Top 10 Questions to Ask During a Model Home Visit
Below are 10 questions we recommend asking, in no specific order, during a model home visit:
1. Does this model home represent your standard finish out?
It is important to discuss what is and what is not standard. Knowing what the home will include when discussing basic sales price is crucial to a sound, educated decision.
2. Does your company have a preferred lender?
Obtaining financing is a big step in the home building process. You want to talk with as many lenders as you can. It is also important to note that a ‘preferred lender’ is usually familiar with the builder's construction process. A lender being familiar or unfamiliar with a builder can be the difference between a smooth transaction and a bumpy one.
3. How many homes do you build a year?
The number of homes a builder produces annually can give you an idea of whether they are established or not. It can also help in deciding a time to begin construction.
4. How many Construction Superintendents do you have?
It is important to make sure the company is not understaffed when comparing the number of superintendents to the number of homes built annually. If a builder is spread too thin, they are more likely to make mistakes.
5. What are the company’s customer service scores?
It is important to ensure the builder has a long history of happy homeowners.
6. How long have you been in business?
A builder with years of experience can offer more wisdom and insight than a company that just started out.
7. What type of warranty does your company offer?
Knowing what type of warranty comes with your new home is a big deal. You want to make sure you’re dealing with a company who stands behind their product.
8. Do you have a Construction Process?
A process is helpful from beginning to end. It keeps the builder and client on the same page throughout construction as well as tracks each step of the process in writing. This way, there is no confusion on how the home is to be constructed. If your builder does not have a process you are likely to encounter surprises throughout the build.
9. Do you have a list of references or past clients I may contact?
Ask for a list of past clients to contact. There is no better testimonial than one directly from the source.
10. How long does construction take?
If you have a timeline you need to stay on, whether you need your children in a certain school district or have to move out of the old house by a certain date, be sure to keep it in mind.