When building your dream home, it’s important to factor in every expense that comes with the purchase, including closing costs. Far too many home buyers are unaware of what closing costs to expect or who pays them. While the buyer usually pays closing costs, home builders sometimes offer incentives to help offset this expense.

What are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the fees associated with finalizing a real estate transaction, including things like appraisal fees, title search and insurance fees, home inspection fees, and lender fees. The exact costs vary by location, lender, and type of home loan, but they can add up to several thousand dollars.

Who Pays Closing Costs?

Traditionally, it’s up to the buyer to pay closing costs. In some cases, a home seller may offer to cover some of the costs. But in new construction, the responsibility for paying closing costs is less clear-cut.

Do Home Builders Pay Closing Costs?

Some builders offer incentives to help buyers with closing costs and other home-buying expenses. These vary by builder and location but may include discounts on the home price, cash-back at closing, or interest-rate buy-downs.

Keep in mind that builders don’t usually cover the full cost of closing, so be prepared to pay some costs out of pocket, even if you receive an incentive. Also, be aware that some incentives are subject to certain conditions, such as using a preferred lender or closing within a specific timeframe.

Save on Closing Costs with a Custom Home Builder in Oklahoma City

At Landmark Fine Homes, we frequently offer deals to help our clients save on the home purchase price, closing costs, and mortgage interest rates when they choose our preferred lender. We also have incentives for buyers purchasing a home outright.

Over the past two decades, Landmark Fine Homes has become one of Oklahoma City’s premier custom home builders with a reputation for exceeding expectations. We offer a diversified product line of custom and pre-built homes ranging from $200K to $1.5 million. Call us today at 405.400.8616 or contact us online to learn what money-saving deals are currently available.

Buying a house is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Perhaps you’ve bought a pre-existing home in the past, but now you’re ready to build a custom home to fit your unique needs and preferences. The custom home building process can be complex and overwhelming, especially for first-time custom home buyers, so follow these tips to help you navigate the process with confidence.

  1. Establish your budget and stick to it: Be realistic about your financial situation and set a budget you can comfortably afford. Then, stick to the dollar amount you set to avoid overspending and financial stress.
  2. Choose the right builder: Selecting the right custom home builder is crucial. Research and compare builders in your area, read online reviews, and contact references. The builder you choose should have experience designing and constructing custom homes similar to what you want.
  3. Location, location, location: When it comes to custom home building, the location is just as important as the design. If you want to build on your own lot, consider the proximity to schools, shopping, and work, along with the quality of the neighborhood, before buying land. The builder may also have lots available in safe, planned communities.
  4. Consider resale value: You might be building your dream home, but it’s still important to consider resale value. Choose a practical, functional design that appeals to many buyers. You never know if you may have to sell, and an overly customized design may limit your potential buyers and decrease your resale value.
  5. Pay attention to the details: Building a custom home allows you to incorporate your unique style and personality. As you do, pay attention to the factors that make a home functional, comfortable, and visually appealing. Work with your builder to ensure every detail—from lighting to storage to traffic flow—is accounted for.
  6. Don’t forget about energy efficiency: Building an energy-efficient home can save you money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Consider finding a Certified Professional Builder who can help you incorporate high-efficiency HVAC, insulation, and appliances into your custom home design.
  7. Plan for the future: Consider your family’s current needs and how they may change. Might you need additional bedrooms or a larger living space in the future? Anticipating and planning for your changing needs now saves you time and money in the long run.
  8. Communicate with your builder: Clear and open communication is essential. Check in regularly with your builder for updates on the progress and any potential issues that have come up. Also, voice your questions or concerns to prevent misunderstandings and ensure your vision is achieved.

Building a custom home is incredibly rewarding when you partner with a knowledgeable builder who can bring your dream home to life. To ensure top-notch results, choose Landmark Fine Homes as your custom home builder in Oklahoma City. Our trustworthy, family-run business has been building great homes for great people for over 20 years. Call us today at 405.400.8616 or contact us online to learn more.

If you’re tired of compromising on the features or location of your current home, you may be ready to move. Rather than looking for an used property, why not build your dream home from the ground up? If you go this route, you’ll have countless decisions to make as you craft the perfect living space, from selecting a prime location to designing the perfect layout to choosing high-quality fixtures and finishes.

It may seem overwhelming at first, but working with the right custom home builder makes the design and construction process a breeze. But what does a home builder do, anyway? Here’s a closer look at the responsibilities of a custom home builder.

