No one buys a house in a vacuum. There are many people required to be a part of the process – some practical, some legal, and some emotional. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Many of these people have gone through the process hundreds of times with new home buyers just like you.
The builder representative is going to be your biggest ally as you buy a new home. They’ll have extensive knowledge about the community choices and the details of the home building process. You’ll be able to get some advice from them about which type of home will meet your needs and which communities are best for your lifestyle. Keep their number on speed dial because they will be the person to call should you have any questions along the way. The builder representative will also be calling you throughout the process of your new home build.
Don’t be shy about asking the builder for references. Talking to people who have worked with the builder can speak to the professionalism of the company and the quality of the home they purchased. This is a great way to do some research and find out if that builder is right for you. Of course all model homes look great, but how do they hold up after a few years of kids? Did they feel the builder made them a priority in the process? Those are the types of questions you should ask the builder’s references.
Think of the mortgage broker or lender as the gatekeeper to your new home. They’ll work with you to help determine how much you can afford based on your income.
While you’ve probably gotten some estimates of how much your monthly payment will be from online mortgage calculators, the mortgage lender will give you more accurate examples, using real-life data from your financial profile. They will also be the person you consult if there are any changes in the mortgage throughout the years.
Once you’re ready to buy your home, the lawyer will make it official. You’ll have a stack of contracts you’ll need to sign. Make sure to choose a lawyer that’s representing your best interests, not that of the builder. The lawyer should read all of the fine print and let you know if there are any clauses in the contract you need to be aware of. Don't be afraid to ask questions when you don’t understand the legalese. After all, this is a really big decision. You'll want to be sure you understand everything.
One of the best things about buying a new home is that you get to make all of the decisions. That is also one of the most difficult aspects since it puts a lot of power in your hands. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, take someone else along for support. Whether it be regularly consulting with your husband or wife, or calling your mom for her opinion, getting feedback from others can help you keep a keen perspective. Ultimately, you have to go with what you really want for your home, but it’s helpful to have someone else to say things like, “I’m not sure the difference in quality is worth that price,” or “Remember to consider how that paint will look with the natural light you’ll get from those windows.”
When you think about buying a home, your first thought is likely to hire a real estate agent. While this is true for people buying older homes, you don’t need an agent on hand if you’re buying brand new. That’s not to say they’re forbidden, either. Should you hire one? The real estate agent can act as a representative for you, helping you to make decisions that are smart. With their understanding of the market they might, for instance, steer you toward choices that are more universally appealing should you ever want to sell your home. Most builders choose to pay the commission to the real estate agent, so it’s an option that’s there if you want it.
The people who help throughout the home buying process are there to protect your interests and guide you toward making the right choices. Since you’ll be living in your home for many years to come, it’s wise to make use of their expertise whenever you make decisions. That way, you’ll be confident you’re making the right ones.
Photo credit: couple, framed house