Visiting a show home is one of the most important steps in the new build buying process. You’ll get the opportunity to immerse yourself in a development property and gain a better idea of your new home before you agree to anything contractually. It’s important to get it right when buying any property, so be sure to ask yourself and the developer these questions.
Questions to ask yourself when visiting a show home:
How could we make this house a home?
The show home will try to make the property feel homely, but you’re the only one who can make your house a home at the end of the day. Consider what changes you would make to the new build and how you would settle in while you’re exploring it. If you can imagine yourself in the kitchen, relaxing on the sofa or enjoying any other rooms, then that’s a good sign.
Is there enough space for our needs?
Move around the show home and get a feel for the capacity and functionality of the new houses. You should feel like there is plenty of room for your needs, whether that’s space for family gatherings, working from home or some of your leisure pursuits. Perhaps you want smaller, more intimate spaces or more open-plan living – your preference might come to you just from being in the show home.
Will there be direct sunlight or nice views from our property?
Get a sense of whether your property is likely to have pleasant surrounding views and direct sunlight. The show home may not be the exact location of your real property, but you should get a decent look at the surrounding landscape. Ideally, you don’t want to end up with a property that’s lacking in either, if you can help it.
Are the finishes what I would go for?
A show home should be complete with certain finishes and features, but that doesn’t mean every house on the development needs to be identical. Consider if you like the style of the show home or if you’d rather something a little different. A sales rep should be able to provide you with a catalogue of finish options to help you further. You can then consider your own decorations down the line once the property has settled sufficiently.
Questions to ask the developer when visiting a show home:
What’s the local neighbourhood like?
If you’re new to the area, your developer should be equipped to give you details of the surrounding neighbourhood in and around the development. This is always good to get a sense of what’s nearby, but do your own research too so you can double-check some of the marketing spiel. Learn about schools, shops and other amenities to help you with the moving process.
When is the expected completion date?
Houses on new developments are usually finished consecutively rather than all at once, so ask when properties are due to be completed. This should give you an estimation of when you can move into yours or a rough idea if you’re just enquiring for now. You’ll also get an idea about how long construction will go on after you move in.
What’s the process for any faults before and after I move in?
Unfortunately, new builds often have “snags” which have to be worked through during the buying process. This is common and you shouldn’t be too worried, but enquire about how the developer will handle any issues that arise. A snagging list should be given for you to fill out so you can ensure everything is working as it should before you move in.
What’s included in the purchase price?
It’s best to get a clear indication of what’s included in the purchase price of a new build and which extra installations or features cost more. Many homebuilders will offer upgraded finishes, fixtures and fitting such as kitchens and flooring for a price, which may be better if you don’t want to organise it yourself.
Hope you’ve found our article, Questions to ask when visiting a show home useful.
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