10 tips for new home buyers

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Choosing a home to fit your lifestyle, determining what you can afford, and researching your builder are just three ways to make your home buying purchase less stressful

Buying a home is the single biggest purchase most of us will ever make and, as with most important purchases, it is vital to do your homework to ensure your new home fits your lifestyle and meets your expectations.

An important part of this preparation process is to learn more about all the benefits and resources available through Alberta New Home Warranty program.

1. Choose the type of home that meets your lifestyle
Read the real estate section of your local paper for information about new developments. Also, check out builders' websites for photos and floor plans.

2. Determine what you can afford
Once you've chosen the location and type of home that fits your needs, meet with a financial representative to determine a mortgage amount that you can comfortably afford. This ensures that you spend your time wisely on homes within your price range. You should also consider getting a pre-approved mortgage, which will allow you to shop with added confidence.

3. Research your builder
Ask the builder what associations they are member off. Many of these associations have strict standards of business conduct.

4. Attend educational seminars
These useful seminars are designed to help you learn from industry professionals about the new home buying process.

5. Talk with a real estate lawyer
It's important that you meet with a real estate or condominium lawyer before signing an Agreement of Purchase and Sale to make sure you understand exactly what is and is not included in the price of your new home.

6. Read the Homeowner Information Package
Take the time to review theInformation Package, which your builder will give to you before or during the pre-delivery inspection for your new home.

7. Prepare for your Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
Be prepared for the pre-delivery inspection (PDI). It's your chance to do a thorough inspection of your new home to identify any items that are incomplete, damaged, missing or not operating properly, and have them taken care of before you move in. This is also a prime opportunity to ensure that everything has been built according to your Agreement of Purchase and Sale.

8. Become familiar with the new home warranty and submit forms on time (usually done by builder) Make sure that the builder provides you with copies of your warranty.

9. Maintain your home through the seasons
You've made a big investment in your home, so you should take care of it year-round. It's important to remember that ongoing maintenance helps to ensure that your statutory warranty is protected. So, after you've moved in, follow an annual maintenance routine and help keep your new home in top shape.

10. Enjoy all your new home has to offer
You've done a lot of research, decision-making and waiting by the time your reach this point. Now it's time to enjoy all the wonderful things your new home has to offer.

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