Business Services
Checklist: Build a House |
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| Using a checklist can often help you stay organized and in control. Below is a guideline you can rely on to ensure that you don't miss a task or a deadline. Feel free to print a copy, email it to yourself, or share this link with a friend. |
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| 1. Finances | |
| If you haven't started saving, do so now! | |
| Review your current financial situation. Get a credit report. | |
| Research your mortgage and finance options. | |
| Meet with a financial advisor to discuss your options. | |
| Reduce or eliminate outstanding debt. Consider rolling your debt into your mortgage. | |
| If you are a first time home owner, investigate government grants and financial aid. | |
| Set a budget. | |
| Get homeowner's insurance if you don't already have it. | |
| 2. Location | |
| Determine several areas you'd like to live in. | |
| Decide if you will buy an empty plot of land or one that is occupied and will need clearing. | |
| Research various neighborhoods (city council, schools, crime rates, parks and public spaces, transportation, shops, banks, leisure and cultural activities, nightlife, etc.). | |
| Research site locations by reviewing newspapers, websites, real estate publications, making visits and discussing with friends and family. | |
| Find a real estate agent to help you search for properties. | |
| Make appointments to view land. | |
| Buy the land. | |
| 3. Construction | |
| Brainstorm, make plans and blueprints. | |
| Be sure that you are compliant with local planning and building laws. | |
| Get a planning permit. | |
| Get a building permit. | |
| Find a surveyor. | |
| Arrange for several required inspections throughout the building process. | |
| Research your service providers before signing contracts. Find builders and tradesmen you can trust and are comfortable with. | |
| Read all documents carefully before signing. Keep all papers in a secure location. | |
| Read architecture and design magazines and websites to gain inspiration. | |
| Visit a home show to get ideas for style, design, floor plans, etc. | |
| Make your new home energy efficient. Go green! | |
| Find an architect. | |
| Find a carpenter. | |
| Find a plumber. | |
| Find an electrician. | |
| Find painters. | |
| Buy appliances. | |
| Create a timetable for when tasks need to be completed. | |
| Find utility companies (gas, electric, water). | |
| Acquire telephone, cable and/or internet services. | |
| Find a landscaping company or gardener. | |
| Get a security/alarm system. | |
| Once construction is complete and you have a certificate of occupancy, do a final walk through with your builder for careful inspection. | |
| 4. Misc. | |
| Be flexible and understanding if things dont go according to plan, but also firm in your objectives, budget and timelines. | |
| Find a moving company to help you transition to your new home. | |
| See our 'Moving' checklist for related tasks and deadlines. | |
| Hire a professional cleaning company before you move in. | |
| Hire an interior decorator. | |
| Buy new furniture. | |
| Once you are settled in your new home, have a housewarming party! | |
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I immediately got a call from a moving company who was very professional. We've had good communication, the survey was punctual and they returned a quotation the following day as promised. So far, so good!
Kate, Buyer
Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide, Australia