New Construction: A Quick Guide on What to Expect

by Jodie Franklin 02/28/2021

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

There is something enticing about building the home that you want rather than purchasing a property that only has some features you desire. When you invest in new residential construction, you can create the living space that you have always dreamed of having. 

Step 1: Choose a Builder

The first step in the home building process is likely the most important. You will want to partner with a reputable and experienced builder who will focus on helping you accomplish your goals throughout the construction process. It is important to hire a builder who has worked in your local area and who has formed an extensive professional network that includes highly-regarded contractors.

Step 2: Secure Financing

After you have chosen your builder, you will need to secure financing for your new home. In all likelihood, you will need to start the payment process by applying for a construction loan. Construction loans have different requirements than traditional mortgage loans, so you will want to work with your lender to figure out the best option for your personal circumstances. 

Step 3: Select Your Lot

Once you have been approved for a loan, and you have a payment plan in place, the process of building your new house can begin. The first thing you will need to do is select your lot. There are a lot of considerations to make when selecting your lot, so be sure to take your time and find the plot of land that will be best for your home.

Step 4: Design Your Home

Now that you have decided on which lot is best, you can start working with your builder in order to plan and design your home. During this stage, you will talk about everything from the floor plan and the facade to the interior design details and landscaping. There will be a lot of decisions to make, but this can be the most fun part of the process for new construction homebuyers.

Step 5: Watch the Construction Process Unfold

As the design decisions are finalized, your builder will begin to construct your new home. Along the way, you may have opportunities to stop by and see the progress. It's always a good idea to snap a photo or two, so that you have memories of this special time in your life.

Step 6: Schedule Your Final Walk-Through

When your home is completely built with every detail in place, you will be able to go on a final walk-through with the builder. This is the time when you can point out any changes or adjustments that need to be made before you move into the home.

Whether you are finally having a custom-built home designed to meet your exact needs or you are deciding between different models available from a reputable builder, you are likely to enjoy this milestone moment in your life.

About the Author
Author

Jodie Franklin

I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 15 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is. 

Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President and current board member of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I am also a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that wok to make our communities better. 

I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19).