Understanding Client Needs and Preferences

First and foremost, a custom home builder learns their client’s wishes. This requires active listening, effective communication skills, and a deep understanding of the build process and code requirements. Expect the builder to ask detailed questions about your vision, lifestyle, and budget to create a design that meets your every need.

Designing and Planning the Home

Once the builder understands your goals, they create a detailed plan for the home. Depending on your preferences, this may include customizing one of the builder’s floor plans or bringing your own design to the table. It might mean building on a predetermined lot or land you already own. You can even skip ahead and buy a pre-built home in a safe, planned community.

Obtaining Permits and Approvals

Before construction begins, the builder must obtain zoning permits, building permits, and inspections from local government agencies. The builder is also responsible for complying with building codes and regulations throughout the process.

Managing the Construction Phase

Your builder manages all aspects of the home build, from creating a construction schedule to hiring and supervising subcontractors to ensuring each phase is completed on time and within budget. Expect to remain informed of the progress and receive updates on any changes or issues that arise during construction.

Ensuring Quality and Safety

One of the most important home builder responsibilities is to deliver a safe, high-quality home. This involves using top-notch materials and finishes and ensuring the work is completed to code. The builder also schedules regular inspections to identify any potential safety hazards or quality issues and addresses them promptly.

Providing Post-Construction Support

Once construction is complete, your builder arranges a final inspection to receive a certificate of occupancy. Then, the builder hands over the keys, and you can move in! But that’s not where the relationship ends. Your builder offers continued support, providing guidance on home upkeep and addressing any issues that arise during the warranty period.

Contact a Custom Home Builder in Oklahoma City

Clearly, a new home builder plays a vital role throughout every phase of the design and construction process. To ensure your complete satisfaction, consider partnering with Landmark Fine Homes. Our knowledgeable, quality-focused team has been building great homes for great people since 2000. Call us today at 405.400.8616 or contact us online to learn more about building a custom home in Oklahoma City.

Building a custom home is an exciting and fulfilling experience. The process requires careful planning and execution to ensure the best outcome. One of your most crucial decisions is choosing which home builder to hire. While some may opt for a production builder, hiring a custom home builder is often the better choice, especially if you want a personalized and unique living space. Learn more about the benefits of hiring a custom home builder so you understand why it’s worth it.

Knowledge and Expertise

Custom home builders have years of experience in the home building industry. They understand the importance of thorough planning and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your home is carefully considered. They also have the expertise to navigate complex building regulations to ensure your home is built to code. On top of these benefits, a custom builder can provide invaluable advice and guidance throughout the process.

Personalized Design

One of the most significant benefits of hiring a custom home builder is the chance to personalize the design. Unlike production builders who offer limited floor plans and few customizations, custom home builders work with you to create one-of-a-kind results. You have the flexibility to make design decisions that suit your lifestyle, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the layout of your living space, and the materials used throughout the home.

Higher Quality Materials and Craftsmanship

When building a custom home, you access top-quality materials and trade partners through your builder. Durable materials, including high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows, and long-lasting roofing materials, ensure your home is built to last.

Greater Control Over the Building Process

Custom home building is a collaborative effort between you and your builder. You have greater control over the process than if you choose a production builder. Your project manager will work closely with you to realize your vision, allowing you to monitor the progress and request adjustments along the way.

Efficient Use of Space

Custom builders are skilled at designing space-efficient homes. They understand how to maximize living areas so you don’t pay for wasted square footage. This includes utilizing multi-functional rooms, minimizing hallway space, and sizing rooms appropriately for your specific needs and lifestyle.

Increased Resale Value

You invest your time, money, and energy when building a custom home. Rest assured that your efforts will translate to a higher resale value when it’s time to sell. The unique, personalized nature of custom homes makes them more appealing to potential buyers. Plus, the high-quality materials and craftsmanship result in a home that is built to last.

Hire a Custom Home Builder in Oklahoma City

If you decide building a custom home is right for you, consider teaming up with Landmark Fine Homes. We draw on over 20 years of experience as a custom home builder in Oklahoma City. Whether you’re interested in a pre-designed home, a customizable floor plan in an established Landmark community, or building on your own lot, we can meet your needs! Call us today at 405.400.8616 or contact us online to learn more.

Whether you’re buying a pre-designed custom home or building your dream home from scratch, you want to work with a home builder you can trust. The right builder will ensure your home is built to the highest quality standards to satisfy your needs. But how do you know which builder to trust? Here are the steps to take when looking for a reliable, professional home builder that has your best interests in mind.

