Before you visit a sales center
The people at a new-construction sales center are usually employed by or represent the builder. They can be helpful and knowledgeable, but their job is to sell the builder's homes. If you'd like your own representation, bring your broker in before your first visit or registration. Many builders have policies that tie broker participation to that first contact.
It also helps to talk to a lender early. New construction can involve longer timelines, and financing options and rate locks for a future closing date work differently than for a resale home.
Fee simple or condominium? Know what you're buying
Many townhomes in Washington are legally condominiums, even though they look like attached houses. Others are fee simple, where you own the structure and the land beneath it. The difference affects:
- What the HOA maintains and insures, and what you do
- The type of insurance policy you'll need
- Loan requirements and lender reviews
- The documents and disclosures you'll receive
Ask the builder how the community is structured, and read the governing documents. For a broader comparison, see townhomes vs. lofts vs. condos.
Compare builders and projects side by side
- Base price vs. finished price: list what's included, then price the upgrades you actually want.
- Premiums: some homes carry premiums for location, end units, or views.
- HOA dues: ask for the projected budget and what dues cover.
- Incentives: builders sometimes offer incentives tied to a preferred lender or closing date. Compare the full cost, not just the headline.
- Track record: look at the builder's past communities, and how warranty requests were handled.
- What's next door: ask what else is planned around the site. The City of Bellevue's permit and planning information can help.
Read the builder contract carefully
Builder purchase agreements are typically drafted by the builder and may differ significantly from the standard forms used for resale homes. Pay attention to:
- Deposit amounts, deadlines, and when deposits become non-refundable
- Estimated completion dates and what happens if construction is delayed
- The builder's right to substitute materials or modify plans
- Inspection rights and walk-through procedures
- Warranty terms and how disputes are handled
Consider having a Washington real estate attorney review the contract, especially for a pre-sale. See also: how pre-sales work in Bellevue.
Choosing upgrades wisely
The design center is where budgets drift. Prioritize items that are hard or disruptive to change later, such as structural options, electrical and lighting locations, plumbing, and flooring. Cosmetic items like paint and some fixtures are often easier to update after closing. Get every selection and price in writing.
Inspect, walk through, and use your warranty
Even brand-new homes benefit from a third-party inspection. Some buyers schedule one before drywall goes up and another before closing, if the builder allows it. At the final walk-through, document everything that needs attention and confirm how and when it will be completed.
After you move in, keep a running list of items for warranty service and note the deadlines in your warranty documents.
Next steps
Start by touring a mix of new and resale townhomes to calibrate what you like. Then join the pre-sale interest list so you hear about upcoming projects. Relocating from out of the area? The Bellevue neighborhood guide on my sister site can help you choose where to look.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice, and details can change. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed; please verify anything important for your situation.
Loomis Hamilton is a real estate broker with McConnell Group, helping buyers and sellers in Bellevue and across the Seattle Eastside. MLS ID WA 138027.
(425) 516-2041 · l.hamilton@mcconnellgroup.com · Contact page