The journey from a vacant lot to your front door can seem complex. With builders to vet, contracts to sign, and countless design decisions to make, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Understanding the timeline and key milestones is the first step toward feeling confident and in control. This guide is designed to be your roadmap, breaking down the entire buying a new construction home process into clear, manageable phases. We’ll walk you through everything from pre-construction planning and financing to quality inspections and the final walkthrough, ensuring you feel prepared for every decision along the way.
Key Takeaways
- Hire Your Own Expert Advocate: Don’t rely on the builder’s sales agent. A buyer’s agent who specializes in new construction is essential for reviewing contracts, negotiating terms, and ensuring your interests are represented from start to finish.
- Be Your Own Quality Control Manager: A new home still needs scrutiny. Schedule independent inspections at critical stages, like before the drywall is installed, and use the final walkthrough to create a detailed list of fixes for the builder to complete before closing.
- Make Smart Financial and Design Choices: Think strategically about your investment. Factor in long-term savings from energy efficiency and prioritize upgrades that are best done during construction, while saving cosmetic changes for later to stay on budget.
Is a New Construction Home Right for You?
Deciding between a brand-new home and a pre-owned one is a major choice in your home-buying journey. A new construction home offers a completely different experience, trading the character of an older home for a clean slate that’s entirely your own. If you love the idea of being the very first owner, it’s worth exploring what a new build truly offers. For many buyers, the advantages go far beyond that new-home smell. From modern efficiencies to personalized touches, let’s look at what makes new construction an appealing option.
Enjoy Modern Features and Customization
One of the biggest draws of a new build is the ability to make it yours from the ground up. Instead of inheriting someone else’s design choices, you get to select your own finishes, fixtures, and features. This means you can skip the immediate renovations and move into a space that reflects your personal style on day one. New homes are also designed for modern life, often featuring open floor plans, smart home technology, and dedicated office spaces. The entire new construction home buying process is structured around creating a home that fits your lifestyle, not forcing your lifestyle to fit into an existing home.
Benefit from Energy Efficiency
New homes are built to meet the latest building and energy codes, which translates directly into savings for you. Think better insulation, high-performance windows, and more efficient HVAC systems and appliances. This modern construction means your home is not only more comfortable year-round but also cheaper to heat and cool. Following these current building rules helps you avoid the costly fixes that can come with older homes that aren’t up to code. You’ll enjoy lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint, all while living in a home built with today’s standards in mind.
Gain Peace of Mind with Warranty Protection
Buying a new home comes with a valuable safety net: a builder’s warranty. This protection, which most resale homes don’t offer, is a huge source of comfort for new homeowners. Typically, these warranties cover everything from the electrical and plumbing systems to major structural components for a set period. If an issue arises after you move in, the builder is responsible for the repairs, saving you from unexpected and potentially massive expenses. This warranty protection allows you to settle into your new home with confidence, knowing you’re covered.
What Are the True Costs?
While the initial price of a new construction home can sometimes seem higher than a comparable resale property, it’s important to look at the bigger financial picture. With a new build, everything is brand new, so you won’t be facing immediate costs for replacing a roof, water heater, or major appliances. You also save on the renovations you might otherwise undertake to update an older home. When you factor in the lower utility bills and lack of repair costs, the long-term value becomes clear. You’re investing in a move-in-ready home where you can avoid many of the common misconceptions about cost and simply enjoy your space.
Your New Construction Journey, Step-by-Step
Buying a new construction home is an exciting process, but it looks a little different from buying a resale property. It’s helpful to think of the journey in three main phases: planning, building, and closing. Each stage has its own set of tasks and milestones. Knowing what to expect will help you feel confident and prepared as you move from a blueprint to your brand-new front door. Let’s walk through the timeline together so you can feel ready for every step.
Phase 1: Pre-Construction Planning
Before any ground is broken, you’ll make some of the most important decisions. First, you’ll choose your home type. Tract homes, built within a new neighborhood, offer similar designs at a lower price. Spec homes are already built and move-in ready, though you won’t have a say in the design choices. For complete control, a custom home is designed entirely by you but is typically the most expensive option. During this phase, you’ll also want to thoroughly research potential builders. Look at their past projects, read reviews, and check their reputation to make sure you’re partnering with a quality company.