Look for a Builder with a Solid Reputation

One of the first things to check is the builder’s reputation. You can do this by reading online reviews, asking for references from past clients, and researching the company’s history. If a home builder has built a solid reputation in the community, they’ll be proud to share their work and provide references from a long list of satisfied clients.

Research Their Experience and Credentials

Look for a builder who has been in business for several years and has experience constructing homes similar to what you’re looking for. Also, make sure the builder is licensed, insured, and bonded. These credentials demonstrate that the builder has met the necessary legal requirements to operate their business.

Check Out Their Portfolio

A trustworthy home builder should have an extensive portfolio for you to browse through, showcasing their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the styles of homes they’ve built. Look for a builder whose work aligns with your style preferences, so you can be confident they’ll deliver the home you want.

Ask About Warranties and Customer Service

Expect a reputable home builder to stand behind their work with manufacturer and builder warranties. Look for comprehensive coverage that addresses both structural and cosmetic issues. While you’re at it, ask about the builder’s customer service policies. A company that prioritizes customer satisfaction will commit to resolving any issues that arise months or even years after moving into your new home.

Consider Their Process

It’s important to understand a builder’s process before signing a contract. A reputable company will be transparent about everything involved in building your home, including the timeline, the materials they use, and their trade partnerships. The builder should be willing to answer any questions without hesitation. Additionally, look for a builder that can create a timeline that suits your needs and schedule. A company that prioritizes transparency and communication won’t stop until you’re thrilled with the final product.

Work with a Trustworthy Home Builder in Oklahoma City

Choosing the right builder is crucial when buying or building a new home. By teaming up with Landmark Fine Homes, you can rest assured that you’re working with a trustworthy builder who will work closely with you to create your dream home. With over 20 years of experience as a custom home builder in Oklahoma City, we have become a leader in our field, boasting the highest commitment to your peace of mind and satisfaction. To learn more about buying or building a home with us, please call 405.400.8616 or contact us online today.

Building a new home is an exciting but daunting task. From choosing a suitable location to selecting the perfect design, the process requires great care and precision to ensure the best possible outcome.

The home builder is an essential element that can make or break your experience. This professional plays a critical role in ensuring your dream home is built to your specifications, budget, and timeframe. Take a look at why home builders are necessary in a new home build.

Ensuring Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations

Building a home involves more than just pouring concrete and erecting walls. Specific codes and regulations must be met for the safety of the construction crew and future building occupants. Responsible home builders ensure the property meets all applicable building codes and fire safety regulations. From obtaining permits to scheduling inspections, you can trust your home builder to handle all the logistics.

Providing Professional Expertise and Advice

Knowledgeable home builders have years of industry experience. Their valuable insights simplify the building process. For instance, your builder can assist with selecting high-quality materials and designing a suitable layout to meet your family’s needs. As the client, you always have the final say, but a builder’s guidance helps you make informed decisions.

Coordinating and Managing Subcontractors

Many tradespeople, from electricians to plumbers to carpenters, must come together to make a new home build successful. Organizing all these different subcontractors can be a logistical nightmare for someone without industry experience. However, reputable home builders already have established relationships with reliable and skilled subcontractors. The builder manages and coordinates these teams to ensure they work time-efficiently and cost-effectively.

Ensuring Quality Workmanship

Building a custom home is a significant investment, so you want the workmanship to be of the highest quality. Trustworthy home builders only work with subcontractors who demonstrate outstanding craftsmanship to ensure your new home is constructed to the highest standard.

Managing Budgets and Timelines

Home builders are responsible for managing expenditures and ensuring the project is completed on time. Once you establish a budget, your home builder works hard to stay within that budget. A carefully planned project timeline also helps keep every phase moving forward as expected.

Solving and Preventing Problems

Even with thoughtful preparation, unexpected delays, budget overruns, and design changes can occur. Home builders aim to anticipate these issues early and resolve them quickly. They can also offer solutions to prevent problems from recurring, keeping the build on track and ensuring the final result exceeds your expectations.

Build Your Dream Home in Oklahoma City

Ready to build a new home? Having a qualified, reputable home builder on your team ensures the process goes smoothly. Landmark Fine Homes has over 20 years of experience as a custom home builder in Oklahoma City. We’re here for you every step of the way, from getting your dreams down on paper to handing you the keys to your new home. We are a leader in our field and boast the highest level of commitment to you, our valued client. To learn more about our custom home-building services, please contact us at 405.400.8616 today.

