New Construction Homes in Virginia: 7 Step New Home Buyers Guide to VA

Considering new construction homes in Virginia? You’re in luck! From charming, cobblestone streets in historic towns to the bustling energy of cityscapes and the breathtaking expanse of rolling countryside, Virginia offers a kaleidoscope of possibilities for every homebuyer’s heart.

New homes in Virginia offer modern perks like energy efficiency, low maintenance needs, and reliable warranties. From stunning mountain landscapes to vibrant cityscapes, Virginia boasts diverse communities, rich history, and a thriving job market, making it an ideal place to call home.

Purchasing a new construction home is an exciting journey, but it’s important to understand the process and make informed decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the seven steps to buying a new construction home in Virginia, helping you find the perfect home that meets your needs and preferences.

7 Steps to Buying a New Construction Home in Virginia

Step 1: Decide Where in Virginia You Want to Live

The Commonwealth of Virginia beckons with a diverse tapestry of new construction housing options, nestled within communities brimming with career and educational opportunities, convenient central locations, and an abundance of parks and attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you envision raising a family in a charming single-family home, enjoying the lock-and-leave lifestyle of a townhome, or embracing the urban vibe of a sleek condo, Virginia’s new construction market has the perfect canvas for your dream home.

Advantages of New Homes in VA:

Virginia’s allure extends far beyond its scenic beauty and vibrant communities. Owning a new construction home in the state presents a multitude of advantages, including:

• Tax Benefits: Virginia boasts a relatively low cost of living, coupled with a modest state income tax and attractive property tax rates. First-time homebuyers can further rejoice in the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA)’s Grant Programs, offering financial assistance to eligible buyers.
• Thriving Economy: Virginia is a powerhouse of economic diversity, hosting a multitude of Fortune 500 companies and thriving industries like technology, finance, and healthcare. This translates to ample job opportunities and a steadily growing economy, contributing to consistent home value appreciation over time.
• Educational Excellence: Virginia’s public school system consistently ranks among the nation’s best, providing exceptional educational opportunities for families with young children or those planning for the future. Renowned universities like the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech further bolster the state’s academic standing.
• Prime Location: Strategically situated on the East Coast, Virginia grants residents convenient access to major metropolitan hubs like Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. This unparalleled connectivity fosters robust cultural exchange and opens doors to a plethora of professional and leisure opportunities.
• Diverse Communities: From the charming mountain towns nestled amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains to the vibrant coastal havens dotting the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia offers a kaleidoscope of communities, each pulsating with its unique character. Whether you seek a bustling city life, a quaint suburban escape, or a waterfront retreat, Virginia has a community waiting to embrace you.

Which city or neighborhood is right for you?

With such a vast array of cities and neighborhoods, each exuding its own distinct personality, navigating Virginia’s new construction landscape can be exhilarating yet overwhelming. To streamline your search and identify the ideal community for your needs, consider prioritizing these key factors:

• Commute: Prioritize your desired commute time to work or school. Virginia’s well-developed transportation infrastructure, including major highways and interstate connections, facilitates convenient commutes across the state.
• Budget: New construction homes in Virginia cater to a range of budgets, from starter-friendly options to luxurious estates. Define your budget early on to ensure a focused search and avoid exceeding your financial comfort zone.
• Schools: Top-rated schools are paramount for families with children. Research the quality of school districts within your shortlisted neighborhoods to ensure your children have access to exceptional education.
• Lifestyle: Do you crave the energy of a walkable downtown with trendy shops and bustling cafes, or do you yearn for the tranquility of a suburban oasis with verdant parks and peaceful streets? Aligning your desired lifestyle with the character of the neighborhood is crucial for long-term satisfaction.

