Ask questions of your home builder

Lots of people like to go through new homes. Some go to “dream of the day when,” others go to look for interior decorating ideas and to see what’s new, and the rest are there to buy a new home.

You might think that the sales person is there just to sell you a home. But the sales representative should be considered a resource of information on the home, development and the area. Besides the question of “how much does it cost?,” and “when can we move in?,” here are some other questions to note the answers to:

•Will the builder provide references of recent buyers/occupants?

•Does the builder have a financing plan established?

•Are there options in the floor plan — can a basement or deck be added, etc.?

•Can a room such as the basement be left unfinished?

•How much “customizing” can be done versus standard features?

•Can appliances be up- or down-graded?

•Are there any additional fees relating to the home or development?

•Does the builder offer a warranty program?

•Does the price include landscaping? What if the plants die within a year?

•Are there any restrictive covenants?

•What are the estimated taxes on the property?

•How is the school system rated?

•Are day care and grocery stores convenient and satisfactory?

•What about emergency facilities — police, fire department and hospitals?

•Are there any major development plans for the area in the next five years?

You have a right and need to ask every question that you think is important. A little research with the neighbors is also a good idea.

Remember, a professional builder and sales representative will want you to be a happy and satisfied homeowner. Their next sale could depend on your reference.

Fall Festival of Homes

To find a quality builder, please contact the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA) at (509) 532-4990, or visit our Web site at www.shba.com. We also invite you to attend the upcoming Fall Festival of Homes Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct.14-16. Sixteen beautiful new homes built by a number of our region’s renowned new home builders will be open for touring from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, with free admission to the public.

It’s your opportunity to tour a number of local premier neighborhoods and see what’s exciting and innovative in new home construction. Watch for the official show guide in the Friday, Oct. 14 issue of The Spokesman-Review containing information on each tour home, and the map and directions to guide you on your tour.

Our thanks to Action Mortgage, proud sponsor of the 2005 SHBA Fall Festival of Homes.