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If your builder won't allow you to add the cost of upgrades to your mortgage, consider applying for a Royal Credit Line® to pay for them. It's also good to have an approved Royal Credit Line as part of your contingency plan when you talk to your RBC Mortgage Specialist.
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Choosing a Builder
When you choose a builder, you entrust someone to deliver the best quality, value and service for the money you're spending. You'll need to do careful research, legwork and homework, but it's worth it, not only to protect your investment, but also to ensure that the home you get is the home you want.
The following tips can help you choose a reputable builder:
Review real estate booklets.
Seek out real estate booklets showcasing new homes in the area where you wish to live. In addition, check the local Home Builders' Association for builders in your area.
Visit builders' model homes and current work sites.
If a model home is not available, ask to see the home of a current client. When you tour the homes, look carefully at:
- The types of materials the builder uses
- The fixtures, including whether the brands are known for quality and if they carry warranties
- Details such as sound level, squeaks, fit of doors, cabinets and windows
- Finishing touches such as how clean the seams around doorways and baseboards are and whether the drywall and paint coverage is smooth and even
In a model home, you should see a builder's work at its best. If you find flaws, defects and shortcuts in a model home, you'll likely find them in your own as well.
Review the builders' designs-and ask the money questions.
- Do the designs make the best possible use of space?
- Will the builder make alterations to suit your needs, and if so, at what cost?
- How much did any upgrades in the model home cost?
- How does the builder expect to be paid for upgrades? Many builders request payment in full for upgrades when you order them, while others may accept half down when you order. A few may let you settle upgrade costs at closing.
Evaluate and consider builders' communication styles.
- Do they return calls promptly?
- Are they polite?
- Do they seem interested in your specific needs?
- Do they gladly take the time to answer all of your questions and develop a solution for your needs?
Chances are, the builders that treat you with respect and courtesy when you're "shopping around" will treat you the same way when you're a client.
Get references.
Ask previous clients about their good and bad experiences with their builder:
- Did the builder communicate issues and changes quickly, or were there too many surprises?
- Was everything completed on time or were some items unfinished at closing?
- How quickly did the builder fix issues after closing?
- Did the builder deliver upgrades as agreed, or did the builder make substitutions?
- Did they close on time?
- Would they recommend the builder to family and friends?
- Would they buy from the builder again?
- What would they do differently?
For more tips on choosing a builder, learn what questions to ask.
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