Guide to Building Your New Home

ROBERT THOMAS HOMES, INC. | SPACECRAFTING

Ready to find your new home? Get started with this roadmap.

So, you’re ready to head out and discover your next home, and you want to make sure you're prepared? Well, you’re in the right place! Touring the entries on the Parade of Homes is a hassle-free, low-pressure way to follow the work of builders and see the latest in housing options available to you. Before you get started, take a look at these tips to help guide you on your home search.

1. EXPLORE THE PARADE OF HOMES

Start your search by heading out to tour. With hundreds of new homes open, you can easily visit floor plans at different price points and in different neighborhoods. Keep track of the builders and home styles that feel right for you. You can explore up-andcoming neighborhoods and plans that are ready to build to stay informed on future build opportunities as well.

2. MAKE A BUDGET

Know what you can afford. Connect with a mortgage banker about loan options and rates, as well as how much you’ll need for your down payment.

3. GO BACK FOR ROUND TWO

Once you’ve solidified your budget, go out for round two of touring! You can narrow your search to homes in your price range and focus on what must-have features you’ll want to be included in your home.

4. NARROW DOWN NEIGHBORHOODS

What kind of neighborhood appeals to you? Now that you’ve toured, you’ll have a better handle on the type of community and neighborhood you prefer.

5. CONNECT WITH BUILDERS

Make appointments with your top builder choices and get a rundown of timelines and procedures. Ask for references and reach out to them before signing a contract. You may want to put a lot on hold, generally with a small fee.

6. DESIGN YOUR HOME PLAN

If you’re building a custom home, you’ll likely spend time with a designer or architect planning a layout that will fit your lifestyle. Other builders may have a portfolio of floor plans that you can select from or adjust to your liking. Either way, consider how you live in your current house and what you’re looking for in your new home.

7. SIGN A CONTRACT

You’re ready to commit! Your final contract will have all the specifics about your home. Review it carefully. In some cases, you’ll be able to see the final cost right on the contract, in others there may still be some leeway in products and finishes, so your contract will have allowances that will be adjusted after you’ve made your selections.

8. SELECT & PERFECT

Depending on the type of new home you’re building, you’ll land somewhere between selecting from a few options and colors to choosing virtually every element of your new home. And if selecting finishes isn’t your forte, you’ll get plenty of professional help from your builders and showrooms to personalize your space. Keep in mind changes down the road can cost extra, so making your decisions on upgrades early in the process can save you in the long run.

9. CONSTRUCTION

With all your selections in hand, it’s time for construction to begin! Stay in communication with your builder to receive progress updates, and check in before showing up on site. There can be safety and liability issues on an active construction site, and your builder wants you to stay safe.

10. CLOSING TIME

With construction completed, it’s time to close on your new home! You and your mortgage banker will meet with the builder’s representatives to finalize all the paperwork. Be prepared to make sure you have all the documents you need and can cover any closing costs.

11. WELCOME HOME

Then, it’s finally time for the most exciting part of the journey, move-in day! Welcome home!