Build or Buy New With John
New Construction Homes in Monroe and West Monroe
Someone on your side of the builder's contract.
Build or Buy New With John
Someone on your side of the builder's contract.
A new home sounds simple: pick a plan, pick your finishes and move in. In practice, you're signing the builder's own contract, choosing from a long list of upgrades, and relying on work that will be covered up by drywall before you see it.
The salesperson in the model home works for the builder. John Michael Sampognaro works for you, and he worked in construction and HVAC before he got into real estate.
Many builders require your agent to be with you, or registered, the first time you visit a community or model home. If you walk in alone, some won't let an agent represent you later.
Call John before you tour, and he'll set it up.
Spec homes are already built or close to it. You can see exactly what you're getting and move in sooner, but the finishes are already chosen.
To-be-built homes let you pick the plan, lot and selections, but take longer and come with more decisions along the way.
John will help you compare the two on price, timeline and what's included as standard.
How water drains away from the house, which way it faces, and what could be built next door.
Whether the system is sized for the house and how the ductwork is laid out. This is John's background, and it affects your power bill every month.
Which upgrades add value at resale and which are expensive extras, plus what the builder's allowances actually cover.
Roof, windows and finish work, compared with other builders at the same price.
Builder contracts usually differ from the standard Louisiana purchase agreement. John goes over deposits, what happens if construction runs late, and how change orders are priced.
Many builders offer one year on workmanship, two years on systems and ten years on structure, but you should confirm what yours includes.
A new house can still have mistakes. John recommends an independent inspector at two points: before the drywall goes up, when framing, wiring and ductwork are still visible, and again before closing.
He'll also be at your final walk-through, and before the first-year warranty runs out he'll remind you to schedule a check so issues get fixed under warranty.
For builders: John currently lists new homes for local builders. He knows how buyers compare new construction, and he markets builders' homes with professional photos, video, open houses and direct outreach to buyers. See his current listings.
Do I need an agent to buy a new home?
You don't have to have one, but the builder's salesperson represents the builder. Your own agent can review the contract, compare builders and negotiate for you.
Does using an agent cost me more on a new build?
Usually not. Many builders pay the buyer's agent. John will confirm how compensation works with each builder before you sign anything.
Can I negotiate with a builder?
Often yes, though usually on upgrades, lot premiums or closing costs rather than the base price. It depends on how many homes the builder has to sell.
Should I use the builder's preferred lender?
Builders often tie incentives to their lender. Get a quote from at least one other lender and compare the total cost, not just the incentive.
"He made the entire process so much easier and less stressful." Lynda R.
Call or text John at (318) 381-4440, or send him a message below.