Ready to build a new home, but not sure where to start? Then this article is just for you, the future buyer of a new construction home in Michigan. We will share with you some basic first steps you can take to begin the new construction home buying process in the Canton, Michigan market.

Step 1: Research is Your First Key

Most home buyers are new to the new construction home buying market. If you fall into this camp, the most important first step you can take is to know how the process works. And that means doing some research. (The Internet will become your new best friend!) Your first search should not be related to the style of house you’re looking for or even the specific location where you want to live, but should be about understanding the process for building a new home.

You may need to invest a little time up front to learn the ins and outs of the new home buying process, but by doing so, you’ll save yourself a lot of time, frustration and dollars down the road. Start by downloading our free e-book on new construction homes in Michigan and working your way through it.

Step 2: Find the Right Builder

Finding the right builder is the second key to your new home. Don't forget, the Internet is your new best friend throughout this process! As simple as it sounds, the best place to start when searching for a reputable Michigan home builder is to go online and "Google" it. For best results, be specific with your search terms. For example, use search terms like “home builder in Canton, Michigan.” Many options should appear, and generally companies with the highest ratings will be listed first. 

You will then need to research more thoroughly the home builders that look and sound good to you. Check ratings across platforms and make sure you review customer testimonials to get a first-hand account of previous clients' experiences working with your perspective builder. Finding the right builder will make all the difference in the world in the building process and your enjoyment of your new home. Selecting an experienced, reputable, hands on and customer service-oriented builder means that you can relax and enjoy the home building process by relying upon your builder to help you through it. For more details on how to find the right builder, be sure to read our article Finding a Reputable Michigan Home Builder Online.

Step 3: Find the Right Lender

Toward the beginning of the process you will also want to find a good mortgage lender. A good lender can help you find the right loan, with the best rates, terms and costs to meet your individual needs. In addition, a lender can also help you determine how much house you can afford. In other words, they can help you figure out how much of a loan you can carry and down payment can you afford to make.

If you don't know a reputable lender, new home builders can often recommend one or more. In fact, if you have already chosen a Michigan builder, using one of the builder's preferred lenders can have the additional benefit of helping to streamline the loan process and reduce the burden on you due to the direct collaboration between the builder and lender.

Step 4: Get it in Writing

Jumping ahead, and while this probably goes without saying, get it in writing! Once you have selected a builder and decided upon what you want to build, make sure everything you have agreed to is clearly set forth in writing, including any special offers extended to you, upgrades, and/or deviations from the builder's standard home. Also be sure to read your builder's fine print before signing any contract. It is important to understand all of the additional terms and conditions in the contract. If you have an in-person conversation with your builder to make modifications or add anything else after the contract is signed, make sure it is followed up with a writing (i.e., an e-mail, change order, amendment to your contract). This procedural precaution protects all parties and ensures you get exactly what you bargained for in the end. 

Conclusion

Once you have done your research on the home building process, found a builder and a lender, and signed a contract on the dotted line, you will be well on your way to turning your dream home into a reality.