The benefits of new-phase buying

Imagine Mr. and Mrs. Newhomebuyer, who, over the course of a year or so, have visited the first three phases of a Bay Area new-home community that they like. Although hesitating to take the leap, they are seriously considering the purchase of a quick-move-in home in the community’s third phase.

But just before they go for it, the builder announces the opening of yet another new phase in the community. Suddenly, Mr. and

Mrs. Newhomebuyer’s gazes turn to the vacant land behind the home they thought they might purchase. At once, a gnawing question returns that they’ve already asked themselves twice.

“What is the difference between the existing phase, the last phase, the next phase and even future phases?” they ask. Only, this time, they asked the builder instead of each other.

The builder always can explain any differences between earlier phases and the newly opened phase. But, with

the technology of homebuilding moving at such a swift pace, there’s even a chance that future phases will incorporate features that haven’t yet been invented.

Juliann Cretsinger, vice president of sales and marketing for Pleasanton-based Signature Homes, explained that some differences from phase to phase are subtle, yet still measurable in the minds of buyers. She also said that when a new phase is announced, the best time to make the purchase decision is before groundbreaking or during the very earliest stages of construction.

“At Signature, we always want to help buyers create their own environment with their house, with regards to their selections,” she says. “The primary benefit of buying right when a new phase is introduced is all the customizations that can take place during construction.”

For Signature Homes, which recently opened new phases at both Sycamore in Rohnert Park and at Centra in Livermore, customizations may include different room options within the homes. Options like these are only available before the home is built.

“In Sycamore, for example, they might

be adding an exterior California Room or a fireplace, or built-in barbecue stoves outside,” she says. “In Centra, that might mean adding a fifth bedroom or a loft in addition to the firstfloor bedroom; and at Woodbridge in Roseville, buyers might add a nextgen suite.”

Other differences between phases can include compliance with new building regulations. “For instance, a recent code that went into place is that garage doors now need to have a battery backup,” said Cretsinger. “To meet that need, we revised our specs so that houses in all

newly released phases will include that.”

Also between phases, it’s not uncommon for a builder to update its standard specifications. “It could be that the flooring changes,” she says. “Carpet has come out that’s more ‘green’ because it’s made with recycled plastic bottles; it’s soft and plush and it’s now our standard.”

Additionally, if the builder comes across a better flooring tile or a higher-quality sealant for the exterior, new phases will incorporate these changes to the specs.

“We’re always collecting data from surveys about buyers’ wants and

needs,” said Cretsinger. “If we can incorporate updates to new phases in a community, we will. We don’t reuse our plans.” Each new community, she added, features reworked or completely original plans to meet constantly changing buyer profiles.

Takeaway tip

If you’re still unsure on your own timing or ability to buy a new home, ask each builder about the anticipated features of, and timing of, future phases in each community. The cost may be a bit higher, but the lifestyle enhancements and efficiencies of all kinds could more than make up for that.