May 09, 2009

Buying a NEW Home in Solano, CA

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Homes are like people…all different sizes, shapes, ages and colors. And buyers? Much the same. But one thing I generally find in all buyers at one time or another weigh whether to buy a new home or a resale home.

What’s the appeal of a new home? I think for me it’s always been owning something that no one else ever lived in, never having to correct their mistakes, or adjust it to my own style. Like a fresh piece of canvas to paint.

What’s the reality of a new home? For many it’s the fulfillment of that dream. But for those who don’t know what to expect it can be the opposite.

I tell my potential new home buyers that we need to weigh the differences between new and resale, then make the decision. Here are some of the things I tell them to consider:

ALWAYS take your Realtor with you on your first visit to a new subdivision. I typically really like the sales agents at the new homes, but I always remember that they do NOT represent the buyers…ever!

Walk through the model homes with your Realtor. I point out the good, the bad, and the UPGRADES! What you see is not necessarily what you get! Sometimes it takes a trained eye to go through and point that out. Doors are removed in most models…and wow, does that make the room look huge! Beds are shortened, or are double or twin sized. No headboards. Minimum furniture. Most of us do not live like that; you need to picture the room with your own furniture.

Anticipate the cost of upgrades to the property. What do I suggest? First and foremost, upgrade your carpet and your pad! Then move on to the other, more cosmetic items. My last new home was a dream for me…truly an empty canvas! I added granite slabs, 16X16 floor tiles, and much, much more. But I paid for every bit of it upfront, knowing that if I did not do it prior to the move it would never get done. But I have a contractor neighbor who paid for NO upgrades, and simply redid the house at his own cost and labor. And he saved a bundle!

Check out the lot your home will be built upon. Walk it! Ask what will be next door, behind, anywhere your lot is visible from! You may find that your beautiful single story may be bordered by 4-5 two story homes with tons of windows looking down on you. If that isn’t your desire, then don’t buy it! I was shocked one time to find that the lot I bought was graded after I bought it, and we ended up with a huge berm in the backyard. Boy, did that change my landscaping plans!

What additional fees are there? Can you negotiate price? Your Realtor is the right person to ask. I’ve negotiated prices that benefited my clients tremendously—and they were going to offer the “list” price! Is there an HOA? Common areas? Are there special assessments such as Mello-Roos or Community Facility Districts? If so, get the figures up front!

Remember the things that you may take for granted with a resale home: window coverings and landscaping. In a new home you are literally starting from scratch. In Vacaville we’re lucky enough to have a City requiring that the developer put in front yard landscaping and a minimum of 1 tree. But your back yard is typically graded and perhaps drainage is in, but that is it. The confines of your fencing is definitely an area you need to consider…especially if you have kids or pets! The winter mud may be more than you bargained for!

Are you okay with living in an area of immature landscaping and an unknown mix of neighbors? With resale you are pretty well able to take a look ahead of time. With new homes you’re sailing into uncharted territory. In Vacaville I rarely see huge problems, but it truly is something to consider.

A new home can be everything you dream of…or everything you fear. The key is going in with your eyes wide open, your Realtor at your side, and looking at everything! You wouldn’t buy a new car impulsively, don’t make that mistake with your home!

And if you’re looking for a new home—or a resale home!—in Solano County, check out my website at KathleenRamos.com! I’m ready to help!

Posted By: Kathleen Ramos