News | Summer Lake

How to Choose the Right Custom Builder for You

November 12, 2021 By Summer Lake

There are many reasons why you might want a custom home in Chesterfield, VA; you may have special medical needs, want to ensure a modern styling, or just want a home that doesn’t have baggage from having been lived in before. Whatever the reason, you have to find a home builder to help you make your dreams a reality. To get exactly what you expect, you need a custom house builder with experience and a good reputation. Here is some valuable guidance on how to choose a home builder.

Choosing the Right Custom Home Builder

Finding a home builder in Chesterfield, VA, isn’t too difficult, but finding the right custom house builder can take time and effort. Here are some important steps to take.

1. Know the Difference Between a Custom Build and a Production Build

A custom build gives you complete freedom to design the home you want from the ground up. A production build allows you to choose from a library of floor plans and personalize certain elements. Both will result in a brand-new home in which you have at least some say in the design. However, if you want everything in the home to conform to your specifications, you need to find a home builder who can perform a custom build.

2. Decide on Your Wants and Needs

Every homebuyer has certain requirements that have to be present in the home. Your individual needs depend on your circumstances, but you must identify them so you can find a home builder who can provide them. Then think about the things you would like to have but can do without. Prioritize these so that you get the things you want most without going over budget.

3. Make a List of Possible Builders

If you have family or friends who have worked with a custom house builder before, ask them for recommendations. If not, you can ask your real estate agent for recommendations or contact your local home builders’ association for a list of local prospects.

4. Narrow Down the List

Once you have a list, you should start narrowing it down until you are left with two or three good choices. You start narrowing down the list by researching the builder’s website, visiting model homes, and talking to people who have worked with the builder in the past and are living in the custom homes now.

5. Interview Builders

Once you have narrowed down your list to two or three likely options, contact the builders and ask to interview them face to face. If you aren’t sure what to ask the builder during the interview, here are some suggested questions:

What kind of materials do you use?
How many homes have you built?
How long have you been in business?
How do you determine the cost, and what does it include?
How do you handle delays or other challenges
How do you qualify subcontractors?
What timeline do you estimate?

In addition to these questions, you should also ask for references from past clients and proof of insurance and licensing. Follow up on these to be sure they are current and reflect positively on the builder’s professionalism.

Get Help To Find a Home Builder

While finding a home builder requires a lot of time and effort on your part, you don’t have to go through it alone. When you buy a home lot in the Summer Lake community of Chesterfield, VA, you get access to six different builders. Contact us for more information about our community.

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Why You Should Request a Home Warranty When Buying a Home

October 25, 2021 By Summer Lake

You might think that if you’re buying a new home, you don’t need a warranty. After all, what can go wrong with a brand new house full of brand new appliances? However, you should always request a home warranty, no matter whether the property you’re buying is new or previously owned. Even the most conscientious builder can make mistakes or unknowingly use a defective product. Read on to learn more about why you need a home warranty with a newly constructed home.

Do You Need a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is like an insurance policy against things that might go wrong with your new home that aren’t covered by the builder’s warranty. A third-party company issues the home warranty. Here are two reasons why you should explore purchasing a home warranty.

While most new homes come with a warranty from the builder, these guarantees are usually limited. The language in these warranties is usually narrowly focused on specific systems or parts of the home. Appliances are typically excluded, as is anything that fails due to everyday use. These things can be covered under a home warranty plan.
Not every problem is identifiable before or at the final inspection. For example, you may not find roof leaks until the first significant rain after you move in. Uneven floors and cracking drywall may not turn up until the house settles for some time. A home warranty plan can offer you protection against these problems.
Your home warranty may be renewable from year to year. While builder warranties are usually only for a year or so, purchasing a home warranty may protect you long after the contract from your builder expires.

