So you have decided to build, completed your design and plans, picked a builder and are ready to go. What do you do now? If you live close enough to the new construction site, you might want to watch the various stages of construction.
The first stage is to pick the location for your home site on your land or lot. The builder can help you mark it off the visual – make sure that is what you want. Put some stakes at the corners of the proposed home site. Figure where you want the drive, possible well, and septic. This is all part of the prep work.
The next thing you might want to watch is when the forms are laid for the upcoming pour of the foundation. You want to make sure the location is correct. It’s just better to catch anything now, because it can be changed. Once the foundation is poured, not much you can do to move it. Also, it might be good to clean around the foundation and get it ready for the next step. It is safer and cleaner with no debris around the house.
Next comes the framing. This is the point where it all starts to take shape. You can tell which room is which, how large they are, etc. Do the walls have fire blocking? Is the framing job good? Ok, maybe only the builder will know if the framing job is good. It’s best to even walk it with your builder. They will point out the fire block, the area with electric and plumbing, etc.
Following the framing, there will roofing, drywall, insulation, painting, stonework/stucco, plumbing, electrical, trim carpenters, and more that will be scheduled in by the builder. Get a copy of the schedule. I know we give our clients a schedule with details. You will know when to pick out your hardware, appliances, fixtures, etc. Again, we walk the property at each stage with our upcoming new homeowner.
When we walk the different stages, there are times you can still change things. Talk to your builder. This will be your home and we all want you to be happy.
In conclusion, you will want to do a final walk-through. In this final walk-through, look for anything you want done, like paint touch-ups, etc. This will be the builder’s punch list. You will be shown how to operate things in your home, given warranty papers, etc. In our case, we develop a book that shows how your home was built, what your paint or stain selections were, what the name of the tile is, etc. This will help you know everything about your home.
It is fun to watch the different stages of building. It will amaze you if you have never been through this process. In the end, make sure you will have a warranty of this new home. Enjoy building.
For ALL Your Real Estate and Building needs or questions, call Debbie at (713)818-6658 or (830) 833-4249 / debbie@vallonerealestate.net.
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