NEWS

Ask any new homebuyer about the home building process and they’ll probably tell you it was overwhelming. At Porchlight Homes, the journey to a new home in Eastpoint or Lazy Day Manor is anything but.

There may be some difficult moments along the way – tile choices alone could send anyone into a tailspin – but that’s what makes this whole process worth it. In our 75 years of experience, the best way to keep the excitement level high during a new home build is to stay informed. Especially when it comes to your budget.  

The budget is not to be messed with. You’ve worked for your money and are proud to set aside some sacrifices so you can live and grow in a beautiful new home. This is the very reason we give genuine care and personal touch to what we do. When you snuggle in for that first night in your new home, we want you to be at ease knowing it was money well spent.

That’s the vision. Now, how do we get there?

If you’re in the market for a brand new home, ask your home builder these money-saving questions to avoid any surprises.

• Do you have preferred financing partners?

Your builder may have a preferred lender, so it’s important to ask the question. The decision of whether to use the preferred lender is up to you. It may save you time and money. For example, a lender may offer incentives, like credits for closing costs. On the other hand, if the lender and builder have an affiliate partnership, you may run into a conflict of interest. Asking this question is important so you can weigh the pros and cons of using the builder’s preferred financial partners.

• Which finishes are standard and what upgrades are available?

This is the fun part where you get to customize your new home. When you’re touring a model home, don’t forget to ask which finishes are standard and what upgrades are available. The builder will likely point out the upgrades as you walk through or provide you with an informational booklet that outlines upgrade options.

• Is there a homeowners association and what will the dues and rules be?  

A homeowners association (HOA) charges a monthly fee to homeowners for community upkeep and other related expenses. Fees can range from $50 to $400, so it’s important to ask if your potential new community will have an HOA fee. There are many advantages to an HOA, including higher home values and clean common areas, but you’ll want to factor in the fee to your total monthly home costs before you sign a contract.

• What warranties do you provide?

Take the time to learn what’s covered by the builder’s warranty, if one is offered. Most warranties for newly built homes offer limited coverage on the workman’s craft and building materials. Commonly covered items include siding, roofing and HVAC systems. You may also purchase a warranty from a third-party company, but it’s nice to know you have options.

• What are the future plans for the community?  

If you are one of the first buyers in a new community, it’s important to ask about plans for the area. Builders can’t always tell you if a shopping center will be built in the coming years, but they can provide insight into the neighborhood. Getting a feel for the future of the community can give you some assurance in knowing you’re making a good investment.

At Porchlight, we take pride in cultivating a seamless transition to our craft neighborhoods. Because at the end of the day, we’re more than builders of beautiful homes, we’re builders of beautiful memories. Whether it’s a cozy nook where your kids will develop a love for reading, or a wide-open living room where you’ll host family movie night, we take your dream and build it.

For more information about our vibrant new home communities, reach out to us online or stop by for a tour.