Beaches, shopping, local food—there’s a lot to love about living in Lewes, Delaware. All you need to top it off is a home that fits your lifestyle.
For many, building a new home can feel overwhelming. Once you select a builder like and trust, there are still so many decisions. Floorplans, finishes, additions — it can feel like a lot. So, if you’re thinking about building a new home in Sussex County, DE, we have couple tips to help you end up with a house you love.
Nothing is free when you’re buying a new house. If a builder is giving you money off the base price, it’s being added somewhere else. Incentives and discounts are tools builders use to close deals. There’s nothing wrong with that, but you just need know that you’re going to be paying that fee back elsewhere in the costs to build.
All new homes use “less energy.” Many builders hype energy efficiency but new homes abide by updated building codes which are generally pretty energy efficient. The difference in energy savings between builders is actually really small.
If you’re trying to prioritize where to make upgrades in your house, choose structural options first. These are things that will cost a lot more or be impossible to add later like a basement or sunroom. Aesthetic factors like granite counters, upgraded lighting, etc. can be added later without much or any added cost.
Remember transaction costs. Delaware has a low cost of living but we have a pretty high transaction costs. Fees will vary between builders so it’s really important to understand what they are up front so you can factor them into your budget.
Know the builder’s warranty. Your builder should give you a copy of their warranty (often it’s electronic). You’ll want to read and understand what the build will cover after you move in.
Make Sure Your Priorities Align With Your Builder’s Priorities
There are dozens of builders to choose from in southern Delaware, and each one has its own set of priorities when it comes to building a home. Some builders are trying to build a house at the lowest cost possible. That’s great for people who have a smaller budget but still want a new house with some select finishes. For other builders, they want to build luxurious communities of houses that offer every bell and whistle. That’s great for folks with a big budget who want to live in that kind of high-end community.
At Aurora Homes, we believe our clients deserve a great home — not just a house — with a great design, at a great value. When we meet, we’ll talk about how we can start building a home that fits your life.
Want to learn more? Price your future home online right now or reach out! We’d love to chat about your future home in southern Delaware.