However, building a new home involves many aspects that tend to go overlooked. Make sure to avoid these common home building mistakes so you can be sure you’re getting the house you’re dreaming of:

1. Not paying attention to the details

Many details and decisions go into building your new home, even if you’re purchasing your home from a selection of pre-designed layouts. Choosing the layout is just the first step. You may need to consider larger details, all the way down to the smallest items like the hardware on your kitchen cupboards. No detail should be overlooked, otherwise you risk regretting some of your decisions when it comes to move-in day.

2. Being passive about your decisions

While some decisions may come more easily to you than others (like the colour of the kitchen cabinets or the type of flooring in your bathroom), others may require a little more thought. You may not have previously considered what type of handles you want on your home’s interior doors, but it’s important that you don’t just choose the first thing you see — take some time to think about what you really like and what will function well for you and your family.

3. Cutting corners to save money

Your home could be the biggest investment you make in your lifetime, so you want it to last and maintain its value. Cutting corners during the initial build process could mean that certain features and areas of your home begin to break down prematurely. Be sure to do your research when it comes to your building company and choose a reputable home builder with a proven record of high-quality homes, not the cheapest option you can find.

4. Not establishing a budget with a buffer

In any construction project, it’s important to be prepared for unforeseen issues and circumstances that may require extra expenses from the homeowner. Some contractors don’t include this buffer in the total cost of your home, which means you will have to ensure that you have some money left over in your budget to cover these potential issues.

5. Not choosing the right builder

Choosing the right builder is more than just how much your home will cost. Reliable and reputable builders will be able to provide you with important information, whether on their website or in-person, that will help you decide if they’re the right builder for you.

Consider asking your builder:

• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have referrals?
• What are your options when it comes to adding to existing floor plans?
• Does your home come with a warranty?
• Can some of the rooms in your home be left unfinished (like the basement)?
• Is there any landscaping included in the cost?
• Are they insured and licensed?

You may also want to consider driving through their previously-built subdivisions and communities to see what their work looks like.

Could Sinclair Construction’s Westwood Trails community be your new home? Learn more about this exciting new development of luxury bungaloft townhomes in Simcoe.

The post Mistakes To Avoid When Building A Home appeared first on Sinclair Homes.

For many retirees, this phase of life can mean moving somewhere new and exciting. If you are planning to downsize and relocate we have three tips to help you make this a success:

Consider a location that fits with your ideal lifestyle

Before moving, consider where you want to be and how you want to spend your time in retirement. We suggest asking yourself the following questions:

• Do you want to be close to family?
• Are you looking to be in a large city centre, or a smaller town?
• Do you want to have access to activities, privacy, or the best of both?
• Do you want to be surrounded by people your own age, or a mix of retirees and families?

Considering these types of questions will help you narrow down your options. Downsizing and relocating can be an emotional process, so you want to make your move rewarding.

Calculate the cost of selling and buying

Remember, even if you plan to purchase a smaller home, it does not necessarily mean it will cost less than your current place. The location of your new home will have a huge impact on price.

For example, a small apartment in a large city could cost millions, while a larger home in a smaller town could cost half the price. One of the benefits of relocating is that you can remain close to your current city but spend less on a new home. This can be especially important in retirement when you have a set income coming in.

If you are hoping to make money by selling your current home and then downsizing, make sure to ask your realtor how much it will cost to sell your home. Costs include closing fees, legal fees, moving costs, and more. Keeping these selling costs in mind, you will want to consider buying a property that the profits will cover, or at least help you come in under budget.

Review your floor plan

Whether you have decided on a new home or are in the consideration stages, we suggest that you review the floor plan. By studying the floor plan you can determine if you have the space you desire, and map out where your personal items will go. By pre-arranging your personal items and furniture, you will be able to determine what you will not need to move from your old home — this will help with a smoother cleanout of your old home and make for an easier move to your new home.

If you are considering a new build home, you will typically have the option to choose from a few floor plans and the ability to customize some design elements. When working directly with a builder, you can express particular lifestyle elements you want incorporated, like low and wide doorways, or a single-level floor plan. If you are planning to make this move your final home, make sure you get exactly what you want — you deserve it.

As one of Ontario’s leading home builders, we understand that planning for retirement is an overwhelming but exciting time. We are committed to supporting people in each new stage of life, and will create a home that is customized for your lifestyle.

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The post Tips For Downsizing & Relocating In Retirement appeared first on Sinclair Homes.

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The post An Exciting New Community In Simcoe! appeared first on Sinclair Homes.

Buying a new home is an exciting time. To help ensure that your expectations are met, here are three important tips to consider when buying a new home:

1. Review the surrounding homes and neighbourhood

Naturally, many homebuyers focus on the exterior and interior of their new home. However, it is just as important to focus on where your home is located and what will surround it.

New and pre-construction homes allow you to select your lot — so make sure you try to imagine, or map out, where the other homes will be located.

Take into account the following questions:

• How close will your neighbours be?
• Will your bedroom window look onto your neighbours’ bathroom window?
• What will be just outside your subdivision?
• Are there schools or other amenities close by?

Your home is important but where it will be located is just as important, so make sure you love all of it.

2. Confirm what is included and what is considered an upgrade

One of the many benefits of buying a new home is that you can discuss the building details of your home directly with the builder. However, make sure you confirm what is included in your plan, and clarify what will be considered and charged as an upgrade.

When you are shown a model home or showroom version, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of what your new home will look like. Make sure to set aside time to discuss what details you want included in your home so the builder can let you know what is part of your build and what will have to be included as an upgrade.

• Do you want a finished basement?
• Is a walk-in shower considered standard in the build package you have decided on?
• What sort of kitchen countertop were you hoping for?
• If you change your mind about your choice of tile, are you able to switch without penalty?

You deserve the home of your dreams, but it’s important that your dreams are a viable reality. Make sure to have your questions prepared so your builder can deliver your new home to you with the inclusions you want.

3. Ask About the Completion Clause

When purchasing a new construction, you have to work with the builder’s timelines. Many builders will let you know ahead of time when the estimated date of completion is expected, but make sure this is confirmed in writing.

You have the right to discuss the completion date with your builder to ensure that it coincides with your needs. A completion clause should also include a cancellation or refund clause, in case the builder does not complete the new home by the specified promised date.

A new home is a large investment and one you must protect. Working with a reputable builder guarantees that your needs and expectations are at the top of the list throughout the process.

If you have any questions, or want to learn more about new build projects, contact Warren D. Sinclair today!

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The post 3 Important Tips When Buying A New Home appeared first on Sinclair Homes.