Clustrmaps
Posts Tagged ‘home builders’
Tips for Buying a Home from a Builder
More often these days, people go to “parade of homes” events or talk with their friends and family and decide to buy a home directly from a builder instead of looking for another home. This way they get exactly what they want and it is brand new. Buying a home can be challenging though and buying from a builder has its own challenges. Here are some tips for buying from a builder to help make the process easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Ask your real estate agent for advice
Real estate agents experience many different situations with buyers and sellers and they are a great resource. They will answer any questions you may have or put you in contact with someone with more information. They also can be available to help you talk to builders and lenders and to help negotiate.
Shop around for a lender
You may think it is easy to just go with the builder’s lender, but this may not always be the best choice. They may overcharge you or not really listen to your concerns and needs. It is best to shop around for the right lender that will best fit your needs.
Obtain legal advice
When buying directly from a builder, sometimes they just write up an agreement that is best for them and not the buyer. Make sure to ask plenty of questions and know your rights. Also, make sure you get an agreement that works for you as well.
Hire a home inspector
It always a good idea to hire a home inspector when buying any home. Home builders have certain requirements but it is a good idea to make sure everything is done properly and any repairs are made before you purchase the home.
Ask around about the builders
Make sure the builders have a good reputation for building good quality homes with good construction. It is a good idea to ask other people that went with the same builder or to ask your agent for information on the builders.
These tips will help make the buying process easier for everyone. Buying a home can be challenging, but it should also be an enjoyable and rewarding experience as well. These tips will help make sure everyone is on the same page and help make sure there are fewer problems in the future.
Views: 81Green Housing Is in Demand, But Costly
While many home builders are struggling amid the ongoing recession and credit squeeze, the green home market is in the midst of a growth period.
Some green pros are thriving because of increasing demand for eco-friendly housing, the availability of new funds for green public projects, and passage of the $787 billion federal economic stimulus bill. Still, even with the promise of reduced utility bills, many cash-strapped home owners are reluctant to open their wallets for energy-efficient remodeling projects.
Smaller custom builders such as Maryland-based Bethesda Bungalows are among those faring the best. The company is known for building small- to medium-sized green homes on infill lots in the suburbs of Washington, D.C.
On the federal front, the economic stimulus bill is expected to create jobs for window installers, insulation contractors, and other professionals whose work involves making existing residences more energy efficient.
According to Capitol Hill estimates, a couple of provisions that offer tax credits to home owners for energy-efficient upgrades and pay to weatherize the houses of low-income households could spur approximately $6 billion of activity in the remodeling industry.
Source: Builder, Jennifer Goodman (06/09)
Views: 28