Most importantly, this is the time to find the right real estate agent. You need an expert who specializes in new construction and can guide you through builder contracts and negotiations. An experienced buyer’s agent will represent your interests, not the builder’s, ensuring you get the best possible outcome.
Phase 2: The Construction Timeline
Once you’ve signed the contract, the building begins. The construction process involves a series of critical steps, from preparing the ground and pouring the foundation to framing the structure, installing insulation, and putting up drywall. After that comes the exterior finishing, interior fixtures, and landscaping. On average, building a single-family home takes about seven months. Production homes with fewer custom choices might be finished in around six months, while a fully custom home can take nine months or longer. Your builder will provide a more specific timeline, but remember that weather and supply chain issues can sometimes cause delays.
Phase 3: Closing on Your New Home
As construction wraps up, you’ll head toward the closing table. This is the final step where you officially take ownership of the property. Your agent and lender will be your biggest allies here, helping you complete all the necessary paperwork to finalize the purchase. You’ll sign a lot of documents, pay your closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home. It’s a moment of celebration that marks the end of the construction journey and the beginning of your new life in a home built just for you. If you have questions about this final step, our team is always here to provide clarity.
Avoid These Common Misconceptions
Many people assume new homes are always more expensive, but they can actually cost less over time due to lower maintenance and energy bills. Another common myth is that you don’t need a home inspection for a new build. While the home is new, mistakes can happen, so hiring an independent inspector is a wise investment for peace of mind. Finally, don’t believe that the builder’s price is non-negotiable. There are often opportunities to negotiate on upgrades, closing costs, or other terms, and a skilled agent can help you identify them.
Choose the Right Builder and Real Estate Agent
Building a new home is a team sport, and the two most important players you’ll choose are your builder and your real estate agent. This partnership will shape your entire experience, from breaking ground to getting the keys. Picking the right professionals isn’t just about finding people with good credentials; it’s about finding partners who understand your vision and will advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
How to Research and Vet Builders
Finding the right builder is your first major decision. Start by exploring their online presence and reading reviews from past clients. Look for consistent feedback on their craftsmanship, communication style, and ability to stick to a timeline. Don’t just look at their five-star projects; see how they’ve handled challenges or delays. Once you have a shortlist, compare their standard offerings, typical project timelines, and overall reputation. A great builder has a portfolio of beautiful homes, but an excellent builder has a track record of happy, satisfied homeowners. Ask for references and, if possible, visit one of their current job sites to see their work in person.
Why You Need a Buyer’s Agent
It’s easy to think you can go it alone, especially when the friendly sales agent at the model home is so helpful. But remember: their job is to represent the builder’s interests, not yours. That’s why having your own real estate agent is non-negotiable. A dedicated buyer’s agent is your personal advocate. We’re here to help you understand the builder’s purchase agreement—which is often long and written to favor them—and negotiate on your behalf for better terms, upgrades, or closing costs. We bring an objective perspective to the table, ensuring your needs are met and your investment is protected throughout the entire process.
Set Clear Communication Expectations
A smooth building process hinges on clear and consistent communication. From the very beginning, establish a regular check-in schedule with both your builder and your agent. This ensures everyone is on the same page and that you’re kept in the loop on progress and potential hurdles. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Before meetings, jot down your thoughts and concerns so you can address them efficiently. Open dialogue prevents small misunderstandings from becoming big problems. A good team will welcome your involvement and make sure you feel informed and confident from start to finish.
Understand the Builder’s Warranty
One of the biggest perks of buying a new construction home is the builder’s warranty. This protection, which most resale homes don’t offer, typically covers major structural defects, mechanical systems like plumbing and electrical, and other cosmetic issues for a set period. Before you sign anything, it’s crucial to get the details of the home warranty in writing. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered, what is excluded, and how long each type of coverage lasts. Knowing these specifics upfront gives you peace of mind and a clear plan for addressing any issues that might pop up after you move in.
Design and Customize Your Dream Home
This is where the fun really begins! One of the biggest draws of new construction is the chance to create a space that’s perfectly tailored to you. From the layout to the light fixtures, you get to make choices that turn a house into your home. This process is exciting, but it can also be a little overwhelming with so many decisions to make. The key is to go in with a clear vision and a solid plan. Think about how you live your daily life and what features will truly make a difference for you and your family. Do you need a home office, a playroom for the kids, or a kitchen built for entertaining? Answering these questions before you step into a design center will help you stay focused.
