Here’s what you need to know before buying new construction.

Are you considering buying new construction? It’s a great option with many benefits; however, it's easy to become overwhelmed and make mistakes. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying new construction to make the process easy and hassle-free:

1. Do your due diligence when selecting a builder or neighborhood. Your builder can be the difference between a great experience and an awful one. Start your search by creating a list of the neighborhoods, areas, and cities you’re considering. In each location, make a list of the builders and new construction neighborhoods available. A few resources you can use are NewHomeSource, Parade of Homes, and the MLS. Once you create your list, narrow your criteria until you find the best builder and neighborhood for you. 

2. Understand the building process. Every builder is different. The timeline can range from a few months to over a year, so know what you’re getting into before you commit. Once you nail down the timeline, consider your financing. Will you use a local lender or the builder’s? How are you paying for the down payment?

"Your agent will be like your project manager."

So far, the process has been very technical, but now it’s time for the fun stuff. You'll visit the design studio and pick out your house's flooring, lighting, cabinets, and other features. After your dream home is picked out, you’ll do a final walkthrough with the builder’s rep or construction manager. Now, the only thing left to do is get the keys and move into your new home. 

3. Hire a buyer’s agent. Some people don’t think you need a buyer’s agent for new construction homes, but that isn’t the case. The listing agent you see at the model home ultimately works for the builder and represents their interests. You need someone working for you. When buying new construction, a buyer’s agent becomes a project manager. They provide a fresh set of eyes during walk-throughs and make sure the process goes smoothly. 

This can be an overwhelming topic, so if you have any questions, please call us at (651) 998-2098 or email realestateteam@sandyerickson.com. We look forward to hearing from you!