What You Should
Look for in New Homes by Jonathan Lammers
Communities, neighborhoods and modern conveniences
are just a few of the reasons homebuyers choose
new homes. But before deciding on your new dream
house, make sure to do your homework and find
the right builder for your needs and budget.
Finding a Builder
| Summary Points |
| 1. |
Look for an experienced builder
with a good reputation.
|
| 2. |
Use your budget and how long
you plan to stay in
the home as helpful guides.
|
| 3. |
Find out what options are available
for your home.
|
| 4. |
Choose a location that fits your
needs and budget.
|
|
|
Look for an experienced builder with a reputation
for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
A great way to find a builder is to ask your real
estate agent for a recommendation. Your agent
can also guide you through tours of homes in new
subdivisions, and help you make notes about your
favorite houses and who built them. Once you've
made a list, try contacting homeowners who previously
worked with the builder and find out how satisfied
they are with their homes.
Remember, too, that the model homes builders use
to showcase their work may differ from other homes
in the same development. For this reason, speak
with the builder early on so you can find out
exactly what options you'll have for appliances,
cabinets, trim work, landscaping, paint colors,
etc. Your builder will want you to enjoy your
new home, so don't be afraid to ask about adding
personal touches to get exactly what you want.
Choosing the
Location or Lot
Try to find a location that suits both your lifestyle
and budget. While factors like access to work
and shopping are important no matter where you
live, bear in mind that even lots within the same
development can have drastically different prices.
For example, a lot overlooking the 18th hole of
a championship golf course will likely cost more
than an interior lot a few blocks away. It's also
important to find out whether your location is
subject to any restrictions, homeowner's covenants
or special assessments such as sewer and road
fees.
| Important Factors for Choosing the Right
Location |
- Access to employment,
shopping and transit
- Convenience to recreation
and parks
- Quality of the local
schools
- Fire, police and
utility services
- Nearby zoning
- Covenants, restrictions
and special assessments
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|
|
Negotiating a Price and Upgrades
When it comes to negotiating a price for your
new home, it's wise to have a real estate agent
representing you. Though deals can sometimes be
found at the beginning or end of a new development,
it takes an experienced agent to help evaluate
different prices and handle the negotiation. One
area where you may have the most room to negotiate
is for construction upgrades. For example, you
might agree to pay the full asking price in exchange
for a custom fireplace and higher quality kitchen
cabinets.
Your Warranty
Virtually all new homes come with warranties covering
structural defects and major systems such as the
plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical systems.
Make sure to speak with the builder beforehand
about exactly what is covered and for how long.
Another good idea is having the house inspected
by a professional before construction is complete.
Even the best builders occasionally make mistakes,
but an experienced inspector can help identify
problems during construction when they're easier
to fix. To find a new house inspector, ask your
agent for a recommendation.
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