Congratulations!
Owning a newly constructed home is an exciting milestone. Everything is fresh, modern, and tailor-made to your specifications. However, with all the excitement of moving into a brand-new home, there are a few important steps to take to ensure your investment remains in top condition for years to come. While new construction comes with many advantages, it also requires careful attention during the initial stages of homeownership. In this blog, I’ll guide you through some essential tips for owning and maintaining your newly constructed home.
1. Get to Know Your Home’s Warranty
One of the biggest perks of buying a new construction home is the warranty that often comes with it. It is very important to fully understand what’s covered and for how long. Warranties for new homes usually cover structural elements for 10 years, while things like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems might be covered for a shorter period—typically 1 to 2 years. Be sure to review your warranty documentation and make note of any deadlines for reporting issues or scheduling maintenance. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs down the line.
2. Schedule a Thorough Home Inspection
Just because your home is brand-new doesn’t mean it’s immune to problems. Even the best builders can make mistakes, and small issues may not be immediately apparent. Hire a professional home inspector to thoroughly examine your home, looking for issues like foundation cracks, plumbing leaks, or faulty wiring. An inspection early on can help catch problems before they become costly repairs.
3. Monitor for Settling
It’s common for new homes to experience some settling during the first few years after construction. This means the house is gradually adjusting to the soil beneath it, which can cause minor cracks in walls, door frames, or floors. Keep an eye on any signs of settling and document changes. While most settling is normal, significant cracks or shifts should be reported to your builder and possibly covered under warranty.
4. Maintain Your Home’s Systems Early
Preventative maintenance is key, especially in a new home. Even though everything is brand-new, systems like HVAC, water heaters, and appliances still need regular upkeep to stay in top shape. Schedule routine maintenance for your HVAC system, change air filters as needed, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for any appliances. Staying on top of these tasks early will help prolong the life of your home’s systems.
5. Landscape with Care
When you move into a newly constructed home, the exterior often includes basic landscaping—usually a lawn and some simple plants or shrubs. New lawns, in particular, need special care during their first year to properly establish. Water your lawn and plants consistently, but avoid over-watering, as it can lead to shallow root growth. Additionally, consider adding your personal touches to the landscape over time, but make sure to choose plants that are suitable for your climate and that complement your home’s style.
6. Keep Track of Builder-Provided Information
Your builder should provide you with detailed documentation about your home, including information on appliances, systems, and materials used in construction. Store this information in a safe place and reference it when needed. For example, knowing the specific brand and model of your HVAC system will help when it’s time for maintenance or repairs.
7. Plan for Future Customization
While new construction homes are often move-in ready, you may want to personalize your space further down the road. Take your time settling in and living in the home before making any major design changes or upgrades. This gives you a chance to get a feel for how you use the space and what would enhance your experience. Whether it’s installing a fence, adding built-in storage, or upgrading fixtures, planning future customizations ensures you’ll love your home even more as the years go by.
Owning a new construction home offers you a fresh start and the opportunity to create lasting memories in a space that’s all your own. By staying proactive and mindful of maintenance, you’ll ensure that your home remains a safe and comfortable sanctuary for years to come. Whether it’s monitoring for settling or keeping up with preventative care, following these tips will help you make the most of your new construction homeownership journey!
Comments