Already in this series, we’ve asked two upfront questions to help you select the right builder for your new home:
Now, let’s turn to the area that often receives the most attention: the home itself. More specifically, the plan. Sometimes referred to as the model, floorplan, or design, we are referring to the layout and features of any home you may be looking at.
Questions #3: What plans does this builder offer?
Building a new home means finding a plan that works for just for you, not the person who lived there before. It’s a dream come true – but it can also be overwhelming!
Luckily, great builders spend a lot of time developing floorplans based on feedback from customers, market trends, and of course the skill of their own professional designers or drafts people. These plans incorporate interesting design elements and options for a variety of lifestyles. Some are even award-winning designs that home buyers, and the industry have found to be particularly outstanding. Finding and selecting one of these plans from your builder can provide great value and save you time, money, and stress (vs. designing a new home from scratch or renovating an existing home to meet your needs).
Through visiting a showhome and doing some research online, you’ll see the line-up of models offered by your potential builder. Ask questions about any and all floorplans that appeal to you; builders will be happy to describe the plans and even show you examples when available. Take your time considering which plans work for you; imagine what life would be like in the models you are looking at. Your builder should be able to help you prioritize and envision each space in any given plan.
Hopefully, you find a model that excites you. However, even if you are happy with the standard plans a builder offers, it’s worth asking about modifications and customizations. We cover that in our next instalment…
What else should you ask a builder? Read the full series:
Question #1: Do I like this builder?
Question #2: Is the builder qualified and reputable?
Questions #3: What plans does this builder offer?
Question #4: What comes standard?
Question #5: What options and upgrades can I choose? How much can I customize?
Question #6: How and when can I make changes?
Question #7: How energy efficient are the homes you build?
Question #8: Who do I contact with any questions and who will oversee the construction?
Question #9: How often and when will I have access to the home during the home building process?
