Buying or Selling a Home?

Financing or Cash?  New Construction loans aren’t your typical mortgage.  Not all lending institutions offer new construction loans.  I have done the research and can guide you to the lender that will work best for you.

Lot or Acreage?  When purchasing the future site of your new home there are several things to consider in your decision.  Are you looking for a lot or acreage?  Are you looking for city life or a more rural area?  What is the neighborhood like? What is the School District? Are there any zoning restrictions I need to be aware of in this area? If I ever want to sell what do other homes sell for in the area?  Is this land a suitable building spot? I am an expert on Crawford County; I can answer ALL of these questions for you.

What is my budget?  Plan your budget accordingly.  We need to consider cost of lot, well & septic (if called for),  site preparation, building package,  extras and finally landscaping and drive. Many lenders recommend spending no more than 28% of your monthly income on a mortgage.  Through our process together I will be able to put my real estate tools to work to help keep you on budget.

Buy a design or hire an Architect?  Today you can find many different home plans to choose from…on the internet.  We also several reputable architects and some builders will work with you to come up with a plan.  We can sit down together to review both options to see what is best for you.

How do I choose a Home Builder?  As a real estate agent who specializes in new construction, I have made it my business to get to know the home builders in our area.  I will direct you to only highly reputable contractors.  

What are my options when negotiating a contract with the builder? I have all the necessary “new construction” contracts right at my finger tips from lien wavier, description of materials  to builder’s warranty

Who is responsible for the Building Permits?  A reputable contractor will present the house plans to the Local Township and local inspector to obtain the necessary building permits.  Many times zoning and different stipulations will vary from one township to another.  No one township is alike, be sure that you and your contractor do their homework.

Do I need an attorney if I am paying cash?  Yes, to protect you, the buyer, and the contractor. I have the actual new construction contract and will prepare that for Attorney review.  This contract involves the details of the build, including start and stop date, penalty’s etc.  If you are financing the project the financial institution will become the mediator and approve the build along the way (construction loan payment schedule- I have a copy of this also).

Do I need to maintain communication with the builder?  Communication is key; I will be sitting down with you and the builder in the beginning but after that regular communication and regular visits to the construction site will allow you a firsthand look to see how your new home is coming along.  Be sure to check out major happenings, such as the foundation, the framing, and of course the finished home.  A building checklist is recommended during the construction period. In some cases we have had buyer’s build from afar and I have kept them in the loop with photo’s & email.

When do inspections take place? This is outlined in the construction loan payment schedule (while I have this …sometimes they vary from lender to lender)

Do I need an occupancy permit?   Yes.  A residential building may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official in Pennsylvania.

How long will this process take, from start to finish?  From the time you decide you would like to custom build your home till the day you move in could vary. The actual build time will depend on size of home & the amenities ( approx.. 3 months – 9 months or more).