So, you’re thinking about buying a brand new home – and you’re going to utilize Bōde’s platform to take complete control over the purchase as a self-represented buyer. We think that’s amazing and know you’ll do an awesome job! With new homes, there are things a buyer should consider and questions you should ask that may be different than when buying an already lived in property.
The good thing to know is that builders are super knowledgeable about their homes and a great resource to turn to for detailed information related to a specific home. Our goal in this blog is give you some additional information about what you may want to think about from a buyer’s perspective that will empower you to be able to determine for yourself if a new home is the right purchase.
So what should you consider when buying a new home self-represented?
Ask the important questions
- What type of materials are used?
The types and quality of materials will determine the longevity of your home.
This would be a great opportunity to take a look at our blog How to tell if a home is well built.
- What are the included features & upgrade options
Remember – the model home is likely very different from the base model in terms of features and upgrades. Make sure you understand what is included in your home, and what can be added at extra cost. Or, in the case of an already built new home, what features / upgrades does the home have?
- What is the new home warranty?
Typically, new homes come with a warranty program. Get documentation and ensure you have a good understanding about this incase you run into any issues down the road.
- When will your new home be ready?
If you are purchasing a new home before it has actually been constructed, it’s essential to know the timeline for when it will be ready for move-in. This will likely impact other aspects of your life whether you are selling your current home or renting. If you are buying an already built new home you can ask about how soon the home would be ready for possession as sometimes there are some final touches that need to be made by the builder.
If you are buying a home that is yet to be constructed, also consider asking…
- What happens if there is a delay in schedule on your build?
Unexpected delays can happen in all areas of life and business. Its good to understand what a delay in your build means and how that will impact your possession of the home.
- How often will you be able to view the home during construction?
Some people will want to be involved in knowing about the progress of the construction and even seeing it in person. Learn your builder’s policy on visits to the construction site to know what is and isn’t going to be allowed.
- Who is your point of contact during the build?
It’s definitely a necessity to know who to contact after the paperwork has been signed. You may have additional questions, concerns, or want to follow up on some details.
Other important things to consider as a new home buyer
- Do your research – the builder & neighbourhood
It’s always a good idea to research where you will live before you move there. You may choose a location based on a builder, or a builder based on a community, but either way do your due diligence on both. For builders, a great way to do this is to look at homes they have constructed in the past. You can also ask them about how many units they are building in particular areas and how many have already been sold. If you are looking at homes in newly developed areas, finding out about future community plans and builds (for example shopping areas, schools, parks, etc.) is also a good way to determine if the location will be a good fit for you.
- It’s still a good idea to consider a home inspection
Once you choose a builder and a new home, it is always still a good idea to have a home inspection done on the property prior to moving in. Home inspections can tell you a great deal of valuable information such as proper ways to care for the home based on way it has been built and the materials used, necessary maintenance to be aware of, and they may also identify areas of concerns to address prior to moving in if there is any. You can find local, qualified, and vetted home inspection professionals here.
