by Oliver von Bretten 
Venturing into the realm of pre-construction home buying brings with it both excitement and the need for vigilant financial planning. To shield yourself from potential pitfalls, consider these critical strategies:
Limit Unexpected Expenses
Often, the initial purchase agreement may not cover development charges, which can escalate as your home is under construction. These fees, levied by the municipality for infrastructure improvements like water and gas lines, can add an additional 2% to 5% to your home’s cost. To prevent surprises, it’s wise to have a real estate attorney negotiate a cap on these fees in your contract. This cap typically depends on the home’s price, size, and location.
Choose a Reputable Developer
The risks associated with pre-construction purchases include possible construction delays or unexpected complications that could devalue the property. Researching the developer’s history, examining the quality of their previous constructions, and assessing their market reputation are essential steps before committing to a purchase.
Plan for the Future
Your pre-construction property may take years to complete. An informed real estate agent can assess the long-term profitability of the property, considering factors like the location and projected market trends. This foresight helps ensure that you can sell the property without a loss in the future.
Secure Flexibility with Assignment and Rental Clauses
Including an assignment clause in your agreement allows you the option to sell the property to another buyer before completion. This can be a safety net if you encounter financial difficulties or issues with securing a mortgage. Meanwhile, a right to rent clause permits you to lease the property during the occupancy phase, providing financial flexibility should your personal circumstances change.
Understand the Interim Occupancy Phase
The interim occupancy phase kicks in once your unit is habitable but before the entire building is finalized. Although you can move in, you don’t officially own the unit until the developer registers the property and transfers ownership. This phase can span 3 to 9 months, during which you’ll pay the developer interim occupancy fees. These fees cover maintenance, property taxes, and interest on the remaining balance of the purchase price, resembling rent.
For those considering a venture into pre-construction real estate, engaging with a licensed real estate agent can provide expert guidance and help you find the ideal home. Contact us today.
