🏡 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before Buying New Construction in Bakersfield

If you’re thinking about buying a new construction home in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, you might be surprised how different the process is compared to buying a resale home.

It’s easy to assume that any Realtor can help you with a new build — but not all agents truly understand how new construction works, or how to protect your best interests throughout the process.

Before you hire a Realtor in Bakersfield to help you with your new construction home, here are the most important questions to ask.

✅ Can you represent me when buying a new construction home in Bakersfield?

Many buyers don’t realize that you can (and should) bring your own Realtor when buying from a builder.
In fact, any licensed Realtor can represent you — even if you find a home by walking into a builder’s model home first.

Having a local agent means you have someone who works for you, not the builder.

📘 Do you have a New Construction Buyer Guide for Bakersfield?

A true Bakersfield new construction specialist will have resources to help you navigate the process — from lot selection and design appointments to what happens during framing, drywall, and final inspections.

Ask for a guide or checklist that shows you what to expect at each step, so there are no surprises.

💰 Will you help me review builder incentives and promotions?

Builders across Bakersfield often advertise specials like:

• Lower interest rates

• Paid closing costs

• Owned Solar Options

Your Realtor should know what local builders are offering and help you figure out what’s really a savings versus just clever marketing.
They can also negotiate more closing csts or price adjustments that you might not realize are possible.

🏗️ Will you be there for the key new construction appointments?

There are several critical points in a new build where your agent’s eyes and experience matter.
Ask if your Realtor will attend: ( because some won't) 

• The blue tape walk, where you mark cosmetic or small repair issues before closing

• Your professional home inspection, even though it’s new — issues still pop up!

• The final walkthrough to ensure everything was fixed

• Closing day, to make sure you get your keys (and any last paperwork is handled smoothly)

🏘️ How well do you know builders and new construction communities in Bakersfield?

An experienced local Realtor knows which Bakersfield builders stand behind their work and which communities might be better for resale down the road.
They’ll also know about new developments popping up in Southwest Bakersfield, Northeast Bakersfield, and beyond — sometimes even before communities are officially listed.

🌟 Why hiring the right Realtor for new construction in Bakersfield matters

Buying a new home should feel exciting and smooth, but that’s usually because your Realtor is putting in the work behind the scenes — reviewing long builder contracts, checking that your earnest money is protected, and pushing for deadlines to be met.

If you just go with any agent (or worse, only the builder’s sales rep), you might miss out on protections or negotiations that can save you money and stress.

📍 Thinking about building or buying new in Bakersfield or Kern County?

I specialize in helping buyers across Bakersfield and the surrounding Kern County areas navigate new construction — from move-in-ready homes to fully customized builds.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing for your growing family, or relocating here for work, I’d love to be your guide.

👉 Let’s talk about your next home!

Monique Diaz
Realtor® | New Construction Specialist
Bakersfield Real Estate Group at Watson Realty
📱 661-304-6078
🌐 moniquediaz.bakersfieldishome.com