We are thinking about purchasing a house in a new community. We have been pre-qualify for a certain amount of money and know which plan of house and which lot to get. We went to visit the community once and talk to the seller's sale rep but have not make a deal even though we disclose what we like to her already.
Is it too late now in the process to use an agent to represent us? Or should we go ahead and use an agent before we make another appointment to seal the deal?

Any feedbacks will help as this is my first time.

Thanks.

Usually using an agent for negotiations is free to you as the builder is paying the commission.I would bring an agent in before you go in again to proceed further. Sometimes the builder's agent can be a butt about it and other times they don't care. If they don't honor the fact that you want representation tell them you will go somehwere else. That usually get's their attention real quick. No legal advice.

Most builders don't mind if you have an agent. In fact, they will ask if you have one, and go above and beyond to make sure they don't short any buyer's agent on the commission.

Go talk to a couple good buyer's agents in the area, and pick one that you feel comfortable with.

sweetnoly,

Be very careful with the builders. It is ALWAYS good to have representation when visiting these communities. In my area, if you don't have an agent with you on your first visit to the community, they will not allow you to come back later with an agent. I think in this market they are a bit more passive about this rule though. Like someone stated above, just let them know that you will go somewhere else to buy if they don't let you bring your own agent. I am sure this will work.

It is best to have a great buyer's agent represent you though. The builders will sometimes try and take advantage of buyers without an agent. They will not usually give you all of the possible incentives that an agent can squeeze out of them for you. Trust me, get an agent.

Thanks everyone for your great inputs. I will take those into consideration and will look for an agent.

I've had the same experience as 007 above. If you "signed in" without your agent present, many builders will not pay an agent brought into the deal after that date.

Working directly with the builder leaves you unrepresented, but there is also the issue of how your escrow money is handled. The seller's sales rep may or may not be a real estate agent (I don't know what your state requires).

Working with a real estate agent will assure that your earnest money is deposited in a separate escrow account and not "co-mingled" with the builder's funds.

I sent you a private message.