Pre-construction changes when buying from a real estate developer

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Pre-construction changes are probably the most difficult ones to make when buying a home.

Shell Johanson, a fellow associate recently wrote a great article about remodeling in Costa Rica and renovation. Shell made a point that remodeling is many times more difficult than building new construction. I totally agree.

I have done both. And once you start remodeling the problem is you find more to be done than what you thought originally. Tile replacement, cabinets, etc. are basic cosmetic items. But once you start tearing down walls and find you need to replace wiring, plumbing, etc. then the journey begins.

A suggestion I have and it has worked for me and for clients is: when buying pre-construction, spend serious time in the model. Look for changes you can make that will make the home functional for you.

The possibility of making changes before or during construction depends on:

1. The size of the project
2. If the developer already bought the finishing materials or not
3. On the fact that they organize the construction in specialized teams or not
4. The willingness of the developer to cooperate
5. Your willingness to pay extra

You can also go through these 8 smart steps that’ll allow you for a much better-informed decision.

Changes

Making changes before construction is the way to go. I have never been great with floor plans. But I can spend time in a model home and really figure out some positive changes. Sometimes just doing away with a wall that does not serve any purpose can open up the entire room for more space and comfort. But will the developer agree on doing that?

Working with the developer’s engineering department to make changes happen is important to make sure what you want can be done. Sometimes changes can be done easily and other times because of construction type, the changes cannot be made.

I have always maintained that architects are great designers but sometimes lack in the actual building logic. Have you ever walked into a home in Costa Rica and asked “why did they do that, or what is that”? Everyone has preferences concerning their lifestyle. Those little comfort items you want are worth it. Changes, of course, cost money, depending on what you want.

The cost of the pre-construction changes is much lower upfront rather than in the middle of construction. If you find a house you like but want to remodel – follow the tips presented by Shell. If you find a great residential project with a good floor plan and want a few pre-construction changes, then do it.

Contact us now if you want to purchase a new home or pre-construction.

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