Is Buyer Representation Free with New Construction in Utah?

How Builder Pricing Works

Most production builders in Utah — companies like Ivory Homes, Lennar, D.R. Horton, Woodside Homes, and others — set their home prices the same regardless of whether the buyer has representation or not. The price is the price.

This means that in most cases, having an independent buyer advocate does not increase the cost of the home. The builder has already factored representation into their pricing model. Going in without an advocate doesn't create a discount — it just means nobody is watching out for your interests.

What Does a Buyer Advocate Actually Do in New Construction?

Buying new construction is fundamentally different from buying an existing home. A buyer advocate in the new construction process provides:

• Builder comparison. Objective evaluation of multiple builders — their quality, contract terms, incentive packages, and reputation.
• Contract review. Builder contracts are long, complex, and written to protect the builder. An advocate identifies concerning clauses, escalation risks, and missing protections.
• Incentive analysis. Understanding which incentives provide real value and which are marketing tactics. Comparing offers across builders on an apples-to-apples basis.
• Upgrade guidance. Identifying which upgrades to do through the builder and which to defer — potentially saving $10,000–$20,000.
• Inspection coordination. Scheduling and reviewing independent inspections at pre-drywall and pre-closing stages.
• Closing preparation. Making sure all incentives, credits, and agreed terms are reflected in the final paperwork.

The Risk of Going Without Representation

Buyers who visit a model home without representation are typically assigned to the builder's on-site sales agent. That agent works for the builder, not for you. Their job is to sell you a home at the best possible terms — for the builder.

Common risks for unrepresented buyers include:

• Missing unfavorable contract clauses (escalation, cancellation, timeline)
• Overpaying for upgrades that could be done independently after closing
• Accepting incentives without understanding how they compare to other builders
• Skipping independent inspections during construction
• Not catching issues during the final walkthrough

These gaps can cost buyers $15,000–$30,000+ in missed savings and unexpected costs.

How to Get Started

If you're considering new construction anywhere in Utah, the best time to connect with a buyer advocate is before you visit a model home. Once you register with the builder's sales office, it can be more difficult to add representation.

Contact us to discuss your situation and learn how independent buyer guidance works with the specific builders you're considering. In most cases, it costs you nothing and can save you thousands.

Related: Why buyer advocacy matters | Avoid legal issues service