This stage is all about balancing your wants with your needs—and your budget. It’s easy to fall in love with high-end finishes, but a thoughtful plan will ensure you invest in the areas that matter most. Remember, you’re not just picking out pretty things; you’re making long-term decisions about the functionality and feel of your home. With a little preparation and the right guidance, you can enjoy the design process and create a home you’ll love for years to come.
Select the Perfect Floor Plan
Before you even think about paint colors or countertops, you need to choose the right foundation: your floor plan. This decision will influence everything about how you experience your home. Consider your lifestyle. Do you love to host big gatherings? An open-concept kitchen and living area might be perfect. Do you work from home? A dedicated office space is a must. Think about the size of your family and whether you plan for it to grow. As you tour model homes, remember they are often staged with high-end upgrades. Try to look past the fancy decor and focus on the flow and functionality of the layout itself. A great real estate agent can help you visualize the potential of each plan and match it to your needs.
Make Smart Choices at the Design Center
Your trip to the builder’s design center is your chance to play interior designer. Here, you’ll select everything from flooring and cabinets to faucets and doorknobs. Builders usually have showrooms and staff to guide you through the options, which is incredibly helpful. To make the most of this visit, do some homework beforehand. Create a mood board with styles and colors you love. Having a clear aesthetic in mind will help you make cohesive choices that reflect your personal taste. While it’s tempting to pick the most luxurious finishes, always keep your budget at the forefront of every decision.
Decide on Upgrades and Timing
The builder will offer a long list of potential upgrades, and it’s easy to get carried away. While heated floors or a gourmet kitchen sound amazing, they come at a premium. This is where you need to be strategic. Some upgrades, like structural changes or extra windows, are best done during construction. Others, like high-end light fixtures or custom paint, can often be done more affordably after you move in. Talk with your agent about which upgrades offer the best return on investment, especially if you might sell the home down the road. They can provide valuable insight into what future buyers in your area are looking for.
Manage Your Design Budget
It’s crucial to keep your design choices in line with your overall budget and loan limit. Every upgrade you select adds to the final price tag, and those costs can add up quickly. Before you sign off on any finishes, get a detailed, itemized list from the builder and make sure it aligns with what you’ve been approved for. Remember that while personalizing your home is a major benefit, not every custom feature will increase its resale value. Focus on upgrades that blend timeless appeal with your personal style to create a home that’s both beautiful and a smart financial investment.
Finance Your New Construction Home
Securing financing for a new build is a bit different than for an existing home, but it’s nothing to be intimidated by. It’s all about understanding your options, from the type of loan you’ll need to the incentives you can get from the builder. Getting your finances in order is a huge step toward bringing your dream home to life. Let’s walk through the key financial pieces you’ll need to put in place so you can move forward with confidence.
Explore Construction Loans vs. Traditional Mortgages
When you buy a pre-existing home, you typically get a traditional mortgage. For a new build, you’ll likely need a construction loan. The main difference is how the money is paid out. Instead of a lump sum, a construction loan releases funds in stages, or “draws,” as building milestones are met. This process requires a lender who is comfortable with the specifics of new construction. Many builders have preferred lenders they work with regularly, which can sometimes streamline the process. It’s always a good idea to shop around, but starting with a lender who specializes in construction financing will make your life much easier.
Know Your Down Payment Requirements
The down payment for a new construction home can be a little different, so it’s important to be prepared. Some lenders might ask for a higher down payment on a new build compared to an existing home. However, this isn’t a universal rule, and many offer flexible options. Do your research and have a clear conversation with your lender about their specific requirements early on. While the upfront cost of a new home might seem higher, remember the long-term savings. You’re getting a brand-new house with modern appliances and systems, which means you’ll likely spend far less on repairs and maintenance for the first several years.
Ask About Builder Incentives
Here’s a pro tip: builders are often more willing to offer incentives than to lower the sticker price of a home. This helps them maintain the value of other homes in the neighborhood. So, always ask what kind of incentives are on the table. These can be incredibly valuable and might include the builder covering a portion of your closing costs, offering free upgrades like a finished basement or high-end appliances, or even providing a discount on the lot premium. Don’t be shy about this conversation; understanding and negotiating these perks is a key part of getting the best possible deal on your new home.
