Building a new home is often a new adventure, which means it’s a whole new experience. Before you build, here are nine things for a new construction buyer to know that could help along the way.
First isn’t final.
In this case, we are referring to the paint job of your soon-to-be-home. Go ahead and breathe a sigh of relief knowing if the first paint job doesn’t look its best, it will. The final paint job on home will likely look much better.
Ask what’s included.
Generally speaking, different builders will supply different features for a new construction home.
Ask whether your builder will supply gutters, blinds, screens, shower glass and bathroom mirrors, for example.
Talk about upgrades.
More often than not, many new builds have “upgrade” options. These can include a range of items like those above to specific countertops.
It’s always a good idea to have your Realtor® ask the builder about upgrades—even higher-end options, if those are on your wish-list. Hopefully, the builder can work with you to make it happen.
Worse before better.
Next up on things for a new construction buyer to know is progress varies. Typically, things could appear to “get worse” before they “get better.” Surprisingly enough, this is a normal part of the construction process.
But if you see anything that seems out of the ordinary, your Realtor is your best resource. They can tell you to make a note for later, forget about it, or if it needs the builder’s immediate attention, for instance.
Take a close look.
Home buyers will have the opportunity to inspect their homes and mark any defects with blue painters’ tape.
However, consider making separate notes of any flaws that are not drywall, paint related or if they are not included in any inspection report.
Hire a home inspector.
When it comes to things for a new construction buyer to know, this one could easily be overlooked. Even though the home is newly-built, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have your own team inspect it on your behalf.
Hire a licensed, experienced home inspector who will provide you with a report that you can supply the builder.
Be patient
Be patient! It is a building process from the beginning to the end. Usually, the rate at which things get done toward the end of process ramps up—just in time for the closing.
Rely on your Realtor
The good news is an experienced Realtor, who has assisted with tons of brand-new home transactions, can help guide you along the way. Especially if you’re a first-time home buyer, or it’s your first new construction purchase, your Realtor can help you differentiate between unusual-to-you sights that are actually normal (like tubs filled with standing water) and what may not be as normal (such as major structural defects.
Summary
Remember, Realtors have likely seen it all. Plus, like Ryan’s Helpful Contacts, they can often connect you to a network of other professionals.
Need more home building, selling or buying tips? Keep reading our blogs for industry news and trends.
