The Ultimate New Construction Homebuyer Checklist

Everything You Need to Know Before Closing on a Brand-New Home

Buying a brand-new home is exciting — whether it’s move-in ready, under construction, or fully custom. But even new homes come with their own set of steps, inspections, and decisions. This checklist will help you navigate the process with confidence, protect your investment, and enjoy a smooth path to move-in day.

1. Know What Type of New Construction You’re Buying

There are three types of new construction homes:

  • Spec Home: Already built or nearly complete. Finishes and layout are already selected by the builder.
  • Semi-Custom Home: Under construction, but you may still have options for design choices like flooring, countertops, and paint.
  • Custom Home: Built from scratch, often on a buyer-owned lot. You choose almost everything from the ground up.

Each type has different timelines, decisions, and builder processes. Ask your builder exactly what stage the home is in and what selections (if any) are still available.

 2. Review Contracts and Key Documents Carefully

Builder contracts are often different from standard real estate contracts. Make sure to review:

  • Builder Purchase Agreement (may favor the builder — read carefully)
  • Inclusions & Selections Sheet (what’s included vs optional upgrades)
  • Community Covenants or HOA Rules (fees, restrictions, responsibilities)
  • New Construction Disclosure Forms
  • Builder Warranty Coverage

 3. Schedule a Professional Home Inspection

Yes, you should always get an independent inspection — even on a brand-new home.

Recommended inspection types:

  •  Pre-Drywall Inspection (if the home is early enough in the build)
  • Final Inspection Before Closing (most important!)
  • 11-Month Warranty Inspection (before the builder’s 1-year warranty expires)

Even brand-new homes can have problems like improper drainage, miswired outlets, HVAC issues, or incomplete finishes. An independent inspector works for YOU — not the builder.

 

4. Attend Your Final Walkthrough (Blue Tape Walk)

This is your opportunity to carefully inspect the home before closing and create a punch list of anything that needs to be fixed or finished.

Bring:

  • Painter’s tape (blue tape) to mark cosmetic issues
  • Your home inspection report (if completed)
  • A checklist to test lights, outlets, windows, appliances, HVAC, doors, water, etc.

Make sure all agreed-upon repairs and features are completed before closing.

5. Understand the Builder’s Warranty

Most reputable builders offer warranties like:

  • 1-Year for workmanship and materials
  • 2-Year for mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
  • 10-Year for structural components

Ask for:

  • written warranty document
  • Clear instructions for how to file a warranty claim
  • Contacts for post-closing customer service

6. Know Your Financing or Cash Purchase Steps

  • If paying cash: Confirm closing schedule and wire transfer instructions with title company
  • If using a mortgage: Work closely with your lender and stay in sync with the builder’s timeline
  • Builder incentives: Ask about closing cost help or rate buydowns if using their preferred lender

Also arrange:

  • Homeowners insurance policy
  • Utility service transfer
  • Final settlement statement review

7. Plan for a Smooth Closing Day

Before you get the keys:

  • Complete your final walkthrough
  • Confirm all agreed repairs are complete
  • Get a copy of your Certificate of Occupancy
  • Receive all appliance manuals, warranties, and builder documentation
  • Schedule your move-in and utility start dates

 8. After Move-In Tips

  • Keep a binder with all receipts, manuals, and warranty info
  • Register appliances for extended warranties (if applicable)
  • Document any issues with photos or notes
  • Schedule your 11-month inspection to address warranty concerns before coverage expires

Final Thought

Buying a new construction home is a major milestone — and with the right checklist, you can avoid surprises and ensure your home is move-in ready from day one. A trusted real estate advisor can help guide you through every step, ask the right questions, and advocate for your best interest — especially when working directly with a builder.

 

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Discover the BEST of Stone Harbor Lakes NV Homes for Sale in 2025

Welcome to Stone Harbor Lakes, the premier new community redefining luxury living at the Jersey Shore!

In this video, I take you on an exclusive on-site and virtual tour of why Stone Harbor Lakes truly is the BEST new community in Cape May Court House, New Jersey.

Nestled within the picturesque Stone Harbor Golf Club, this exclusive neighborhood features just 19 estate-style single-family homes built by NV Homes. Imagine living just 5 miles from the pristine Stone Harbor Beach and the vibrant shops and restaurants along 96th Street!

Stone Harbor Lakes is designed for the ultimate resort-style coastal living.

Whether you’re seeking a year-round residence or a sophisticated second home, Stone Harbor Lakes offers the perfect blend of luxury, low-maintenance living, and an unparalleled coastal lifestyle.

First Look! $135,000 affordable 55+ Living In Cape May Court House!

Looking for affordable 55+ living at the Jersey Shore? Check out this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home in the Park View Mobile Home Community located in Cape May Court House, NJ. Priced at just $135,000, this home features a spacious sunroom, patio, shed, and an eat-in kitchen—all in a convenient location near shopping, medical facilities, and beaches.

 

🏠 Built in 1997

🛏️ 2 Bedrooms

🛁 1 Bath

🌞 Large Sunroom

🛠️ Outdoor Shed & Patio

📍 Year-Round 55+ Community

💲 Listed at $145,000

 

Whether you’re downsizing, retiring, or just want a peaceful place to call home, this could be the perfect fit!

Charming 4-Bedroom Home for Sale in Somers Point, NJ | 55 Bucknell Road | Close to Ocean City!

