1. Where do you want to live?
It's important to determine where you want to live before you begin looking for the right builder or home. Location is very important. When choosing a location, here are few key things you may want to take into consideration like: quality of schools, proximity to work, medical services, recreational facilities, etc.

2. Decide what you want in a home
There is a difference between those things that you need to have and those things that you really want to have in a home. For example, you may "want" four bedrooms, but might settle for three along with a bonus room.

3. Should you buy or build?
Do you have the time to build? If you need to move fast, then building may not be the best choice for you. However, if you have the time, building a new home can be the best way to include all the features you want while best suiting your needs and budget. If you are interested in moving into a new home quickly, please take a look at our Homes Available Now.

4. Choose a builder
Select a builder who is building in the area where you want to live. Make sure they have a history of building quality homes. We recommend looking at some of the homes and neighborhoods where the builder you are considering has built previously. Find out if the builder can complete your home within your timeframe. Ask about their warranty. Take the time to check their references and talk to past customers. Look through our Checklist to learn more about choosing a builder.

5. Select a neighborhood
Neighborhoods are as different as people. Choose a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. For example, a pool and tennis facilities may be important to you or maybe proximity to good schools is top on your list.

6. Understand the building process
The time of construction is dependent on the complexity of the home, the time it takes to work out all the construction details, and, alas, the weather. It's important to specify all the features on the inside and outside of your home with your builder before breaking ground. Making decisions about the specific features, once your home is being built, can be costly in time and money. Be sure to find out how builders handle change requests. Get all your change requests and the pricing in writing so you aren't surprised later.

7. Select your home plan and options
You can select your home from one of the builder's existing floorplans or you can make adjustments to better fit your needs. Some builders allow you to move walls and windows within the standard floorplans. You can also choose design options for your home ranging from the placement on the lot, to bay windows, to upgraded cabinets and countertops. At this time, you may be able to choose your lot. If you have children, you may want to be close to the activity center or in a cul-de-sac.

8. Secure financing
There are a vast number of loan programs available. Be sure to take some time to do the research to determine how much you can afford to borrow and which program works best for you. Builders typically have relationships with lenders that can help you. Find out if you can save money on closing costs by working with a preferred lender.

9. Finalize Purchase Agreement
The sales contract should detail the specifications and features of a new home. Reading and understanding all the documents may seem daunting, however, it is important that you know and understand everything in them. Don't be afraid to ask questions. You want to be sure that you get what you expected.

10. Arrange for Homeowner's Insurance
You typically need proof of a valid homeowner's insurance policy, secured before closing on your new home. Typically, homeowners are required to pay for a year of the policy at the time of closing; later payments can then be rolled into the cost of your monthly mortgage.

11. Closing on Your Home
You'll meet with the closing attorney and builder to finalize your contract and close on your new home. This is the time to verify that the home you're about to buy is exactly what's presented in the contract. Once you approve and sign the necessary documents, the home legally becomes yours. Let the house warming parties begin! If you'd like to learn more or have additional questions, please contact us and we'll be glad to help you.