How to navigate new construction transactions by Katie Kinney

Building and purchasing new construction seems simple, right? Just pick out the floor plan you want, choose the perfect lot, and watch it go up. No sellers to deal with, no unexpected repairs that come up during inspection, no drawn-out negotiations. Right?

Not exactly. In any real estate transaction, it’s important to have a professional on your side that understands the process and will be able to help guide you.

One of the first steps of building a new home is to decide whom you will hire to build the house. Finding a reputable builder you trust is very important. Your agent will be able to recommend builders they have worked with in the past. You want to work with a builder who has a high quality of workmanship and who offers some type of warranty. If you are having these discussions in the beginning of the transaction, it will save time and headaches later in the transaction.

Another very important step as an agent representing clients in a new construction is to go to the town offices where the land is located. You will need to research the zone requirements and ordinances to confirm you can build a house according to your plans.

The town will be providing the certificate of occupancy once the house is finished. By communicating and complying with the town from the start you will expedite the move in date.

Even if you’ve purchased a home before, the contract for new construction is very different and an experienced agent can help you make sure you understand everything - from floor plans to earnest money requirements, deadlines for requesting changes, and timelines for completion. It is very important to have a third party who represents your interests in the transaction. It pays to be protected.

In almost every new construction there are unforeseen extra costs. An experienced agent will provide guidance as to how to plan and budget for these overages. The agent will also go to bat for their clients during the negotiation process and navigate the uncomfortable money conversations. You will be very happy to have an agent represent you during your new construction transaction.

Katie Kinney has helped many clients facilitate the new construction process. Feel free to reach out to her to help you with your real estate transaction. katie@landinghomesmaine.com cell - 603 205 2276.