If you’re buying new homes in Alliston or elsewhere, you should know what to look for to make sure you’ve made the right choice.  Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s perfect.

If you know what signs to look out for though, you won’t have any surprises once you’re settled.

Where the action happens

Out of all the rooms in your new home, the ones that should be scrutinized the most are where all the action happens.  No, it’s not the room you’re thinking of.  The rooms that see the most use in your home are the washroom and kitchen.  They’re also the ones that can rack up some pretty costly repair bills.

Let’s start with the kitchen.  It’s important to make sure your appliances are not only modern, but good.   Take the model names and do some research online.  Find out if anything comes with a warranty while you’re at it.  The more you know, the better off you’ll be.

The next thing you should do is follow the water.  Look at pipes and sinks and make sure there’s no leaking.  Then, look for any cracks or chipping in your tiles, tub, sink, stone and walls.  If they look like they’re in good shape, it’s time to talk maintenance.

Upkeep

Your house, even when it’s new, starts to wear down.  You don’t have to worry about this for years typically but if there’s a defect or damage, the process will be the same, if not worse than a used home.

The roof for instance, is definitely one place you can afford to be picky.  A bad or poorly set up roof can result in damage and leakage.  If you can, have a look and try to spot any abnormal shingles.

Besides the roof, you should have anything that controls climate or is key to the structure inspected.  This includes:

• Heater
• Air Conditioning
• Basement/Foundation
• Insulation

There are other potentially problematic areas you can inspect but another way you can protect yourself when buying new is in writing.

I hereby declare

Making sure your new digs are tip-top is definitely a good thing but you can’t neglect the little details.  One of the mistakes new homeowners often make is not understanding their agreements.  Have these legal documents looked over by legal professionals and you’ll be able to understand them clearly.

It pays off if your agreement gives a clean bill of health to aspects of your home that fall apart.  Now you’re covered.

Similarly, when inspecting your space, find an expert.  After that expert is through, find another one and get a second opinion.  Not only could you save money, you now have a more complete picture.

The key is to pause before signing off and settling in to your new property.  If you analyze everything and cover all the bases, you can rest easy knowing you made a safe investment, whether it’s homes for sale in Alliston or tucked away in a skyline.

Make the right choice, right away

Whether your buying new homes in Alliston or further out, keep your eyes open and make the decision that best suits your needs before your wants.

At Previn Court Homes, we know this decision is an important one, and we strive to create beautiful homes that will provide long term value.  Since our inception over 40 years ago, we have constructed in excess of 1500 homes in Canada, and in the process made the dreams of 1500 families come true.

Take a tour of our incredible models, or contact us today for more to let us know your needs in terms of bathrooms, bedrooms and budget.

Buying new homes in Alliston and elsewhere can be tricky if it’s your first time.  Paralysis by analysis is common and for good reason – there are tons of details to keep track of.  Sometimes though, knowing the most common things people do wrong is enough to keep you on the right track.

1.  Being a know-it-all

One of the typical things people get wrong on their first purchase is trying to do too much.  Real estate websites are increasingly detailed and it’s easy to forget what realtors are for with so much at your fingertips.

Markets are complex and only an agent guiding you through it can reveal subtle nuances that may not be reflected on the online price.  Turning your back on experience only leaves room for error.

2.  Not looking closely

Ignoring your home inspection is inviting nasty surprises, period.  Homes can be filled with deficiencies, either because the home is old or because it was built incorrectly.  As time goes on, components give in to wear and tear, requiring expensive repairs.

One of the biggest benefits of buying a new home is that it saves on all the maintenance.  No matter what you do, don’t skip the inspection unless you’re okay with the eventual repair bill.

3.  Being too understanding

New homeowners don’t actually realize how important they are.  Being okay with say, a delay on your home, isn’t something you should do.  Since roughly 2006, critical home dates are now part of the contract and purchasing agreement for your home.

This means it’s not okay for builders to string you along.  Don’t forget that if you’re slammed with a delay notice you’re entitled to ask for compensation for the extension or even back out.

You don’t want to be one of the many people who waited forever on a developer with no intention of finishing on time.

4.   Dotting I’s, Crossing T’s

The contracts and agreements are the most important components of your new purchase.  Don’t just give them a read. Legal advice can save you in situations like this.

When it comes to a new home, the builders have the right to change anything including floor plans, additions, features and even keep the real square footage a mystery.  It’s important that you get everything, yes, everything, in writing.