Home Warranties for New Construction Homes

A homeowner’s warranty on a new construction home differs from the homeowner’s insurance that covers you if your home is damaged by fire, natural disasters, and other calamities. The home warranty covers appliances and systems within your home, such as your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. No disaster or accident is required to invoke a claim under your home warranty. The most significant benefit of purchasing a home warranty is the peace of mind you get as a new homeowner. You can rest assured that if something goes wrong shortly after you move into your beautiful new dream home, you have somewhere to turn for help.

Summer Lake

Check out the summer Lake development if you’re looking for a new construction home in the beautiful Chesterfield, Virginia, area. With tennis courts, swimming, and biking trails, this neighborhood is ideal for young active families. Parents will especially appreciate the excellent schools in the area and the recreational areas designed with children in mind. You can choose from the homes already constructed or select your lot and work with one of our three exclusive builders to create your custom home.

Where to Learn More

Contact us today to learn more about the available properties and to schedule a visit. Our team of real estate experts can share with you all about Summer Lake and what’s planned for the neighborhood in the future. We can also help with general questions if you’re wondering what a home warranty covers or how much you should pay for one. Whether it’s new construction or one of our existing homes on the market, Summer Lake is sure to have something right for your family.

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Should I Use a Realtor if I’m Buying a New Construction Home?

September 15, 2021 By Summer Lake

If you’re shopping for a new construction home, you may wonder if you need a realtor. The answer is yes for many good reasons.

A real estate agent can advocate for you, help you make the best deal, and look out for your best interests during negotiations.
Realtors bring specialized knowledge that can help you avoid costly mistakes in the buying process.

Buying a newly constructed house is exciting. You’re getting something that’s exclusively yours where no one else has lived, and you may even get to make all the decisions about colors, fixtures, and decorating. Because you’re in charge from start to finish, you may wonder, “Do I need a realtor to buy a house build just for me?” You can work with the developer’s team, right? Most real estate professionals advise buyers to get a real estate agent, even when buying new construction.

Do I Need a Realtor When Buying a Newly Constructed Home?

Buying new construction is different from purchasing one where someone already resides. The unique facets of the transaction may be unfamiliar to most homebuyers. Here are some ways that a realtor can help you make the best decision about your new home purchase.

Timing matters in every kind of real estate market. Your realtor understands your local market, which neighborhoods are selling fast, and which ones may represent a bargain. The agent also knows the slow months for developers; they’re more likely to negotiate then than in the busy months. Having that knowledge on your side when you start shopping can save you time and money.
Your realtor is familiar with the builders who work in your area. Agents in the area have likely worked with clients who contracted with each builder. They can draw on that knowledge and those experiences to help you choose a builder with a reputation for quality work, reliability, and efficiency.
Real estate professionals have an in-depth understanding of the process of building a new construction house, from contracts to upgrades to financing and construction quality issues. Because most people don’t buy new construction homes more than once or twice in their lives, consumers may be at a disadvantage with a quality realtor on their side. For example, your agent can help you with inspections and contingencies, two areas where conflict often arises. A professional and experienced agent can walk you through every step and help you avoid costly pitfalls.
The most common reason people don’t use realtors when conducting real estate business is that they want to save on the commissions. However, a quality agent can save you money, time, and frustration in the long term. If you don’t have an agent yourself, you work with the developer or builder’s agents. They aren’t bound to look out for your interests as the buyer. Your real estate agent for new construction can make sure that everything is fair as the process unfolds.

Where Can I Learn More About New Construction Homes?

If you’re looking to make your next move to a custom-built new construction home in the Moseley, Virginia, area, check out the beautiful Summer Lake development. It has tons of amenities for families or retirees to enjoy. Tennis courts, a pool, a playground, and the fabulous Lake Chesdin Golf Club are all readily available for your outdoor pleasure. Contact our team today to learn about all the available properties and lots.

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Questions to Ask When Buying a New Construction Home

July 20, 2021 By Summer Lake

New home construction can help you get the features you want in your house. However, the process requires careful research and planning. Here are some questions to ask a builder.

