(NC) If you’ve decided to buy a new-build home, there’s certainly a lot you’ll need to figure out between the moment you start shopping until the day you move in. From which development is right for you, to what might go wrong and how you can protect yourself.
Thankfully, there are experts you can enlist for help. Here are three individuals you can count on for guidance and support at different stages in your new-home buying adventure.
Real estate agent
Many people associate real estate agents with buying resale homes, but they can also help you buy a brand-new home. Agents who deal in new construction can save you a lot of time in finding the perfect home that meets your wants, needs and budget. They can also help you navigate the ins and outs – and mountains of paperwork – of the purchase process and beyond.
If you’re thinking of hiring a real estate professional, be sure to choose one who operates independently from a developer to help make sure they’ll look out for your best interests.
Real estate lawyer
When you’ve found the new home you want and are ready to make the deal, make it a point to have your purchase agreement reviewed by a real estate lawyer. Your purchase agreement is a legally binding contract between you and your builder, so it’s not something to be taken lightly.
A lawyer will be able to explain the various parts of your agreement – such as the addendum, which contains key information about your closing date – and may even offer suggestions for changes that will better protect you.
If you’re buying a new condo, remember that you have a 10-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your agreement without penalty. This is a good time to get into the details with a lawyer so you understand exactly what you’re signing up for.
Home inspector
Before you get the keys to your home, you’ll go through a pre-delivery inspection, sometimes called a PDI, with your builder to check the condition of your new home and note anything that is damaged, missing, unfinished or not working properly. Many new-home buyers who feel they don’t have enough construction knowledge to do a PDI effectively decide to hire a qualified home inspector to assist them. It’s perfectly normal, and it can go a long way to reducing some of the anxiety you might have as you look forward to this important step.
If you decide to hire a home inspector for your PDI, try to find one with experience in new-home construction and knowledge of the new-home warranty.
Find more information about buying a new home at tarion.com.