If you’re looking to build a luxury home, you want your builder to possess certain characteristics that showcase their competency and ability to deliver on their promises. Look for these top 10 qualities of a competent luxury home builder to ensure you receive a beautiful, high-quality home that exceeds your expectations.

  1. Licensing and insurance: A custom luxury home builder must be licensed and insured to operate legally. Requirements include general liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, and other coverage called for by local and state regulations. Proper licensing and insurance demonstrates that the company is professional, responsible, and committed to safety.
  2. Experience and knowledge: The most competent builders have years of experience building luxury homes, with extensive knowledge of building materials, techniques, and architectural design.
  3. Good reputation: A builder’s reputation reflects the quality of their work and commitment to customer satisfaction. Read online reviews and ask for references before hiring a home builder.
  4. Responsiveness and transparency: A reputable builder is receptive to their clients’ needs and communicates clearly. They are also easy to contact and provide regular updates to keep clients informed.
  5. Honesty and integrity: A custom home builder is honest in their dealings with clients and subcontractors and operates with integrity in all aspects of their business.
  6. Cooperation: The ability to collaborate effectively with clients, architects, and subcontractors keeps the project on schedule and within budget. This requires strong communication skills and a willingness to listen and compromise.
  7. Flexibility: A luxury home builder should be able to adapt to changes in scope or design and adjust the construction schedule to meet the client’s needs. Flexibility requires good organizational and multitasking skills.
  8. Attention to detail: To deliver an exceptional finished product, a custom home builder must have a keen focus on quality and attention to detail. They should strive for excellence in every aspect of the design and construction process, from selecting materials to placing the final finishing touches.
  9. Organized system and process: It’s important to have a clear process for each stage of construction, plus a system for managing the project timeline and budget, to keep everything moving forward smoothly. This is why Landmark Fine Homes has a checklist for every step of the process.  These lists will be used during meetings and walks that you will have with the builder.
  10. Commitment to customer satisfaction: Clients want to know they can trust their luxury home builder to prioritize their needs and go above and beyond to ensure their complete satisfaction with the finished product. This requires a high level of customer service and dedication to exceeding expectations.

If you’re searching for a competent luxury home builder in Oklahoma City, look no further than Landmark Fine Homes. Our team possesses all the qualities outlined here, with over 20 years of experience constructing our clients’ dream homes. Whether you want to build a custom home from scratch or buy a high-quality pre-designed home, we can help. Our team has what it takes to help you find the best location and choose the finest materials for your forever home. Contact us today at 405.400.8616 to learn more about our luxury home-building services.

Learn to Swim Safely and Easily

Swimming is a great form of exercise for people of all ages. It’s low impact but still offers a great full body workout that will get your heart pumping. The best way to start swimming is by gradually incorporating it into your exercise routine. Start with short swims and work up to longer distances. If you're a beginner, consider attending a swimming class or taking private swimming lessons to help you get started on the right foot. Always remember to stay safe in the water and never swim alone.

Start by Gradually Adding More Time to Your Swim Sessions

Swimming is a great way to get exercise, but it can be tough to know how to get started. If you're not used to swimming laps, it can be easy to get discouraged. The key is to start slowly and gradually add more time to your swim sessions. Begin by swimming for a few minutes at a time. Then, add a minute or two each week until you're up to swimming for 30 minutes or more. This approach will help you build your endurance and avoid getting overwhelmed. In no time, you'll be enjoying the many benefits of swimming for exercise!

Benefits of Swimming

Swimming is not only a great way to stay in shape, but it also has several other benefits. Swimming is a great way to stay cool in the summer heat and a great way to relax and de-stress. When you are swimming, your body releases endorphins, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels. As a result, swimming can be an excellent way to improve your overall mental health. Finally, swimming is a great way to enjoy some sunshine and spend more time outdoors.

Whether you are joining a local swim team or taking group swim lessons, you will likely meet new people who share your interest in swimming. As a result, swimming can also be a great way to socialize and make new friends.

Don't Push Yourself Too Hard - Take It Slow and Steady

For adults learning to swim, pushing too hard too quickly is never a good idea. It’s important to pace yourself and take things slow and steady. If you try to do too much too soon, you'll likely become frustrated and give up before you learn anything. It's better to start with small goals and build up your skills and confidence gradually. The same principle applies to any other new activity or skill you're trying to learn. Go at your own pace, and don't be afraid to take a break if you start to feel overwhelmed. You'll thank yourself later.

