It is extremely important to have an agent that is not affiliated with the builder represent you. Most builders have agents present at each community but it will be greatly beneficial to have an outside agent representing your best interests. A great agent will guide you throughout the entire process.
Look up reviews and even interview homeowners of a new build community you are interested in. Many builders have in-house lenders that may be offering bigger incentives than outside lenders could offer. This is not always the case. It is important to interview various lenders and search for your best option.
Builders have their own inspectors that go over the new home build in order to close out permits, but the importance of having a third-party inspector can not be stressed enough. Be sure to review with the builder what is covered under warranty and what is not.