HOME BUILDING101: HOW TO BE SURE YOU DO IT RIGHT
You’ve made the decision to build your dream home.
The possibilities are limitless. That boundless freedom can be thrilling, but it can also be worrying.
After all, it will probably be the biggest investment you ever make.
That raises the question: What can you do to feel comfortable that you’re doing it right?
Ashley Buchanan, sales manager for Calgary homes with Brookfield Residential ( livebrookfield.com), which has 64 stacked bungalow-style townhomes in Cranston’s Riverstone, says buyers should start by researching builders.
“The most important questions to ask are about the builder and their reputation, the community and future development, warranties, service, and the value they (the builder) are offering in their homes.”
A good builder will also focus on what the buyer wants.
“The key thing is to listen to the buyer’s needs and lifestyle, as they are very specific to each homeowner.”
Kimberley Holstein, area sales manager with Cedarglen Homes (cedarglenhomes.com), which is building semi-estate residences in the $600,000-plus price range in Cranston’s Riverstone, says lifestyle plays a major role in what questions buyers should ask when they are starting the homebuilding journey.
“How will they live as a family in the home?” she says. “What hobbies and interests do they have? Are they single, a couple, a combined family or retired? Those are all things to be considered beyond price.” Justin Castelino agrees. “As difficult as it may seem, homebuyers need to try and look beyond the numbers and ask themselves, ‘How do I want to feel when I move into my new home?’” says Castelino, marketing co-ordinator with AlbiHomes (albihomes.com), which is building two-storey models, bungalows and custom homes in the $2 million-plus range in Riverstone.
“If they feel confident that their homebuilder respects them and will look after them before, during and after construction, they can trust they are making the best decision.”
A good builder will also bring up questions that a buyer might not think to ask, saysHolstein.
“For example, the positioning of windows: where are you going to maximize natural light coming in?” she says.
“When you’re walking into a room, where’s the light switch? Consistency of door heights.”
Adds Castelino: “A bigger home may not be a better home if the space doesn’t offer what you need. Long-term value means builder service and the performance/durability of the home over time. Professional designers, such as those that work with our customers, can help in selecting finishes in a home that will stand the test of time.”
Holstein recommends develop- ing a good relationship with your builder and sales representative early in the process.
“You’ll be spending a considerable amount of time with them … you want to make sure the personyou’reworkingwithhasthe qualities to get the job done that you need. And we want to make sure the spaces work for (the client).”
Buchanan adds that research on the community is key.
“What does the community have to offer that helps homebuyers feel like they’ve found a neighbourhood to belong to?” says Buchanan.
“Things like green spaces, amenities, parks, schools, future development and resale value have a big role to play.”
Holstein says Riverstone, located in south Calgary, is a great example of a community that appeals to a wide range of people looking for that perfect home, thanks to the community’s quiet location nestled alongside the Bow River and Fish Creek Provincial Park.
For more information about Cranston’s Riverstone, visit experienceriverstone.ca.