The final step in our New Construction series is Step 5- The final walkthroughs and closing.
Often times referred to as the “tape walk”, you will walk the completed home with the builder or one of their representatives and be SUPER nit-picky. If you see anything that you do not like, is broken or not functioning correctly, this is the time to point it out. A piece of tape will mark the concern and a note will be drafted to go out to the correct sub to fix the issue. This walk will take a couple of hours and is one that you want your REALTOR® to attend! I take extra notes and take photos to ensure that my clients do not forget anything and that everything is accurately remedied. Usually, this walk occurs one week prior to closing. Within that one week, ideally, all of the issues are taken care of. If not, at closing, some type of written document should accompany the other documents stating what the remedy will be and when it should be completed. Another perk of new construction is that ALL of the original manuals, paint colors, sub-contractors and plans are yours to keep or contact! Wouldn’t that be nice if all homes came with an ounce of this information?! But furthermore, most new builds will come with a 1-year workmanship warranty from the builder. Larger builders often have a third party contracted to take care of any issues that pop up in the first year whereas smaller builders are usually your direct contact. Now you have your arsenal of information and a 6 to 9 month build out behind you and closing on your new home is all that stands in the way of the movers! Congratulations on your new home!
So, let’s recap! How do we make the daunting task of building your new home a manageable experience? 1- find a reputable, diligent and knowledgeable Buyers Broker. 2- Choose your Builder, lot, & floorplan! 3- Choose your upgrades and finishes. 4- The Build. 5- The Final Walkthroughs and closing!
If you have questions about new construction or real estate in general, contact me. I am happy to help or provide you with more guidance on building a home.
Blog and photos courtesy of:
Sonja Belfiore, Broker Associate/Partner
Cell: 970-978-7025
Sonja@SearsRealEstate.com
