What You Need to Know Before You Buy New Construction (New Homes) in Port St Lucie FL
Buying a house is one of the greatest investments you’ll make. It’s also a decision that will impact you every day, that’s why it’s essential to be ready before you make any long-term choice.
If you’re considering a new construction home in Port St Lucie FL, it would be good to know what to anticipate and how to best plan for this type of purchase. Since a house is the most costly thing most of us will ever purchase, we need to make sure we’ve bought the “right” one. However, finding the right home is not always an easy task. If you jump into the home-buying process unprepared, you might end up with a home that doesn’t suit your taste and lifestyle.
I created this article to serve as your guide if you’re planning on buying a new build. I understand how important it is for buyers to have a basic overview. Follow these tips to ensure that your home-buying experience is smooth, enjoyable, and successful.
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Why Buy a New Home?
“Would it be advisable for me to purchase a new home or would it be better to buy a pre-owned property?”
The first step in purchasing a home is determining whether to buy a new house or a pre-owned property. There are many pros and cons between the two choices. Let me talk about some of the advantages of purchasing a new house.
- Everything Is Brand-New
Although this may seem obvious, a newly built home in Port St Lucie FL assures that everything in the property is brand-new and will last for a very long time before you need to start changing things. Everything in your home will be new: plumbing, heating, appliances, and more.
Additionally, it feels great to own something that is pristine and has never been used, regardless of whether it’s a car or a home.
- Everything is Under Warranty
One of the financial benefits of buying a new home in Port St Lucie FL is that you will have little to no maintenance for years. Aside from everything being brand-new, most contractors generally include a warranty to help protect your investment. So if something turns out to be not working or faulty, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you’re protected.
- Customization
Opting for a new home may provide you with the chance to have it personalized to fit your tastes and lifestyle. Some home builders allow buyers to participate in the process of designing their property. You’ll be able to own a home that is exactly the way you want without any extra stress or cost.
If you were to buy a pre-existing home, you would have to deal with whatever’s already there. On the off chance that you need to make changes, you would have to invest time and money for the upgrades.
- Energy Efficiency
New construction homes are commonly built with energy efficiency in mind. On average, new homes are 6.5 times more energy efficient than properties built just 30 years ago. New homes often include green systems and appliances. Not only is it good for your savings, but you’ll also likewise breathe a sigh of relief knowing you’re doing your part to save our planet.
- Health and Safety
When you buy a new house in Port St Lucie FL, you don’t have to worry about allergens in carpeting, mold, and pests in the walls, asbestos in the ceiling, or chemicals emitting VOCs in your paint. You will have the assurance that your property has been built with stricter rules to secure your well-being, more sustainable materials, warning systems in place, and a stronger structure due to modern building requirements. You will sleep better at night knowing your family is much healthier and more secure in your new home.
- Neighborhood Amenities
When you buy a newly-built house, chances are the community is new as well. You’ll get to appreciate new features like private pools and strolling paths. What’s more, your neighbors are similarly as new to the area as you are so you’ll have a common feeling of involvement.
What to Ask When Buying a New Home
There are several factors you need to consider when buying a new home. Certain issues are unique to new construction homes and knowing them beforehand can help you navigate the home-buying process better.
To start with, it is basic to have a real estate agent when purchasing a new construction home in Port St Lucie FL. Having an expert on your side will help you get the most value your cash can buy, with the least stress and disappointment.
That’s why I’m here for you! Hi, my name is Melissa Conrad, your top Florida Realtor®. I specialize in representing my clients in the purchase and sale of single-family residences, condos, townhomes, vacant land, new construction, and income-producing property within the Martin, St Lucie (Treasure Coast) area of Florida.
I have been helping people with their real estate needs for the past 15 years. Check out testimonials to find out more about what my previous clients said about me.
Because there are many home builders to choose from, it is important to ask the right questions when purchasing a new home. Below are some of my recommendations on what to ask before deciding upon an investment agreement.
- Who is the builder and what is their reputation?
Before making any decision, research the builder to find out more about the reputation they have. Talk to several different builders and ask them how long they’ve been in the business. Take into account that the capabilities and experience of the builder will have a tremendous effect on the quality of the home.
There are many home builders in Port St. Lucie FL. Make sure to choose someone who can bring your vision to life.
- What types of homes do they typically build?
Every builder is unique and works in a specific kind of development. Choose a builder that is an expert in developing the kind of residence you want. It’s also a smart move to choose from the get-go what sort of home you need before you search for developers, in order to filter down your search and save you time and effort.
- What warranties are provided with the house?
A new home doesn’t always mean that no issues will occur. That’s why one of the most crucial questions you can ask when buying new construction is what kind of warranty is included. Warranties will protect you in the event of a mishap early on. Although you can always buy your own home warranty, you can expect that the builder will cover you in some way for at least the first several years.
Each builder may offer a different set of warranties. Ask what the warranties include and how long they last.
