New construction of homes has changed in many ways over the decades. Trends, styles, and of course the economy are major contributors to these changes.
However, the basic qualities of a desirable new construction home have remained largely the same in spite of changing trends. New home builders and buyers who recognize this and account for these factors will be more likely to end up with a home that’s easy to sell and re-sell.
Of course, a majority of buyers aren’t able to afford custom built houses. Subsequently, some compromises may have to be made. In general, however, there are four qualities that should be kept at the forefront when purchasing a new construction home:
1) Structure: This almost goes without saying. However, many homebuyers, particularly first time buyers, have yet to learn how to evaluate the structure of a home. It’s even harder when it comes to buying a new construction home before it’s even built.
You don’t have to be a builder or contractor to feel assured that your new residence will be structurally sound. If you are a new construction house buyer, familiarize yourself with problems that are common with buildings in the area that you will be purchasing property in. This will allow you to find out whether the house your interested in has been (or is being) built with appropriate counter-measures.
For example, homes in areas prone to frequent rains are subject to an increased risk of water damage and mold problems. Buyers in these regions should make sure that any new construction home they’re interested in is being or has been built to withstand water and moisture issues.
Potential buyers should also take the time to look into the background of any new home builder they are planning to purchase from. Stay away from developers with past problems or current legal actions against them regarding structural issues.
It also helps to ask around about new home builders. Try to find someone who lives in a home built by the developer that you’re considering.
Similarly, talk to a home inspector who is familiar with the area. He or she will have substantial inside knowledge about the quality of work provided by local developers and their subcontractors.
All of may sound like tedious work. However, if it saves you thousands of dollars in structural repairs later on, it’s time well-spent.
2) Home size: Three and four-bedroom homes dominate the market, and tend to be the easiest to resell. Even if you don’t need three bedrooms, consider buying one with such amenities anyway. These homes generally hold their value better over time, and are almost always easier to resell later on.
New construction houses should also have more than one bathroom, even if it’s just one and a half baths. Potential buyers shy away from one-bathroom residences.
3) Curb appeal: The external features that initially draw you to a particular house are the same ones that will attract buyers down the road. Whether you plan to stay in your home for a few years or a few decades, curb appeal is crucial.
If you plan to make external improvements after you take possession, be sure to consider your surroundings in your plans. For instance, if you live in a middle class working neighborhood, try to keep in line with what your neighbors are doing. It might not make sense to add fancy landscaping, elaborate ponds and sprawling flower gardens.
The next buyer who comes along will probably be a middle-class working person who doesn’t have the time or the extra money to maintain such decor. It might be pretty to look at, but if it’s too daunting to the kinds of buyers you’re looking for, it’s not worth it.
4) Contemporary but trend-neutral: A new construction home should look contemporary, but it shouldn’t stand out too much. Anything that’s too trendy will make your home look dated within a decade or two. Opt for neutral paint colors and easy-to-find, time-honored building and facade materials.
If you want to personalize your residence, you can always add your own customized, modern decor and colors after you take possession of your new construction home. Just be sure that any changes you make are only semi-permanent and won’t be cost-prohibitive to reverse when it comes time to re-sell.
Call on Shea Real Estate & Investment Group, San Diego, CA. for information on custom built homes in Encinitas, CA. 858-759-5237
http://shea-realestate.com
http://sre-newhomesforsale.com
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