FOUR TIPS FOR STRESS-FREE HOME CONSTRUCTION

Purchasing a new construction home is different than buying a house that was previously owned by another party. It is important to familiarize yourself with the overall construction process and learn a few trade secrets.
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Here are four tips to follow when building a new construction home.

Beware of estimated build-out time.
During the pre-sale process, the builder or sales agent will typically provide an estimated completion date of the construction. The key word is estimate—in that it is a completion date target. Like everything else in life, not everything goes as smoothly as originally planned because many factors impact the actual date of completion. You should feel comfortable including the completion date that the builder estimates in the contract, however be aware that construction may take up to a month longer than anticipated.
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Stay away from the construction site.

While it may be challenging to contain your excitement, it is best not to visit the construction site—at least not during the day when everyone is working. Construction sites are full of serious physical hazards due to the nature of the work. Staircases, floor boards, etc. may not be safe until the carpentry is complete. Electricians may be working on the wiring, so there are risks of being electrocuted. Things are constantly falling, so wear a hard hat if you dare visit the construction site.

Of course you want your home built correctly, however interrupting workers may cause delays. They really don’t have any control over changes you may request as they are instructed solely by the foreman. Simply talking to workers can also disrupt progression because they are there to work, not to chat. This common pitfall has been addressed in most purchase contracts which typically state that the buyer cannot visit the construction site unless an appointment has been made with the sales agent.

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Maintain a friendly attitude with the foreman.

While you will rarely encounter the construction foreman more than a few times, being friendly is recommended because he or she is in charge of the construction of your dream home. Foremen are extremely busy because they are coordinating the construction of multiple projects and are focused on ensuring everything is completed correctly. You both have a mutual interest—getting everything ‘right,’ so be cordial.

Request that important scraps be saved.

Obtaining scraps such as leftover paint, granite cut-outs, carpet scraps, hardwood stain, etc. will help when you shop for new furniture, window treatments, light fixtures and more. Be sure to ask for them. Also, when moving in to your new home, walls may be scratched so it is helpful to have leftover paint for touch-ups. Keep in mind that when subcontractors are used, it may be impossible to retain the scraps.

When researching the new construction home of your dreams, check out Echelon Home Builders to see all available floorplans; amazing communities and variety of ideal locations. Please contact us with any questions you have and we will be delighted to assist you.

Article by: Jennifer Elkow