Homebuyers Are Paying - But Can They Visit The Jobsite?

Hey there!

I've been exploring the Preconstruction Worksheet I used to review important items with my Homebuyers right before we started. Last week, I reviewed how to handle those scary things that show up that you don't expect (extra excavation, etc.).

This week, I came across the items where I discuss access to the property during construction. And I thought it was a great topic to review with you.

Should Buyers Have Access?

Once construction begins and the sticks and bricks are going up, your Homebuyers are going to want to see the progress - especially if they are local to the build.

And that usually means they want to go on-site and inspect. Home Builders all across North America have the same decisions to make when it comes to providing access to the Buyers.

Should they give their Homebuyers access to the jobsite while construction is happening? If so - what kind of access?

Now - if you're building a house on the Buyers' lot, there's very little you can do to keep them off the site. I mean - it's their lot - so you're limited to what access you can deny.

But - if your homebuilding company owns the lot until the end, you have the right to keep Buyers out of the jobsite until you're done. However, I've typically seen a level of "dis-trust" happen from a Homebuyer who is never allowed to see the construction take place.

"What are you hiding from me?" is in the Buyers' minds (even if they don't say it).

Here are some ways to consider giving access to Buyers during construction for your consideration:

• Access ONLY during the workday - scheduled ahead of time with a Homebuilding Company Representative.
• Access ONLY during pre-determined "Site Meetings" that you have built into your schedules (e.g. Pre-drywall meeting, etc.).
• Access ANYTIME on own during working hours while house is being worked on.
• Access ANYTIME with a special Construction Key - day or night.

Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. If you've never formally discussed this as a team, I'd advise you to so and standardize that access (and put it in writing for all to see/acknowledge).

Want to take any guesses on which of the access options we used in our homebuilding business? Go ahead and take a guess by replying!

Happy building!

-Brad

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