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Ten questions to ask your builder before you sign.

Planning to build in Raleigh, Durham, Cary or elsewhere in the Triangle? These questions help you compare builders and understand how your home will be built, ventilated and verified.

1. How will the home be ventilated, and what is the plan for moisture?

A good answer names the ventilation approach, explains how kitchen and bath exhaust are handled and describes how materials are protected from rain during construction. Vague answers are a signal to ask for details in writing.

2. How is the home sealed and insulated, and how will that be verified?

Ask whether the home will receive a third-party performance test, such as a blower door test, and who performs it. Verification is more useful than a promise.

3. What products, adhesives and finishes will be used?

Ask for a written list for flooring, cabinetry, paints, sealants and adhesives, and for certification documents where they exist.

4. What programs does the builder participate in?

You may hear about ENERGY STAR Certified Homes, U.S. EPA Indoor airPLUS or DOE Zero Energy Ready Home. Ask which, if any, apply to your home, who certifies it and what is included.

5. Which decisions have deadlines, and what does a change cost?

Window placement, mechanical systems and layout are cheapest to settle early. Ask for the selection schedule and the change-order process.

6. What does the warranty cover, and who do I call?

Ask for a copy of the warranty in advance and for the name of the person who responds to service requests.

7. Who inspects the home before I close?

Ask about the builder’s own walkthroughs and whether you may bring an independent inspector.

8. How will the home be cleaned and aired out before I move in?

Ask about the final cleaning process and how the home will be ventilated after finishes are installed.

9. Can I speak with recent clients?

Ask for references from homes completed in the last year or two, and ask those clients what they would do differently.

10. What are my options if I want to prioritize a particular feature?

Name your top one or two priorities and ask for choices, trade-offs and timelines.

Good to know

Builder questions

Do I need an agent to buy new construction?

You are not required to have one. An agent who represents you can help you review the contract, compare builders and negotiate, and it is often best to bring one before your first visit to a sales office.

Are these questions only for custom homes?

No. They apply to custom builds, community builders and spec homes. The answers will differ, and the questions help you compare them.

Next step

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