Homes for Sale in Southern NH: Should You Buy a Model Home?

Of the homes for sale in Southern New Hampshire, at least of few of them are model homes. Not “model” as in the perfect house for anyone, but “model” as in the builder’s showcase. They’re beautiful, generally include higher-end options and often contain excellent examples of cabinetry and architecture.

If you come across one of the model homes for sale in Southern New Hampshire, should you consider buying it or pass it up all together? Well, like everything else, there are pros and cons:

Pro: More for your money
Eventually, the builder has to sell the model home, and at that point, he or she is a motivated seller. The chances are more likely that you’ll end up paying less than the listing price. As well, since it is a model home, it will have bells and whistles you might not get from the same type of house down the street.

Pro: Bells and whistles
What are bells and whistles? Well, it depends on the area and the builder, but model homes have many add-ons to show the capabilities of the builder, architect and other companies involved in building the homes. Those bells and whistles can include anything from expensive landscaping and a finished basement to window seats.

As well, most builders are willing to sell the furnishings, giving the buyer of the model first dibs. Quite simply, you could very well end up with the best house, the newest appliances and the nicest furniture.

Con: You may have to wait months
If you buy a showcase home before the builder has sold all the other homes in the development, the builder may not be willing to close. Most want to wait until the showcase house has done its job. Especially in the current economy, this could take quite awhile. If you go this route, make sure your contract gives a specific closing date – and always read the fine print.

Con: It’s old and new
While a model home has never been lived in, it could very well have sat on the lot for three years while the development was being sold. While the appliances may never have been used, the warranties are wearing out; the walls and floors show wear and tear as well. For this reason, you want to make sure the builder includes a little maintenance in the contract. New carpeting and fresh paint are bargaining points for you as the homebuyer, among others.

Should you buy one of the showcase homes for sale in Southern NH? Well, it’s really up to you, but always do your homework first. How long the house has been there, what the contract includes and other questions should be answered – before you sign on the dotted line.

If you’re looking for a dream home with all the bells and whistles, I can help.  I can even help you get the best price and terms on a model home, if you call me before you start visiting them.  Call me at 603-821-1134 or email me at Dave@DaveHeeter.com for more information.