Ensure Quality Throughout the Build
One of the biggest myths about new construction is that “new” automatically means “perfect.” While you won’t have to worry about a previous owner’s questionable DIY projects, a new build is a complex project with many moving parts and people involved. It’s a common misconception that new homes don’t need inspections because there’s no wear and tear. In reality, mistakes can and do happen. Staying actively involved throughout the construction process is the best way to ensure the final product matches your vision and meets high-quality standards.
Think of yourself as a key member of the quality control team. Your builder will have their own supervisors and will undergo city inspections, but their goal is to meet building codes, which are the minimum standard. Your goal is to get the beautiful, functional, and well-built home you’re paying for. By scheduling your own inspections, attending key meetings, and knowing what to look for, you can catch potential issues before they become bigger problems. Having an experienced buyer’s agent on your side during this process provides an extra layer of expert oversight and advocacy, ensuring your interests are always the top priority.
Schedule Independent Inspections
While your builder has their own inspection schedule, hiring an independent, third-party home inspector is one of the smartest investments you can make. This inspector works for you, not the builder. Their job is to find issues that might be overlooked or not covered by a standard code inspection. A good inspector can spot everything from improper grading that could lead to water issues to incorrectly installed insulation that will affect your energy bills down the road.
We recommend scheduling at least two key inspections: one at the pre-drywall stage, when the framing, plumbing, and electrical systems are still visible, and another final inspection just before your final walkthrough. This proactive approach helps you find a qualified inspector and ensure your home is built to a standard that goes beyond the bare minimum.
Attend Key Construction Phase Reviews
Your builder will likely schedule several meetings or walkthroughs at critical points in the construction timeline. Don’t skip these! They are your best opportunity to see the progress firsthand and ask questions. Key moments to be present for include the foundation pour, framing completion, and the pre-drywall walkthrough. Before each meeting, prepare a list of questions or concerns. This shows the builder you’re engaged and helps keep everyone accountable. Regular communication is essential, and these scheduled reviews are the perfect time to check in and make sure everything is on track and aligned with the plans you approved.
Master the Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough, often called the “blue tape” walkthrough, is your last chance to formally identify any issues that need to be fixed before you close. This isn’t the time to be shy. Bring a roll of blue painter’s tape and methodically go through every room, marking any cosmetic flaws like paint scuffs, nail pops, or scratches on countertops and floors. Test every light switch, open every window, turn on every faucet, and run all the appliances. Make sure any upgrades you paid for are installed correctly. Create a detailed “punch list” with your agent and the builder’s representative to ensure every single item is addressed before you sign the final papers.
Spot Common Issues Before They’re Problems
Being proactive means knowing what to look for. Even with the best builders, small issues can pop up in new homes. Some common problems include improper drainage in the yard, doors that don’t latch properly due to the house settling, or minor cosmetic flaws in the drywall and paint. Keep an eye out for these things during your walkthroughs. For example, check for standing water near the foundation after it rains or look for gaps in the trim work. Identifying these potential construction defects early on makes them much easier and cheaper for the builder to fix, saving you from future headaches and protecting the long-term value of your new home.
Understand Your Contract and Legal Protections
The paperwork involved in buying a new construction home can feel like a mountain, but it’s your best tool for protecting your investment. This isn’t the time to skim and sign. Understanding your contract, warranty, and the processes for making changes is crucial for a smooth experience. These documents define your relationship with the builder and outline every detail of your new home, from the materials used to the final move-in date. Think of your real estate agent as your guide through this legal landscape—they’re there to translate the jargon and make sure your interests are protected every step of the way.
Before you get the keys, you’ll work with a purchase agreement that locks in the terms, potential change orders that accommodate new ideas, and a builder’s warranty that offers long-term peace of mind. Each piece of paper plays a vital role. Getting familiar with them now prevents surprises and disputes later. It ensures you and your builder are on the same page about expectations, costs, and timelines. A clear understanding of these legal protections helps you manage the entire build process effectively, from the first signature to the final walkthrough. Let’s break down the key documents and processes you’ll encounter so you can sign with confidence.
Key Elements of the Purchase Agreement
The purchase agreement is the legally binding contract between you and the builder. It outlines everything from the price and floor plan to the timeline and what happens if things go wrong. Builder contracts, in particular, can be tricky and are often written to favor the builder. They might include clauses that allow for material substitutions or price changes if costs go up. This is where having an experienced buyer’s agent is invaluable. They will review the contract with you, flagging potential issues and helping you understand your rights and obligations before you commit. Pay close attention to the financing contingency, the completion date, and the default clauses.
