One of the most fun and often overwhelming parts of buying new construction in Prince William County Virginia is picking all of your options for your home. The builders design center contains thousands of choices for flooring, tile, faucets, sinks and even the handles you want on your cupboards. It's an experience that can take hours to complete and you will change your mind a dozen times as you pull together all of the possible combinations.
An important thing to keep in mind as you sort though all your choices is your budget. As part of your purchase contract you may have a credit from the builder towards your options. If so you need to keep a tally on where you are in relation to your credit. Any option you add that goes above that amount will often require and additional deposit of up to 50% of the cost of the options. It doesn't take long to add up.
As a buyer of new construction in Prince William County you should also think about what items are you considering as an option that might be less expensive as an "after market" item. For example, a builder's mark-up might make it cheaper for you to buy it at another store and have it installed after you move-in. My clients found a washer and dryer at a local discount store, delivered and set up for free, for less than the builder was charging for a set with less features.
There are some "after market" items that may be less expensive to buy elsewhere but more difficult to deal with after closing. Hardwood flooring is one that my clients struggle with. One client did negotiate with the builder to delivery the main level without any flooring (won't work with a VA loan) and received a credit of the cost of the standard carpet. They had hardwood floors the day after closing by another company. This is rare but it never hurts to ask.
The bottom line is COMPARE, COMPARE, COMPARE. Know the choices you make today you will be paying for in your mortgage for the next 30 years.
If you are thinking about new construction in the Woodbridge area or anywhere in Prince William County remember to give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group a call at 703-346-2213 before you head out the door.
For more information you can read my e-book New Home Construction Buying Guide. Builders don’t charge you for having your own representation and it could save you thousands by having an experienced new home sales Realtor® representing your interests. Let my experience in representing buyers searching for the best deals in new construction benefit you too.
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