From Bustling Cityscapes to Serene Retreats: Virginia Has it All

Virginia’s tapestry of new construction communities caters to diverse lifestyles, each offering unique advantages for families, young professionals, and retirees:

• Families: Fredericksburg’s historic charm, Ashburn’s top-rated schools, and Ruckersville’s verdant landscapes provide safe havens with idyllic suburban settings.
• Young Professionals: Alexandria’s urban buzz and proximity to D.C. fuel career aspirations, while Woodbridge’s dynamic town center and Chantilly’s tech corridor offer vibrant social scenes.
• Retirees: Escape to the tranquility of Ruckersville’s Blue Ridge foothills, unwind on the pristine shores of Fredericksburg’s Rappahannock River, or immerse yourself in the rich history of Alexandria’s colonial streets.

No matter your stage in life, Virginia’s new construction market has the perfect community to call your own. So, start browsing and unlock the door to your Virginia dream!

Let’s explore some of the popular Virginia cities and towns where you can find new construction homes.

Fredericksburg VA

If you’re looking for a charming historic town with a vibrant community, consider Fredericksburg. Located in the heart of Virginia, Fredericksburg offers a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. The city is known for its rich history, with numerous historic sites and museums that attract both residents and visitors. 

Explore the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, where you can learn about the region’s role in the Civil War. Enjoy shopping and dining in the picturesque downtown area, filled with unique boutiques and restaurants. Fredericksburg also offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and nearby access to the Rappahannock River.

What Makes Fredericksburg VA a Good Place to Live:

For families:

• Top-rated schools: Fredericksburg City Public Schools and Spotsylvania County Public Schools nurture young minds, with a focus on academic excellence and personal growth.
• Safe Communities: Quiet neighborhoods and friendly communities provide a sense of security and belonging for families of all sizes.
• Parks and recreation: Explore the Rappahannock Riverwalk, conquer the Fredericksburg Battlefield State Park trails, or splash at the Splash Park – Fredericksburg has outdoor adventures for everyone.

For young professionals:

• Thriving economy: Fredericksburg’s proximity to major highways and Washington D.C. unlocks a world of career possibilities in technology, healthcare, and government sectors.
• Urban energy: Downtown Fredericksburg buzzes with trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and vibrant nightlife, offering a perfect balance to work and play.
• Historic charm: Immerse yourself in Fredericksburg’s rich history, from Civil War battlefields to colonial architecture, providing a unique cultural backdrop to your life.

For retirees:

• Tranquil beauty: Embrace the serenity of the Rappahannock River, explore the rolling hills of the Virginia countryside, or stroll through the lush gardens of Fredericksburg’s historic sites.
• Active lifestyle: Fredericksburg offers a plethora of clubs, community centers, and senior programs, keeping you engaged and connected.
• Affordable living: Fredericksburg boasts a lower cost of living compared to major cities, allowing you to enjoy your retirement without breaking the bank.

Fredericksburg Virginia isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to thrive. Come discover its captivating blend of history, opportunity, and natural beauty.

Woodbridge VA

If you prefer suburban living with easy access to the nation’s capital, Woodbridge is an excellent choice. Located in Prince William County, Woodbridge offers a convenient commute to Washington, D.C., making it a popular choice for professionals working in the city. 

The town boasts a variety of shopping centers, including the bustling Potomac Mills Mall, the largest outlet mall in Virginia. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the parks and trails in the area, such as Leesylvania State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking along the Potomac River. Woodbridge also offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

What Makes Woodbridge VA a Good Place to Live:

For Families:

• Top-notch schools: Woodbridge boasts a network of highly-rated public schools within Prince William County Public Schools, offering excellent academic programs and fostering a nurturing environment for young minds.
• Safe neighborhoods: Woodbridge fosters a strong sense of community, with friendly neighborhoods and a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, like the Woodbridge Town Green Festival and the annual fireworks display.
• Endless recreation: Splash at the Sprayground at Leesylvania State Park, hike the scenic trails of Pohick Bay Regional Park, or catch a baseball game at Pfitzner Stadium – Woodbridge offers an abundance of outdoor adventures for families of all ages.

