FAQs for Buying a New Home
If you’re exploring the option of buying a new construction home, it’s completely normal to have questions about how the process works. While purchasing a new home involves a few different steps than buying a resale home, the experience is rewarding from start to finish. From choosing your floor plan and homesite to selecting finishes that match your style, new construction allows you to truly personalize your home.
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about buying a new home and what you can expect along the way.
How does financing work when buying a new construction home?
When you build a new home in a community, the builder typically carries the construction loan. This means the builder owns the homesite while your home is being built. To begin construction, you’ll place a deposit, similar to earnest money when buying a resale home.
Once your home is complete, you’ll close on a traditional mortgage with your lender. At closing, ownership of both the home and the land officially transfers to you.
How do I choose the right floor plan for my lifestyle?
Your journey usually begins with our New Home Sales Consultant, who will help you explore floor plans and understand which layouts best fit your needs. They’ll ask questions about how you live today and how you may want to live in the future.
Helpful questions to consider include:
- Do you plan to start or grow your family?
- Will you want most of your living space on the first floor long term?
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
- Where should bedrooms be located for privacy and convenience?
- Do you work from home?
- Do you enjoy entertaining?
Having clarity on these questions makes it easier to narrow down floor plans and select one that truly works for your lifestyle.
What should I consider when selecting a homesite?
Once you’ve chosen a floor plan, the next step is selecting where your home will be built. Builders typically release homesites in phases, creating a cohesive neighborhood feel as the community grows.
When choosing a homesite, think about:
- Do you need a flat yard for play or pets?
- Would you prefer trees for shade or privacy?
- What kind of view would you love from key rooms?
- Do you want a smaller lot with less maintenance?
- Would you prefer a corner lot or a cul-de-sac?
Considering these factors early can help you secure the homesite that best fits your lifestyle.
What is included in the sales agreement?
The sales agreement is the contract that officially kicks off the building process. It outlines the key decisions you’ve made, including your floor plan, homesite, price, included features, and any special conditions.
It also includes timelines for deposits, design selections, and construction milestones, helping keep your build on track and within budget. Once signed, the agreement serves as a roadmap for the entire process.
What features are included in a new construction home?
Each home includes a thoughtfully selected package of standard features designed to offer quality, style, and value. Available options and upgrades allow you to personalize your home further.
Your Sales Consultant and Design Consultant will clearly explain what is included and what is optional, so you can make confident decisions that fit your budget.
When do I get to choose my finishes and design features?
After your sales agreement is finalized, it’s time to personalize your home. Most builders allow you to make finish selections so your home reflects your style.
You’ll work with our professional design consultant to choose items such as cabinetry, flooring, countertops, lighting, paint colors, exterior details, and landscaping. Bringing inspiration, like saved photos or magazine clippings, can help guide the process.
At Ernest Homes, experienced design consultants are available in the Design Studio to help you make selections that feel cohesive and timeless.
How long does it take to build a new construction home?
Build times vary depending on the floor plan, level of customization, and current construction schedules. On average, most new homes take several months from contract to completion.
Your New Home Sales Consultant and construction team will provide estimated timelines and keep you updated throughout the process so you always know what to expect.
What happens during the construction process?
Once construction begins, all selections and pricing are finalized. One of the most exciting milestones is seeing your home’s foundation poured. Throughout construction, you’ll receive updates from the Ernest Homes construction team and participate in scheduled walkthroughs to review progress.
Build times vary depending on customization, but the result is a home designed specifically for you. See our complete construction process in the Path to Ownership.
Can I inspect my new construction home during the build?
Yes. Buyers participate in scheduled walkthroughs during construction and a New Home Orientation prior to closing. These walkthroughs allow you to see progress, learn about your home’s systems, and ask questions.
Many buyers also choose to hire an independent inspector for additional peace of mind.
What should I expect at closing?
When construction is complete, you’ll attend a New Home Orientation where you’ll learn how your home’s systems work and what to expect as a homeowner. After final approval, you’ll close on your home, receive your keys, and officially move in. Home sweet home!
What kind of warranty comes with a new home?
New construction homes typically include a builder warranty covering workmanship, systems, and structural components. After closing, our warranty team is available to address eligible concerns and ensure your home performs as expected.
Details about warranty coverage and homeowner responsibilities are reviewed during your New Home Orientation.
Is buying a new home complicated?
Buying a new home involves several steps, but working with an experienced builder makes the process smooth, exciting, and rewarding. With the right guidance, you can enjoy the journey just as much as the final result.
For more information about building a new home with Ernest Homes, contact our team. We can’t wait to start building with you.
