According to the Better Business Bureau, contractor problems are one of the most common consumer complaints. With those kinds of statistics, buying newly constructed Santa Cruz homes for sale calls for a knowledgeable individual. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your contractor doesn't end up as your complaint:
Know What Your Warranties Cover
There are two types of warranties. One is called an express warranty, and is given to you by the contractor. Usually, this warranty lasts between one to ten years, with one year being the most common. It covers everything from cosmetic flaws to serious defects.
The second type of warranty varies depending on the state you live in. It's an implied warranty that lasts seven to ten years, stating that the residence has to be habitable. To have your defect covered by this warranty, you have to be able to prove that it's a health or safety hazard.
Find Real Defects
If you spot a defect, you need to find out whether it's an acceptable imperfection or a real defect. For instance, small cracks in the interior of new Santa Cruz homes for sale are normal defects. The only cracks that need to be repaired are those longer than 3/16 of an inch, according to the National Association of Home Builders'® performance guidelines. In addition, hammer marks or nail pops only count if you can see them from more than six feet away.
Document Everything
Once you find a real defect, document everything. Take photos and make detailed notes. You may want to hire an independent inspector or structural engineer to give your house a full examination.
Buying new Santa Cruz homes for sale can be enjoyable when you work with a REALTOR® like me who has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process. Call me today at 831.662.6522 or email me at lauren@laurenspencer.com
LINKS:
National Association of Home Builders
Posted by Lauren Spencer on
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