A lawyer can confirm what you’re actually getting and help make sure the details are accounted for with no random variables kicking around.

5.  Getting emotional

Don’t let your emotions get the better of you.  If a place seems great but it’s way over budget, don’t put your financial future in jeopardy.  If you’re taking a tour of the house, don’t ruin the seller’s impression of you by complaining about what you see.

Make the right choice, right away

Whether your’re buying new homes in Alliston or further out, keep your eyes open and make the decision that best suits your needs before your wants.

At Previn Court Homes, we know this decision is an important one, and we strive to create beautiful homes that will provide long term value.  Since our inception over 40 years ago, we have constructed in excess of 1500 homes in Canada, and in the process made the dreams of 1500 families come true.

Take a tour of our incredible models, or contact us today for more to let us know your needs in terms of bathrooms, bedrooms and budget.

The hour is nigh and you’re moving on, either into a newly built home or a space you need.  The trick is knowing when to invest.  It’s a lot easier if you keep an eye out for a few simple signs.

1.  You’re constantly renovating your home

If you’ve ever tried to re-do, modernize or expand your living space then you know how much of a headache it can be.  Not to mention the hit in the wallet, a reno is a long and messy affair.  The cost of a new home would be offset by the savings in maintenance, long term.

So before you get worked up and set up camp, think about the freedom you’d get from a new home:  Zero labour hours and a cheaper, modern place that you can actually custom order.

2.  You’re at a new stage in your life

Sometimes you get to a new stage in life and it’s time to change.  This can be upsizing, downsizing and everything in between.  A new home has the benefit of being easily customizable, reflecting where you want to be in life.

3.  Your family is growing

Families have a tendency of getting bigger over time.  You can only repurpose so many rooms before it starts feeling a little tight in there.  You can take advantage of having to look and find one that’s close to schools, doctors and anything else a growing family would need.

4.  Your kids have moved out

You’ve done your due diligence and the children have left the roost.  Staying in a home out of love is a quaint idea but you could be saving a lot more by moving into a new, energy efficient home.  The extra money is yours to do with as you please, giving you some nice elbowroom from then on forward.

5.  It’s getting expensive

How was your appointment with the contractor this month?  Expensive, I bet.  If repairing and maintaining becomes as routine as a trip to the doctor then you should consider stepping off the treadmill.  A switch to a new home means everything isn’t falling apart.

Maintenance savings aside, this is a great way to focus your attention elsewhere without having to constantly look at the ceiling or pipes with trepidation.

6.  The master plan

You know exactly what you want and a new home is part of it.  Homebuilders are always willing to do more for prospective buyers with a particular home in mind.  You can let loose and tweak your home so that it matches what you have in mind for the next phase of your life.

Whether a newly built home happens because you feel it in your gut, or it’s all part of your master plan, knowing when to take the plunge is as simple as recognizing the signs that the time is right.

Do any of these apply to you?

If you’ve decided that buying a home is the right choice for you, the next step is finding a home that’s the right fit for you.  Buying a home is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make in your life, which will impact how comfortable your family is both in the house and financially in the future.

At Previn Court Homes, we know this decision is an important one, and we strive to create beautiful homes that will provide long term value.  Since our inception over 40 years ago, we have constructed in excess of 1500 homes in Canada, and in the process made the dreams of 1500 families come true.

Take a tour of our incredible models, or contact us today for more to let us know your needs in terms of bathrooms, bedrooms and budget.

If you’re looking at Alliston homes for sale or got property on the mind, you’re no doubt asking yourself the age-old question:  Do I buy new or used?  Both options have been argued ‘till the cows come home but there are some things you just can’t get unless you go for a place that’s new and shiny.

1.  It’s Easier

A used home doesn’t have to be a real fixer-upper for it to need some work.  The fact is, older homes are decaying.  The building materials could be nearing the end of their lifespan and may need serious repairs.

This goes for wood and ceilings which often need work.  New homes don’t have this problem.  In new homes, things like flooring, carpeting and trim don’t need replacing.

2. More Comfort!

There’s something called the ‘building envelope’.  This is the combination of insulation, windows, materials and seals that keep conditioned air inside and it plays a huge role in how energy efficient your home is.

Newer homes are built to newer code and have to be far more efficient than was the standard before.  The materials and construction of your new home will no doubt make for a comfier space.