For Young Professionals:

• Thriving job market: Woodbridge’s proximity to Washington D.C. and major highways unlocks a world of professional opportunities in diverse sectors like technology, government, and healthcare.
• Bustling downtown: Explore Woodbridge’s vibrant downtown scene, featuring trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and lively entertainment venues, offering a perfect escape after work.
• Convenient commute: With easy access to I-95 and other major highways, commuting to Washington D.C. or other regional hubs is a breeze.

For Retirees:

• Tranquil beauty: Embrace the serenity of the Potomac River, explore the scenic trails of the Occoquan Riverwalk, or delve into the historical charm of Old Town Woodbridge – Woodbridge offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Active lifestyle: Stay engaged and connected with a plethora of senior programs, clubs, and events offered by the Woodbridge Recreation Department and local community centers.
• Affordable & Convenient living: Compared to nearby metropolitan areas, Woodbridge boasts a lower cost of living, allowing you to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. Medical facilities, grocery stores, and shopping centers are all within easy reach, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free retirement.

Woodbridge Virginia isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to connect. Come discover its welcoming community, endless amenities, and stunning natural beauty.

Ashburn VA

For those seeking a thriving community with excellent schools and modern amenities, Ashburn is an ideal destination. Located in Loudoun County, Ashburn has experienced rapid growth in recent years and is home to many technology companies, making it a hub for innovation and employment opportunities. 

Ashburn offers a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options, including the One Loudoun development, which features a mix of retail, dining, and residential spaces. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Ashburn’s parks and recreational facilities like Brambleton Regional Park, where you can enjoy sports fields, trails, and a scenic lake.

What Makes Ashburn VA a Good Place to Live:

For Families:

• Exceptional education: Ashburn is a haven for top-rated public schools within the highly-acclaimed Loudoun County Public Schools system, providing unparalleled academic excellence and nurturing environments for young minds.
• Safe and friendly communities: Family-centric neighborhoods with parks, playgrounds, and strong community ties provide a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive.
• Endless adventures: Explore the breathtaking trails of Banshee Reeks Nature Center, catch a baseball game at Segra Field, or Splash at the Ashburn Splash Park, visit the Leesburg Animal Park, or explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center – Ashburn offers endless family adventures.

For Young Professionals:

• Silicon Valley of the East: Ashburn is a hub for Fortune 500 tech giants like Amazon and Google, offering a wealth of career opportunities in diverse fields like software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
• Vibrant downtown: The heart of Ashburn buzzes with trendy restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, providing a perfect balance to demanding work schedules.
• Convenient connectivity: With easy access to Dulles International Airport and major highways, commuting to Washington D.C. or other regional hubs is a breeze.

For Retirees:

• Tranquil haven: Embrace the scenic beauty of the Potomac River, explore the rolling hills of the Virginia countryside, or delve into the rich history of Ashburn’s historic sites – Ashburn offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Active lifestyle: Stay engaged and connected with a plethora of senior programs, clubs, and events offered by the Ashburn Recreation Department and local community centers.
• Sophisticated living: Enjoy the peace and quiet of Ashburn’s serene neighborhoods while having access to upscale amenities and a thriving cultural scene.

Ashburn Virginia isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to flourish. Come discover its dynamic spirit, breathtaking nature, and welcoming community.

Chantilly VA

If you’re looking for suburban living with convenient access to transportation hubs, Chantilly is a great choice. Located in Fairfax County, Chantilly is known for its proximity to the Washington Dulles International Airport, making it an ideal location for frequent travelers. 

Chantilly is also home to a number of technology and defense companies, providing employment opportunities in the area. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the parks and golf courses in Chantilly, such as Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center.

What Makes Chantilly VA a Good Place to Live:

For Families:

• Top-rated schools: Chantilly boasts excellent public schools within Fairfax County Public Schools, fostering academic excellence and nurturing young minds with diverse programs and extracurricular activities.
• Safe and welcoming: Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks, playgrounds, and community events provide a secure and supportive environment for children to grow and thrive.
• Endless adventure: Explore the hidden gem of Bull Run Regional Park, learn about history at the Chantilly House and Sully Plantation, or splash at the expansive Great Falls Park – Chantilly offers a smorgasbord of outdoor adventures for families of all ages.

