10 Questions to Ask When Buying New Home Construction

My husband and I recently signed a contract on a new construction home. While it’s been exciting getting to this point (and will be even more exciting once permits are in and the actual building can commence), it’s also been quite the learning experience.

Buying new construction is a different process than buying your typical pre-built home. What’s included, what’s not, and what’s hidden in that massive contract depends on the builder that you use. As with any situation where you’re moving or about to spend a lot of hard earned money, it’s important to go in prepared – and that means asking the right questions.

The first interaction you’ll have with the builder – and in fact, the first several, at least – will be with the builder’s sales representative. These early meetings are your chance to ask all of the questions you might have regarding costs, labor, and other essentials that you need to know about before jumping in. Write your questions down before you go in so that you can be sure not to forget anything important, and don’t be shy about getting the answers that you need. This is a major purchase, and you don’t want any surprises later.

Not sure exactly what you need to be asking about? These 10 questions to ask when buying a new construction home will help get you started.

Is the lot cost included?

How long will building take?

What warranties are provided with the house?

What are the standard finishes?

Are you allowed to purchase your own appliances or materials?

If you can bring in your own materials or appliances, will you get credits?

Is landscaping included?

Does the contract include a cost escalation clause?

Are there any homeowners rules or regulations?

Are there any financial incentives for using the builder’s preferred lender?

If it’s your dream to build a new construction house, go in to the process with an open mind and a clear idea of what you can expect. The more questions you can ask in the beginning, the less surprises you’ll potentially face in the future.

And as with any home purchase, be sure to have an attorney read over your contract so that you can be sure everything is fair and equitable. Some buyers of new construction prefer to go in to sales meetings with a real estate agent as well, though in my own experience, I didn’t find that to be necessary. Be smart, ask the right questions, and at the end of the day (or fine, year) you’ll end up with a beautiful home built just for you.