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If you’re shopping for new construction in the Savannah, GA area, there’s some questions you’ll definitely ask during the first few minutes of the conversation you’re having with the homebuilder. "How much will our new home cost?" and "When can we move in?" are automatic; they’re right on the tip of your tongue. But there are some other questions you need to ask before you make a final decision about the community, home and builder you choose. Here’s a list of some questions you might not have thought about that would influence your home choice.

• How many years have you been building homes, and how many have you built?
• Do you have references from recent buyers?
• Are there model homes or quick sale homes not yet sold that I can tour before I make a final decision?
• What types of insurance does your company carry?
• Do you have all applicable licenses and will your company take care of all required permits?
• What sets your company apart from other local builders? What do you do best, or what do you do that your competitors don’t do?
• What type of financing plans are available?
• What kind of incentives do you and/or your preferred lenders offer?
• How long does it take, on average, to complete the floor plan I’ve chosen?
• What happens if weather or other delays cause the build to fall behind schedule?
• If problems arise that cannot be resolved, what is your cancellation and refund policy?
• Who will be our primary contact if we have questions during the homebuilding process?
• Can we tour our home at various points during the construction process?
• Can we modify our floor plan — for example, can an extra room or deck be added? How and when can these changes be made?
• Can garages or basements be left unfinished?
• How much "customizing" can be done above and beyond the standard features?
• Can we upgrade our appliances – or substitute a lower cost version?
• Do you have team members on staff to assist us with the design aspects of our home? Can an expert help us choose the right finishes, materials and fixtures for the layout of our home and our lifestyle?
• What energy-saving features do your homes feature?
• Do you offer “smart home” technologies?
• Are there any additional fees regarding the construction of the home?
• Where do you get the materials you use during construction and who are your vendors?
• Does the community have a home owners’ association? If so, what will the dues be and what is included?
• What community amenities are available in the development we’ve chosen?
• Could you tell me about your warranty program?
• Does the price include landscaping? If so, will the plants be replaced if they die shortly after we move in?
• Are there any restrictive covenants?
• What are the estimated taxes on the property?
• What ratings do the local public schools have?
• What private school options are nearby?
• Where do the local children to go play, and is the area safe?
• What interesting and/or educational family activities are available nearby?
• If I have friends or family members visiting from out of town, what local sights or activities would impress them?
• Are day care centers, malls, shopping centers and grocery stores convenient and affordable?
• Could you provide a list of trustworthy local home repair companies?
• What are some of the most popular restaurants in the area?
• Are there excellent local emergency facilities such as police, fire department and hospitals?
• Do you know of any plans for further development or expansion in the area during the next few years?

You may think of additional questions not listed here, so go ahead and ask them. The more information you can gather when you’re in fact-finding mode, the more likely you are to be completely satisfied with the home you eventually choose!