Tampa Home Builder Ratings by JD Power

[Jeff Launiere, P.A]

While showing new construction homes, I am often asked the question does this builder have a good quality home. I often send the link which is included below to my clients, or print out the chart for them, and it often lets them feel more comfortable with one builder over another. Although most builders have a high quality product there are occassions where the home is less than perfect, and it is then important to have a builder who stands behind their product and does the necessary repairs.
I also believe it helps a buyer to have Realtor representation when they go to the model home center and to be represented in the sale. Many buyers assume that they can get a better deal by buying directly from the builder, however a good Realtor can usually get you the best price and terms. Remember the sales person in the model home center works for the builder, and their job is to keep the sales price as close to asking price as possible. A good Realtors job is to represent you. Is the builder going to give a better price to the individual who is going to buy one home, or to the Realtor whose company is bringing them tens or hundreds of buyers each year. And remember that the builder normally pays the Realtors commission, not you. There are actually a couple of builders who do not pay a Realtor commission, however they also have the lowest customer satisfaction rating. Not only do you usually get a better price with good Realtor representation the Realtor also should assist you after the sale with any problems. We have contacts in these companies and if they do not keep our buyers happy, we may not bring our future buyers, and I have had builders make repairs that they originally told the buyer was not covered.

http://www.jdpower.com/homes/ratings/home-builder-customer-satisfac...