When beginning the process of buying a new construction home, prepare a questionnaire to find the builder that best suits your needs. Here are 10 questions everyone should ask when building a home.
Questions To Ask When Buying New Construction Home
- How Long Will The Building Process Take?
- What Warranties Come With The House?
- How Long Have You Been Building Homes?
- Can I Provide The Floorplans?
- Is Lot Cost Included In The Price?
- What Is The Inspection Process?
- Can I View A Model Home?
- Are There Any Homeowner Regulations?
- Will My Home Be Energy Efficient?
- How Can I Figure Out The Total Cost?
Let’s go into detail on each of these important questions during the homebuying process.
1. How Long Will The Building Process Take?
One of the first things you must determine before diving into this project is a clear timeline. You want to know exactly what the building process will look like and when you can expect results. This is especially true when you are currently selling your home or living out a lease. Of course, all home builds can encounter issues and delays, but the builders can at least give you a detailed estimate of the project’s timetable. Obtaining permits ahead of time can take up to 45 days.
2. Which Warranties Come With The House?
Problems can still arise, even with a brand new home. Fortunately, most new homes come with a few warranties to help protect you from any mishaps. Ask about warranties before the process begins and see just how long they last. There is also always the option to purchase your own home warranty.
3. How Long Have You Been Building Homes?
Trusting a homebuilding company is invaluable. It’s the first step in a long process. Don’t feel pressured to give any contractor your business right away. Take your time, call multiple places and make a smart and informed decision. Asking how long the individual or company has been operating is a perfectly normal question. It will get you familiar with anyone you’re about to do business with. Feel free to ask if you can view other homes that they have already completed.
4. Can I Provide The Floorplans?
Some builders may not give you the option to create floorplans, as many companies may only utilize existing plans. This is another important question to ask, especially if you have a very unique vision for your future home. If it is your desire to provide your own set of plans, do not settle! Find a company that will meet all your needs.
5. Is Lot Cost Included In The Price?
All construction plans come with a base cost. This will include overall cost of the structure, as well as interior and exterior features desired. Cost of the lot is one thing that may not be included in all estimates, though. Make sure you know whether or not this charge is included in any quote.
6. What Is The Inspection Process?
While the goal of all inspections is the same, the pattern and frequency of inspections can differ based on builder. Find out how the inspection process will work from day one. To fix any issues or guard against potential problems, have a clear schedule of inspections from construction to the final walk-through.
7. Can I View A Model Home?
Viewing model homes or even an ongoing home build are the best ways to check on a builder’s work and track record. Ask if you can view a model home, or better yet a project currently taking place. Check for work quality and types of materials used.
8. Are There Any Homeowner Regulations?
Even without a homeowner’s association for the development of the house, the builder can still set some rules and regulations for what is allowed on your property. For instance, an inground pool or certain type of fencing may not be allowed. It will save so much time and frustration to know the rules and regulations before moving into the home.
9. Will My Home Be Energy Efficient?
Before diving into the project and hiring a contractor, make sure you know the energy-efficient features of the future home. Keys areas to ask about in terms of energy are the HVAC systems, insulation, doors and windows.
10. How Can I Figure Out The Total Cost?
Not just how, also ask when you’ll know the total cost of the project. This includes finding out whether something like a cost escalation clause exists in your contract. This clause allows the builder to charge the individual(s) for any unanticipated costs involving materials or labor. Find a builder who operates without a cost escalation clause to avoid any extra charges.
Build a Custom Home In Arizona
Contact Hughes Development today to get an estimate for your home building project. Hughes Development builds custom homes in Mesa, Apache Wells, Mountain Whisper and more areas in Arizona.
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