Real Estate Planning

             Understanding specifications and options

When you decide to buy a new home based on viewing a model home, remember that this is not the actual house that you will be living in. Most model homes have been improved with options and decorations for presentation purposes.

As a buyer, you need to understand what is included with the house and what is optional. You also need to see and feel the quality of the standard items. Ask your builder and/or the salesperson to show you samples, and request a "spec" sheet that clearly lists standard inclusions as well as upgrade options.

When you sign a contract with your builder, don't take any inclusions for granted. The contract should clearly spell out what the builder is providing as standard inclusions, and what you are paying extra for as upgrades (a separate "spec" sheet may be attached to the contract).

Ask your builder and/or salesperson about the following common new home features-are they standard or upgrades? If upgrades, how much, and what is the standard?

Inside

• Windows (including bay windows, accent and transom windows)-quality glazing, low-E coating, material and locks
• Trim (windows, doors and baseboards)-plain or colonial, natural or painted
• Paint (interior or exterior)-type, quality and colours
• Patio door-width, quality, glazing, low-E coating, material
• Carpet and underpad-quality, material, weight, colours, backing, manufacturer's warranty
• Linoleum and vinyl flooring-quality, colours, patterns
• Ceramic tiles (floor and walls) in bathrooms, kitchen and entryway-colours, patterns and finish (for instance non-skid)
• Kitchen cupboards-materials, counter tops, dividers, pot drawers, "Lazy Susans", wine rack, microwave oven shelf, sinks and faucets
• Bathroom fixtures-colours and quality
• Separate shower stall, Roman-tub and/or whirlpool baths
• Vanities, pedestal sinks, mirrors over vanities
• Towel bars, soap dish, etc.-quality, material and colour
• Electrical fixtures-where and what kind
• Fireplace-type, doors, trim, hearth
• Staircase (spindles, handrails and risers)-material

Outside

• Cladding-brick front, two-tone brick, cornerstones
• Porch and patio-size, material, finish
• Decorative touches (shutters, trim)
• Driveway and walkways-gravel, paving, interlocking brick
• Landscaping-trees, sod in front and back
• Exterior lights
• House numbers
• Mail box
• Kickplate for door

Your builder wants you to be happy with your new home. Eliminate surprises and disappointments; sit down with your builder and/or salesperson and discuss this list in detail. Add othis items as they appear. Know what you are getting for your money; that way you can make wise buying decisions that will provide you with satisfaction and peace of mind for a long time.

          Finding the home that's right for you
          Understanding specifications and options
          Permits, inspections and quality control
          Indoor air quality is important for everyone
          Good products make a quality home
          Building products for a better environment
          New Home Warranty protects your investment

Return to: Buying a New Home

Joe Anne has answers to a lot of your questions and more professional tips to make your real estate transaction more pleasurable. Call or e-mail Joe Anne or click on "Ask Your Own Questions." Joe Anne can send you information on any Property Listed For Sale on the Multiple Listing Service in the Ottawa area. If you would like her to help you locate a home, please fill out her Information Request Form. Surfing the Real Estate Board's web site or MLS.CA and found a house that you like but doesn't give you the civic address. Joe Anne can also help. Just fill out her Would like an address form. Or perhaps you are considering selling your home in the near future, her can also offer you a Free No-Obligation Market Evaluation Form.