Model homes are often the most beautifully decorated homes in any new construction community. They showcase the builder's best finishes, upgrades, and design choices. When a builder decides to sell the model home, it can be an attractive option for buyers who want a move-in ready home with premium finishes. But buying a model home is different from buying a standard new construction home, and there are important factors to consider.
The Advantages of Buying a Model Home
The biggest advantage is that the model home is typically finished with the highest level of upgrades available. The flooring, countertops, cabinets, lighting, fixtures, and landscaping are all top of the line. These upgrades would cost tens of thousands of dollars if you selected them through the design center. When you buy the model, you get all of them included in the purchase price.
Model homes are also ready for immediate occupancy. There is no construction timeline. No waiting for upgrades to be installed. You can close and move in quickly.
Many People Walked Through It
The tradeoff is that model homes have had hundreds, sometimes thousands, of people walk through them. Open houses, private tours, and community events mean the home has experienced significant foot traffic. Carpets may show wear. Walls may need repainting. Cabinets and countertops may have minor damage from years of tours.
HVAC systems have been running continuously to keep the home comfortable for visitors. Appliances in the model home kitchen may have been used for events and demonstrations. The home has been lived in, even if no one has slept there.
Ask What Stays and What Goes
When you buy a model home, not everything you see is included. Furniture, decor, artwork, rugs, and accessories are typically owned by the builder or a staging company and will be removed before closing. Window coverings may or may not stay. Some builders include certain decorative elements in the sale, while others remove everything down to the bare walls.
Get a written list of exactly what is included in the sale. If there are specific items you want to keep, negotiate them into the contract before signing.
Get an Inspection
Just like any other new construction home, a model home should be inspected. The years of foot traffic and continuous operation of systems mean there may be wear and tear that is not immediately visible. An inspection gives you a clear picture of the home's condition and can help you negotiate repairs or a price adjustment.
Buying a model home can be a great way to get a premium finished home without the wait. Just go in knowing that the home has been heavily used and that not everything you see in the showroom will be yours at closing.