- What are the standard features and what are the extras?
Each home builder includes a set of standard features in each home built, but they also offer extras or upgrades that cost more.
Ask the builder to provide you with a detailed specifications sheet. This will show you everything that comes standard with the new home. You can also request a list of pre-determined upgrades and the related costs.
- Can I make changes during construction?
You need to know whether the developer permits changes once development has begun, particularly if you are inclined to change your mind. If you choose later on that you want extra features, it can be of help to know if you can ask for improvements after construction on the home has started.
More often than not, contractors are very flexible when it comes to adding improvements. However, some contractors will not allow changes after they begin development.
- How long will it take to build my home?
One of the most important questions to ask is the builder’s policy on the completion date. The builder should be able to give you an idea of how long it will take to build your home. In addition, the builder ought to likewise clarify what will happen if that specific date isn’t met. Be sure to also ask if the build time includes the time it takes to get the permits. Be that as it may, you should be adaptable to take into account delays caused by things outside anyone’s control, like the weather.
- What energy-efficient components do you include in the build?
Today, buyers are becoming more and more energy conscious. As such, you can expect energy-efficient components to be available in a new construction home.
Ask the builder what they will do to make your home more efficient. Make sure you are getting features that will save you money and reduce your impact on the environment.
- Will there be any homeowners association?
You certainly would want to know if you will be a part of a homeowners association. The HOA will be responsible for enforcing rules and regulations that will help protect the value of your home and the quality of life in the neighborhood.
Find out right away what guidelines the Homeowner’s Association has outlined, and be aware of them when you’re required to begin paying HOA dues. Even if there is no homeowners association for the development, you need to be aware that the builder may still set some guidelines as far as what’s allowed and what’s not in your future neighborhood.
As you can see, there are many important questions to ask when buying a new home. Do your homework in advance and avoid the hassles usually associated with new construction homes.
Do You Need a Real Estate Agent When Buying New Construction?
The answer is yes.
In fact, in any real estate transaction, it’s important to have a professional on your side. But purchasing a new-construction home is different from buying a resale home. The process can be even more complicated.
When purchasing new construction, the builder’s agent will be there to assist you with the process. The home’s builder is considered the seller, and the agent representing the builder is called the builder’s agent. The builder’s agent will always have the builder’s best interest in mind.
That’s why it’s important to hire a real estate agent who will represent you in the process. Having your agent gives you some peace of mind, knowing that someone is looking out for your best interest.
That would be me, Melissa Conrad. I am a local expert and have experience with newly constructed homes. I am committed to helping you get the most value for your money, with the least hassle and frustration.
Here are some things I can do to make the process of buying new construction more accessible for you:
- Help you find a reputable builder
One of the main reasons why you need a real estate agent when buying new construction is to be able to get professional advice on the reputation of the builder.
As your agent, I can help you find a builder you can trust. I can give you information on the quality of their workmanship, the kind of warranty they offer, and their track record of resolving issues.
- Help you choose the best location
Working with a real estate agent can help you make choices that will best serve your interest.
As your agent, I will help you pick out the best lot, the right community for your lifestyle, and the neighborhood features that you want. I will also check out other things that may impact the long-term value of your property.
Here are some of the newest home developments in Port St Lucie:
- Cresswind at PGA Village Verano- $255,900
- Port St Lucie Pool Homes- $219,900
- Copper Creek – Classic Collection- $223,990
- St. Lucie Collection- $239,990
- Copper Creek – Signature Collection- $257,990
- Del Webb Tradition- $220,990
- Pine Trace- $195,990
- St. Andrews Park Villa Homes- $234,900
- Vizcaya Falls- $184,900
- LakePark at Tradition- $204,990
- Help you with negotiations
I will also assist you with negotiations. I understand what you want and need and I also know what the builder values most. As such, I am capable of negotiating a deal that will be to your benefit. I know the areas where we’ll find the most wiggle room when it comes to negotiations.
- Help you review your contract
Purchasing real estate involves a lot of paperwork and documents that can be confusing and overwhelming. As your agent, I’ll make sure that you understand everything included in your contract, from floor plans to earnest money requirements, deadlines for requesting changes, and timelines for completion.
We will review any contracts you have to sign to make sure you are protected and that you are getting what you are supposed to be getting. If there are any issues, I will explain them clearly to you and the builder.
With me by your side, you’ll rest easy knowing someone is there to protect your money, your time, and your new home.
Making a Home in Port St Lucie FL
The new homes for sale in Port St Lucie FL offer some great options at affordable prices. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, a family looking for a better home that will accommodate your growing household, or a retiree looking for the perfect place to downsize, the communities in Port St Lucie FL have something that will meet your needs and make you feel right at home.
Call me, Melissa Conrad, at 772-240-2589. Use my knowledge and experience to learn more about buying the home of your dreams in the sought-after Port St. Lucie FL neighborhood.