You have decided that you are going to purchase a home. However, it may be the case that you don’t want to move into someone’s previously-owned house that just went up on the market. Instead, you want a place that you can call yours from beginning to end. By investing in a new construction home, you get a property that is built according to the latest building codes, regulations, and energy efficiency standards. Here is everything you need to know before diving into a new construction build, whether or not you plan on going the custom home route.
What is Pre-Construction?
Before you kick off your project with Cedar Park home builders, there are various activities that take place to prepare you for construction. Known as the pre-construction phase, it begins with planning. This is an extensive process in which a home builder will work with industry professionals, such as architects, to create the property’s blueprints. Everyone involved in the project must be clear about the floor plans and specifications from the beginning.
Once everyone has a strong sense of what the expectations of the house are, they can obtain their necessary permits. This is a critical aspect of the pre-construction phase because, without these permits, the property may not be in compliance with zoning regulations and building codes. By ensuring that they meet local standards, Cedar Park home builders won’t have done all of their work for nothing.
What is Post-Construction?
And a home-building project doesn’t stop simply after the home has been built. During the post-construction phase, Cedar Park home builders must undergo final inspections. A local building authority will conduct this inspection to determine whether all standards truly have been met. They look at electrical systems, plumbing systems, structural integrity, and safety features. If any issues are found, they will be compiled into a punch list. The builder then receives that punch list and must make any necessary adjustments.
Soon, the house will be approved as move-in ready. As the homeowner, you can move into the newly constructed property and enjoy your living space. However, at this point, you may also choose to get a third-party warranty. This allows you to have extra coverage beyond what your Cedar Park home builder already offers. You will want to be educated on how to handle warranty claims so that your home continues to perform to the best of its ability.
Types of New Construction Homes
When you are in the market for a new home, your budget and personality are going to factor into the type of house that you purchase. The three types that you may choose to invest in are:
Spec Homes
Short for speculative houses, spec houses are properties that are constructed by builders without a specific buyer in mind. They are built purely on assumptions of what potential buyers in the market are looking for. Therefore, a Cedar Park home builder will be the one deciding on the layout, design, materials, and fixtures. Homeowners have very limited flexibility to customize the property, given that they come in either during the construction process or after it has been completed. But there does come the benefit of a faster move-in date!
Semi-Custom Homes
Based on pre-designed floor plans, semi-custom homes are a middle ground between spec homes and custom homes. Where that middle ground falls is that semi-custom homes allow homeowners to personalize certain aspects. For example, a buyer might choose from a range of floor plans, rather than simply being given one that appeals to the broader audience. Within the parameters of the floor plan, modifications can be made according to materials and fixtures. Semi-custom homes offer a balance between convenience and personal preference at a more affordable cost than custom homes.
Custom Homes
Custom homes are, understandably, the most expensive option of the three types of new construction houses. The reason for this is that the buyer has full say over what happens with the property. Every aspect is customizable, from the architectural design to the smallest details. If you are someone who has a unique vision for your home so that it can best suit your lifestyle, this may be the perfect option for you. A Cedar Park home builder will work alongside you during the pre-construction phase to ensure that you get everything you want, within your budget.
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What are the Pros of Building in Cedar Park, Texas?
Cedar Park is a growing suburban city in Central Texas, situated northwest of Austin. It features many schools, shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational activities. For those looking to settle down with their families, Cedar Park is a great place to live. Not only that, but for adults that commute to Austin for college or work, it has easy access to downtown. When you build in Cedar Park, you are welcomed into a community that is home to residents of all ages, backgrounds, and life experiences.
New Construction Considerations
Purchasing your custom home can be exciting, but because it is such a big investment, it can also feel quite intimidating and complex. When working with a Cedar Park home builder, be mindful of:
Your Area
Where is your home going to be situated? Will it be close to the essential amenities and services that you and your family need? By choosing a convenient location, you enhance the quality of your life and simplify your daily activities. Of course, when building a house in Cedar Park, you must understand that the community’s growth is still surging. There is a lot of construction going on, including the addition of the new Bell District. So, make sure that you are thinking about future development near your own new construction.
Your Timeline
A good Cedar Park home builder will be upfront with you about approximately how long you can expect before moving into your new house. If you are getting a custom home, the project is going to take longer. This is because you are going to be involved from the start, so you are privy to the time spent obtaining permits, designing the home, and ordering materials. When you are given a timeline, you are able to plan for your moving arrangements. But note that unexpected delays could absolutely happen during the construction phase.
Your Builder
When you set out to build a custom home, you have the opportunity to pick your own builder. However, it may be the case that you don’t know someone off the top of your head to do this project for you. For that reason, you need to do your research to find someone you can trust. Look through the digital portfolios of local builders, read up on their reviews, and have thoughtful conversations with them. You want to work with someone who has clear knowledge of the industry and can navigate the complexities of the construction process.