How to Build a New Home

August 5, 2009 by Rebecca  
Filed under Home & Garden

new-home2Unless you’re unusually handy, building a new home truly means hiring someone else to act as the general contractor and build it for you. In most cases, your general contactor will be the building company you choose to use. When you decide it’s time for a new home, perhaps to cash in on the First-Time Homebuyer’s Tax Credit for $8000, many individuals consider new construction first. Who doesn’t want a brand new home to live in?

Research the Area

The first thing to do before starting construction with a home builder is to scout out the areas. From Fargo to New Orleans home builders, you can bet that the areas being developed are as different as night and day. Most often, new construction takes place outside of existing neighborhoods, pushing the city limits out. Look at all the factors of the location including commute times, local services and restaurants, road conditions and, of course, potential neighbors.


Look at Available Homes

Many builders have model homes available to tour to give you an idea of design. Walk through model homes and speak to the sales agent about important factors such as how long the company takes to build, how many upgrades are included in the price, and the plans for the neighborhood – will it have a community swimming pool, for example?

Choose the Right Plan

Building a home truly starts when you choose the right plan. Most home plans today by energy efficient home builders are attractive and less expensive to own long-term than the traditional alternative. Choose a plan that has the right amount of space and cost. Leave room in your budget for the design portion of the process where you’ll be sure to spend too much.


Select Your Designs

Once the basics of your home are selected, you’ll be invited to make decisions regarding colors, tile, carpet, fixtures, radiant barrier and any number of other upgrades. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, so be mindful of your budget and how much you can realistically spend.

Put Down Earnest Money

Once you put down earnest money on the contract, usually $1000-2000, you’ll be locked in to the purchase. Some builders require payment unfront for certain upgrades, but other than that you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy watching your home go up from the ground to the brand new chimney.

Easy Step By Step Instructions
  • Research the areas you’re considering
  • Look at available builders and plans
  • Select the right plan
  • Choose upgrades and other options
  • Put down earnest money and sign a contract
Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions

Visit the building site as often as you can. This will give you an idea of how things are progressing and it might also let you catch potential problems ahead of time.

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