Priority 1 Lending: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Model Home

When it comes to finding your dream home, model homes can often be attractive options. These properties, often showcased by builders to demonstrate the potential of their housing developments, are typically adorned with high-end furnishings and finishes, appealing layouts, and beautiful landscaping. However, the process of buying a model home is different than a traditional resale home or even a new construction home.

Understanding Model Homes

Model homes serve as a “showroom” for builders. These homes are designed and constructed to display the builder’s craftsmanship, layout options, and often come with a plethora of upgrades. Builders use these homes to provide potential buyers with a tangible representation of what they can expect if they choose to buy a home in their development.

Typically, a model home will have all the bells and whistles. From top-of-the-line kitchen appliances and extensive trim work to professionally designed interior spaces and manicured landscapes, these homes are designed to impress.

Purchasing a Model Home: What to Consider

There are several unique considerations when buying a model home. Here’s what you need to know when contemplating this type of purchase:

1. Leaseback Agreements: Builders often sell their model homes but lease them back for a period to continue using them for sales purposes. Ensure you understand the terms of this leaseback agreement, including duration and any potential liabilities.
2. Upgrades: While upgrades can enhance appeal, they can also inflate the price. Make sure to consider whether the upgraded features are worth the extra cost and whether they will add long-term value to your investment.
3. Wear and Tear: Given their purpose, model homes may experience more foot traffic than an average home, which could lead to wear and tear. It’s crucial to get a professional home inspection to uncover any hidden issues.
4. Home Warranty: Verify whether the builder's home warranty applies to the model home and understand what it covers.
5. Financing: Speak with your Priority 1 Lending mortgage advisor to understand the financing options and to ensure the home fits within your budget.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Model Home

Like any real estate purchase, buying a model home comes with both advantages and disadvantages.

The Pros:

1. High-Quality Finishes: Model homes are designed to impress, so they often come with numerous upgrades and high-end finishes.
2. Well-Maintained: Builders ensure that these homes are in pristine condition, and landscaping is usually immaculate.
3. Immediate Move-In: Since the home is already built, there’s no need to wait for construction to finish. You can move in as soon as the purchase process is complete.

The Cons:

1. Higher Price: The added features and upgrades can make model homes more expensive than other homes in the same community.
2. Wear and Tear: Despite being well-maintained, the extensive foot traffic can lead to potential wear and tear.
3. Limited Customization: With a model home, what you see is usually what you get, which means there may be less room for customization.

Navigating the Model Home Purchase Process

At Priority 1 Lending, we can help you navigate the unique process of buying a model home. It’s important to have a skilled real estate agent who understands new construction and can negotiate the terms of the sale and leaseback agreements if applicable. A thorough home inspection is also crucial to ensure the home is in good condition.

Choosing to purchase a model home is a significant decision and at Priority 1 Lending, our team is committed to guiding you every step of the way. From understanding the intricacies of buying a model home to securing the best financing option, we’re here to help you make an informed and confident home buying decision.