My Favorite Fall Event - Triangle Parade of Homes

This Loyd Builders home designed by Frazier Home Design won Gold in the luxury home category 2019.

One of my favorite events of the year is just a couple weeks away - can you guess what it is?! The Triangle Parade of Homes - its a showcase of all of the Triangle’s builder’s product and latest design trends. The event lasts for three weekends - there are so many entries its impossible to see them all in one day or weekend. I love this event so much, I had to tour my favorite homes more than once! The Parade provides so much inspiration for design, floor plans, front elevations, landscape design, outdoor living and so much more! The homes cover a full range in price and style - so there’s something for everyone.

Being a real estate professional its very exciting as I can walk each builders home and get to know their style and product for when my clients are inquiring about building a custom home or investing in a spec home. It helps give me an idea as to which builder will best fit their desired style. Plus, its just really fun to go walk through these homes because they are all beautiful and unique.

If you are interested in buying new construction, know that the process differs somewhat from buying a pre-owned home. I can help you through the process!

1. Decide on Your Builder & Homesite.

Selecting a builder in our area can be a tough decision as they are all very talented. If you are looking at a particular neighborhood, find out if there is one builder or if the developer allows you to bring in your own builder. If you are looking at building on a lot that is not restricted to a particular builder, it’s important to research builders in your area to find one that is reputable and stands by their work. Meet with builders before you make your selection. It’s important that they are organized and communicate well.

2. Obtain Pre-approval or Proof of Funds.

Builders or developments often work with particular mortgage companies and will offer discounts on closing costs for using their “preferred” lender. Whether you use the builder’s lender or someone else, you will need to get pre-approved for financing. If you are not financing, obtain proof of funds from your financial institution.

3. Sign a Contract with Your Builder.

Builders use their own contracts that are similar to a regular sales contract, but include additional terms specific to the building process, such as at what points during building the contractor gets paid, and what options you have to choose from, as well as a builder deposit. I can help you interpret the terms of the builder’s contract before you sign.

4. Secure a Loan.

Once you sign your contract, the lender will need to get started on your loan application. It’s important that you provide them any information they ask for in a timely manner.

5. Select Your Options.

There will be a lot of decisions to be made throughout your build. Being prepared with your choices at each stage will help keep the build on schedule. Most builders have someone who will work with you to let you know what stage they are on and which decisions are coming due and when they need to be made. If your build is custom, you will need to do a lot of research into finishes, fixtures, colors, hardware, and appliances so you know what you want and what you can afford.

6. Home Walk Throughs Throughout the Building Process.

You will need to check on every phase of construction to double check that everything is done according to plan. Even the best builders have miscommunications, mix-ups on orders, or problems with installations. Plan on visiting the home regularly once it gets closer to completion.

7. Home Inspection.

Even though your home is brand-new, you will still want to have a home inspection done. Sometimes an inspector will catch something that slipped past the contractor and code enforcement.

8. Closing day!

Closing day on new construction differs slightly from a pre-owned home in that there is often a “punch list” of items the builder is responsible for finishing up either on closing day or shortly afterwards. This may include cleaning, touch-up painting, installing landscaping, or changing out locks. You should have the opportunity to go through the house with the builder shortly before closing to add items you notice to the punch list.

Speight Built Custom Homes parade entry 2019

Raleigh has so many talented builders that it can be a tough to choose the right fit. If you are considering building but don’t know where to start, need to find a lot, need a builder, or all of the above - I can help. I have several custom builders I work closely with and after a consultation I can help narrow down the options that would be the right fit for your desired needs and schedule times for you to meet with each builder. To schedule your initial consult about the new construction process send me an email.

Stay tuned for more on The Triangle Parade of Homes - I will be sharing my favorite homes and so much more! If you want to tour with me, click the “Let’s Connect” button at the top of the page or send me an email, I’d love for you to join me for this amazing event!