Purchasing a new construction home may seem like a scary thought, but we promise we work to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
Throughout the process, you'll probably hear these terms said but don't worry about trying to remember them to Google at home later; we're identifying some common new construction terms and what they mean!
Berm
A berm is a level space or raised barrier separating two areas. It can serve as a fortification line or a border/separation barrier.
Builder Warranty
A period of time in which the builder (in this case, us) will replace, repair, or fix certain elements in the home. Builder-backed warranties typically last for one to two years for materials and 10 years for structural components. It's important to read the warranty to know the exact terms of the warranty.
Building Codes
A set of rules established by a local or provincial government that regulate how a house can be built or modified.
Certificate of Occupancy
This certificate is issued by the local jurisdiction after all inspections of the home have been passed and meet code. The home cannot be occupied until a certificate of occupancy is issued.
Change Order
A written document usually at the request of the homebuyer to modify or change the original plan. In many cases, home-buyers can request a change order to modify the floor, add a feature to the home, or change one of the finishes. These requests will be made at your design appointments with your personal Dedicated Design Consultant.
Closing
This refers to the ownership of the property being transferred to the homebuyer; the final step in the process!
Conditions
A set of rules established by a developer or Homeowner’s Association that oversee the residences in a community. Some typical conditions can include restrictions on paint colors and on-street parking.
Encasement
On a construction site, encasement refers to sewers and other underground pipes may need to be enclosed in a concrete encasement for structural reasons.
Elevation
This refers to a two-dimensional drawing of the exterior faces of a building. It can also, at times, include features of the home that project flat surfaces such as cabinets and fireplaces. These are used as visual tools to show how the community will look. Typically, the builder will give the homebuyer options of different exterior elevations with the same or similar floor plans.
Grading
A technique used to adjust the slope of an area prior to building construction. Before a new structure is erected, evening out the surface through grading can provide a stronger, more even foundation.
HERS Rating
This rating identifies a home’s level of energy efficiency. The lower the score, the higher a home’s energy efficiency.
Lot
The area on which the home stands. The size of the lot will be pre-determined with the creation of the community and cannot be changed.
Partiwall
A partiwall is a dividing partition between two adjoining buildings that is shared by the occupants of each residence or business. Typically, the builder lays the wall along a property line dividing two terraced houses, so that one half of the wall's thickness lies on each side.
Walk-through
The walk-through is the final inspection of a home by the homebuyer with the builder's team for any possible last-minute items that need addressing. The walk-through takes place before the closing of the property.