For Young Professionals:

• Tech haven: Thriving tech giants like SAIC and Northrop Grumman call Chantilly home, offering a wealth of career opportunities in cutting-edge fields.
• Convenient location: With easy access to Dulles International Airport and major highways, commuting to Washington D.C. or other regional hubs is a breeze.
• Vibrant Scene: Downtown Chantilly buzzes with trendy restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, providing a perfect escape after a busy workday.

For Retirees:

• Scenic serenity: Embrace the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Virginia countryside, explore the peaceful trails of Frying Pan Park, or simply relax and enjoy the serenity of your own backyard.
• Active lifestyle: Stay engaged and connected with a plethora of senior programs, clubs, and events offered by the Chantilly Recreation Department and local community centers.
• Affordable comfort: Chantilly offers a lower cost of living compared to many neighboring areas, allowing you to enjoy your retirement without financial worries.

Chantilly isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to discover your perfect balance. Come unwind in its safe havens, ignite your passions in its tech hubs, and savor the endless beauty of its serene landscapes.

Alexandria VA

For those who appreciate historic charm and a vibrant waterfront, Alexandria is a perfect fit. Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria offers a mix of unique boutiques, waterfront dining, and architecture as old as the city’s founding in 1749.

Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets of Old Town Alexandria, where you can explore historic sites, art galleries, and specialty shops. Enjoy waterfront activities along the Potomac River, including cruises, kayaking, and bike rides on the Mount Vernon Trail. Alexandria also offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as the Torpedo Factory Art Center, where you can watch artists at work and purchase their creations.

What Makes Alexandria VA a Good Place to Live:

For Families:

• Top-Tier Education: Renowned Alexandria City Public Schools nurture young minds with innovative learning and diverse programs, fostering a love for knowledge and preparing students for success.
• Safe Haven: Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks, playgrounds, and community events provide a sense of security and belonging, creating a nurturing environment for children to thrive.
• Endless Exploration: Explore the wonders of the National Aquarium, delve into history at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, or take a scenic bike ride along the Potomac Riverwalk – Alexandria offers endless adventures for families of all ages.

For Young Professionals:

• Thriving Hub: Alexandria’s proximity to Washington D.C. and major highways unlocks a world of career possibilities in diverse sectors like technology, government, and international affairs.
• Bustling Downtown: Old Town Alexandria teems with trendy restaurants, unique shops, and vibrant nightlife, providing the perfect escape after a day of conquering career goals.
• Charming Escape: Enjoy the peace and quiet of Alexandria’s historic neighborhoods while having access to upscale amenities and a thriving cultural scene, striking the perfect balance between work and play.

For Retirees:

• Historic Treasures: Delve into the captivating past at the George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, or discover fascinating exhibits at the Alexandria Black History Museum – Alexandria offers a captivating journey through history for curious minds.
• Active Lifestyle: Stay engaged and connected with a plethora of senior programs, clubs, and events offered by the Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities.
• Sophisticated Living: Enjoy the peace and quiet of Alexandria’s charming neighborhoods while having access to upscale amenities and a vibrant cultural scene, allowing you to savor your retirement in style.

Alexandria isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to experience. Come discover its captivating charm, endless possibilities, and historic allure.

Ruckersville VA

Ruckersville is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the scenic countryside. Located in Greene County, Ruckersville offers a rural setting with beautiful mountain views and a close-knit community. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Experience the charm of small-town living in Ruckersville while still being within reach of larger cities and amenities like dining, recreation, and other essentials. Ruckersville is conveniently located near Charlottesville, where you can find even more shopping, dining, and attractions. 

