Posted on: Friday, September 19, 2003

Builder urges homebuyers to scrutinize construction

By Jennifer Edwards
Cincinnati Enquirer

Most new homes are well built and have only minor imperfections. Then there are the cases that get headlines: houses that have mold growing up the walls, luxury homes jeopardized by untrustworthy builders.

Veteran builder Robert Batcheller has written a how-to guide for homebuyers with help from lawyers and building-industry pros who have experience in housing hardships.

In his book, "Home Building Pitfalls," Batcheller advises consumers to check a builder's reputation and product before buying a home.

He advises buyers to hire private inspectors to scrutinize various stages of construction. Even then, buyers should be wary.

Inspectors often get referrals from real estate agents, he says, "so follow the money trail there."

Among his recommendations:

• Research your builder. Always talk to previous customers.

• Research the neighborhood's history for any construction or environmental problems.

• Hire a lawyer to review everything related to buying a home.

• Watch out for legal language that would keep any problem with the builder out of a courtroom. You might be forfeiting your rights.

• Read and understand your home warranty before deciding to buy the house.

• Put all agreements in writing.

• Conduct a thorough walk-through of the home, after it is clean and 100 percent complete, with the building supervisor or person you have been dealing with. Bring along a copy of the contract, plans, specifications, options, selections and change orders.

For more information, go to www.homebuildingpitfalls.com.