Thinking of building? What you should know about new construction!

One of the first things you will notice when you visit the Boise area is all the new construction. Everywhere you look there is a community with gorgeous, brand-new homes in the ground. Who doesn’t love a new home?! Many people are enamored by the latest floor plans, the trendy finishes, the oversized storage areas and the thought of not having to remodel. However, building is a lot different than buying resale. So what do you need to know? 

At The TreVa Group we represent several builders throughout the Treasure Valley and we’re about to let you in on the 10 facts you should know before you break ground!

1) Just because a home has the same square footage & builder doesn’t mean its the same price. Each floor plan is unique and so are the costs to build it. 

2) Love a floor plan, but can’t afford the price? Ask the builder if there is a less expensive lot you can build it on. You know what they say…location, location, location! The top location is going to come with the highest price tag, but typically there will be another area that you will find appealing. 

3) Sure, you may think you are going to live in the home forever. Maybe you are, but what if you don’t? Just because a floor plan works for you, ask a trusted real estate agent their thoughts. They may be able to give you great insight as to small changes that will get you more money in the long run. Perhaps you should call The TreVa Group. 

4) Every builder is different. Some will nickel and dime you for every change, others will work with you to make the changes without a hefty price increase. Have a list of questions ready & get the answers before you sign the contract.  

5)  That leads us to interviewing. Don’t be afraid to interview more than one builder.  Buying and/or building a new home is one of, if not, the biggest purchase you will make in your lifetime. So don’t you think it’s important that you know and understand the builder’s character and values?  It will also help you get over any unforeseen bumps in the road, if you’re confidant and comfortable with who the builder is as a person.

6) Want new, but don’t want to go through the build process? Many builders have model homes or spec inventory that you can buy.  Just ask! 

7) Construction may take longer than expected. Mother Nature can be a drag and delay the process, especially during the winter months. Changes made during construction will also slow down the process. 

8) Prepare to pay more than what your original contract says. No, the builder is not going to charge you more as the build process goes along,  but you are going to visit the showroom to pick out your finishes. Oh, the finishes! The basic light you had in your last house was perfectly suitable, right? Well, that’s until you see the options… the chandeliers, the modern candle lights, the mosaic glass…oh my! It’s easy to increase the bottom line during this part of the build process. 

9) Speaking of the design showroom…. Don’t feel like you have to have the mind’s eye to put together a color scheme or amenity package. Most (if not all) builders have a trained and skilled design coordinator that will walk you through the design process.  Many can even design an entire home around just a few throw pillows or a picture out of a magazine.

10) Lastly, it’s fun…really! There are plenty of horror stories out there, but if you’re working with a great builder and agent, it can be easy process, resulting in your dream home! 

We hope you found these tricks of the trade helpful. If you are interested in building or have more questions, ask away! You can reach us anytime at Kerri@trevagroup.com or Richard@trevagroup.com.  Happy building!