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Important Questions to Ask A Builder When Looking At New Homes

By
Real Estate Agent with Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage

 

Buying a new home is thrilling, but having a new home built (especially by Landon Homes) for you is even more exciting. 

New Homes in St. AugustineI've been a New Home Sales Consultant for many years representing builders with decked out beautiful Model Homes.When considering a new home, nothing is more important than selecting the right builder.

As you consider various builders, remember you have a right to and need to ask every question that you think is important.  The Sales Consultant should be eager to answer all of your questions, or if he can't, he should be able to get the answers for you quickly.  

I encourage you to use these questions to learn important information about each builder.

Starting with the obvious, but I’m surprised that many of our customers don’t ask me this question….

  • What is your experience, how long have you been building homes?

You want a builder that has experience, because things come up during construction and you want to make sure your builder has the experience or knowledge to deal with. Look for a builder that has a proven track record, professional business approach, strong technical skills and, of course, the knowledge.  

  •  What building qualities set you apart from other builders in the area? 

Find out what this builder does different than the rest.  For instance, do they use a Zip Wall System instead of the paper wrap?  How about Radiant Barrier Roof System?  What energy efficiency techniques do they use that is over and above the typical builder's offering.

  • Can we see any of the homes you have built?

Visit homes that are in various stages of construction to see what goes on behind the walls and behind the Model Home scenes

  • Will you give references from past clients?

This is a great indicator of the construction process.  The Sales Representative can tell you all day long that they have "Happy Landon Home Owners" but a discussion with past clients will help you determine that for your self.

There may be other important questions you wish to ask, so feel free to add them.  This Article from the New Home Source is a great starting going to select the company that is going to build your new home.      

Posted by

Marjorie Taylor, Broker Associate

Marjorie Taylor, is a licensed Real Estate Broker Associate with Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage.  Representing the North East Florida area. A community leader, active in the St. Augustine Regional Council, Taylor is past Director and Technology Committee Chairman of the St. Augustine St. Johns County Board of REALTORS.  A Certified Home Stager, she is professionally educated and trained, having earned the designations of CDPE, CRS, CSP, e-PRO, GREEN, GRI, TRC.

Marjorie is passionate about St. Augustine and the needs of her clients. Past recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year - Women’s Council of REALTORS St. Augustine Regional.

904-591-9121
AgentMTaylor@gmail.com
MyFHRM.com

Ronald DiLalla
Century 21 Discovery DRE 01813824 - Anaheim, CA
No. Orange Cty Real Estate

Hi Marjorie,  great tips for the buyers looking for new homes.  Thanks for sharing with us.

Apr 13, 2014 06:10 AM
Marjorie Taylor
Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage - Saint Augustine, FL
New Homes in St. Augustine Florida

Thanks Ron - I've heard some really crazy questions over the span of my career.  That is another post all together, maybe even a book!

Apr 13, 2014 07:57 AM
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

Marjorie, I think it really important to see other homes, both under construction and completed.  Good advice.

Apr 30, 2014 01:02 PM
Marjorie Taylor
Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage - Saint Augustine, FL
New Homes in St. Augustine Florida

I think "What is your warranty?" should also be added... very important when considering new vs resale homes.

May 05, 2014 12:55 AM