The dangers of buying that model home
By Gordon Powers, Sympatico / MSN Finance
New-home buyers who lack the time or money to decorate are often tempted by the move-right-in appeal of model homes. Rather
than struggle with floor plans, you know exactly what’s included and
also have the advantage of settling into a neighbourhood that’s not
totally barren.
Builders sometimes sell their model houses and lease them back from buyers for a few months or more. That way, when your builder-tenant is done, you can move in or perhaps rent it to someone else.
Tread carefully though if you go the model-home route, warns Big Cajun Man on his Canadian Personal Finance blog.
A lot of problems in new-home construction surface later, after a season or two, he writes, citing worn carpeting, poorly applied wallpaper and shoddy electrical work as just a few examples.
Given that most show homes need to go up quickly to get the traffic moving, they’re built for speed, not endurance, he believes. Having the air conditioner on constantly during showing season, for instance, is another trouble spot for premature wear.
On top of this, some model homes may be exempt from builder warranties, even if the building still seems brand new. In the absence of a national warranty program, the rules vary from province to province but, generally speaking, it all comes down to whether or not a home has been occupied and the subsequent wear and tear.
Check with your lawyer and then ensure that your agreement of purchase and sale specifically states whether or not you'll receive the full builder's warranty.
Some builders, for instance, will offer workmanship warranties that begin upon the conclusion of construction, not from the date of purchase. As well, ask to see specific warranties for all appliances, including the air conditioner, furnace, and security system.
Posted by: Canora | Mar 27, 2021 10:12:38 AM
What's the difference. Most builders in Ontario still employ shoddy workmanship and quality of building materials whether its a model home or not.
Posted by: John | Mar 27, 2021 1:18:26 PM
Canora
I think you are right, although one model home I once saw was particularly shocking with respest to poor workmanship. That is why I like older homes. I had a old house which was built solidly, beautiful woodwork, etc. With a little work, I made upgrades to the wiring for safety reasons and to the insulation to be more energy efficient.
Posted by: pegger | Mar 27, 2021 3:19:45 PM
There is no law that protect consumers. As a matter of fact, builders take a good advantage of it. moreover, sometimes there are connected with some politicians. No. it's not a third world country, it's Canada.
Posted by: Ron Krause | Mar 30, 2021 12:15:26 PM
I agree with pegger's comments in regards to consumer protection. The home building industry is no different then other businesses,their main interest is to make money. I have no problem with that concept, providing that the Quality and workmanship is built into the home is equal to the amount charged to build the home. Sadly in most cases ,this does not apply as the sooner its built the sooner they can build another. Their are good builders out there but are outnumbered by the shoddy ones. Ever watch Mike Holmes?
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