Buying a home is the largest investment that most people will make in their lives. You want it to be a smart decision based on facts, which will give you years of enjoyable, problem-free homeownership. Here are some steps you can take to get the information you need to consider before you make a final decision.

Check Out the New Home Builder or Developer
Home builders must be licensed in B.C. How long has the company been in business? Where have they been building homes? What kind of homes? What kind of training and experience does the builder have? Are they a member of the Greater Vancouver Home Builder's Association and/or other industry and business organizations?

Check Out the Builder's Homes and Communities
When possible, visit the builder's show home or sales office or, as a minimum, check the builder's printed information carefully for details on construction and finishing. Also, invest some time in visiting the builder's previous projects. Have a look at the homes from the outside, and drive around the community to get a feel for what it would be like to live in and how well the homes stand up over time.

Check Out the Builder's References
Many builders will provide a list of previous buyers; if not, ask for it. Find out if the owners are happy with their homes and satisfied with the builder's service. Ask their honest opinion about the builder and if they would buy from the company again.

Check With the Better Business Bureau
Call the BBB at (604) 682-2711 to ask if any complaints have been registered against the builder. If yes, find out if the complaints have been resolved.

Check Out the Builder's After-Sales Service
What can you expect once you have moved into your home? Builders should give you a clear description of their after-sales service program, including milestones such as the one-year check up, and the process of communication -- who contacts whom, when, how and under what circumstances.

Check Out the Warranty
New home warranties are mandatory in B.C. Minimum coverage includes two years on labour and materials, five years on the building envelope and 10 years on the structure of the home. Check the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what's covered and what’s not.

Check Out the Contract
Before you sign a contract with a builder, make sure that everything is in order and clear. If it is your first home purchase, you might want to ask your lawyer to explain your rights and obligations under the contract. And keep in mind that when time is critical and you want to secure a particular home right away, you can always enter into a conditional agreement with the builder.

Check Out the Home Before You Move In
Professional new home builders will take you on a complete walk-through of the home a few days before you take possession. This is an opportunity to make sure that everything has been done to your satisfaction and to familiarize you with the operational and maintenance requirements of your new home.

Check Out Your Homeowner's Insurance
You need full insurance coverage on your home from the day you take possession, in the event of theft, fire, vandalism, natural disasters and so on. This is usually also a requirement by mortgage lenders. There is some variation in the kinds and amounts of coverage available, so you might want to comparison-shop early on. That way, you will get the insurance you need in case the unforeseen does happen in the future.

Look Forward to Years of Enjoyment
When it all checks out, you know that you have taken all the necessary steps to safeguard your new home investment, and you can look forward to many years of enjoyment and pride of home ownership.