Challenges of Buying New Construction Homes in Palm Springs

Buying a new construction home in the Palm Springs area might seem like a straightforward process. You find the home online, schedule an appointment to tour the model homes, make an offer, sign the extensive paperwork, and move into your perfect new home. However, the reality can be more complicated. Here’s a cautionary tale to illustrate the potential pitfalls and the crucial steps you should take to avoid a similar fate. Continue Reading

The Horror Story

A buyer reached out to share their experience after purchasing a new construction home without using a real estate agent. Initially, the process seemed smooth. They found the home, chose the lot and elevation, and selected some upgrades. The builder, a well-known national company, offered attractive incentives such as rate buy-downs and smart home features, which made the deal even more appealing.

The Reality Check

After signing the contract, the buyer was quickly pushed down the pipeline. Builders often operate in phases, and selling out the current phase is essential for moving on to the next. This urgency can lead to rushed construction and quality issues.

The Importance of Home Inspections

One major mistake the buyer made was skipping the home inspection. They assumed that a brand-new home would be flawless. However, builders sometimes cut corners to keep up with demand, leading to sloppy work. For instance, another buyer reported a flood in their new home due to improper plumbing installation, a problem that a home inspection could have caught.

The Builder’s Priorities

Remember that builder sales agents and customer care representatives work for the builder, not for you. Their primary goal is to keep the builder’s projects moving and their customers somewhat satisfied. Without an independent agent advocating for them, the buyer in our story had no one to push back when issues arose.

The Home Orientation and Walk-Through

The buyer’s home orientation and final walk-through were rushed, and many issues were overlooked. Common practice involves using colored tape to mark areas needing attention, but in this case, the builder failed to address these issues by the final walk-through. Problems included crooked cabinets, poorly cut baseboards, and damaged tile grout.

The Consequences of Closing Too Soon

Despite these unresolved issues, the buyer felt pressured to close. After moving in, they spent months dealing with work orders and having contractors in and out of their home. This was a significant inconvenience and could have been avoided with more stringent checks and an advocate to delay closing until all issues were resolved.

Understanding Your Warranties

Most new homes come with a one-year fit and finish warranty and a longer warranty for structural elements like stucco. However, it’s crucial to document every issue during your walk-throughs. If problems aren’t noted, builders may refuse to address them later, relying on legal loopholes to avoid responsibility.

The Role of Your Real Estate Agent

Using an experienced real estate agent can make a world of difference. They can insist on thorough inspections, ensure that all issues are documented and resolved before closing, and provide guidance on the nuances of your warranties and rights as a buyer.

Final Thoughts

Buying a new construction home in Palm Springs can be a great investment, but it’s essential to approach the process with caution. Always use a real estate agent, insist on a professional home inspection, and make sure all issues are addressed before closing. This proactive approach can save you from months of headaches and ensure that your new home is truly move-in ready.

For more personalized advice and assistance in the Palm Springs area, whether you’re buying new construction or resale, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ensuring your new home purchase goes smoothly is our top priority.