Did you know that buying a new construction home comes with special benefits you might not get with a resale property? One of the biggest perks is the home orientation process. When you buy a brand-new home, like a standalone patio home, you not only get a fresh, never-lived-in house but also a helpful home orientation meeting and several warranties to give you peace of mind.
In this post, we’ll explain what the home orientation process is and how it can benefit you as a buyer. If you’re thinking about choosing new construction over a resale home, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Home Orientation Process?
The home orientation is a meeting that typically takes place about a week before closing on your new construction home. It’s designed to familiarize you with the property and ensure you know how everything works before you officially move in. During the orientation, the builder will walk you through the home, pointing out the key features and providing you with valuable information about maintenance and warranty coverage.
Expect to go over everything from the basics, like how to change the furnace filter, to the more technical aspects, like how to flush the water heater. The builder will also provide you with important contact information should any issues arise, especially in the first year. This is your opportunity to ask questions and ensure you’re fully informed about how your new home functions.
The Importance of Warranties in New Construction
A key benefit of purchasing a new construction home is the warranty coverage. Unlike resale properties, which come with no guarantees, new construction homes are often covered by a variety of warranties. For example, with builders like Fisher Homes, you typically receive a one-year warranty that covers issues related to workmanship and materials.
Beyond the one-year warranty, certain components of the home, such as the foundation and major systems, may be covered for up to 5 to 10 years or even longer. This warranty protection offers significant peace of mind as you settle into your new home.
However, keep in mind that even though you’re buying a brand-new house, it’s not perfect. There may be minor issues, such as settling that causes nail pops or small cracks in the drywall. These are things you can address through the warranty process, and the builder will fix them at no additional cost to you.
What’s the Difference Between New Construction and Resale Homes?
One major difference between buying a new construction home and a resale home is the orientation meeting. When you buy a resale home, you typically do not get a chance to walk through the house with the current owner to discuss how everything works or point out issues that may need attention. While a home inspection will identify potential problems, it doesn’t provide the hands-on, comprehensive look at the home that a new construction orientation does.
The new construction process allows you to take a deeper look at the house, mark any issues (such as scratches or imperfections), and ensure that the builder addresses them before you officially close. It’s a way for you to get involved and ensure the home is as perfect as possible before you move in.
The Power of the Home Inspection in New Construction
During the home orientation meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to walk through the property and inspect everything carefully. As you go through the home, you may notice blue tape marking areas that need attention—these could be minor issues such as paint touch-ups, small cosmetic repairs, or other fixes the builder needs to address before closing.
After the home orientation, you’ll typically have another walkthrough scheduled for the morning of your closing. This gives the builder a chance to ensure that all of the “punch-list” items (the repairs or fixes) have been taken care of. It’s a critical step in the home orientation process to ensure the property is in perfect shape when you sign the final documents.
Should You Get a Home Inspection for a New Construction Property?
You might be wondering whether you still need a home inspection if you’re buying new construction. The short answer is YES! While everything should be in good condition, it’s always a good idea to have a third-party inspector review the property before you close.
Some builders, including Fisher Homes, allow for a pre-drywall inspection or a post-drywall inspection. If possible, it’s a great idea to schedule an inspection before the drywall goes up. This allows the inspector to check the structural and mechanical components that are hidden behind the walls. You can identify potential issues before they are covered up.
If you opt for a post-drywall inspection, you’ll still be covered under the warranty, which will allow you to address any issues that arise during your first year of ownership. Inspections can cost between $500 and $600, but it’s a small price to pay for the assurance that everything is in working order before you move in.
How We Can Help?
The home orientation process is a key part of buying new construction, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the home, ensure everything works, and address any issues before moving in. With warranties in place, buying new construction offers greater peace of mind compared to resale homes.
Take full advantage of the orientation and inspection to make sure your new home is in top condition. Plus, if you work with a real estate agent, the builder often covers the commission—so it costs you nothing extra!
If you’re considering a new construction home, feel free to reach out to Team Sztanyo at 513-813-6293, email info@teamsztanyo.com, or visit teamsztanyo.com. We’d love to help you find your perfect home!