The best start for the New Year could be a new home. There are buyers scheduling closings for January. One particular buyer, named Deloris (last name withheld), just closed and picked up her key. Shes excited about finally buying her first home.

Deloris had searched and searched for the right home. She finally found it. It was a newly built home here in the Southwest.

I knew it was the house when I saw it, she said. I wanted to be the first owner of a brand new home.

As a licensed Realtor, I wonder what will inspire the buyer to know that its the perfect home. A Realtor views property with the client, keeping in mind that the client is the one who is buying the house. Most importantly, its the clients money that buys the home.

The Realtor looks out for the buyer, pointing out conditions and problems with the home. There could be structural problems the client might otherwise overlook. A Realtors job is to protect the client, educated and advise the buyer, and save the client money.

Lets look at an example.

Deloris spent months looking at pre-existing homes. She drove different areas. She finally had a back-up offer on a home, which went back and forth for a week. Then, one evening, she went and toured new homes in DeSoto. Unexpectedly, a sold home became available. The best thing about it was the surplus of upgrades.

She was excited. She signed a contract. The home was move-in ready.

Wait a minute. What about a home inspection?

I dont need an inspection, she replied. This is a new home.

The Realtor advised her to have the home inspected before the walk-through. There have been several builder homes in which items had not been completed: trim left unpainted, a gutter missing, the pipe in the fireplace not cut to allow the gas to ignite the logs, etc. These and many others could be passed by in a walk-through.

Deloris still refused an inspection. Then the licensees broker stepped in. He paid for the inspection and told her Happy New Year.

Again, after the home inspection, several repairs were pointed out to the builder. At the walk-through, the building superintendent made note of the repairs, as well as others, and agreed to fix them. Although the superintendent found some of the flaws, the home inspection report (prepared by a respected home inspector) unveiled others that might have gone unnoticed.

Repairs were scheduled for correction, and a final walk-through granted before closing. The homebuilder was making sure Deloris home was in mint-condition.

Deloris definitely feels like she has purchased a brand new home.

Its the right house, she smiles.

Many builders refer to the Southwest area as undiscovered territory. What was once cow pastures are now quickly turning into new subdivisions. In fact, many new developments are ending Texas-sized sales. So, before the New Year gets rolling, buyers might consider touring new developments before the increased pricing.

Early January is a good time to purchase builder homes and new construction. Its the end of 2005 and the beginning of 2006. Builders are closing out inventory, and starting up new inventory.

Deloris was able to purchase her home for less than the original list price. She saved quite a bit of money.

During the walk-through, the building superintendent took his time in explaining the homes features and making sure appliances were in working condition. Every question was answered, and every room viewed and discussed. The buyer and building superintendent even toured the attic. Also, one of the best amenities was that the home was set up for wireless Internet.

The Realtor was present at both inspections, making sure everything ran smoothly. After the inspections, the Realtor realized it was a great house for Deloris.

Better yet, a new home for the New Year.

Happy New Year.