Make sure you understand what is included in your basic home build and what will cost extra.
Your new home construction should include a written warranty.

When it’s time for a new home, you have many options. One of them is building a brand new house for yourself. The idea of getting just what you want, choosing your paint colors, flooring materials, and countertops is very exciting; however, building a new home comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some questions to ask when building a home.

What Comes Standard With the Home and What Constitutes an Upgrade?

The home builder you choose will give you a set price to build the house. That price includes a list of standard features, such as fixtures, countertops, and flooring. If you want to consider an upgrade to any of those standard features:

Ask for the cost of the higher quality item.
If you saw a model home, keep in mind that you probably saw many upgraded items.
Get a clear understanding of whether the standard features include any external design elements such as landscaping as part of the building process.

What Kind of Warranty Comes With the Home?

Your newly constructed house should come with a home warranty. Be sure that you get the specifics of this warranty in writing. The document should include a clear statement of how quickly repairs will be made. Your new appliances will have assurances from the manufacturer. The roof of a new construction usually has a warranty as well. A walk-through home inspection before the move-in date can identify many things upfront so the builder can correct them before you close on the property.

What Are the Plans for the Surrounding Area?

Of course, it’s essential to know the plans for the neighborhood, but do your research on the surrounding area as well. For example, you want to ensure that your beautiful lake view won’t be obstructed by a hotel right after you move in. The city or county government development office can tell you what is in the works. Your building may know some of this information, but the buyer is responsible for seeking it out from the most direct source possible.

Does Your New Neighborhood Have an HOA?

An HOA is a Homeowners Association. It is an organization that sets and enforces rules related to properties and activities in the community. Usually, the HOA takes care of maintaining common areas like streets, pools, or community centers. An effective HOA can make the neighborhood a better place to live by protecting the property values for everyone. As a potential new homeowner, make sure that you understand all the requirements and fees associated with the HOA so you can budget appropriately.

Where Can I Learn More About Buying a New Construction Home?

If you’re planning your next move into a new construction home in the Moseley, Virginia area, consider the Summer Lake development. Choose your new house from a variety of luxury plans. The community offers a pool, sports facilities, and activities for the whole family. Summer Lake is in Chesterfield County, home to some of the highest performing schools in the state. Contact us today to check out all we have to offer.

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2021’s Hottest Home Design Trends

June 29, 2021 By Summer Lake

The interior design trends for 2021 celebrate our newfound appreciation for the comforts of home.

Many of the tried and true rules of decorating are out the window for 2021.
The newest home trends are varied, including everything from bold colors to rustic to sculptural furniture.

With so many people spending extra time at home during 2020, it’s no surprise that 2021 is the year of home redecorating. So if you’re looking for some ideas to spruce up your living space, here are some of the hottest home design trends of the year.

Go Big With Colors and Prints

No longer are homeowners bound by minimalist designs and consistent patterns. For 2021, it’s all about the bold. Mix contrasting prints and large and small shapes with a couple of primary colors that pull it together. Then, use the variety to create visually appealing layers that coordinate across the furniture, linens, and walls. Checks and stripes and circles and flowers are two possible combinations.

Primary colors make a return for 2021. A lamp in a brilliant red or sunshine yellow, for example, brightens up space when used against a more neutral background. Wood furniture and flooring gain new life when you add some cheerful primary colors to the room. A brilliant shade of yellow is trendy this year.

Rustic Is All the Rage

Rustic decor is comforting and cheerful, and for many people, it brings about fond reminiscing. If your home already has the look of a country home, such as exposed beams or hardwood floors, rustic colors, fabrics, and finishes are a perfect match. Reclaimed wood, with its rough textures and woodgrain, is a big part of this trend.

Choose Sculptural Furniture Pieces

Sculptural furniture comes in a variety of shapes that make a dramatic statement across the room. Even when the pieces are neutral colors, they draw the eye of everyone in the room. Sculptural lamps cast light in lovely patterns, and ceramic pieces on a shelf fill in the small spaces.

