Key Takeaways:

• New construction homes can have hidden costs, which is why you have to pay attention to the details when deciding on a new build. 
• When touring model homes, always ask the builder about what’s standard and what’s considered an upgraded feature with additional costs.  
• Buy on your terms and work with our team to navigate the ins and outs of purchasing the new construction home of your dreams!

Don’t Mistake “New Construction” with “All-Inclusive” 

There are many advantages of buying a new construction home—low-maintenance living, brand-new appliances, and minimal repair costs are just a few. Plus, a new build provides a blank slate for buyers to begin making sweet new memories! 

While buyers should be excited about all these benefits, they should also be aware of the potential hidden costs associated with purchasing a new build. We’re here to ensure you know exactly what is included in the overall cost of your new construction home. 

Protect yourself before there’s a problem

Just like an existing home, a brand-new home can have hidden issues that could require repairs. Something as simple as inadequate plumbing or roofing could result in sizable amounts of damage—this is why you have to protect yourself by being proactive in the home-buying process. All builders have their own nuances, which is why you should take the time to research different options before deciding on the right one. If you want some tried and true recommendations, your agent can provide valuable insight. Every home, including new builds, should be checked by an independent home inspector who isn’t affiliated with the builder. 

Before you commit to purchasing a new build, make sure to read the fine print of the home warranty. You may have to rely on your warranty if any issues arise that aren’t covered by your homeowners’ insurance policy. And remember, not every warranty is the same, so it’s important to determine exactly what your warranty covers and the length of the coverage. 

Stay true to your non-negotiables

Newly-built homes aren’t guaranteed to include all the necessities, so you need to know what to expect from a standard model. It’s quite common for new builds to come without certain interior items, such as appliances and window treatments, plus exterior fencing and landscaping. 

Before you make an offer, talk to your builder with your agent present and ask about the features included in your future home. Everything from drawer handles to light fixtures could cost extra, so be sure to compile a list of non-negotiables to budget for things you can’t live without.   

Don’t be duped by the mesmerizing model home

The model homes you’ll tour often have all the available upgrades the builder offers—we’re talking gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and open-concept floor plans with beautiful hardwood flooring. However, these top-level features could cost you thousands of dollars more than the builder’s grade basics. 

You can work with your agent to figure out which features are included in the standard model’s base price. Be sure to focus on what originally made you fall in love with the property, not all the bells and whistles you see in the showy model. When contemplating which upgrades are worth the cost, think about the home’s future resale value—will the upgrades increase your return on investment and appeal to a variety of buyers? This is a prime opportunity to lean on your agent’s expertise to determine which upgrades will add the most value to your home.   

Ready to Buy a New Build?

When you buy a new construction home, you always want to have a trusted real estate agent by your side. Remember, the builder’s sales agent has the builder’s best interest in mind—not yours. We have the new construction experience needed to guide you through the negotiation process and make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Contact us to learn more about new construction properties in the area, and we’ll get the ball rolling on buying your new home today! 

Key Takeaways:

• Buying a new build is the best way to craft a home that fits all your needs, and you’ll get the customization you crave. 
• Material costs are on the rise, and you shouldn’t wait for them to come down—invest in new construction now to lock in your preferred price. 
• We have the knowledge and network of connections you need to get started on your new construction project. Give us a call and we can discuss your options! 

What if Your Dream Home Doesn’t Exist Yet?

The past year has made many homeowners redefine what their dream home looks like, and it’s something different for everyone. If you’ve spent time searching the real estate market but can’t find an existing home that suits your specific needs, you should consider new construction. Whether it’s a custom-built home, a recently renovated older property, or a spec home in a newly constructed neighborhood, there are tons of options available right now. And luckily for you, we have all the knowledge you need to bring your dream home into existence.  

Here’s what you need to know about new construction

Buying new construction isn’t as simple as selecting a floor plan then signing the dotted lines. There is a detailed timeline for constructing a home that you’ll need to discuss with your builder and lender. When you work with an agent who specializes in new builds, you’ll learn all the nuances that come with buying new construction—plus, you’ll have someone who will always be on your side. 

When you decide to buy a new build, you’ll likely check out model homes in the area. At these model homes, you might meet an agent who will give you a tour and tell you a bit more about the builder. In these scenarios, the agent always works for the builder’s best interest, not the homebuyer’s—this is why it’s crucial to find your own agent to guide you from the initial purchase of your new construction home to finalizing the closing documents.  

We’ve heard the rumors, too…

In the midst of today’s inventory shortage, demand for building materials is at an all-time high, which means resources like lumber certainly aren’t cheap. Almost all costs associated with construction have increased in 2021—and they aren’t expected to come down anytime soon. With this in mind, now is the time to invest in new construction before costs continue to rise.  

Partially due to the lack of existing housing supply, about one in four homes are now newly built. Whether you’re interested in a pre-built spec home with less prep work or a completely custom build with your say written all over it, you should definitely take a look at the perks that come with a new build—and customization is just the beginning. 

Design your own dream home 

This time, you can have your cake and eat it too—or better yet, you can have your home built with your custom designs in mind. When you choose to build a home from the ground up, you can customize every single detail. New construction homes are meant to be tailor-made to your desires, so don’t be shy about asking your builder for upgrades or personalizations. From an open-concept floorplan to updated finishes and fixtures, the options really are endless when you choose new construction!   

Think new car smell, but better 

One of the top appeals of building your own home is that new, never-been-used feeling. When you buy new construction, you’ll get all brand-new appliances. In addition to all the bells and whistles in your new home, it is also likely to have green features like efficient lighting, effective insulation, and smart thermostats—all of which will save you money on your utility bills. And if your new home requires any repairs after moving in, most builders offer warranties and will get everything back in top-notch condition for free within a certain timeframe. 

Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

Now’s a better time than ever to invest in a new construction home—and luckily for you, we’re the new home experts! We have the local area knowledge and expertise in new builds to help you navigate the new construction process from start to finish. Contact us today to make your dream home a reality!