Getting ready to move into your new home is an exciting time. Especially if your new home is a new build, you will be the first person to live there in a purpose-built home.
But just as moving into an established home can, new homes will have little issues and niggles you need to be aware of. Despite it all looking shiny and new, its newness can be deceiving, and as the home won’t be lived in, there may be issues you are unaware of when you move in.
What Should You Do Before Completion?
A Final Walk-Through
A pre-occupancy orientation with your builder is usually held about a week before your scheduled closing. If you want a third-party inspection for an extra set of eyes on your nearly finished home, schedule one right before the pre-occupancy orientation so you can go over the list with your builder.
The walkthrough will allow both you and your builder to discuss any little issues that still need completing, e.g. touching up paintwork, hinges on cupboard doors.
A Home Demonstration or Handover
This may happen at the same time as your walkthrough or separately. At this point, you will be shown how your home works, for example, the HVAC system, water cut off points and features in your new home too.
Ask lots of questions at this point, including any detailed information about the warranty, a point of contact should you need any more information or minor repairs such as kitchen maintenance, etc.
Prepare for Closing
Closing is one of the most stressful processes for most new home buyers — or, perhaps, for most homebuyers in general. You cross your fingers and hope that the loan goes smoothly. The best thing you can do is ensure that your loan documents are in order ahead of time and that you have a cashier’s check for the amount owed at closing ready. If you work with a real estate agent, he or she can guide you through the paperwork and terminology, as well as accompany you to the closing.
Allow For Flexibility
Even with all the best planning, things don’t always go to plan. Having some flexibility when moving or getting ready to move can help you have a bit of breathing space in hiccups on the road. Be it extra work required or you cannot arrange a moving company to move you in right away along with any finishing touches you want to add yourself, such as decorating.
Get Ready for Your Move
Finally, once you have all your i’s dotted and t’s crossed, the fun part can begin. Arrange your movers, start packing and get ready for your new life in your new home. Make a checklist of everything that needs to be done and the time you have to do it. Work out the best way to approach moving and the logistics from getting from your old house to your new one to allow for a smoother process come moving day.
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