How Change Orders Work
It’s common to change your mind about a design choice or want to add a feature after you’ve signed the initial contract. This is handled through a “change order,” which is a formal, written amendment to your original agreement. For example, you might decide you want to upgrade the kitchen backsplash or add built-in shelving in the living room. Each change order will detail the new work to be done and specify the additional cost and any potential impact on the construction schedule. Be mindful that these modifications can add up quickly, affecting both your budget and your move-in date, so it’s best to be as decisive as possible during the initial design phase.
What Your Builder’s Warranty Covers
One of the biggest perks of a new home is the builder’s warranty. Typically, these warranties offer tiered coverage. You might get a one-year warranty for labor and materials (like paint and drywall), a two-year warranty for systems (like plumbing and HVAC), and a ten-year warranty for major structural defects. While this provides fantastic peace of mind, it’s not a replacement for diligence during construction. It’s always better to identify and fix potential problems before you move in rather than relying on a warranty claim later. Use your inspections and final walkthrough to be proactive about quality control.
Keep Your Timeline on Track
Building a home from the ground up takes time—often between six and twelve months—and delays are a common part of the process. Weather, supply chain disruptions, and permitting issues can all push back your completion date. It’s important to go into the process with realistic expectations and a solid backup plan. If you need to sell your current home, talk with your agent about the best timing. You may need to arrange for temporary housing or storage for your belongings. Having a contingency plan in place will save you a lot of stress if your timeline shifts, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new home.
Stay on Track During Construction
Watching your home come to life is an incredible experience, but the construction phase can also feel like a whirlwind of activity. Staying organized and engaged is the best way to ensure the process goes smoothly and your home turns out exactly as you envisioned. Think of yourself as the project manager of your dream home. By keeping a close eye on progress, maintaining open lines of communication, and handling paperwork diligently, you can prevent small hiccups from turning into major headaches. A proactive approach will help you manage expectations, stick to your timeline, and feel confident from the first foundation pour to the final coat of paint. This phase is all about partnership—with your builder, your agent, and the construction crew. Your involvement is key to keeping everything moving in the right direction and ensuring the final product is a house you’ll be proud to call home for years to come. It’s less about overseeing every nail and board and more about being an informed, active participant in the final stages of your homebuying journey. This is where all your planning and decisions start to take physical shape, and staying connected to the process makes it that much more rewarding.
Communicate Effectively with Your Team
Clear and consistent communication is the foundation of a successful build. Your builder, your real estate agent, and you are all on the same team with the same goal: to build your perfect home. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns. The best approach is to establish a communication plan early on. Will you have weekly check-in calls? Is email or text preferred for quick questions? Knowing how and when to connect with your builder’s site supervisor or project manager prevents misunderstandings. Remember, your agent is your advocate and can help facilitate these conversations, ensuring your questions are answered and your needs are met every step of the way.
Track Your Home’s Progress
Staying informed about your home’s construction schedule is essential. While you don’t need to be on-site every day, regular visits at key milestones are a great idea. Schedule these visits with your builder in advance to ensure the site is safe and you have their full attention. Before each meeting, jot down any questions that have come up since your last check-in. This is your chance to see the work up close and understand the next steps in the process. Taking photos during your visits can also be a helpful way to document progress and have a visual record to refer back to if needed.
Keep Your Paperwork Organized
From the initial purchase agreement to change orders and design selections, you’ll accumulate a lot of important documents during the construction process. Create a dedicated folder—either physical or digital—to keep everything in one place. It’s crucial to read every line of your contract, as it outlines everything from your deposit terms to the closing date and any rules about using the builder’s preferred lender. Having all your paperwork organized makes it easy to reference details, track your budget, and prepare for closing. If you have any questions about a document, your William Harris Group agent is there to help you understand the fine print.
Resolve Issues Quickly
Even with the best builder, unexpected issues can arise. The key is to address them as soon as you spot them. Whether it’s a question about the placement of an outlet or a concern about a material that was installed, bringing it to your builder’s attention immediately is always the best policy. Clear, upfront communication about project timelines and potential challenges helps manage expectations for everyone involved. By tackling problems when they are small, you can prevent them from causing bigger delays or budget overruns down the line. A quick resolution keeps the project on track and gives you peace of mind.