3.  It’s Safer

Newer homes really focus on safety with features like:

• Hard-wired smoke detectors with backup batteries
• Circuit protectors
• Safety glass
• Fire retardant flooring/carpeting
• Hazardous areas like stairs designed according to the latest building code

4.  Get It Your Way

One huge advantage of buying a new home is getting the chance to tweak it.  A lot of homebuilders will allow you to decide on layout, colours and even the location if they have various lots!

Short of building it yourself, this is as much freedom as you’re going to get.  In an old home you’d be looking at an expensive renovation.  Speaking of money…

5.  Avoid Breaking the Bank

Let’s talk financial latitude.  Homebuilders do a lot to make sure you close on the sale like offering flexible financing.   Besides mortgage perks and other incentives, there’s the wiggle room.

You’re less likely to convince someone who’s lived in a house for years that it’s worth less than they think it is.  Big homebuilders are less concerned with making a few concessions and dropping the price by thousands because they don’t take as hard a hit.

6.  Peace of Mind

It’s hard to put a price on knowing that you’re making a safe investment.  Quality is always a concern with an old home and no matter how good the home inspection looks there are some issues that are almost guaranteed to come out of thin air.

Ready to Move into Your New Home?

When it comes to the best return on your investment, buying a brand new home is going to ensure that you end up with an entity that will have increased value in the future.  At Previn Court Homes, we know that home buyers are looking for a residence that will make them feel both physically and financially comfortable.  Learn more about our beautiful affordable new homes to buy, or contact us to register for priority updates and special offers, and find the perfect home for your budget.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? MORTGAGE RATES ARE EXTREMELY LOW.  BUYING A HOME IS MORE AFFORDABLE THAN EVER. BANK OF MONTREAL HAS A 3 YEAR FIXED MORTGAGE AT 2.14%. NOT ONLY THAT, WHEN YOU BUY A NEW PREVIN COURT HOME, BANK OF MONTREAL WILL GUARANTEE YOUR RATE FOR 18 MONTHS. NOW THAT’S PEACE OF MIND, KNOWING THAT THE RATES WON’T GO UP FOR THAT LONG OF TIME PERIOD, PLUS IF THE RATES GO DOWN WITHIN THE 18 MONTHS YOU WILL RECEIVE THE LOWER RATE. BMO WILL ALSO OFFER AN EVEN BETTER RATE WITH A QUICK 90 DAY CLOSING. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS SWEET DEAL. CONTACT OUR MORTGAGE SPECIALISTS FOR FUTHER DETAILS.                                                                     

MICHAEL WOLLENBERG: TOLL FREE 1-800-316-1432, CELL 705-345-0073, E-MAIL Michael.wollenber@bmo.com

DONNA WISEMAN: 705-326-3731 CELL 705-345-0073 E-MAIL donna.wiseman@bmo.com                         

PLEASE  FOLLOW ALONG TO  THE AMAZING  BLOG BELOW.  JUST COPY AND PASTE THE LINK INTO YOUR BROWSER.  ANOTHER HAPPY PURCHASER WITH THEIR AFFORDABLE BRICK AND STONE HOME BY PREVIN COURT HOMES IN OUR VICTORIAN VILLAGE COMMUNITY – ALLISTON.  IMAGINE…  A COMMUNITY FILLED WITH AMENITIES JUST STEPS AWAY… GIBSON TRAILS, EXISTING SCHOOLS AT OUR SUBDIVISION, SHOPS, RESTAURANTS, RECREATION CENTRE, PARKS…

http://allistonwonderland.blogspot.ca/

We, at Previn Court Homes are excited to announce the release of 3 New Spectacular Designs to add to our 32′ Collection.  These homes will a have 16′ Wide Garage with One Large Steel Insulated Garage Door, Choice of Elevation at No extra cost, Double 8′ High Front Doors with Choice of Decorative 3/4 Glass Insert, 9′ Ceilings, Rounded Corners…and of course our Standard Brick and Stone. The Yorkshire being 2070 sq ft 3 bedroom with computer/office area on the second floor $394,900. The Kingston is 2130 sq ft 3 bedroom home with large master bedroom with retreat/office/den $394,900. Our final New Design is 3000+ sq ft. It is called The Sutton. The Sutton is a 3 story, has 4 bedrooms all with walk-in closets, 3.5 Bathrooms, 2nd floor Sunken Family Room…superbly ideal for the growing family.  They also come with $5,000 Décor dollars to use towards, perhaps upgrading tiles, cabinets…you decide.  Closings for these amazing designs would be Fall 2015 – January 2016.  

