You’re buying a house, and this time, you’re going to be the very first household to occupy this space; it’s brand-new construction. Now you’re asking yourself: Do you really need to hire a real estate agent for a new construction home?

Short answer: Yes, you do.

Maria Walley, a real estate agent who works with new construction purchases in Cincinnati, Ohio, says that there’s really no downside to having an agent in your corner as a buyer.

“When you’re buying new construction, you want an agent who will fight for you and be your advocate. Also, the buyer doesn’t pay for that agent. And the builder won’t give you a better deal if you don’t bring an agent — you’ll just be unrepresented.”

Working with a real estate agent sets you up for the best new construction purchase process. But not all real estate agents are up to the task. Here’s what you should ask an agent before you agree to work together on your new home purchase.