Prepare for Move-In Day and Beyond
The dust has settled, the paint is dry, and your new home is almost yours. This final phase is all about making a smooth transition from homebuyer to homeowner. It involves a few crucial steps to ensure everything is perfect before you start unpacking boxes. Think of this as your final checklist before you pop the champagne. By focusing on the final walkthrough, planning your move, and getting your paperwork in order, you can step into your new home with confidence and peace of mind, ready to start your next chapter.
The Final Acceptance Process
Before you get the keys, you’ll do one last tour of the property, known as the final walkthrough. This isn’t just a casual visit—it’s your last opportunity to confirm that all agreed-upon repairs have been made and that the home is in the condition you expect. Check that all systems are working, look for any last-minute damage that might have occurred, and make sure any leftover construction debris has been cleared out. As your guide through the buying process, we’ll be right there with you, helping you spot any issues and ensuring the builder holds up their end of the agreement before you sign the final papers.
Create a Smooth Move-In Plan
Building a new home can take months, and construction timelines are notorious for shifting. Because delays can happen, it’s smart to have a flexible moving plan. If you’re selling your current home, think about what you’ll do if it sells before your new one is ready. You might need to arrange for temporary housing or find a place to store your belongings for a few weeks. Planning for these possibilities ahead of time will save you a lot of stress. Having a backup plan means a potential delay becomes a minor inconvenience instead of a major crisis, keeping your move-in experience positive and exciting.
Organize Your Warranty Documents
Once you’re settled in, you’ll want to know exactly what your builder’s warranty covers. New construction homes typically come with warranties that protect you from certain issues, like major structural problems or specific repairs to systems like plumbing and electrical. When you receive these documents, read through them carefully to understand what’s covered and for how long. I recommend creating a dedicated folder—either physical or digital—for all your home-related documents, including the warranty. This simple organizational step will make it easy to find what you need if an issue comes up down the road.
What Happens After You Get the Keys?
Your warranty is a great safety net, but it’s always better to identify and address problems before you move in. While most warranties cover general issues for the first year and major structural problems for up to ten years, relying on them can be a hassle. Use your final walkthrough to be thorough and proactive. Catching a paint scuff, a leaky faucet, or a malfunctioning appliance at this stage is much simpler than filing a warranty claim later. Our goal is to help you start life in your new home on the best possible foot, and that means minimizing future headaches. If you ever have questions, we’re always here to help you find an answer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need my own real estate agent if the builder has a sales agent on-site? Absolutely. It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The friendly sales agent in the model home is employed by the builder, and their primary responsibility is to protect the builder’s interests. Having your own agent means you have an expert in your corner, advocating for you. We review the lengthy builder contracts, help you negotiate on upgrades and closing costs, and provide an objective perspective throughout the entire process.
Can I negotiate the price of a new construction home? While builders are often hesitant to lower the base price of a home because it affects the value of the entire neighborhood, there is almost always room for negotiation. Instead of a price cut, you can often negotiate for the builder to cover your closing costs or include valuable upgrades like better appliances, flooring, or a finished basement at no extra charge. A skilled agent knows where to find these opportunities and can help you get the most value for your money.
What are some common costs that aren’t included in the base price? The base price of a new home is just the starting point. It’s important to budget for additional expenses that you’ll likely incur after moving in. These often include landscaping and fencing for the yard, window treatments like blinds or curtains, and new appliances like a refrigerator, washer, and dryer, which sometimes aren’t included. Setting aside funds for these items will help you avoid financial surprises after you get the keys.
How do I handle delays in the construction timeline? Delays are a common and sometimes unavoidable part of the building process, often due to weather, supply chain issues, or permit approvals. The best way to handle them is to plan for flexibility from the start. Maintain open communication with your builder so you’re aware of the timeline, and have a backup plan for your living situation. This might mean arranging a short-term rental or a flexible move-out date from your current home to reduce stress if your completion date shifts.
Is a home inspection necessary for a brand-new house? Yes, a thousand times yes! While the home is new and will be inspected by the city, those inspections only ensure it meets the minimum building code. An independent home inspector works for you and will conduct a much more thorough review to find potential issues with craftsmanship or installation. We recommend scheduling an inspection before the drywall goes up and another one just before your final walkthrough to catch any problems while they are still easy for the builder to fix.
