The thrill of building a brand new home from scratch is immense!  It is an exciting process from walking into a show home, looking at available lots, area structure plans and house plans. You are indeed becoming the architect of your own real estate destiny, with long term benefits in any housing market. 

The process is sequential and there are definite builder timelines, but overall it will take from 8-12 months to completion. Here are the steps:

1. Finding a reputable builder.

There are many buiders to choose from, but having evidence of a good reputation in the local market is very important, from a standpoint of 'peace of mind' and a positive experience. Established home builders may have a 'monopoly' in the market but they also provide consistency in design, quality and craftsmanship. reputable builders will also hire experienced sales staff who have the expertise to service clients accordingly. 

2. Choosing a new sub-division.

Different sub-divisions will have specific 'criteria' or themes incorporated into the sub-division plan.  This makes it very easy to choose your best areas. For instance, walk-out lots backing onto ponds will be different from higher density multi-family housing. Higher densification is trendy with easy access to many amenities and is highly desirable to many home buyers.  Should you require a detached single family home, with a legal basement suite as well as a garden/garage suite then your lot options become narrower. Specific permits have to be granted for each building type. 

3. Comparative Analysis

It is important to compare different builders, similar product types, quality and prestige of the finished product and pricing per square foot. Also what are the re-sales like in these areas?  Is there a high turnover of properties within a 6 month period and why? 

4. Short term & Long term Goals

A real estate purchase is also an investment opportunity.  Buying solely as a revenue generator over the long term , or building to reside on the property will determine how you will strategise your investment. Building for investment only will focus on financial aspects, whereas building for a primary residence will usually incorporate more aesthetic elements and pride of ownership for the purpose of 'impressing' others to some extent. 

Overall there are many facets to building a home. For most clients it is a learning curve, and they learn each step of the way. Having a local expert in the fields of New construction and Real Estate can assist you with product knowledge, and perhaps sidestepping hurdles along the way; however the final choices is always yours!