Building a new house is an exciting time that’s filled with anticipation. Since a home is one of the most substantial investments you’re likely to make during your lifetime, it’s important to vet and research the builder before you commit.

Even if you’ve purchased a new construction home before, it’s important to know the home builder’s background, their building process, and the details specific to your home and community.

So, how do you interview home builders? We’ve put together some good questions to ask so you feel confident knowing that you’ve made the right choice.

1. How Long Have You Been in the Home Building Business?

Experience counts when it comes to building new homes. Asking about the length of time a builder has been in business is one of the top questions to ask a home builder.

A home builder’s experience can affect everything from the quality of your home to how much it costs you up-front. Also search for testimonials that may enlighten you about what to expect when working with specific home builders.

For more than 65 years, through our predecessor companies, Brookfield Residential has been creating the best places to call home. As a leader in land development and homebuilding, we continue to maintain the same solid values that have helped us successfully navigate through several decades of growth and change. We invite you to learn more about our history!

2. How Customizable is a New Construction Home?

You may be interested in a new home build for innovative features like smart home technology or a special type of kitchen design. Some home builders will allow you to collaborate during the design process, while others will be more restrictive.

Often, most builders have homes for sale that are already under construction that you may be able to customize to some extent. It’ll be dependent on the home’s construction stage and can vary from location to location.

Brookfield Residential’s home visualization tool allows home shoppers to explore and preview different floor plans, available structural options, and design materials. Whether you prefer a quick move-in home with designer-selected finishes, or want to be involved every step of the way, we offer a wide variety of homes perfect for everyone.

3. What Amenities Does the Community Offer?

The community or neighborhood of your new home can add to your quality of life. Ask the new home builder what kinds of amenities are close to your new home for you and your family to enjoy. When building a new home, there may be different homesites to choose from, so ask about your options to find the location that works best for you.

If you have a family or are planning to start one, you will also want to get information about schools and other community resources, like recreation centers and shopping. Our community sales team can let you know all about current amenities and if additional ones are planned for the future. You can also explore our community maps, current lots, and amenity locations.

4. Do You Have Renderings or Plans for New Homes?

Some new home builders will have model homes you can tour. Others might have a portfolio of home renderings. Many Brookfield Residential homes now offer virtual interactive 3D home tours to explore different floor plans and show homes. 

5. What Kind of Warranties Do You Offer?

A new construction home might be covered by warranties for mechanics, appliances, and other components as well as the home itself. Warranties might vary by location and community so be sure to discuss this with your sales agent and get all copies of the warranties.

The builder may partner with a contractor for repairs or offer some other type of solution, so you can move in worry-free. When you buy with Brookfield Residential, we are here every step of the way and will discuss in detail what warranties are provided when purchasing.

6. What Can I Expect During the Home Building Process?

Ask your prospective home builder how they intend to provide you with updates on the building status of your home. Also, ask who you can contact with questions. You should be able to have two-way communication with a good home builder. Asking these questions can help you get a better idea of how in-touch the home builder will be with you.

When you purchase a Brookfield Residential home that is still under construction, you will be updated throughout the entire building process. The way in which you will be updated might depend on the location. In some regions home buyers can keep tabs on their home’s progress with an app, in other regions a sales team keeps you informed on milestones.

7. What Price and Timeline Can I Expect?

Two important factors that influence your choice in a new home builder are timeline and price. If you want to move in quickly or you have a more flexible timeline, both situations could impact the final cost to build. For example, with a quick move-in (QMI) home, the price is set and will help you lock in your mortgage quicker. You’ll also avoid a bidding war, and the house may come with financial incentives.

Get this information as part of the questions to ask when you’re preparing to sign a contract for a new construction home. That way, you can determine if the home builder’s schedule aligns with yours. At Brookfield Residential we offer a variety of different homes at different stages of construction, including move-in-ready, quick move-in and buildable options that offer more opportunities to personalize (options may vary from region to region).

For pricing, you’ll want to ask about all possible costs that could affect the final sales price tag. To help eliminate any price shocks and surprises, we are proud to offer complete pricing transparency on BrookfieldResidential.com. Browse through our different buildable plans and move-in ready homes, with the lot price, plan price, add-ons, and HOA fees all listed. You can also explore all available personalization options for your home and discover the price tag attached with different structural and material options - all found inside our design and price myVision tool.

There may be ways you could save on your new home cost. For example, some builders may offer closing cost discounts if you use the builder’s preferred lender. Always ask about potential discounts and how to obtain those savings. Check our current list of limited time promotions near you.

Get Answers to Your Questions from Brookfield Residential

There are many good reasons to consider buying a new construction home. At Brookfield Residential, we’re happy to help guide you through the new home building journey and answer any questions you have.

We're here to help you be happy in your new home. Contact us today to talk to our experienced and friendly sales representatives about your homebuying options. We'll be expecting you!