08/18/2026
Many buyers drive by a new construction community, see the open home sign, pull in to “just take a look”, fall in love with the model home and put down a deposit to buy a home on impulse without a lot of thought. Here are some key takeaways to remember.
1. Location is always key. Most new construction homes are being built on what used to be farm land- corn fields etc. which tend to be further away from the highways or the Metra train station. Calculate your commute times and your day to day needs first. If you have to drive your kid to some class an hour away each week, it becomes old in a hurry.
2. When choosing upgrades, stick with the structural items that can’t be added on later like a 9 ft basement or a 3rd car garage. Focusing on cosmetic upgrades like trendy backsplash tiles, expensive light fixtures, luxury countertops in bathrooms and fancy landscaping options can increase the final sale price very quickly. And if you’re financing, you’re paying interest on all that for 30 years as well!! That final sale price will also determine how much you will pay in property taxes. To help you save money, I have a team of contractors that can help you make these cosmetic updates after you close on the home.
3. Builders will encourage you to use their own in-house financing team in exchange for incentives such as a closing cost credit. It’s best to do your own due diligence and compare other financing options and lenders first. Sometimes they might even match the credit while giving you a better rate and terms.
4. Model homes are designed to tempt the innocent buyer with beautiful finishes and upgrades. Professional designers are hired to paint, furnish and decorate the home to attract you. The home you buy may not come with the plush carpet, wide plank hardwood floors, custom window treatments, the custom millwork or crown molding or any of the furnishings. You realize pretty soon that every little thing you fell in love with in a model home comes at a high price $$$.
5. Most buyers think that going without an agent can help them get a deep discount on the price of the home since the builder doesn’t have to pay commissions. Unfortunately that’s not how it works. Commissions are already built into the price of the home. Going with a trusted agent on your very first visit to the community, can ensure that you are protected from the beginning and you have nothing to lose. I typically read all the contracts my clients are expected to sign and I negotiate on their behalf. I also introduce them to an attorney to ensure they are protected. I make sure they pick the right lot and the right upgrades that will give them a good return on their investment. I help them with the research on the community, the schools and future developments nearby that can impact the eventual sale of their home. I also connect them with the right lenders for their financial situation. Buyer beware: builders will NOT pay an agent unless they are registered in person at the sales office on your very FIRST VISIT to the community. So schedule the appointment to visit a community only through your agent.
For more pitfalls to avoid when building a home or if you need guidance in the Southwest Suburbs of Chicago, DM me. We have so many new construction communities in the area and I can walk you through the process.
