builders entering Ohio markets.

How much can I save using Amanda for new construction?

Amanda's clients typically save $15,000 to $25,000 through negotiated builder incentives including closing cost credits, rate buydowns, and free upgrades. Her appraisal expertise also prevents overpaying by identifying inflated lot premiums and overpriced upgrades. She has helped clients avoid construction defects that would have cost $5,000 to $20,000 to repair after closing. Her representation costs you nothing because builders pay her commission.

What construction defects does Amanda typically catch?

Amanda's appraisal management background helps her identify concerns including undersized HVAC systems, improper drainage and grading, foundation issues, inadequate attic ventilation, inferior framing materials, missing insulation, plumbing vent violations, and electrical panel undersizing. She can recommend professional inspectors at critical construction phases to formally document any concerns before walls close and issues become expensive to repair.

Does Amanda work with DR Horton in Springfield Ohio?

Yes. Amanda has established relationships with DR Horton sales teams and construction managers across Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus. She helps clients navigate DR Horton's extensive upgrade options, negotiates builder incentives worth $15,000 to $25,000, and monitors construction timelines. DR Horton offers the most new construction communities in Ohio markets with competitive base pricing typically $20,000 to $40,000 below comparable custom builders.

How does appraisal experience help with new construction?

Amanda's 13+ years managing residential appraisals means she evaluates new construction with an appraiser's eye for quality, value, and market positioning. She identifies which lot locations appraisers discount, which builder upgrades actually increase appraised value, and which improvements waste money. She recognizes construction quality issues that pass code but fail quality standards. Most importantly, she knows true market value and prevents clients from overpaying.

What builder incentives can Amanda negotiate?

Amanda negotiates closing cost credits (typically $5,000 to $10,000), interest rate buydowns (reducing your rate by 0.5% to 1.0%), free upgrades (flooring, countertops, appliances worth $8,000 to $15,000), extended warranties, and home maintenance packages. Total incentive packages typically range from $15,000 to $25,000. Incentive availability varies by builder, market conditions, and how long inventory has been available.

Is new construction a good investment in Springfield Ohio?

New construction can be an excellent investment when purchased correctly. Springfield Ohio offers affordable new construction pricing compared to Columbus and Dayton markets, with strong school districts and reasonable commutes to major employment centers. Amanda's appraisal expertise ensures you buy in locations with appreciation potential, avoid overpriced lots, and select upgrades that add genuine value. Location and lot selection matter more than builder choice for long-term investment returns.

What should I look for in a new construction lot?

Amanda evaluates lot drainage patterns, sun orientation for natural light and energy efficiency, views and privacy, noise exposure from roads or commercial areas, proximity to future construction phases, and lot premium pricing compared to interior lots. Corner lots often carry premiums but may have less privacy. Cul-de-sac lots offer low traffic but premium pricing. Backing to green space or ponds adds value if drainage is proper. Amanda's appraisal background identifies which lot premiums are justified.

How do I choose between builders in Springfield Ohio?

DR Horton offers the most communities with competitive base pricing and production efficiency. Arbor Homes provides semi-custom flexibility with above-average construction quality. Fischer Homes targets affordable pricing for first-time buyers and growing families. Amanda explains each builder's strengths, typical timelines, quality reputations, and current incentive packages. Builder choice depends on your budget, timeline, desired location, and customization preferences. Amanda helps you select the builder that best matches your specific needs.

Can Amanda help if I already started the new construction process?

Yes. Even if you already visited builder sales offices or selected a lot, Amanda can often still represent you. The sooner she gets involved, the more value she provides through contract review, upgrade guidance, and construction monitoring. Contact Amanda immediately if you have not yet signed a contract. Once contracts are signed, her ability to negotiate diminishes significantly but she can still provide guidance on construction oversight and final walkthrough.

What happens if the builder misses the completion date?

Builder contracts typically include clauses allowing delays for weather, material shortages, labor issues, and other circumstances. Amanda reviews these clauses during contract negotiation and pushes for reasonable timeframes and builder accountability. If delays occur, she coordinates with construction managers for updated timelines, identifies legitimate versus questionable delay reasons, and advocates for concessions when delays are builder-caused. Her established relationships mean builders take her concerns seriously.