Prince William County New Construction-Don't Go It Alone

On a regular basis I tour new developments in Prince William or Fairfax County.  I also check in on developments that have been under construction for a while to see what has been done and how pricing has changed.  Today was a follow up day with a new development project in Prince William County.  It was apparent that the neighborhood has come a long way since I took my first look two years ago.  The club house and amenities are in, the grounds are fantastic and the streets are all paved.

One of the things I've learned with new construction projects is to not only take a look at the furnished models, spec homes and amenities but to talk to owners to get their feedback on living in the community.  Stopping at the community center is usually the best place to find an owner or two who are more than willing to talk about their experiences with buying and living in a neighborhood.  Talking to the homeowners in this particular community it was obvious that they were ecstatic about the amenities and their fellow neighbors.  However when it came to talk about the construction process and the quality of the homes themselves they had some issues. 

My prospective buyers were surprised to hear some of the issues, which made them realize that my suggestion regarding having an independent home inspector checking their home during the building process was a good one.  Despite what a builder might tell you or try to discourage you from doing, there is no reason you can't have an independent home inspector perform pre-drywall and post drywall inspections prior to closing.  It is amazing the number of items that an inspector will find during these inspections.

Based on the issues that some of these homeowners encountered an independent home inspection might have saved them time and aggravation.  The level of some of the problems made us wonder how they managed to get by the local building inspectors.  One homeowner mentioned that 16 cracked floor joists that had to be replaced.  The most surprising issue was to hear an owner say the builder did not wrap the homes with Tyvek and would not allow them to have it done on their own during building.  As a result they had to put plastic on their windows last winter to keep out the drafts.  They are paying to have an independent contractor come inand remove all the siding and wrap their home to keep their utility bills down. 

If you are thinking about buying new construction in Prince William or Fairfax County this year don't let the lessons the homeowners in this development learned the hard way happened to you.  Make sure that you take your own representation with you.  Not only can a Realtor® help you get the best deal but we can advise you about the construction process and help you avoid some serious post closing headaches.  The builder doesn't raise the price of the home to cover a buyer's agent fee. 

If you are thinking of buying new construction call the Cindy Jones team at 703-346-2213.  We have represented builders in the past and know how to read builder's contract and help you navigate the new home construction process.

                No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market

If you are interested in learning more about the Northern Virginia Real Estate market including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William Counties give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group, Inc a call at 703-346-2213. 

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