With the way the current Cedar Park real estate market is going, we’re sure you may have considered building a new home instead of purchasing an existing home. New construction homes come with a lot of pros, like updated features and customization, but they also have cons too, like timing and money.
We’re here to help you weigh the pros and cons and give some tips on if building a new construction home is the right choice for you.
Research Builders and Neighborhoods
There are tons of builders and neighborhoods for new construction homes in the Cedar Park area, so make sure you take some time to do your research. A quick Google search will reveal any lawsuits or judgments that could affect a builder’s quality of work. Reviews are also a good thing to read, so it gives you an idea of what experiences other people are having.
When looking into neighborhoods, drive around a few and see what kind of amenities each one offers and what types of places are nearby. Take some time to attend model open houses and check out their quality of work. Also, make sure to check with the builder on homeowner association fees and rules. Some new construction neighborhoods have them, and they could have strict rules to be aware of.
Get Your Own Agent and Lender
It’s important to make sure you have a real estate agent and a lender in your corner. The listing agent and builder are working together to get the deal closed, but they don’t necessarily have your best interest at heart. Oftentimes builders have their own lender and real estate agent in-house that they will recommend, but make sure you do your research before making any decisions.
If you have an agent already, make sure to tell them you are interested in looking at new construction homes. Your agent will need to go with you on your first visit with the builder, or they won’t be able to represent you throughout the process.
Timing Is Everything
New construction homes take a few months to build, so make sure to plan accordingly. In addition, the timeframe given could be delayed due to unpredictable circumstances like vendor delays, supply shortages, and weather. On average, the timeframe for new construction homes is around 5-7 months, depending on the size of the home.
Choose Upgrades That Will Help Your Resale Value
There might be some upgrades on your list that you want, but do you need them? It’s important to talk with your agent about what upgrades will help you get the most ROI if you decide to sell later.
The kitchen is the heart of the home, so upgrades like taller cabinets, a nice center island, and upgraded countertops are items to consider. Appliances you can upgrade later and won’t cost you much money.
Bathrooms are also a big selling point for buyers, so a tiled walk-in shower, double sinks, and upgraded countertops are some items to consider.
If you are considering building a home in Cedar Park and need some recommendations, please reach out to us! We would love to be a resource for you!