Enjoy Swimming at Your Community Pool

If you live in an active adult community by Landmark Fine Homes, you’ll have access to a community pool along with several other great amenities to help you stay active. If you are interested in purchasing a home that affords you access to a variety of active hobbies, contact us today.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Home After 55 Years Old

Are you 55 years or older and thinking about buying a home? This can be a big decision, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before moving forward. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key factors to consider when making your decision. We'll also look at some of the benefits of owning a home at this stage in life. So, if you're on the fence about whether to buy, read on.

The Pros

One of the best things about buying a home after 55 years old is that you usually don't have to worry about obtaining a new mortgage. In most cases, by the time you reach this age, you will have paid off your mortgage and will own your home outright. This means that you'll have a lot more financial freedom when it comes to retirement planning and may have the ability to buy a home with the profits you get from selling your current house. Additionally, buying a home after 55 can also be a great way to downsize and simplify your life. If you're no longer working and don't need all the extra space that a larger home provides, downsizing to a smaller home can free up some extra cash each month by reducing utility and maintenance costs. Plus, it can be less work to take care of a smaller home, giving you more time to enjoy your retirement. Whether you're looking for financial security or a simpler lifestyle, buying a home after 55 can be a great option for senior citizens.

The Cons

Homebuying is a big decision at any age, but it can be especially complicated for those who are 55 or older. For seniors, the stakes are often higher because they may be nearing retirement or have already retired. In addition, many senior citizens have fixed incomes and may be relying on Social Security or pensions. You may also need to think about your health and wellness needs as you get older. If you are an active adult, buying a home may be a sound decision. However, if you’re struggling with health problems or think you may need extra care as you get older, buying a home at 55 may not be the right step. Additionally, seniors may be more likely to face age discrimination when trying to buy a home. Realtors and lenders may be less likely to take them seriously, so they may have difficulty finding homes that meet their needs.

What to Look for When Buying a Home

If you are age 55 or older and looking for a new home, Landmark Fine Homes can cater to your needs. We have been in business for more than 20 years and have a wide variety of floor plans to choose from in our active adult communities. You can also customize any plan to fit your needs. Our homes are built with quality materials and attention to detail, so you can rest assured that your home will last for many years. Contact us today to learn more about our homes and start planning your dream retirement home!

What’s Your Daily Walking Average?

It is no secret that walking is a great way to stay healthy and maintain a good weight, but just how much walking is the average person doing each day? According to The Mayo Clinic, the average American walks about 3,000-4,000 steps per day, which is about 1.5 to 2 miles. Increasing how much you’re walking every day and picking up your speed to a moderate pace can have numerous benefits for your health and wellbeing. If you live in an active adult community, it’s much easier to get those steps in on maintained walking trails, trips to the community garden, and strolls to the community clubhouse.

How Many Steps the Average Person Takes Each Day

Most people would be surprised to learn that the average person walks about 2 miles every day. More active individuals may take as many as ten thousand steps every day, which is closer to about 5 miles. Walking is often seen as a low-impact form of exercise, but it can have a significant impact on overall health. Regular walking has been shown to improve heart health, increase lifespan, and reduce the risk of numerous chronic diseases. In addition, walking is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

The Health Benefits of Walking

Walking is a simple and convenient way to get some exercise. But did you know that walking also has several health benefits? Studies have shown that walking can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also help to reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. Walking is also an excellent way to improve mental health. Just 30 minutes of walking each day can help to reduce anxiety and depression. Walking can also help to improve cognitive function and memory. So next time you need to get some exercise, take a walk! You'll be doing your body a favor.

Fun Ways to Get in More Steps Throughout the Day

There are plenty of fun ways to make sure you hit your daily step goal. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk the long way to the store, or go for a stroll around the block. If you have a dog, take them for an extra-long walk each day. You can also try a pedometer challenge with friends or family members to see who can take the most steps in a week. By getting creative and making walking a part of your everyday routine, you'll be surprised at how easy it is to reach your 10,000 steps.

Walking as A Form of Exercise

Walking is a great way to get exercise, and it’s something that most people can do regardless of their age or fitness level. At Landmark Fine Homes, we believe in the benefits of walking daily, which is why we build communities that are close to shopping, entertainment, and schools, with dozens of amenities. If you’re looking for a new home in an amenity-rich community, contact us today. We would be happy to discuss our current offerings and answer any questions you have about our communities.

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