When you tour the beautiful model homes in Lago Mar, don’t forget to take advantage of the most important resource in them — the sales representative. If you have questions, they have answers. What questions should you ask? Here are 10 to get you started:
What are the advantages of buying a new-build home?
There are two choices when it comes to purchasing a new-to-you home. You can buy a resale home or buy a new home — either an inventory home or build from the ground up. A resale home might seem less expensive but if you really dig into the numbers, you’ll find there are often hidden costs associated with a resale home. Once you take those into account, you may find that buying new is actually cheaper.
What type of warranty do you offer?
New-build homes come with warranties. Resale homes usually do not. Builders typically offer warranties that cover workmanship, materials and structural defects for a specified period of time. Builders update their warranties from time to time, so it’s important to find out what is and isn’t covered.
What is your timeline?
Ask how long it will take to build your new home from start to finish. Your discussion should include how your builder will notify you of the progress on your new home, what potential delays there might be, how delays will be handled and who to talk to if you have construction questions.
What should you expect during the final walk-through?
Before you get the keys to your new home, your builder will arrange a final walk-through. You want to know what to expect, but you also want to know what happens if you see things that need repairs or touch-ups. Find out what the timeline for that would be and how the builder will ensure you are satisfied.
What financing options are available?
Many builders have preferred lenders. Use one and you might get a better deal. That could include a lower interest rate or paying no closing costs. The builder’s lender might be able to point you in the direction of loan options you haven’t considered.
What are your standard features?
Options and upgrades available to homebuyers are usually showcased in a builder’s model home. That means some of the features you have fallen in love with aren’t standard. If you want it, you will pay an additional fee. Knowing what features are standard and what are upgrades will help you when it is time to visit the design center.
What are the most popular upgrades?
It’s always a good idea to find out what upgrades are popular and why. Sometimes it will simply be because it’s the latest trend. Other times there could be a very good reason. Quartz countertops might be preferred over granite because of their durability. Hardwood floors over carpet because it increases the resale value of your home.
What is your satisfaction rating with past customers?
It’s a red flag when a builder doesn’t want to discuss their customer satisfaction rating. You want to find out if former customers have issued complaints or concerns and how those have been handled in the past and how they will be handled going forward. Ask if you can talk to former clients. Good builders will be happy to offer references.
How do you support homebuyers during the homebuilding process?
You want your builder to be your partner. Someone you can go to with any questions or concerns. Find out if you will be able to talk to your construction manager and design center representative any time you have questions.
What is this community like?
Your sales counselor should be able to tell you what the benefits of living in a community like Lago Mar are. They should know about the schools, amenities, local dining spots and what commute times look like. Most counselors are happy to talk about their communities and make sure both it and the homes they build are right for your family.
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