What Makes Ruckersville VA a Good Place to Live:

For Families:

• Quality Education: Greene County Public Schools foster a nurturing environment for young minds, offering a strong academic foundation and enriching extracurricular activities.
• Safe and Sound: Family-friendly communities with wide streets, parks, and a strong sense of community provide a safe haven for children to grow and flourish.
• Endless Exploration: Hike through the breathtaking trails of Shenandoah National Park, splash in the refreshing waters of the Rapidan River, or visit the fascinating Civil War sites – Ruckersville offers endless outdoor adventures for families of all ages.

For Young Professionals:

• Commuting Ease: Ruckersville’s strategic location near Charlottesville and I-64 grants convenient access to career opportunities in diverse fields, from technology and healthcare to education and government.
• Affordable Living: Enjoy a lower cost of living compared to metropolitan areas, allowing you to focus on pursuing your passions and building a secure future.
• Peaceful Retreat: After a busy workday, unwind in the tranquility of Ruckersville’s scenic landscapes, recharge with stargazing under the wide-open sky, or indulge in the simple pleasures of small-town life.

For Retirees:

• Quiet Sanctuary: Embrace the serenity of the countryside, spend your days strolling through picturesque meadows, or savor the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from your porch swing – Ruckersville offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Active Lifestyle: Stay engaged and connected through community events, join the local senior center, or explore the historic charm of nearby Charlottesville – Ruckersville offers opportunities to keep your mind and body active.
• Affordable Comfort: Enjoy a lower cost of living and smaller-town conveniences, allowing you to savor your retirement without financial worries and savor the simple pleasures of life.

Ruckersville isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to breathe. Come discover its unhurried pace, breathtaking beauty, and welcoming community.

Step 2: Choose The Type of New Home You Want to Live In

Some benefits of homeownership apply no matter what kind of home you live in. When you own instead of rent, you get the freedom to personalize your home as you wish, and you’ll be building equity over time.

But there are also key differences between different types of homes.

Let’s look at some common options for new construction homes in VA.

Single-Family Homes

When you were a kid and you drew a picture of a house, you probably drew a single-family home–a free-standing square building with a triangular roof. A single-family home doesn’t have to look exactly like that, but it refers to a home that’s a detached structure meant for one family unit or household. 

While you may still have next-door neighbors, you won’t share an interior wall with anyone, and will have a certain amount of outdoor space to yourself. This makes a single-family home a great choice for anyone prioritizing privacy and space – whether that means more bedrooms, a backyard, or simply plenty of room to stretch out.

You’ll also have the opportunity for renovation and expansion – though you’ll also be responsible for repairs and maintenance. While single-family homes can cost more than some alternatives, they can also be a savvy financial investment.

Townhomes & Condos

A condo–short for condominium–refers to a building of individually owned apartments. Generally, condos are perfect for first-time homeowners, young professionals, young families, people looking to downsize, and people looking for a more minimalist, low-maintenance lifestyle. 

While you may think of condos as cramped spaces with tiny living areas and no more than two bedrooms, this isn’t always the case. True, condos may not offer much extra space or bonus rooms, but you can certainly have enough space to fit everything you need and live comfortably.

In fact, some condos are even larger than single-family homes! Some of K. Hovnanian’s luxury condos offer 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a whopping 2,602 square feet, featuring extravagant finishes and a sense of grandeur you might expect would be lost in apartment-style living.

However, condos mean more neighbors, more shared walls, and potentially less privacy. You’ll likely have one shared main entrance to the building or your section of the building, and then you’ll navigate through a hallway full of entrances to private apartments to get to your door. 

If you’d like something halfway between a house and an apartment, a townhome could be for you. These multi-level structures have at least two floors and are attached to other living units by one or both walls. 

This means you might have one or two next-door neighbors, but won’t have upstairs or downstairs neighbors. It also means you’ll have just one entrance to go through, and it’ll be a front door directly to your home.

If you enjoy the sense of community that can come from being close to your neighbors, shared amenities like a community pool or park, and a living environment that’s somewhere between urban and suburban, townhomes could be an ideal (and affordable) alternative to a detached home.

