Avoid These 3 Big Mistakes

   During the New Home Boom

As housing affordability improves and the shortage in existing homes continues, homebuyers are turning to new construction. As a homebuyer, you may be tempted to jump on the first available new home that suits your family, but before you do, there are three major mistakes you should be aware of.

Don’t visit builders alone. If you visit builders on your own, make sure you sign the builder’s visitor log and include your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network agent’s name and contact information. They can vet your builder for you and help you negotiate the builder’s contract that favors them over your interests.

Don’t skip the inspection. Just because a home is new, doesn’t mean it’s without problems. A recent news report found that some homebuilders are “cutting corners” to produce homes faster. Protect yourself by insisting on an inspection that covers all systems, fixtures and appliances in the home, from the roof to the foundation.

Don’t buy the model home. Model homes feature the most luxurious features that may tempt you into adding upgrades that will increase the cost of your new home. If these upgrades are done before the building process, you’ll save money and prevent costly change-order delays.