Do I need a REALTOR® if I'm buying directly from a builder?

No. You can buy directly from a builder, but having your own representation can help you compare incentives, understand transaction terms, coordinate inspections and negotiate where appropriate. Buyer-agent compensation is fully negotiable and must be addressed in a written buyer agreement; some builders may offer compensation or concessions, but availability and amounts vary.

Are builder-preferred lenders cheaper?

Sometimes. Builder-affiliated lenders may offer credits or rate incentives tied to their financing. I compare those offers with outside options using rate, APR, fees, credits and estimated cash to close.

When do I lock my rate on a new build?

Rate-lock timing depends on the lender, loan program and construction schedule. Some lenders or builders offer extended locks or float-down options. I help you compare the lock period, fees, credits and tradeoffs before deciding.

New Construction

New construction, negotiated in your favor.

I work with new-construction communities across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs and Clayton, including Lennar, DR Horton and other builders. I help buyers identify and negotiate available incentives — such as closing-cost credits, rate buy-downs or design-center credits — when offered. Incentives and terms vary by community, lender and timing.

Schedule a Meeting Browse listings

Why work with me

Builder incentives

I help identify and compare available closing-cost credits, rate buy-downs and design upgrades; availability and terms vary.

Contract review

Builder contracts are builder-drafted and often differ from resale contracts. I help you understand key warranty, timeline, deposit and change-order terms and flag questions for the appropriate professional when needed.

Independent inspection

When builder access and the construction stage allow, I can help coordinate third-party inspections at appropriate milestones, including pre-drywall and final inspection.

Site & lot selection

Guidance on lot premiums, orientation, resale considerations and long-term marketability.

Bilingual walk-throughs

I can provide bilingual support for builder meetings and walk-throughs in Spanish or English.

Preferred lenders

Compare builder-affiliated lender offers with outside options based on rates, fees, credits and total cost.

How it works

A clear process

01
Community shortlist
I narrow down builders and neighborhoods that match your budget and timeline.
02
Model home tours
Visit models with me and confirm the builder's buyer-representation and registration rules before signing or registering.
03
Reserve the lot
Negotiate deposit, upgrades and closing incentives up front.
04
Build & inspections
Milestone inspections and change-order oversight through construction.
05
Final walk & close
Punch list, warranty registration and closing day.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a REALTOR® if I'm buying directly from a builder?: No. You can buy directly from a builder, but having your own representation can help you compare incentives, understand transaction terms, coordinate inspections and negotiate where appropriate. Buyer-agent compensation is fully negotiable and must be addressed in a written buyer agreement; some builders may offer compensation or concessions, but availability and amounts vary.
Are builder-preferred lenders cheaper?: Sometimes. Builder-affiliated lenders may offer credits or rate incentives tied to their financing. I compare those offers with outside options using rate, APR, fees, credits and estimated cash to close.
When do I lock my rate on a new build?: Rate-lock timing depends on the lender, loan program and construction schedule. Some lenders or builders offer extended locks or float-down options. I help you compare the lock period, fees, credits and tradeoffs before deciding.

Answers

Answers to common real estate questions.

Clear answers to the questions buyers, sellers, and investors across the Triangle ask most.

Who am I?: I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) REALTOR® and Strategy Advisor with Corrales Real Estate, serving the Raleigh–Durham–Chapel Hill Triangle in North Carolina. I am Certified Full-Service Professional™ (CFSP) and I specialize in first-time buyers, relocations, sellers, and investors.
What areas do you serve?: I serve Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, Clayton, and the greater Triangle area of North Carolina.
Do I speak Spanish?: Yes. I am a native Spanish speaker with Colombian roots and I work fluently in both English and Spanish, including bilingual contracts, disclosures, and negotiation.
How can you contact me?: Call or text 919-908-4659, email david.velasquez.correa@gmail.com, or schedule a consultation at davidvelasquezrealtor.com/contact. Consultations are available in English or Spanish.
Is Raleigh a good place to invest in real estate in 2026?: The Raleigh–Durham Triangle can be attractive to real estate investors because of its employment base, universities, population growth and rental demand. Returns, occupancy and appreciation vary by submarket, property and purchase terms, so I evaluate each opportunity on its own numbers.
What is the CFSP certification?: Certified Full-Service Professional™ (CFSP) is a designation for REALTORS® who follow a documented, fiduciary-driven process across the entire buyer or seller journey — from strategy and marketing to negotiation and closing coordination.

Schedule a Meeting

Book a free consultation

Pick a time on my calendar. Meetings available in English or Spanish.