Transition to the Tropical

Whether it’s a beautiful green palm leaf pattern or something reminiscent of the beach, tropical brights and colors are popular in 2021. They’re soothing and relaxing after a stressful and hectic homebound year. In addition, travel-related room themes, such as sailing, remind us that it’s time to return to wandering the world.

Consider a Wall Mural

Murals take many forms. Some are painted on the walls with lively patterns and artistic scenes. Other murals are woven tapestries that span the area of the wall. This element is a versatile design element that works in large and small rooms and can take on almost any theme, from classic art pieces to fairytale scenes.

Visualize Vintage

Whether they’re genuine antiques, reclaimed or repurposed pieces, or retro items, vintage furniture and color schemes are versatile and classy. Even if you don’t go all out and replace all your furniture, you can subtly reference the look through the colors you choose and the layers you create. Intense colors centered around a single vintage piece with lots of contrast and gentle lighting are winning formulas.

Where Can I Learn More?

If you’re looking for a place to create your own 2021 showplace in the Chesterfield, Virginia, area, check out the lots and new homes of Summer Lake. Every house is custom-built. At Summer Lake, we’re all about families with proximity to excellent schools, parks, and many activities for adults and children to do together. Contact us today to learn more!

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4 Tips for Choosing the Right Community for Your New Home

November 17, 2020 By Summer Lake

Buying a new home is more than just buying a building. Find out how to select the right community for you and your family with these four tips. Whether you’re looking to move across the country or across town, browse community homes in Summer Lake for your new home. Use these tips to compare homes and communities to find the best option for your family’s forever home.

1. Look at the Location

It’s all about the community. It’s essential to research schools, hospitals, shopping, and other resources near your new neighborhood. Look for a neighborhood of like-minded families that has access to highly rated schools, medical providers, and job opportunities.

Summer Lake in Moseley, Virginia, is situated in Chesterfield County. Schools in this area are routinely ranked in the top percentile of Virginia schools in terms of SAT scores. Local amenities include a variety of shopping options, convenient grocery stores, and friendly neighbors with families just like you.

2. Consider Your Dream Home Size

Keep your family size and dream house considerations in mind when you search for the right community. Look for homes for sale in a community that have a lot size, yard design, and square footage you want. Consider communal spaces that you can use as well. Jogging trails, community pools, and golf courses all give you opportunities to enjoy activities outside of your home but still in your community.

Large homes are great, but they need a custom builder touch to make the best use of all that space. Plan a layout that fits your family and presents an iconic exterior that you will be proud to call your own. Custom homes at Summer Lake artfully blend in with your community without sacrificing personal style.

3. Set a Budget

Your dream house doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Set a budget and look for homes in your price range. Remember that communities with monthly or yearly fees also come with additional conveniences that may be worth more than the fee for you and your household. You can’t put a price on a dream home in a dream community, but make sure the one you choose is within your ideal budget.

You may be surprised at the affordable rates of homes in Summer Lake. Whether you purchase a custom home that’s already built or work with a local custom build team to craft your own, the rates are highly competitive for a state-of-the-art home in a welcoming community.

4. Explore Extra Features

Amazing amenities are the icing on the cake for your custom home. Explore community features to see what you get when you choose a home in a particular community. Ask about local parks, clubhouse use, walking trails, or other amenities.

Choose a community with features that you and your family will enjoy for a lifetime. A playground for young children may be a great benefit now, but your family may want swimming pools, basketball courts, and a gym facility in the future. Amenities for every age help create a dream home for every member of your family.

Find Your New Community in Virginia

Explore homes in Virginia for sale at Summer Lake. Contact us today to schedule a walk-through or to learn more about your new community. Find out how you can plan an affordable, custom home in an ideal community with space and features you love for years to come

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