Know What To Ask
- What are the Standard Construction Specifications for the home? (Get a list)
- What does the home builder include in their base price?
- Are there any additional fees for modifying or drawing your own floor plan?
- Does the home builder offer a complete “Turn Key” construction package? If so, what does it include, or do you have to find your own sub-contractors?
- How is the hiring of sub-contractors for the construction process handled? Are they drawn from a core base of contractors? (some builders randomly select sub-contractors based on the area in which they are building) How long have the sub-contractors been with the builder?
- Does the home builder employ a full time Field Supervisor?
- Is the building site inspected for potential additional costs prior to signing a purchase agreement?
- Is the home builder quoting you allowances or actual costs? (Example: Site work, cabinets, flooring, lighting, etc.)
- Is a sump pump or air drain included in a “Turn Key” package?
- Is there an additional delivery charge for the home?
- Is there an additional charge for the “use tax” on the materials used to build the home?
- Is there an additional charge for the crane used to place the home on the foundation?
- Is there an additional charge for the stamped house prints?
- Is there an additional charge for the stamped basement prints?
- Is construction trash removal included in the cost?
- Are gutters included in the cost?
- How is the carpet installation handled?
- Is the home cleaned when construction is finished?
- Is the service and warranty work handled by the builder? Or, is it handled by a sub-contractor, the factory only, or a Home Warranty Company?
- Is repairing drywall cracks included as part of the warranty? (Settling is a normal occurance for new construction)
- Where is the heating system and water heater installed, on the main floor or basement?
- What is the efficiency rating of the standard heating system?
- What type of forced air duct work material is being used?
- Is the standard water heater gas or electric?
- How much upfront deposit or down payment is required?
- Is any part of the deposit or down payment refundable?
- What is the builders draw schedule, and is it acceptable to the bank?
- When looking at a model home, is the quoted cost “as shown” or is it the base price without options?