BE AN
EDUCATED BUYER
Know what To Ask
Knowing what to ask when buying a modular home is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring a positive investment. It allows potential buyers to clarify key aspects such as construction quality, customization options, warranty details, and financing alternatives. Understanding zoning regulations and site preparation requirements is also essential for a smooth installation process. By asking the right questions, buyers can avoid unexpected costs and complications, ensuring that their new home meets their needs and preferences while adhering to local codes and standards.
- What are the Standard Construction Specifications for the home? (Get a list)
- What does the home builder include in their base price?
- Are there any additional fees for modifying or drawing your own floor plan?
- Does the home builder offer a complete “Turnkey” construction package? If so, what does it include, or do you have to find your own sub-contractors?
- How is the hiring of sub-contractors for the construction process handled? Are they drawn from a core base of contractors? (some builders randomly select sub-contractors based on the area in which they are building) How long have the sub-contractors been with the builder?
- Does the home builder employ a full time Field Supervisor?
- Is the building site inspected for potential additional costs prior to signing a purchase agreement?
- Is the home builder quoting you allowances or actual costs? (Example: Site work, cabinets, flooring, lighting, etc.)
- Is a sump pump or air drain included in a “Turn Key” package?
- Is there an additional delivery charge for the home?
- Is there an additional charge for the “use tax” on the materials used to build the home?
- Is there an additional charge for the crane used to place the home on the foundation?
- Is there an additional charge for the stamped house prints?
- Is there an additional charge for the stamped basement prints?
- Is construction trash removal included in the cost?
- Are gutters included in the cost?
- How is the carpet installation handled?
- Is the home cleaned when construction is finished?
- Is the service and warranty work handled by the builder? Or, is it handled by a sub-contractor, the factory only, or a Home Warranty Company?
- Is repairing drywall cracks included as part of the warranty? (Settling is a normal occurance for new construction)
- Where is the heating system and water heater installed, on the main floor or basement?
- What is the efficiency rating of the standard heating system?
- What type of forced air duct work material is being used?
- Is the standard water heater gas or electric?
- How much upfront deposit or down payment is required?
- Is any part of the deposit or down payment refundable?
- What is the builders draw schedule, and is it acceptable to the bank?
- When looking at a model home, is the quoted cost “as shown” or is it the base price without options?