If you decide to build a new home, there are eight stages you’ll have to go through before it’s time to move in.
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Building your dream home can be a very exciting time, but it can also be a little stressful. However, it is a fun, meaningful family-bonding experience, and I feel especially privileged when my clients allow me to be a part of this journey.
After all of the contracts are signed and design selections have been made, there are eight stages of the home building process:
Stage Zero: Hurry up and wait!
At the start, you might not see much activity on your home site. Don’t worry—a lot of things are happening behind the scenes. At this time, permits are secured and blueprints are finalized and distributed to make sure that everyone is on the same page.
Stage One: Foundation
During stage one, the builder prepares the homesite, sets foundation forms, and pours the concrete. At this point, many buyers wonder if their home will be large enough. Seeing the foundation without walls tends to be deceiving, as the foundation looks smaller than it really is.
Stage Two: Framing
Stage two is my personal favorite. It’s always surprising and impressive to see how quickly framing is done. One day, there is nothing but a slab, but a few days later, there is something that actually looks like a real house!
Stage Three: Roofing
At this point, the structure becomes waterproof and your home completion date is no longer subject to most weather conditions.
Stage Four: Rough Mechanics/Drywall Prep
“Rough mechanics” is the term used to describe the mechanical portions of the building, which includes electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning. Multiple inspections take place during this stage to make sure that the home is being constructed correctly.
Stage Five: Drywall and Exterior Finish
As the future homeowner, you may think that the drywall stage takes forever. Drywall is hung and finished, the ceilings get insulated, and your home begins to resemble its final form. Brick and stone are added on the outside, and your property gets graded for drainage. They also prepare for your driveway and walkway.
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Most builders want you to remove any home buying contingencies you may have at this point, as your new home is only about 45 to 60 days away from completion.
The drywall stage may feel like it takes forever, but be patient.
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Stage Six: Trim
At this point, interior doors, baseboards, windowsills, molding, staircases, and cabinets are installed. Your home gets spray painted and the driveway and walkway are poured.
Stage Seven: Finish
You’re in the final stretch, and now the flooring, countertops, light fixtures, mirrors, and plumbing hardware come in. Trees, shrubs, and grass are added, and other exterior landscaping is completed.
Stage Eight: Blue Tape
You’ve reached the final stage! At this point, your builder will walk you through your new home and point out its unique features and systems. The builder will also explain your maintenance responsibilities, as well as warranty coverage and procedures. You will also have the chance to spot items that need to be corrected and perfected before closing.
Now that you’ve reached the end, your home is all ready for you to move in and create some happy memories!
If you are interested in building a new home or if you have any other questions about real estate, just give me a call or send me an email. I would be happy to help you!
