30 Jun
30Jun

Buying a newly constructed home comes with a lot of perks. They are energy efficient and have no worn-down parts that will need repairs. Also, you can customize it the way you want. But, there are certain factors that you need to think about when it comes to new construction - budget, and timing.

If you want to find a new construction house for sale in San Antonio, TX, here are a few things you need to consider -

Tips to find new construction homes for sale 

Before proceeding further, the first important thing is to understand what a new construction house is. It is a home where the buyer is the first person to live after the house is built. But it happens in several ways. A buyer may purchase a plot of land and contract everyone associated with home building, including a builder as well as an architect.

On the other hand, the buyer can purchase San Antonio homes for sale or condos for sale in San Antonio that are completely built by a developer. In this case, the home buying process can fall in between too. For example, the buyer may purchase empty land from any developer. They can then choose from a variety of home design options and customize their house with the builder. (Check out condos for sale in San Antonio here)

Know about the home customization options and the costs associated with them -

Many newly constructed homes offer any one of the below customization options -

  • Fully Customized - In this option, you have a say in everything.
  • Semi Customized - In this option, the basic structure of the house is built already. You have the option of customizing it in some ways.
  • Built on spec - In this option, the home is completely built. You need to purchase the house as it is.

Once you know which option works the best for you, you can consult about the same with your San Antonio real estate agent. You need to make sure about all things that come with a standard home and the extra cost; get that in writing. Otherwise, you will be bummed if the beautiful quartz counters and the hardwood floors you loved in the model came with a hefty price tag.

Be alert of the new construction timing -

Apart from the cost, another thing that you need to consider when customizing your home is timing. Generally, the overall timeline for building a home cannot be predicted. It is because of several factors like weather, waiting for logistics, weather delays, etc.

Also, the further the home is in the building process, the faster it should be completed when you have purchased it. The average time to build a home is approximately 3 to 8 months. However, it depends on the size too. But, it can take nearly a year too if there are any delays along the way.

If you are opting for the new construction option, go for the one that fits your current living situation. You must also research how you can avoid the closing costs. If you are comfortable with a lengthy and unpredictable lead time, building a house from ground to top might be for you. However, if you are not so patient, then a semi-custom or a built-on-spec house will be a better choice.

Take a drive and explore the areas that interest you -

Another best way to find San Antonio homes for sale is to take a drive in the area that you would like to live in. Mostly, new constructions happen on the outskirts of the city. So, if you are all in for living in the suburbs, away from the city hustle-bustle, then you will surely find some newly constructed properties that will interest you. It is not guaranteed, but, if you know the area or neighborhood that you like, then the hunt will be easier. 

Sometimes, it is better to explore the properties in person, rather than searching for them online. It is sometimes difficult to see about the new construction projects online. So, it is better to visit physically and hunt for your home!

Research about popular builders in San Antonio -

Another way of finding new construction homes or condos for sale in San Antonio is to research the popular home builders. You can do so by surfing their websites. Check if they have any local community in your area. Some builders only list the newly constructed homes for sale on their websites. So, browsing is the best way to find out what is in store.

You can consult with your San Antonio real estate agent and find home builders in your area by searching online, driving around, or noticing signs. For a detailed guide on how to compete in a hot market, click here.

Pros and Cons of buying newly constructed homes 

Pros 

Fewer maintenance costs -

Newly constructed homes are not impervious to needing repairs. The chances of having a leaky roof or a broken pipe will be significantly lower. That means less stress and less money spent because everything will be new.

Energy Efficient -

Newer homes have the advantage of being energy efficient. If you are opting for a newly constructed home, you will be buying a house that is built specifically to use less energy. Your builder will include energy-efficient windows which can prevent at least 25% heat gain and the losses attributed to less efficient windows. You can also find wells, dual flush toilets, LED Lightings, and smart thermostats.

Liberty to customize the exterior and the interior -

Nobody knows your wants, needs, likes, and dislikes better than you. When you choose to build a newly constructed home, you have the liberty to take things under your control. If you love designing or you are somebody with a lot of preferences, you will enjoy the whole house building process. Once everything is designed the way you want, you can call the house your home.

Cons -

Less room for negotiation -

When you buy a pre-owned house, the price is determined by the market and previous homeowner. For that reason, negotiation becomes a part of the process. 

It is rational to expect that you will be paying less than what you see on the listing. But, when constructing your home, you pay what you see. Builders do not lower the base prices because it alters the comps of development. They can offer you some discounts or some incentives, so you can keep a check on that.

Expensive upgrades -

The first price tag on a newly constructed property is the base price. It includes the structure which is without the optional add-ons. It includes all the standard finishes, which may not be the best looking. So, if you want your house to look a certain way, you will have to choose some upgrades. 

These upgrades will quickly up the price of your home. Wooden floors, recessed lights, fireplaces, and up-to-date kitchen are all going to be add-ons.  So, it is better to figure out in advance what you want and what your budget allows.

The bottom line -

Buying a newly constructed house is ideal in a lot of ways. Sure it can be expensive, but you pay the price for the ideal home of your choice. You get an excellent warranty from the builder too. If you want the best home for your dollars, a newly constructed home will be perfect.

Contact top realtors in San Antonio to look out for the best newly constructed house for sale in San Antonio, TX.


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