Real Estate

Buying a model home is a little bit like buying a car that's been used solely for test drives. Everybody knows that a dealer will generally discount the price on a car with very low miles. Builders will often discount the price for a model home, too, but not for the same reason. It's unlikely that the model home was ever used as living quarters.

Here are 10 tips to help you get the best deal on a model home from the builder:

1) Ask to See All The Model Homes

2) Hire Your Own Agent Before Buying a Model Home

3) Ask if the Model Home Had Been Occupied

4) Examine Comparable Sales in the Subdivision

5) Obtain Legal Advice Before Signing a Purchase Contract

6) Consider Using Your Own Lender

7) Hire a Home Inspector

8) Check out the Builder's Reputation

9) Negotiate the Price and Model Home Furnishings

10) Try to Buy the Last Model Home