It can be thrilling to have a home in Morgantown, PA that’s completely personalized for your family. That’s why some people hire a custom home builder – so they can help design a home that’s perfect for them and reflects their unique tastes. But, should you build a new home or buy an old one? If a new home sounds wonderful, where should you start?
If you’re dreaming of a brand new home in Berks County, you’re not alone. According to the National Board of Realtors, most consumers prefer new homes. Why settle for someone else’s favorite cabinets, appliances, flooring and color schemes when you can choose your own? New homes also offer:
— bedrooms with larger closets
— larger, more luxurious master baths
— open floor plans and high ceilings
— the latest advances in energy efficiency
— the most advanced building components, from construction materials to heating systems
— enough electrical outlets for electronics, security systems and sophisticated lighting
— lower maintenance and repair costs
New homes offer the latest designs, style, comfort and quality. You can pick out your lot in a new community or build on your own special piece of land. And, your home and the products in it are brand new and under warranty.
Step 1. Decide what you need and make a wish list.
Make a list of “must-have” features. Do you love big lots and lots of wide-open space? Would you prefer to be away from a main road? How long is too long for your commute to work? Is the school district important? (Even if you don’t have children, better school districts add resale value.) Are there community amenities you would like to have nearby, such as restaurants, shops, museums or hospitals? These things will help you focus in on areas where you might like to live.
Now think about the features of the home. Numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms are important, but also consider your lifestyle. Do you love to cook? Do you need a large kitchen for entertaining? Have you always wanted more space for your hobbies? A home office? And try to think about the future. Is there a chance a parent could move in with you at some point?
Step 2. Start your search for a builder.
Spend some time online – you’ll find photos, floor plans, home and community amenities, and much, much more at your fingertips. Our Greth Homes website has fabulous filtering tools that let you narrow down your search by number of bedrooms/baths, square footage, and layout options (1st floor master, 2nd floor master, dual master).
While many builders have expertise in a variety of design styles and architectural details,
look for a builder whose work includes at least some examples of the style of home you want.
This will save you lots of time and help you select a home builder whose homes most closely match the criteria on your wish list.
Step 3. Tour model homes.
Once you’ve narrowed down a list of potential builders, hop in the car and go visit model homes in person. This can be a furnished and decorated model home that’s open to the public. Or it can be a home the builder built for a previous customer that you visit by appointment. Pay close attention to the look, feel and quality of the home.
Are there homes under construction in the community? Look for signs of quality construction and attention to detail. Make notes and collect brochures and floor plans.
As a leading custom home builder in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Greth Homes would be delighted to talk to you about building your dream home in Morgantown, PA. We have been building quality homes for over 40 years. Whether you choose a home in one of our Berks County communities or a custom home on your own land, our goal is to match your dreams with the right home. Get in touch with us today at (610) 926-5334 to get started!