What questions to ask when buying a new construction home?

Asking the right questions in new construction puts you in a much stronger position to evaluate what you are actually buying versus what the builder is marketing. In Hernando County and throughout Citrus County, Florida, the questions that produce the most useful answers are: What is included in the base price and what is an upgrade? What are the CDD or HOA fees and what do they cover? What is the builders standard warranty structure (typically one year on workmanship, two years on mechanical systems, ten years on structural)? How do I handle warranty claims and who is my contact after closing? What is the timeline for completion and what happens to my rate lock if the build is delayed? Additional high-value questions: Can I hire my own independent inspector for the pre-drywall and pre-closing inspections? (The answer should be yes.) Who are the preferred lender incentives tied to and what happens to those incentives if I use a different lender? Are there any deed restrictions, architectural review requirements, or rental restrictions in the community? What is the estimated completion cost of all lots in the community and when will amenities be open? The builders sales representative works for the builder. Having your own buyers agent who represents your interests exclusively is the most straightforward way to ensure you have an advocate in the room during every negotiation. Kevin Neely & Kaitlynd Robbins | K2 Sells

I would suggest exactly what Jim recommended for questions. 2 additional questions to consider: 1) Do you have a preferred lender and what benefit is there to go with? 2) What is the process to getting something fixed after closing and moving in that is under warranty? Sometimes getting things fixed can be trouble, maybe even ask others in the community to see what there experience has been.

How long have you been in business? What do you do that’s unique? How much customization can buyers do? Can you show me a home under construction so I can see what type of quality is standard in your homes? How long does it usually take for you to build a new home? Do you pay closing costs? What type of warranty do you provide?