Summary:
You don't have to have a Realtor®'s help to purchase a new home or new condo in the Washington, D.C. area, but you may find it to your advantage.  I have often helped clients who are looking primarily or exclusively at new construction.  If you want my help in purchasing new construction, because of builders'/developers' policies we need to go to the sales office together on your very first visit.

Detail:
Most homebuyers automatically think of hiring a Realtor® to assist them in the process of buying an existing home, but few buyers think about using one to help them find and buy a new home or new condo.  True, you are not required to use a real estate agent to purchase a home -- new or re-sale.  However, having an agent on your side helps you find the right match for you in the new construction universe, understand the contract you are signing (especially your rights and obligations), take advantage of home inspection and walkthrough opportunities, and attend closing with you.

Whether new construction or a re-sale is right for you depends on many variables, one of the most important of which is budget followed closely by timetable.  I can provide you with tips and perspective in making the decision whether a new construction project is right for you.  These days most if not all new construction sales offices are compensating buyer's real estate agents.  (To ensure this happens, make sure you take me with you the very first time you go to visit a new construction sales office; in many cases, sales offices refuse to pay a commission to a buyer's agent because the agent wasn't there with the buyer the first time the buyer came to the property, i.e., the agent didn't "introduce" the buyer to the property.)

Some resources for information on new home construction projects in northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. include New Homes Guide, New Condominium Guide, and DC Lofts (which covers more than just D.C. and more than just lofts!)  I'd be glad to help you purchase a new home in northern Virginia or Washington, D.C.  Please contact me to let me know how I can help!