IT DEPENDS!!

In a planned development, you usually have option levels to choose from, the scope of which depends upon the price point of the home or development. You may be able to up or downgrade any of these items. We will need to discuss with the builder how changes to their options packages will affect your sales price.

In a custom build, you can literally select every finish, from the roof shingles to the wall texture, and the color of the window screens, though you may choose to defer to your builder’s wisdom and experience for some choices. It can be overwhelming, which is why you should invest some time prior to commencing to consider what you like and want in your new home.

Normally a builder offers a warranty called a 1-2-10 Warranty. This covers appliances for 1 year, mechanics for 2 years and structural for 10 years. Although this is a standard, we will ask each builder individually what's covered under their warranty. Damage from weather, shrinkage or expansion of the home or foundation, and anything resulting from the homeowner’s failure to provide maintenance or from work done on the home after construction is not covered.

Whether you use the builder’s lender or someone else, you will need to get pre-approved for financing. Builders often work with particular mortgage companies and will offer discounts on closing costs for using their “preferred” lender. However, we will always want to compare their lender to an outside lender (likely my go-to lenders). If you are not financing, obtain proof of funds from your financial institution.

Inspections are totally optional and depend on your comfort level. Sometimes an inspector will catch something that slipped past the contractor and code enforcement. 

I have Third Part Inspectors I can recommend if you choose to hire one prior to closing on the home. If you go this route, please let me know in advance so that I can line it up with our final walk-through with the builder.