15. Minimum Customer Walks

During the construction of your new home there should be several formally planned homebuilder and homebuyer interactions, or homebuyer walks. You should have at least four of these walks. There should be a check list to make sure all relevant topics are covered for that stage of construction.
They are;

Pre-Start/Lot Walk

Pre-Drywall walk

Buyer Introduction Walk

Buyer Acceptance

Each walk serves a purpose and is a good way to keep the homebuyer and the homebuilder on the same page.

The Lot Walk is where the homebuilder will show you how the home will sit on your lot. Driveway location will also be determined. You will also be shown water meter and sewer locations. You could even have a 'Plot Plan' at this stage. If you want to change your foundation location closer to the street or move it back, maybe even flip the home, now is the time to have that conversation. You might want to identify trees you are trying to save, this is the time to have and finish those conversations. You should also discuss the entire process. Time lines will be discussed and limits on what can be done will be set.

Pre-Drywall is where you get to review your low voltage locations, check any framing issues that might give you concern. You want to verify masonry selections, exterior paint colors, and most homebuilders will require you to have completed your interior selections. You will also check your phone, cable, and any computer wiring locations. Remember that once you complete this walk your home will become essentially two homes - one interior and one exterior. Weather will have an impact on the exterior schedule, but should have minimum effect on the interior finishing.

Buyer Intro Walk should be an introduction to your new home. This is 'NOT' suppose to be a punch out session even though there will be a formal list of corrections that should be made prior to your acceptance walk and closing. Your home should be finished and clean. The person doing the intro will explain your appliances, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and anything that operates. This walk could take as long as two hours, but most can be done in one to one-half hours. The home should look ready for move-in.

Buyer Acceptance is for you to sign off on the home being complete. During your intro you might of found some paint touch up or something that needed adjustment. You will check those items for completion and sign off the formal list generated during your intro walk. the customer service policy should be reiterated and you should be 'Welcomed to the Community'.

These planned meetings will hopefully give you confidence in the quality of your home. You also get to see the inner works and understand the complexities of new home construction. These walks will make the process less complex, more understandable and maybe make you more comfortable with something that just might be be largest purchase you have made.