What to ask before you buy your new home

By Bob de Wit
April 05, 2018

Owning a brand-new home has a great deal of appeal; homebuyers have the option of customizing their home, which makes the property even more desirable!

Looking at new developments across Metro Vancouver, it can feel like an overwhelming decision to choose where and which property to purchase. Take the time to learn as much as you can about a development before buying.

First and foremost, it is recommended to have a real estate agent, lawyer and financial advisor representing you to help ensure that you ask all the right questions.

Questions to ask include:

Who is the builder? Be sure to look at their track record and look at previous builds.

  • Are current homeowners happy with their homes? Check with residents in existing buildings for their feedback.
  • How often and when will I be allowed to tour the home once construction has started?
  • What are the standard features in the homes and what are the extras? The sales centres may have all the “bells and whistles”; confirm what your price point will include.
  • What amenities are offered? They will reflect the building’s owners. Playgrounds will draw children and the noise that accompanies younger families.
  • Ask what the expected completion date will be and ensure you are financially prepared. You need to ensure that what you are signing up for today you will be able to afford tomorrow. Be sure to include a buffer for an extended completion date. This is very common with new building construction due to permit delays and current labour shortages.
  • Ask about STC ratings. An STC rating is a measure of a reduction in airborne sound transferring through walls, floors and ceilings. The higher the number, the less the sound is transferred.

Zenterra Developments shared its building philosophy with us: “We’re a locally owned and locally operated company who takes pride in building the best product possible. Our in-house construction team uses local materials and works with local companies to make sure every project is built with the care and attention to detail we would want for our own homes.”

Zenterra is a finalist for six Ovation Awards, including Best Residential Community: Multi-Family and Multi-Family Home Builder of the Year for their project SOHO.

Start your search online at ovationawards.ca to check out other 2018 multi-family development finalists. The Ovation Awards recognize excellence in renovation, new-home construction and design in Metro Vancouver. The Ovation brand is a symbol that homebuyers can trust and look for when building, buying or renovating their home.

About Bob de Wit

Bob de Wit is a NextHome contributor.

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