Pro Tips for Buying a New Construction Home
Thinking about buying a brand-new home? It’s exciting, but there’s more to it than just picking your favorite floor plan. Here are some professional tips to help you navigate the process with confidence:
🔑 Take a Trusted REALTOR® With You—From the Start
When you first visit the model homes or community sales office, bring your own real estate agent. If you don’t register with your agent on that first visit, you may not be allowed to have representation. Remember, the builder's salespeople work for the builder—not for you.
💰 Don’t Rely on Online Mortgage Calculators
Online tools can give you rough estimates, but they’re often outdated or don’t include property taxes, HOA dues, or current interest rates. A good lender (and your agent) can help you get a realistic financial picture.
🧱 Ask: What’s Included?
That beautiful model home may have thousands in upgrades. Get a detailed list of what’s standard and what’s extra—inside and out.
💦 Are Sprinklers Included?
It’s a common surprise: the landscaping might not include sprinklers. Ask! And while you're at it...
🚰 Is There a Dual Water Meter System?
Some homes include a separate meter for landscape irrigation, which could save you money on water bills. It’s worth finding out.
❄️ Know What Systems Are in the Home
What kind of HVAC system will you get? What brand? What size? Make sure the system is appropriately sized for the home. Too small, and your energy bills and comfort will suffer.
📉 Financing? Ask About Rate Locks
If you’re financing, ask when you can lock in your interest rate—and what happens if rates change. Will they match the market if it drops? Get it in writing.
🔍 Make Your Wishes Known—In Writing
You can (and should!) request a third-party home inspection, even on a new build. Insist that your REALTOR® be allowed to attend the inspection and the final walkthrough.
🔵 What’s the Blue Tape Walkthrough?
This is when you walk the home and mark flaws or unfinished items with blue tape. Be clear on when this will happen and whether the builder commits to finishing those items before closing.
Buying new construction can be a great experience—but only if you know what to ask and who to bring along. Don’t go it alone. Having a REALTOR® in your corner can save you time, money, and headaches.
Looking to buy a new home in the Victor Valley or New Braunfels/Seguin area? Call me first!
I offer Mom-approved customer service.
Agents, I am a referral resource you can trust. Call me, and we can talk.
I serve the Victor Valley of CA and the Hill Country area deep in the heart of Texas.
I'm Karen Sanchez, REALTOR.
"Marketing your house like no one else will." 760-684-0250
Licensed in two states: CA and TX.
Working in the Victor Valley and South Bay area, with some other SoCal areas by request, and the Hill Country of Texas.
Legal stuff to follow.
Karen L. Sanchez Broker, Reputable Realty License #01804752 Email: karen@karensoldit.net
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Don Johnson Realtors, New Braunfels, TX Cell: 760-684-0250 Office: 830-624-8272
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