Offering more privacy than condos, townhomes are equally suited to first-time homebuyers who’ve outgrown apartment living and older homeowners who might be looking to downsize. The multi-level nature of townhomes, as well as the fact that they typically have a backyard or private outdoor space, can offer more division between spaces, creating the sense of more room, even if the square footage isn’t actually more than that of a condo.

Multi-Generational / Extra Suites

As multigenerational living is on the rise, consider homes with design features like our signature Extra Suite Plus option – a self-contained living space within a larger home that’s somewhere between a guest room and a guest house.

More than just a bedroom, our Extra Suite and Extra Suite Plus designs can include features like private entrances, baths, living areas, and kitchenettes. They’re perfect for households with grandparents, adult children who haven’t completely left the nest, or hosting long-term guests. 

These spaces offer privacy and independence without compromising togetherness, convenience, or safety.

Step 3: Choose Which Type of Community is Right for You

Virginia is home to a wide variety of new construction home communities, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with a pool and playground, a quiet retreat from the city, or a waterfront community with stunning views, you’re sure to find the perfect new construction home community in Virginia.

Types of Virginia New Construction Home Communities

Family-friendly neighborhoods: These neighborhoods typically have amenities that appeal to families, such as pools, playgrounds, and walking trails. They are often located in close proximity to schools and other family-friendly activities.

Quiet communities: These communities are typically located in more rural areas and offer a more peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. They may have fewer amenities than family-friendly neighborhoods, but they often offer more privacy and space.

Master-planned communities: Master-planned communities are typically designed with a specific theme in mind, such as a Mediterranean village or a Tuscan villa. They often have a variety of architectural styles to choose from, as well as a wide range of amenities, such as parks, pools, clubhouses, and shopping centers. Master-planned communities are a good option for people who want to live in a community with a lot to offer, but they can also be more expensive than other types of communities.

Golf communities: Golf communities are designed for people who love to golf. They typically have a private golf course, as well as other amenities, such as clubhouses, pools, and tennis courts. Golf communities can be a great option for people who want to live in a community where they can enjoy golfing without having to travel far. However, they can also be more expensive than other types of communities.

Waterfront communities: Waterfront communities in are located on lakes, rivers, or the ocean. They offer residents the opportunity to enjoy water sports and activities, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Waterfront communities can be a great option for people who love the water and who want to live in a community with a relaxed atmosphere. However, they can also be more expensive than other types of communities.

Scatter lot communities: Scatter lot communities offer all the benefits of new construction with more flexibility in location. Instead of being contained to one street or neighborhood, homebuilders develop plots of land in curated locations across a city. This can also mean you won’t have to wait for your neighbors’ homes to be built to feel like your community has begun to take shape–your home may be the newest home on the street!

Gated Community: Gated communities are another option to consider and are exactly what they sound like: any collection of homes which limits access to non-residents through a physical barrier like a gate, wall, or fence. Common benefits include a sense of security, quieter neighborhoods, and reduced through-traffic that makes it safer for kids to play and neighbors to chat. On the other hand, some find gated communities a bit too insular for their liking and prefer visitors to be able to drop by more easily.

Active 55+ Community: Designed for people who are 55 years of age and older, These resort-style communities offer lovely homes with minimal maintenance and a variety of activities. They offer a variety of activities and amenities, such as social clubs, fitness centers, and transportation services.

For example, Active lifestyle communities at K. Hovnanian Homes are designed for 55-year-old and older adults who are ready to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Whether you’re challenging friends to a match on the sports court, taking a dip in the community pool, exploring the dog park with your canine friend, or enjoying a good meal in the barbecue pavilion, you’ll never run out of things to do in your next, exciting chapter.

HOA or No HOA

An HOA, or Homeowners Association, is a bit like a mini-government for common-interest communities and neighborhoods.

In communities with an HOA, homeowners will likely have to contribute a monthly fee that goes toward things like maintenance.

Like anything else, HOAs have their pluses and minuses. While some homeowners might chafe at regulations on things like exterior decorating, others enjoy the high levels of maintenance that HOA communities often have – as well as amenities, neighborhood events, high property values, conflict resolution, and an overall sense of community.

