Building a new construction home is an exciting journey, but it can also be a complex and intimidating process. That's why we've put together this guide to help you understand the steps involved in building a custom home, and to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
What are you looking for in your new home? Is there a particular floor plan layout that would better suit your current needs vs. what is currently available for sale in existing homes? What is the budget that you are trying to stay within? What is your ideal time frame to move into your new home? All of these elements are important to weigh as you consider building new.
When building a new construction home keep in mind the overall budget that you want/need to stay within. With new construction, the builders often share a starting baseline price for a particular floor plan. The cost of building a new home can include the lot premium, the baseline price, structural upgrades and design upgrades that are added once you begin making interior/exterior selections.
What builders are available in the community that you are interested in moving to? Consider the types of floor plans, structural options and incentives they are offering. Research information builders. What do local reviewers share about their experience with that particular builder? Keep all of these elements in mind before making a decision on which to proceed with.
This is an important step in the process before signing a contract as certain builders may offer some elements as standard inclusions while others may consider the same elements as design upgrades (that increase the cost of your build). As you and your Real Estate Advisor visit various builders, ask questions about standard inclusions vs. upgrades to have clarity on what is available.
When signing a new construction contract, have an awareness of incentives that the builder is offering at contract and a clear outline of structural upgrades that you want included in the build. Once you sign, you will not have the ability to make structural changes to the build. As soon as the contract is fully executed by the builder, they begin the permitting process with the county.
The building process for a new construction house can take several months or even up to a year or more, depending on the community, size and complexity of the project. The main steps that are part of this process are design selection, foundation, framework, rough-in, insulation and drywall, and finally interior finishes.
Throughout the new construction process, the builder has county inspections to ensure work is completed to code on the home. As a buyer, it is highly recommended that you hire a 3rd party inspector to conduct inspections on the home at certain points in the process. Key times to consider having an inspection done: Pre-drywall, Pre-closing and at the 11 month time frame prior to the 1 year warranty date.
Regular cleaning and maintenance is important to keep your new home looking its best. Your builder will advise best cleaning and maintenance recommendations based on the materials used in your home. Once you move in, keep a running list of any workmanship items that need adjustments or repair for your warranty follow up discussions with the builder.
There are many new construction opportunities in Northeast Florida. Selecting the right community, lot location, floor plan, structural upgrades and design options can be a daunting task. Download this guide for insights on navigating the new construction process. Reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation and to explore your options.
Pamela Hoffman is a top-performing real estate advisor and licensed broker associate who can expertly guide you through your real estate journey. With over 25 years of sales, leadership, and service experience, Pamela provides exceptional service while also making the real estate process fun.
Pamela Hoffman
Engel & Völkers First Coast 190 A1A N Ponte Vedra Beach FL 32082
