What Happens From Contract to Closing on a New Construction Home?

What Happens From Contract to Closing on a New Construction Home?
A simple overview of the major milestones between signing a new-construction contract and receiving the keys.

Signing the construction or purchase agreement is the beginning of the project, not the end of the decisions. Understanding the major milestones makes the process easier to follow. The journey from new construction contract to closing involves several key steps.

1. Contract and Financing

The buyer and builder finalize the home, lot, price, included specifications, allowances if applicable, deposit requirements, and financing obligations. Read deadlines carefully.

2. Plan and Selection Confirmation

Structural choices should be identified early. Cabinets, exterior materials, plumbing, electrical, flooring, paint, tile, and other selections are scheduled according to when the construction team needs them.

3. Permits and Pre-Construction

Permit documents, site information, engineering when required, utility coordination, and other pre-construction tasks are completed before work begins.

4. Construction

The project moves through site work, foundation, framing, roofing, mechanical rough-ins, insulation, drywall, cabinets, trim, paint, flooring, fixtures, exterior completion, and final details.

5. Change Orders

If you request work beyond the contract, the additional cost and effect on schedule should be documented.

6. Inspections and Certificate of Occupancy

Required inspections occur throughout the build. Final approvals lead to the certificate of occupancy when the home is ready for legal occupancy.

7. Closing

For Chris Brown Homes purchase agreements, possession occurs when the certificate of occupancy is issued, with closing required within the timeframe stated in the agreement. Buyers should rely on their signed contract for the exact terms that apply to their home. Understanding the process from new construction contract to closing is essential for a smooth transition.

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