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$15.00 Knobs and other stuff the builder doesn't want to do

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Southwest 391804

I had the privilege of representing a client in a new home purchase earlier this month.  The home is located in a very new subdivision in Richmond, TX.  My clients found a great lot and a floor plan that worked well.  I accompanied the couple to the builder's design center to help them pick out decor for their new home.  We were able to find the basics: carpet, tile, granite, sinks, etc.  As we were finishing, the wife asked about hardware for the kitchen cabinets.  Oh yes, the builder would be glad to do that-for $15.00 per knob!  What?  They would basically take a $2.00 knob and charge $13.00 to install. 

The buyers were shocked at this, but I tried to explain to them that this is really something the builder does NOT want to do.  It's time consuming, and if not done correctly, could cause the builder to have to replace the cabinet door.  Builders arrive at their pricing for a reason. 

There are things you should have the builder do when building from the ground up.  Go ahead and add that bathroom.  Increase the size of the patio by having the builder pour more concrete.  Put the bay window in.  Choose the 3 car garage, or add a bit of additional storage space by converting a vacant space into a closet.  Don't however, go overboard and spend an inordinate amount of money for the builder to do a basic handyman project.  Some things are better left until after closing. 

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Dan Rosenberger
Harvest Realty - Westfield, IN

Good points. I think the buyer needs to fully look over the options carefully.  There are some upgrades they might want to do themselves, depending on their budget and skill level.  But many buyers would rather have the house exactly the way they want it when it is time to move in.  It can be helpful to have a broker to help them with this process.

Jan 24, 2016 08:44 AM
Endre Barath, Jr.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties - Beverly Hills, CA
Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002

Interesting point about the knobs vs. the extra bathroom I find that people get bogged down with the little stuff and miss the big picture, Endre

Feb 23, 2016 08:52 AM
Belinda Spillman
Optician - Aurora, CO
Colorado Living!

It is amazing how these little things add up when you are buying new construction.  It is best to add these finishes post occupancy.

Mar 02, 2016 12:43 AM
Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

There are a lot of red flags in situations like this, and I guess it just takes experience to know what to do.

Mar 20, 2016 09:40 AM
Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

Belinda, I can't agree more! It's always kind of the little things that add up in the end to mean the most, often times.

Mar 20, 2016 09:42 AM