Purchasing a new construction home is an exciting journey. The allure of fresh paint, modern designs, and untouched spaces is hard to resist. However, amidst all the excitement, there’s one critical question you must answer before you make that decision: What else is going to be built in the area?
We’ll explore two compelling reasons why you need to know the answer to this question before you commit to buying a new construction home.
1. The Importance of Location:
One of the first things to consider when contemplating a new construction home is its location. New developments often sprout on the outskirts of cities, where there’s ample available land. While this can offer the allure of spacious living, it also means you might be farther away from the conveniences of city life.
Imagine having to commute for everyday needs like groceries, gas, restaurants, and entertainment. In high-growth areas, you’ll usually find that these amenities start cropping up as residential communities expand. Commercial investors wouldn’t invest in an area devoid of residents, after all. So, when you tour a potential community, ask yourself if you can envision a daily routine there. If essential services seem distant, it might signify slower growth or the initial stages of development in the area.
2. Protecting Your View:
The second reason to investigate what’s planned for the area surrounding your new construction home pertains to the lot you choose and the view you expect. Let me share a personal anecdote that illustrates this point. When I was 25, I fell in love with a neighborhood in San Antonio. I thought I had found the perfect lot with beautiful oak trees and picturesque hill country views. However, I decided to dig deeper and discovered that a massive shopping center was slated to be built behind my lot, obscuring my view with a superstore and a parking lot.
This experience taught me the importance of knowing what lies beyond your dream home. New construction developments usually have master plans that outline the entire project. When you visit a model home, don’t hesitate to ask the sales agent about the property behind your lot. Is it owned by the developer? Will there be more homes, a park, a drainage area, or a retention pond? Understanding this can protect your future view and ensure you’re comfortable with any planned developments.
Buying a new construction home is an exciting venture, but it’s not without its risks. The growth that initially attracts you to an area can also lead to unexpected changes in the future. However, this isn’t meant to dissuade you from making this choice. I’ve purchased several new construction homes myself and am currently building a new one.
The key is to be informed and work with an experienced agent who can ask the right questions on your behalf. Before you commit to a new construction home, make sure you have a clear picture of what’s in store for the area and your property. This knowledge will empower you to make an informed decision, ensuring that your dream home remains exactly as you envisioned it.
If you’re curious about specific new home communities or areas of growth in Austin, feel free to contact us and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
