| Things
To Consider Before Choosing Your Builder |
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Is
the builder a member of the BIA* |
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How
long has the builder been in business? |
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Check
with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the builder has no
unresolved complaints. |
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Can
the builder provide references? |
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Does
the builder carry liability, builder’s risk and worker’s compensation
insurance? |
| |
 *Members
of the Building Industries Association of Northwest Indiana adhere
to a strict Code of Ethics to ensure homebuyers of quality construction
and value in the home they purchase. |
|
| Do
Your Homework |
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Once
you have a list of builders, the best way to learn about the quality
of their work is to visit homes they have built and talk with
the owners. |
| |
Try
to get a random sample of opinions. The more people you talk with,
the more accurate an impression of a builder you are likely to
get. Some questions you can ask include: Are you happy with your
home? If you had any problems, were they fixed promptly and properly?
Would you buy another home from this builder? At the very least,
drive by and see if the homes are visually appealing.
|
| Shop
For Quality and Value |
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View
new homes through home shows and open houses sponsored by builders.
Model homes displayed in home shows are often furnished to give
you ideas for using space. You may also ask a builder to see unfurnished
homes. |
| |
When
examining a new home, inspect the quality of the cabinetry, carpeting,
trimwork, and paint. Get as many specifics as possible from the
builder or representative. If you receive answers verbally rather
than in writing, take notes. |
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Always
keep value in mind when shopping. Just because a home is less
expensive than another does not mean it is a better value. Likewise,
a more expensive home does not automatically assure high quality. |
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Another
important aspect of value is design quality. When you look at
a home, determine whether it will suit your lifestyle. Is there
enough living space? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
What about storage space? Will you have room to accommodate special
interests or hobbies-for example, a large kitchen if you enjoy
cooking or a room for exercise or a home office? Think about the
amount of upkeep required both indoors and out. Consider also
the location of the property. Is it convenient to transportation,
shopping, schools or other places of interest to you? |
| Ask
Questions About Service |
| |
One
important criterion for selecting a builder is the warranty provided
on the home. Most builders offer some form of written warranty.
Many builders back their own warranties on workmanship and materials,
typically for one year. Other builders offer warranties backed
by an insurance company. Ask to see a copy, and read the builder’s
warranty to understand what protection you will have. Don’t wait
to read it until after you move in and a problem arises. If you
have any questions about coverage, ask the builder. |
| |
Also,
find out from each builder what kind of service you can expect
after the sale. Typically, a builder makes two service calls during
the first year after you move in to repair non-emergency problems
covered by your warranty. The first call is usually 30 to 120
days after the move-in, and the second is around the eleventh
month – right before any one-year warranties on workmanship and
materials expire. For emergencies, the builder should be able
to send someone to your home right away. Find out who you contact
for custom service, and if requests should be made in writing.
|
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A
new home is one of the biggest and most important purchases to
make in your lifetime. By doing your homework, you will be able
to shop for a home with a sense of confidence and the knowledge
to help make the right decision. |
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|
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The
BIA builders not only share in the dreams you have for your
home
and your family, they make them come true. |
