2007-08-28 06:24:45 · 5 answers · asked by MM 5 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
sophieb: you didnt answer my question you just posted a bunch of useless links.
2007-08-28 12:36:38 · update #1
I'd like to ask you a question. Are home sales soaring in your area? If not, why in the world would you consider purchasing a new home (and pay retail) when there are likely to be a record number of foreclosures and you'd have the ability to pick up a really nice home for substantially less than retail?
Just a thought.
2007-08-28 11:29:58 · answer #1 · answered by liveinaustin 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
First, always check with the BBB. If it is a track home builder, knock on some doors in the neighborhood and ask about warranty issues.
If it is a custom home see if they are registered with the local home builders association. It is not a requirement though, and there are good builders not affiliated with it. Ask for references, but make sure they are not all recent. Ask them all about warranty issues and promptness by the builder to correct those issues.
Verify that the builder is a Licensed Contractor with your state. Get his number and verify it with the appropriate state agency. Have him provide you with proof of insurance and workers' comp. Make sure the proof of insurance comes from the issuing agency sent by mail and not from the builder. If you decide to go with this builder have the insurance company cover your project by name and send another letter to you.
Ask current clients if the builder is easy to get a hold of. Go to a current project and seek out the sub-contractors. Ask them if they get paid in a timely manner. Make sure the job site is clean. Inspectors are more favorable with clean jobsites.
Lastly, ask the inspectors about the builder. They see it all, but do not get concerned if they don't tell you anything. It may be policy not to endorse any builder.
Have you thought of managing the building process your self? There are companies that provide guidance throughout the whole construction process like UBuildIt.
Good luck on your endeavor.
2007-08-28 13:57:50 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hire a Realtor for sure. You don't pay them, the builder will. They will act in your best interest unlike the builder and help answer your questions along the way. Call a reputable company and ask for the broker. Ask him/her for a referral to whatever one of his//her agents are familiar with new construction in your area.
2007-08-28 13:54:37 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
What do they charge per square foot, what kind of materials do they intend to use (construction grade or better), what warranty do they and the products ( roof, water heater, and appliances if any) they install have.
2007-08-28 13:38:27 · answer #4 · answered by Bert B 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I answered this question yesterday with lots of info for you. If you didn't get it, contact me.
2007-08-28 19:22:17 · answer #5 · answered by sophieb 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