New Duplex: Purchase direct from builder or use an Agent?

[Kenisha B.]

Hello BP Fam,

Sorry for all the posts but guidance is needed:) So I'm looking to purchase a new multi family property. Should I buy directly from a builder to save money by avoiding an agent fee, or should I use an agent to negotiate a better deal. I have limited real estate experience.. but I do have access to decent resources to help me make an informed decision. 

[Russell Brazil]

Depends on the size of the builder and how they operate. I know builders that will take the commission off the price if there is no agent. Smaller builders tend to be like. Larger builders will typically not do that. Some of the larger builders to have a policy of not negotiating price or upgrades at all with a consumer, while they will with an agent.