Please contact us Sharon and Giovanna and we will gladly send you information. previncourt_alliston98@rogers.com   

Buying a home is a big step in the right direction. However, if you’re buying a home in Alliston, you should follow the ten steps below to make sure you’re ready to buy the perfect home.

1. Get your money and credit situation together before you do anything else

A big part of buying a home in Alliston is being able to pay for it in the first place; unless you have a massive hoard of cash sitting around, you will need a mortgage.

In order to increase your chances of getting approved — and to get lower rates — you need to maximize your credit rating and show some stability for your personal finances (this means refraining from moving your money around too much).

2. Get a pre-approval before you shop

Knowing how much a lender will loan you in the first place will help you establish a concrete budget that will clearly define what homes you can afford.

3. Make sure that your property lines are clearly defined

You don’t want a dispute with your neighbors over ill-defined property lines, so make sure that you find out exactly where they are.

4. Understand that ‘timing the market’ does not work

The real estate market does not have ‘optimal shopping periods.’ That is a myth (you cannot anticipate when and how the market is going to change) so don’t bother waiting around for a specific time frame to shop.

5. Assess what you will have to pay in addition to your mortgage

HOA fees, condo fees and property taxes can blindside an unsuspecting homeowner. Make sure that you find out what these are and see if they will fit your monthly budget.

6. Don’t make an emotional purchase

It is easy to fall in love with a house for reasons that you cannot fully understand. Do not make the mistake of purchasing a home based on these feelings, because once that romanticized view fades, you will discover that the purchase wasn’t very practical.

7. Have a look around the neighborhood

When buying a home in Alliston, you aren’t just moving into a house. You are becoming a part of a community, so make sure that you will feel comfortable living in the area.

8. Get your home professionally inspected

A home that is cosmetically perfect can have some serious underlying issues; the only way to find out is to have it inspected by a professional.

9. Don’t go for more than what you really need

Many home buyers make the mistake of purchasing a home because it has a lot of square footage with plenty of extra amenities. However, if you are not using those amenities, you will regret spending the extra tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars they costed.

10. Make an offer based on the facts

An offer should be based on two factors: your budget and how much you think the house is worth. Do not let anything else influence your decision.

Buying a new home is an exciting, life changing experience. However, just like buying a used car, you need to take a closer look at the home before you make a purchase. Here are 10 of the most important things that you need to check before buying a home:

1. Make sure all windows work

Window replacements can be expensive. To make sure that you won’t have to worry about dealing with a window replacement at an inopportune time, make sure that they work before buying a new home.

2. Run the heating and cooling system

A broken heater or a cooling system is a big problem. As such, it is imperative that you make sure that both the heating and cooling systems work.

3. Look under the carpets

Carpets absorb a lot of moisture and they are prime locations to foster mold and mildew growth; mold can make a house unsafe to live in. You cannot always tell whether or not a carpet has suffered mold damage by looking at its surface, so be sure to lift it up and look underneath of it.

4. Check the walls for water damage

Water is the most destructive force that a home can encounter. When water invades parts of a home, it can do so much damage that entire walls will need to be replaced. As such, it is important that you keep an eye out for water stains and corrosion.

5. Open the cabinets

Mold and mildew love to hide inside of cabinets, so be sure to take a good look inside the home’s cabinets.

6. Look for large cracks

Extremely long or wide cracks could signal some serious structural problems. If you see cracks, have a qualified inspector take a look before purchasing the home.

7. Check the electrical panel

Damaged wires and missing connections not only signal electrical problems within a home, but they are also a fire hazard. That is why it is important for you to open the electrical panel and make sure that everything is okay.

8. Make sure that the plumbing works

If your plumbing doesn’t, then you could have a big, expensive problem on your hands. Make sure that your faucets are running and all of your toilets flush with no problem.

9. Inspect the home’s downpipes

You need to make sure that your storm drains work properly, because if they don’t, it could lead to flooding. Storm water soak wells, a critical part of a storm drain system, are very expensive to replace, so pay close attention to these.

1. Be on the lookout for sagging ceilings

A sagging ceiling could signal problems ranging from improperly installed insulation to major water damage. Make sure to look out for this before buying a new home.