Do I need a Realtor when buying new construction in Tampa Bay?

Yes. A builder representative works for the builder, while your Realtor helps you compare communities, incentives, timelines, contract terms, inspections, and long-term resale considerations.

Should I register my Realtor before visiting a builder?

Yes. Many builders require your agent to be registered early, often before or during the first visit, so it is best to connect before touring model homes.

Are builder incentives always the best deal?

Not always. Incentives can help, but they should be compared against price, rate, fees, closing costs, upgrades, and the total monthly payment.

Free Buyer's Resource - Tampa Bay New Construction

The Tampa Bay New Construction Buyer's Guide & Checklist

Everything you need to know before you walk into a builder's sales office - builder incentives, CDD fees, lot selection, upgrade strategy, inspection planning, and contract red flags. Written from a buyer's agent perspective.

6-Page PDF Guide Free - No Obligation Wellen Park · Lakewood Ranch · Wesley Chapel · Riverview · More

What's inside the guide:

How builder incentives actually work - and when they're not the best deal
CDD fees explained: what they are and how to compare them across communities
Lot selection checklist before you commit to a site
Design center upgrade strategy - what adds value vs. what doesn't
Inspection planning: pre-drywall, final walkthrough, and what to look for
Contract red flags and builder-specific rules to watch for

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Why most new construction buyers leave money on the table

The builder's sales team represents the builder. You need someone in your corner before you sign anything - and this guide is the starting point.

Chapter 1 - Understanding Builder Incentives Incentives tied to preferred lenders, inventory homes, or closing dates can cost you more than they save. Here's how to evaluate the real number.

Chapter 2 - CDD Fees & HOA Costs Decoded CDD fees can add $100-$400/month to your payment. This chapter shows you how to find them, compare them, and factor them into your budget.

Chapter 3 - Lot Selection Checklist Pond view, conservation, road position, drainage, sun exposure, privacy, and resale appeal - what to check before you pick your lot.

Chapter 4 - Design Center Strategy Structural upgrades vs. cosmetic finishes. What adds resale value and what doesn't. How to avoid overspending at the design center.

Chapter 5 - Inspection Planning New homes still have issues. Pre-drywall, final walkthrough, and third-party inspection timing - what to schedule and why it matters.

Chapter 6 - Contract & Timeline Checklist Deposits, contingencies, change orders, warranties, and builder-specific rules that catch buyers off guard.

This guide is free. Here's why.

Builder representation is free to you as a buyer - builders pay cooperating agent commissions from their marketing budget. Having your own representation costs you nothing and gives you someone whose job is to protect your interests, not the builder's. This guide is how I introduce myself and my approach.

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What buyers say about working with Erik

Real feedback from clients on new construction purchases, relocation moves, VA loans, and first-time home buying.

★★★★★

"I worked with Erik recently on a new build transaction. Erik was very professional and knowledgeable and calmly pointed out all options available. I highly recommend his services - it's clear that he is very experienced and well informed."

Jason Stinson New construction transaction

★★★★★

"Erik was phenomenal throughout the home-buying process. As a nervous first-time homebuyer, I truly appreciated his kindness, patience, and expertise. He was incredibly resourceful and guided me every step of the way, making what could have been a stressful experience feel smooth and manageable."

Bethany Cruz First-time homebuyer · Buyer representation

★★★★★

"The BEST Realtor in the Bradenton, Florida area. We had clients relocate from Missouri to Florida and Erik was great to work with throughout the process and very responsive to their needs."

Lauren Wittig Relocation referral · Florida real estate

The Tampa Bay New Construction Buyer's Guide & Checklist

What's inside the guide:

Why most new construction buyers leave money on the table

This guide is free. Here's why.

Get the Free Guide

What buyers say about working with Erik

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