Research the Builder

Most builders are "good" builders. They take simple steps to protect their neighborhoods. Research your builder, or ask your Agent if your builder takes these simple steps to make sure that your neighborhood won't instantly go down in value:

1. Limit the # of investor purchases - this makes sure that the neighborhood doesn't turn into a "rental" neighborhood & allows the "pride of ownership" to shine through.
2. Continues to build equal or greater value homes in the same and surrounding neighborhoods. Builders who avoid doing this create a "vacuum" in home prices and instantly devalue new home purchases.

Choose Your Appraiser

You're going to pay for an appraisal one way or another! The lender will require that you have an appraisal in order to loan you the money for the home! Additionally, most appraisers charge about the same money for the service - so why not choose your appraiser? Ask around until you've been referred to a good appraiser and request that they perform the service. Ask for a copy of it and read it! Call your appraiser if you have any questions. This will give you an in-depth knowledge of the market area - and it's something you would pay for, regardless!