Step 4: Consider Whether to Build Your New Home or Move In Now

New construction homes all offer some common advantages, like adherence to new building codes, the latest technology, high energy efficiency standards, and more.

However, new construction homes come in different forms, which allow homebuyers to choose if they want something completely personalized, or quick and decision-free.

To-Be-Built Homes

To-be-built homes may look like an empty pile of dirt. That’s because they are new homes that have yet to be built or constructed. It all starts with just a plot of land in a community.

Opting for a to-be-built home gives you the option to watch your dream home be built from the ground up. You can choose your home design pick out structural and non-structural options in advance – like adding an extended patio, switching out a loft for an extra bedroom, or upgrading your flooring.

While the process is longer–as it involves waiting for your home to be built from the ground up–and involves more decisions, it’s a great choice for anyone who wants their new home just as they envisioned it.

Move-in Ready Homes

If you love the idea of simply signing a contract, picking up your key, and wheeling in your suitcase, consider a move-in ready home.

Move-in Ready Homes are completely built and curated by our interior design team – these homes come equipped with beautiful finishes and modern layouts, so that you won’t need to spend time choosing which tiles go with which cabinets.

If you’ve ever toured a model home and wished that you could move in on the spot, a move-in ready home may be a great option.

Spec or Quick Move-In Homes

A happy medium between the two options above would be a new home that’s already been built but still has room for decisions on certain upgrades and options, so that you have more opportunity to fit your home to your needs and personal style.

If you like the idea of a blank canvas, but don’t like the idea of waiting for a new construction home to be built from scratch, consider these brand-new homes that are waiting for you to come and make them your own.

Quick Move-In Homes often have structural options like extra bathrooms, fireplaces, and extra-large patios installed, but they may not have flooring or finishes installed yet, allowing you to choose options that match your style.

Step 5: Finding the Right Virginia Home Builder

When you’re looking for a new construction home builder, there are a lot of options, and it can be hard to know where to start. We might be biased, but we think K. Hovnanian Homes is a great choice if you’re looking for new home builders in Virginia.

Here are some helpful steps to help you find your perfect match:

• Schedule an Appointment or Tour a Model Home – A home builder’s website is a good place to start your search, but it can only tell you so much.
  
  If you find a Virginia home builder you’re interested in, making an appointment with a Sales Consultant, touring a model home, or both – is an excellent way to get a feel for the team you’d be working with and the home you could be living in.

• Discuss Exterior & Interior Design Options — Whatever type of home you’re interested in, exterior and interior design options are an important factor to consider.
  
  It’s crucial to know what kind of flexibility and choices a builder might offer, and what you can expect in terms of cabinetry, flooring, tiles, exterior elevation, and more.

At K. Hovnanian Homes, we’re proud to offer our innovative “Looks” interior design collections (available at select communities), making great design easy, user-friendly, and transparent. In a simple, streamlined process, we walk you through cohesive aesthetic design styles, such as Farmhouse and Loft style, while leaving plenty of options to personalize your home.

• Check Home Builder Incentives, Lending Options & Special Offers – It’s always smart to check what a home builder can offer in terms of financing, promotions, and discounts.
  
  Some Virginia home builders may be willing to offer incentives to help make your dream of homeownership a reality.

Step 6: Prepare Your Finances and Finalize Your Mortgage

Buying a new home is a big investment, so it’s important to be prepared and informed. Unless you’re buying your home outright, your mortgage is a crucial part of the process.