Welcome to your dream home at 55 Bucknell Road, Somers Point, NJ! This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath house offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a desirable coastal community. 🏡✨

Key Features:

4 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms: Spacious, light-filled rooms with modern updates.
Updated Kitchen: Sleek cabinetry, ample counter space, and contemporary appliances.
Three-Season Sunroom: Enjoy your mornings and evenings in this wonderful space overlooking the backyard.
1 Car Garage: Extra storage and protection for your vehicle.
Ideal Location: Located in Somers Point, a vibrant community with excellent schools, parks, dining, and shopping options.
Proximity to Ocean City: Enjoy the tranquil, relaxed environment of Somers Point while being just a short drive from the bustling beaches and boardwalk of Ocean City, NJ.
Why Choose Somers Point?
Somers Point offers a close-knit community feel, more affordable living, and easy access to local amenities without the tourist crowds of Ocean City. It’s the best of both worlds!

📞 For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact Matthew Haviland at Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore:

Phone: 609-338-3773
Website: http://www.promptagents.com
Subscribe to our channel for more amazing property listings and real estate tips! Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Share this video if you know someone looking for their perfect home. 🌟

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Matthew Haviland
You’re Real Estate Consultant For Life!

My name is Matthew Haviland. I’m a Realtor based out of South Jersey and my team and I also serve PA and DE. I’ve been helping home buyers sellers and investors make their dreams come true since 2005. My channel features home tours, community information, new homes and real estate advice. Please subscribe and share my videos. I appreciate the support. Our Mission is that we help people achieve the highest quality of life through buying and selling real estate.

Here are some popular playlists to check out:
55+ Communities
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXUuLE-S_yhtw37EJxJM2Arn
Home Tours
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXW_hryVlgSR0622ydS3PRzk
New Construction Homes
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXXsH_HKJoX-iZmzbKXznziz

Please like this video and subscribe for more South Jersey Real Estate updates!

Download My Ad-Free Property Search App Today!
https://PROMPTagents.com
https://sjhouses.com
609-338-3773 Cell 609-484-9890 ext 132.  Office
PROMPT | Keller Williams Realty 
Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore

This video is intended for entertainment purposes only. This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical, legal, financial or tax advice. Any and all decisions and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a qualified physician, attorney, financial advisor and/or CPA. We cannot be held responsible for actions you may take without proper medical, financial, legal or tax advice. Information is current at the time of the filming of this video but is subject to change. Contact me to verify any information in the video to ensure that it is still current. Included features and prices are subject to change. Thanks for watching!

Discover K. Hovnanian’s Sea Oaks 55+ Community @LBI National Golf Course in Little Egg Harbor, NJ

Welcome to K. Hovnanian’s Sea Oaks, an exclusive 55+ community in Little Egg Harbor, NJ! Nestled near the Jersey Shore, this vibrant community offers luxurious living with a range of modern amenities and beautiful homes. In this video, we explore everything Sea Oaks has to offer, from its prime location and community features to the adjacent LBI National Golf Course.

🏡 Community Highlights:

State-of-the-art community center with a fitness center and pools
Diverse social and recreational activities
Beautifully designed single-family homes ranging from the mid $300,000s to low $500,000s
⛳ LBI National Golf Course:

18-hole championship course designed by Stephen Kay
Stunning fairways, bunkers, and water features
Impressive clubhouse with a pro shop, restaurant, and bar
Comfortable on-site lodging options

Whether you’re looking for an active lifestyle, relaxation, or a bit of both, Sea Oaks is the perfect place to enjoy the best years of your life. Watch the video to discover the unique blend of luxury and recreation at Sea Oaks and the LBI National Golf Course.

📞 Contact Us:
Interested in learning more? Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the Sea Oaks lifestyle for yourself. We look forward to welcoming you home!

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#SeaOaks #55PlusCommunity #LittleEggHarborNJ #Khovnanian #GolfCourseLiving #ActiveAdultLiving #LBI #LuxuryHomes #RealEstate #RetirementLiving #LBI NationalGolfCourse

Matthew Haviland
You’re Real Estate Consultant For Life!

My name is Matthew Haviland. I’m a Realtor based out of South Jersey and my team and I also serve PA and DE. I’ve been helping home buyers sellers and investors make their dreams come true since 2005. My channel features home tours, community information, new homes and real estate advice. Please subscribe and share my videos. I appreciate the support. Our Mission is that we help people achieve the highest quality of life through buying and selling real estate.

Here are some popular playlists to check out:
55+ Communities
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXUuLE-S_yhtw37EJxJM2Arn
Home Tours
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXW_hryVlgSR0622ydS3PRzk
New Construction Homes
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLui8KhofwAXXsH_HKJoX-iZmzbKXznziz

Please like this video and subscribe for more South Jersey Real Estate updates!

Download My Ad-Free Property Search App Today!
https://PROMPTagents.com
https://sjhouses.com
609-338-3773 Cell 609-484-9890 ext 132.  Office
PROMPT | Keller Williams Realty 
Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Shore

This video is intended for entertainment purposes only. This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical, legal, financial or tax advice. Any and all decisions and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a qualified physician, attorney, financial advisor and/or CPA. We cannot be held responsible for actions you may take without proper medical, financial, legal or tax advice. Information is current at the time of the filming of this video but is subject to change. Contact me to verify any information in the video to ensure that it is still current. Included features and prices are subject to change. Thanks for watching!