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People Exploring a New Berks Home

January 2, 2024

What Is Home Owner Orientation and What To Expect?

The orientation process is a critical phase of new construction, where newly minted homeowners are acquainted with their new home and instructed on its features. In this discussion, we will cover everything one needs to know about the orientation process in new construction.

The orientation process is vital because it acquaints new homeowners with the proper usage of their new home's features. During orientation, the Superintendent will demonstrate the operation of the heating and cooling systems, appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems. They will also provide guidance on maintaining the new home and managing any future issues.

Most importantly, this meeting allows customers to inspect the home's interior and exterior for cosmetic defects or issues. We recommend focusing on finished surfaces such as flooring, countertops, cabinets, tubs, showers, toilets, sinks, exterior doors/finishes, and appliances. Walls and trim are easy to touch up with a bit of spackle and paint and should be the least of their focus. The orientation is their sole chance to address these cosmetic issues, so they should take their time and be thorough.

The Superintendent will employ a form to record all findings and note if the customer finds these areas of cosmetic inspection acceptable or unacceptable and mark the form accordingly. We highly recommend that new homeowners carefully review the form before signing it. They should request the Superintendent's explanation if they require assistance understanding the format. After they move in, any cosmetic issues not noted on the form cannot be addressed, as it is uncertain whether they occurred after settlement.

To prepare for the orientation process, new homeowners should make a list of their questions regarding the home's features. This will ensure that they remember everything necessary during orientation. 

The orientation process is an essential component of new construction. It enables new homeowners to understand how to use their new home's features, maintain it adequately, and manage any future issues. By following the guidelines outlined in this discussion, new homeowners can ensure that they derive the maximum benefit from the orientation process, enabling them to begin enjoying their new home as soon as possible.

Kelly & Megan
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