Buying a home is one of the biggest investments youll make in your life. It can be a daunting task, with so many steps in the process and so many questions to ask. If you are considering buying a new construction home, there are specific considerations to take into account. Before making an offer on a newly built house, make sure you make the following inquiries of the homebuilder.
The Home
What options or upgrades are available? If the home you toured was a shell home or a model home, it was likely built without a specific buyer in mind. By asking what types of customization options the builder is willing to offer, you can end up with a new home that is just right for you and your family.
What type of foundation is the home built upon? Your homes foundation is one of the most important elements of the property, as it will carry the entire load of the structure. There are three basic types of foundations available for new homes. These types of foundations include:
- Basement – Crawl space – Slab
Make sure the type of foundation used in the new property is appropriate to the local conditions and the local building tradition.
How thick are the walls? Wall thickness in new homes can be either 2×6 or 2×8. Some builders prefer double wall construction. Thicker walls mean better insulation from the outside elements, which in turn reduces what you spend on heating and cooling.
Does the property have rain gutters? It may seem like a silly question, but you would be surprised. Make sure you find out if the gutters (if they are included) are seamless.
What appliances are included? Find out if you will need to buy a refrigerator, oven/range, dishwasher or washer and dryer, as this will add to your costs if not included.
The Builder How long has the builder been building homes in your area?