Should You Buy a Spec Home Before It’s Finished?

Pro: You Do Not Have to Wait Until the Home Is Finished

When people picture buying a move-in-ready home, they often imagine walking through a completely finished property. But many newly built homes are purchased before construction is started or while it is still underway.

Buying a builder spec home before completion can offer a useful middle ground: much of the planning has already been done, but depending on the stage of construction, there are still some opportunities to make the home feel more like a custom-built home without the wait time.

What Is a Spec Home?

A spec home is a home a builder starts without a specific purchaser attached to it. The builder selects the lot, floor plan, major design direction and construction schedule with the intention of selling the completed home.

For buyers who do not want to begin a fully custom build from scratch, this can remove months of early planning while still providing the benefits of new construction.

Why Buy Before Completion?

The biggest advantage is timing. You can secure a home before it reaches the finished market while still having time to prepare for possession.

Depending on the construction stage and builder process, there may also be opportunities to choose from remaining finishes or selections. That is not guaranteed, and the options typically become more limited as construction progresses, but buying earlier can sometimes give you more influence than waiting until the keys are ready.

Know What Can and Cannot Change

Once framing, mechanical work, cabinetry orders or other construction milestones are complete, large changes can become expensive, disruptive or impossible.

Be sure to ask exactly what has already been ordered or installed and whether any selections remain open. If changes are possible, understand the deadline, cost and approval process before assuming something can be swapped later.

Ask About the Full Scope

Make sure you understand what is included with the home.

Are appliances included? What about landscaping, fencing, decks, window coverings or a garage? Is the basement developed? What warranties apply? What is the anticipated possession window?

The clearer the inclusions are, the easier it is to compare the home with other options.

Who Is This Best For?

Buying during construction works well for buyers who want a new home without taking on the entire custom-building process. It can also suit people who have some flexibility around possession and appreciate the chance to watch their home take shape.

Black Wolf regularly builds homes designed for the way Central Alberta families live. If one of our homes catches your eye while it is still under construction, talk to us early. We can walk you through what is complete, what is still ahead and what opportunities may remain.