Building a new home is an exciting time. However, building a home can also be a frustrating time, as you wait for each phase of your new home to be completed so you can finally move in. However, before you get to the building part, you need to find the land or lot. Just as with an existing home, you want to pay considerable attention to location.
The decision will of course depend on what you want. For instance, you might be looking for vacant land in an existing or semi-new neighborhood, acreage, or something in between. You can look for land on your own or use the services of an agent to assist. In either case, once you have found land you like, something that fits within your criterion, you would need to determine the zoning for the land, along with any plans that have been submitted for future development. Typically, this type of information can be obtained from the local city zoning board. Remember, if the lot is in a prime location, you probably want to move quickly in that it will not stay vacant for long.
The type of zoning is crucial. After all, you want your home to work for you, building equity over time. In this case, if the area is zoned for future shopping malls, high-rise apartments, or business complexes, then you should rethink your decision. It is also important that you see the area during periods of rain – yes, rain. You would be amazed at how many plots of land flood during rain but when sold dry, the new owner has no idea.
Another important consideration is price. Unfortunately, it is common to see a new home advertised by a developer for a certain price, which draws buyers in. However, you need to remember that this “starting” price is just that, meaning it includes the bare minimum. However, to ensure you have some of the options that you really want, you would have to pay more. In other words, you need to know exactly what appliances, light fixtures, finishes, and other features of the home include based on the price being advertised.
Finally, since you will get standard things in the new home to include carpet, your decision becomes to use what is included or upgrade. Many times, builders will purchase something on the lower to middle scale, which they believe satisfies the buyer while providing decent flooring. However, it might be worth the investment to have the builder go up a grade or two. This way, you will have nicer carpeting immediately upon moving in, which will last longer and wear better.