Today, I am discussing questions that you should ask when buying or building new construction.
Buying a new construction home can be very exciting because you can get exactly what you want, but you need to make sure you are asking the right questions to avoid surprises.
- Understand the builder’s qualifications & reputation is important. Ask around about the builder, ask real estate agents working in the nearby area as they will likely know if a builder has a good working relationship with clients, if they stay on schedule or make building a nightmare for clients. Ask current homeowners what their experience was like during the process, if completed on time, what bumps or hurdles did they encounter and how has it been for them after closing.
- Check licenses and certifications.
- Ask for references directly from the builder for people they built for and contact them.
- Research online reviews & pay attention to reoccurring comments.
- Find out what warranties are provided and what exactly it covers. Get it in writing and keep for your records.
- Visit model homes and completed projects by the builder so you can see quality of work, attention to details, finishes & layout both inside and out all the way to the property lines…attention to detail in landscaping all the way to the edge of the property…no water run off issues?
- The neighborhood and amenities should be checked out also. Nothing could be worse than having a custom home built and then realizing the neighborhood is not up to par for your liking or needs.
- Is there future growth of the area or surrounding area that could impact you? Any future projects that could impact traffic? Check with your local planning dept.
- Check out resale values in the neighborhood of recently sold homes…are they in line with your proposed home.
- See if the builder has a preferred lender offering any discounts.
- Ask what after-closing support you would have – 90 day checklist for instance and who you would contact to handle it?
- Lastly, be sure to get a detailed cost breakdown before signing a contract. Ask what other costs there might be? Upgrades or change order fees?
Doing all of this will help ensure you are working with a trusted professional and reduce the risk of building delays, defects, & poor construction.
I hope this information has been helpful. If you are buying or selling, remember my team and I are on standby, 7 days a week, to help you take the smoother road to sold.