02/25/2020
Buying a New Home in 2020
Deposits and contracts
Your new home may still be under construction when you sign the contract. You’ll need to provide a deposit (from a few thousand dollars to 10 percent of the home’s price) so make sure your agent explains the contract. You will need to know if and when you can get your deposit refunded; I can make sure a review period is written into the contract. The contract should include a specific completion date, but know that many builders have provisions that allow for some wiggle room in case materials or permits cause delays.
Who pays for delays?
Your contract should spell out what recourse you have if your home isn’t ready on time. Get everything in writing. Don’t assume that because you talked to the builder that’s good enough. Even an honest builder can forget things. That’s harder to do if it’s written down in a contract. Ask me or your agent to walk you through the details.
Inspections and warranties
Just because your home is brand new doesn’t mean you should skip the inspection. For a few hundred bucks, you get an unbiased and trained set of eyes making sure things are in order and up to code. A good inspection gives you the opportunity to work with the builder to correct problems before you close. I make sure I explain your rights. Most times, the builder will fix any code issues, but you aren’t able to simply walk away based on inspection results.
In addition to manufacturer warranties for new appliances, new homes may include a builder warranty, often through a third-party warranty company. As your agent I can explain what the builder’s warranty covers and for how long. You’ll want to make sure you understand the details before signing your contract.