First of all, it is easy to find new-home communities on your own. Just go to the Internet, where you'll find great resources, such as American Home Guides, that will provide you with tons of information on new homes in your area. You can also pick up the local newspaper or new-home magazine. Or just drive around. It's always easy to spot new-home communities with their signs and flags.

Once you get to a community, there are sales people on staff who can show you the models, floor plans, and site plans, and answer all of your questions. If you are using a real estate agent, his or her job is basically finished once you walk into the sales office. In fact, they often do not even have to be with you in order to receive a commission if you buy a home at that community.

And, believe it or not, the commission your realtor receives can make a difference in your pocket. While a realtor is certainly entitled to the 3 percent commission he or she typically makes on a new home sale, it represents a big large piece of the builder's profit margin. As a result, the builder is going to be much less likely to throw in some of the "extras" or closing costs inducements that you might have received if you had come in on your own.

So, if you're thinking about a new-home community, think twice about using a real estate agent. Often, the agents themselves will stay away from showing you new-home communities. If you purchase a new construction home, the agent makes a lesser commission than he would on a resale and does not get paid in full until you close on the home.

That is not to say that realtors do not have a place in home shopping. For those seeking a resale, the real estate agent can be an invaluable helper in locating a one-of-a-kind home that meets your needs.