Expert: Hans Weber, Licensed Broker Associate - 9/5/2006

Question
I'm about to do a walkthrough on my newly-constructed home - What things should I look for or be aware of and what questions should I ask?

Answer
Hi Lou,

Thank you for your question.

It sounds like you are about to close on your newly built home.  Congratulations, that is always exciting.

Of course you want to do a walk through to make sure you are getting what you expected in the contract.  hopefully your attoney has copies of all building permits and certificates of occupancy issued by the local building department showing the house was built to code.

Even so, there are a multitude of things to look for which can not be conveyed in an email message.  My best suggestion to you is to hire a licensed home building inspector to perform a routine home inspection.  Even though the house is brand new and comes with certain new warranties it is still advisable to have the home inspected.  

A new set of eyes may come up with some things the builder honestly missed and also help you in the future maintenance of the home.

This is an investment well spent.

Be happy in your new home.

Hans