4 Ways Builders Can Set Their New Homes Apart from Similar Inventory
Building codes set minimum standards that make homes safer and insurable. While they have to adhere to these codes, there’s nothing to keep builders from going the extra mile when possible. When they build beyond the code, residential construction businesses are able to differentiate their new homes from similar inventory. It may cost more money upfront, but buyers will usually pay a premium for construction quality they can trust. Here are some ways you can do a little extra to add valuable selling points to your new homes.
Create high-performing homes that can stand up to regional weather
Local governments are careful to create codes that meet minimum standards without putting too much financial burden on businesses in the construction industry. If you build your homes beyond the code, this is something you can point out to buyers. When building a home in low-lying areas of a region that sees a lot of flooding, consider elevating the house a few feet off the ground. To differentiate properties in coastal areas where water can migrate into a home, builders should consider installing extensive underground stormwater systems that ease buyer anxiety.
Optimize your framing
When builders elevate their standards for framing above code requirements, they add valuable selling points to their new homes. Wherever practical, consider using engineered lumber such as LVL beams, which are straighter and stronger than conventional lumber. You can also use TJI® Joists, or Silent Floor Systems, to create more rigid flooring that won’t creak or sag over time, like they often do with typical wood construction. To set their properties apart from similar inventory, some builders also opt for Open-Web trusses, which have high strength-to-weight ratios and can span greater distances. When possible, it’s also good to size rafters and joists larger than required.
Extend warranty protection
With a standard builders warranty, homeowners only get limited coverage on materials and workmanship related to plumbing, HVAC, ventilation, heating, electrical systems and various other home components. Worried by recent news about failing foundations, modern buyers often look for additional warranty coverage to protect their new homes. In turn, many are unable to resist the allure of structural warranties that cover repair costs after a builders warranty expires.
By expanding warranty coverage with a 10 year structural warranty, builders can set their new homes apart from similar properties. They can also charge a bit more since they’ve taken an extra step to protect buyers from catastrophic costs that could occur down the road.
Create a separate set of standards for substrates and finishes
Thoughtful builders always use cement sheets in every wet wall area and add latex waterproofing membranes before installing any tile. They also exclusively install tile on cement adhesive to enhance the longevity of the work. They pay special attention to custom benches, bases and niches to ensure good water drainage. While the buyer may not be able to see all of this, these higher standards allow builders to talk up their new homes and justify higher prices in the long run.
Learn how you can protect your business and add valuable selling points to your new builds with 2-10 Structural Warranties.
