Before Bradley and I started this process, I had a lot of questions on how it worked. When do you pick the cabinet colors? Do you get to choose the lot? Do you get to choose EVERYTHING in the house? I’ve quickly found there’s so many questions left unanswered when it comes to the home buying process and especially new construction. I’m here to hopefully answer some of those questions! I know the process can vary depending on who you’re working with, but I’m going to share what we experienced. Here’s the short and sweet version.
the process
home plan and lot selections
purchase agreement
home selections
frame review
pre-closing tour
closing
Before I start, I should answer one of the biggest questions. Can you use your own real estate agent when working with new construction? YES. Every new construction we have worked with has allowed us to use our own agent. This ensures you have someone looking out for your best interest, and a lot of the time your agent probably has already worked with that builder, so they already know the process and have an inside scoop!
So the first step in starting this whole process is figuring out what plan you want to build. I looked online and narrowed down a couple of floor pans I thought would work for us. When we got to the neighborhood model home we were able to walk through those house plans and decide on which one we liked the most. During this time we were also able to view which lots were available and decide on which one we wanted. Sometimes the lot doesn’t cost anything extra, and sometimes there is a lot premium. Bradley and I had to pay a lot premium.
Once you figure out what you want, your agent will discuss with the new construction agent and come up with the purchase and sale agreement. Some upgrades will be included in this agreement and some will be a part of the design process. If we were upgrading anything structural, like removing walls or extending ceilings, that was added to our contract. Every new construction company is different, but ours required us to give them a significant amount of earnest money, and then a portion of our design upgrades are non-refundable deposits.
Now that you are under contract you will have your design meeting! This is when you will get to start designing your home. You will get to pick out certain colors, styles, and designs based on what the company offers. We are able to choose our fireplace, wall color, flooring, cabinet color, granite, every pull and knob in the house, exterior color, doors, bathroom flooring, and so much more. It honestly feels like I am creating my own perfect home.
Once you pick out all of the design components, you will go over them with the design consultant and make sure everything looks good. Our design consultant also made sure we liked where every outlet, light fixture, and light switch were. You can add and move any of these components. Once you approve they will start building! Your pile of dirt is now becoming your home.
The last thing before the last 2 MAJOR things is the frame review. This is where you will make sure they have done everything correctly and once approved, they will start the finishing touches. The last 2 things before you move in are the final walk through and closing. You will go through the house one last time and check everything . If everything is good you will close and get the keys to your new perfect home!
That’s it! Sounds fun right?!?!
As always, all opinions and text are my own.
Stay Sweet! ♡
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