To build or not to build... (Dallas, Richardson: new house, construction, inspection)

[apchar]

Given the lopsided sellers market on existing homes a bargain seems unlikely. If I'm going to pay full price maybe I ought to just get a new home built. I'll know who built it so I can avoid losers like grand, centex-lite, etc. About a third of the ads on realtor.com are 'ready-to-build' anyway.

Do you think it makes sense?
What's the down-side (aside from the funky new-house-smell) ?
How long does it take to build a home? (figure 3500 sq ft)
Where is most new house construction happening in northeast Dallas ?

Whadayathink?

[Rakin]

Building is like being pregnant. It can be a pain but well worth it in the end if done correctly.

It takes now about 6-7 months to build a normal home and much of that depends on how fast YOU move making selections, etc. True custom high end homes can take 12-18 months.

Find a RE Agent who actually knows New Construction, the Builders and will be actively involved in helping you make decisions and choices.
Not just an agent who puts their name on the contract and is never seen again. A good agent can help you make the good / bad decisions and choices.

New homes are much more energy efficient and will have lower utility costs. It's very important you learn to maintain any house since they take time and money.
You can't just move in and not take care of the home. A home built from scratch means so much more to a homeowner when they've been actively involved, made all the decisions and see the final product.

Remember... Building is an Art more than a Science.

And always get an Inspection before your walk through near completion.

[faceoff007]

Originally Posted by Rakin

Building is like being pregnant..

Awesome..LOL

[ChristieP]

One downside to building is finding available land. You might get lucky and find a tear-down that you can acquire cheaply, but otherwise, you're going to be driving way out to the edge of the metro area since that's where there is still available land.

[nsumner]

Originally Posted by faceoff007

Awesome..LOL

I still crack up every time I see that expression.

Several places in NE Dallas depending on budget. Richardson, Murphy, Allen, Fairview, Wylie, Sachse, Rowlett.

Cost is also a big difference. The "Ready to build" ads are usually from custom builders.

As far as timing to built, it's closer to 8 months right now because of shortage of trade IF there are no architectural delays. Many builders have acquired land and aren't able to open the new communities because of the shortage.

Naima