Here are some tips on how to prepare your finances and finalize your mortgage:

1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to borrow and will make your offer more attractive to sellers.
2. Save for a down payment. The larger your down payment, the lower your monthly payments will be. Larger down payments may also help you qualify for lower interest rates and better incentives.
3. Check your credit score. Your credit score will affect the interest rate you’re offered on your mortgage.
4. Shop around for a mortgage lender. Compare interest rates and fees from different lenders before you choose one and check for any special offers from your home builder. Some home builders–like K. Hovnanian’s K. Hovnanian^Ⓡ American Mortgage, L.L.C.^™–have in-house mortgage lenders.
5. Read the closing disclosure carefully. This document will outline all of the terms of your mortgage, so it’s important to understand what you’re signing.
6. Avoid making major purchases, changing your job, or switching banks. Once you decide to start looking for a home, you should put off purchasing a car, buying furniture on credit, starting a new job, or changing banks. All these things will increase your debt-to-income ratio and decrease the amount of stability you’re presenting to your mortgage lender.

Once you’ve found a lender and agreed on the terms of your mortgage, it’s time to finalize the process.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind:

• Closing costs. In addition to the monthly mortgage payment, you’ll also have to pay closing costs. These costs can vary, but they typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price of the home.
• Escrow account. An escrow account is a separate account that holds money for your property taxes and homeowners insurance. The lender will collect money from you each month and deposit it into the escrow account.
• Title insurance. Title insurance protects you in case there are any problems with the title to the property.

While the process may seem overwhelming at first, when buying a K. Hovnanian home, we offer multiple free resources to avoid common stumbling blocks and help you sail through the process. Our in-house mortgage company, K. Hovnanian® American Mortgage, L.L.C.™(KHAM), also offers a variety of loan programs to work with your budget and needs. Reach out to a KHAM representative today to learn more.

Step 7: Get Ready for Your New Home in Virginia

After you’ve gotten through our first six steps, you have a new home!

Despite being exciting, the full moving process can be stressful. From decluttering, packing, planning, furniture, and design choices to your actual move-in day, moving is undeniably complex. There are a lot of things to do to get ready, but by starting early and planning ahead, you can make the process go smoothly.

Here are some tips on getting ready to move into your new construction home:

• Start packing early. This will give you time to evaluate what you do and do not want to keep, pack your belongings carefully, and avoid last-minute stress.
• Create a moving checklist. This will help you keep track of everything that needs to be done before, during, and after the move. Plus, being able to check off a task always feels rewarding, and moving is a great time to celebrate the little accomplishments.
• Set up utilities and connectivity. Make sure that all your utilities–electricity, gas, water, internet, and phone service–are all set up and ready to go on your move-in date.
• Take safety precautions for children and pets. Make sure that your new home is safe for your children and pets, so they can play and explore with no worries or accidents.
• Unpack your belongings slowly and carefully. Take your time and enjoy the process of getting settled into your new home. Some things you owned in your previous home may not look or feel right in your new space. Don’t be afraid to donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer want to keep.

Here are some additional tips:

• Label your boxes clearly. This will make it easy to find what you need when you’re unpacking. Don’t just stop at what room the box goes in, make a list of each category of item that’s inside. If there’s something specific in a box you know you’ll want to access or maybe is the odd item out, adding the name of that item to the box will help you locate it easily.
• Pack a “first night” box. This should include everything you need for your first night in your new home, such as toiletries, food, bedding, and a change of clothes.
• Don’t forget the small stuff. Don’t forget to pack things like light bulbs, batteries, cleaning supplies, hand soap, toilet paper, and other essentials.
• Ask for help. If you have friends or family who are willing to help you move, don’t be afraid to ask for their assistance.

Moving into a new construction home in Virginia can be a lot of work, but it’s also an exciting time. By following these tips, you can make the process go smoothly and enjoy your new home in no time.

So, are you ready to start your new life in Virginia? Visit K. Hovnanian Homes and browse our selection of new construction homes in Virginia today and find the perfect home for you. With a wide variety of styles and floor plans to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect home for your needs and budget. And with our convenient location and amenities, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Virginia has to offer.

K. Hovnanian American Mortgage, L.L.C. 3601 Quantum Boulevard, Boynton Beach, FL 33426. NMLS #3259 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Licensed by Virginia State Corporation Commission, Bureau of Financial Institutions Lic.#MC-2661. Equal Housing Opportunity. 

Last Updated on December 19, 2023