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 1-2-6 Warranty. This covers appliances for 1 year, mechanics for 2 years, and structural for 6 years. Although this is a standard, we will ask each builder individually what's covered under their warranty.

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 our go-to lender). If you are not financing, obtain proof of funds from your financial institution.

Inspections are optional and depend on your comfort level, although we will always recommend one. Getting a second opinion on your new home doesn't hurt, right? A third-party inspection will typically be a $500 investment. You'll receive a full report of the home, including photos, and will be able to hang on to this for years to come. 

We have third-party inspectors we can recommend if you choose to hire one before closing on your new home.