The Complete Guide to Buying a Model Home in Minnesota
Model homes have an important place in real estate. For builders, they’re a great way of promoting different models, floor plans, finishes and amenities. For prospective buyers, they offer an opportunity to engage with the home and surrounding community — in a way that listings simply can’t replicate.
But what exactly is a model home? Simply put, model homes exist to showcase a builder’s work. Minnesota model homes are often featured in new developments as a way of selling lots, partially built and to-be-built homes. Some builders, such as Norton Homes, include nearly every available amenity in their model homes, while others construct baseline models to achieve a lower price point.
Sometimes, you’ll find model homes for sale in Minnesota. A builder’s willingness to sell one of their model homes depends on the status of the surrounding development, and what other model homes they have available.
If you’re wondering how to buy a model home from a builder, the process is no different than a standard home sale. However, some builders don’t accept contingencies, meaning there is no backing out of the contract if your current home doesn’t sell. Contingency is just one of the many factors to consider. Here are some other questions to ask when buying a model home:
Why Purchase a Model Home?
There are several advantages to buying a model home — especially when compared to custom or to-be-built homes.
Unless built as a baseline model, model homes are typically loaded with amenities, such as high-end features and upgraded finishes. In order to represent the most favorable experience for guests, they’re usually situated in a desirable location within the development. These lots are often more appealing than the ones left unsold as the neighborhood starts to fill up.
Most importantly to some, model houses are move-in ready. This means you don’t have to wait the 6-12 months (on average) for your house to be constructed.
What Are the Potential Drawbacks?
Model homes see a lot of activity, leading to some additional wear and tear. Unlike other new homes, model homes host countless open houses and tours, and are often fully staged to feel more homey. This can cause scuffs, scratches, dents and other minor damages. However, most reputable builders will repair these damages before the sale is finalized.
Another potential issue with model homes is the lack of customization. When building your own home, you can usually choose your finishes and request larger modifications. Custom home builders like Norton Homes will give you even greater flexibility, completely catering the design to your needs. Model homes are a different story, however, as they’re already finished.
If you’re interested in making changes to a model home from Norton Homes, it may be possible to accommodate your needs. Contact the Norton team for more information.
What Should You Inspect Before Purchase?
Getting a third-party inspection is never a bad idea, even for a brand new home. This is especially true for model homes, where there’s more potential for issues. Not only do model homes sit unoccupied for an extended amount of time, they’re also subject to some degree of wear and tear. You’ll want to have the following double-checked, making sure everything is functioning and up to code:
- Foundation and structural integrity
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing and pipes
- Roof and attic
- HVAC systems
- Appliances
Your model home — just like any new construction home — will include a builder’s warranty, but catching any potential issues before having to live with them is always beneficial.
On a more cosmetic level, there are several issues you can look for yourself during the walkthrough. These issues may stem from the house settling over time, a high level of foot traffic, moving furniture throughout the home during staging, and more. Look for the following:
- Nail pops and drywall cracks
- Wall scratches, scuffs and dents
- Cracks and chips in tiles and countertops
- Dents or scratches in wood floors
- Worn or stained carpets
- Unsightly patches or paint repairs
How Do You Purchase a Model Home From Norton Homes?
Buying a model home from Norton Homes is easy! Many people ask, “Do I need a buyer’s agent?” The answer is no, a buyer’s agent is not necessary. Although, If you have an agent, the Norton team is more than happy to work with them.
If you need assistance financing the home, Norton can arrange for you to be set up with its network of preferred lenders. Otherwise, you can take out a mortgage loan with a lender of your choosing.
Turn to Norton Homes for Your Next Home
Model homes can offer several benefits to customers, such as impressive amenities, a desirable lot, and more immediate possession of the home, compared to in-construction or to-be-built homes. However, it’s also important to consider the drawbacks of model homes, including potential damages and a lack of customization options.
Whether you’re interested in a model home or a custom-built home, Norton Homes is a great choice. To get started, contact Norton Homes for more information, or browse the list of available model homes right now.