Technology takes center stage in homebuilding

Now more than ever, homebuying is infused with technology. This is especially true with new construction homes, in which buyers get to use technology in every step of building, buying and owning a new home.

Some technology helps buyers streamline their search, purchase and decision-making processes. And some of the best technology that comes with new construction is built into the house itself.

Your builder’s customer service center will help you upload apps or software that can help simplify the homebuilding process. Here is what to expect — or what to ask for — when new-home searching in this evolving age of tech.

Virtual reality and augmented reality

Builders have been incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) programs into homebuilding, community development and sales for many years. And ever since 2020, these programs have grown wonderfully robust.

VR tours take the concept of professional video tours of model homes to new levels. Buyers can visualize every dimension of a home long before the lot has been graded.

Builders plug floor plans and sample finishes into these programs to create virtual tours of each home. During use, buyers can tap into AR features for a truly immersive experience, visualizing different types of finishes or even viewing furniture arrangements in each space.

Workflow programs

Similar to the cloud-based program management software and apps that many people use for work, builder workflow programs provide visibility and an interactive building process.

Workflow apps with a customer-facing side help builders streamline and enhance the building and buying processes for buyers. The apps include communication portals to provide real-time updates and to receive and answer questions or schedule appointments.

Builders also use these apps to remind buyers about time-sensitive decisions related to design choices and construction options. TIP: If you’re new to workflow management apps, have the builder help you set up notifications so that you’re alerted when an item in the app needs attention.

Some builders integrate these programs with appointment-setting apps, payment and finance apps, and libraries of legal or other educational resources. In addition, these programs can include document management centers where buyers can easily access contracts, change orders and other information.

E-signatures

Typically embedded in workflow management programs, electronic document signing further streamlines homebuilding and homebuying. Be prepared for builders to introduce you to this option.

With the agreement of all parties, electronic signatures are just as legally binding as pen-and-ink signatures. Electronic document signing eliminates mounds of paper and the time required to sift through and sign documents at different phases of the building process.

These programs offer user-friendly interfaces and can be accessed and used remotely from any smart device. As a result, meetings can take place from anywhere, saving buyers significant time and effort before and during the building process.

Despite the ease, some people may be more comfortable with hard or paper copies of each document. Builders will always provide these to buyers as needed, especially if a buyer requests more time to analyze paperwork before providing their e-signature.

In-home technology

Across California, new construction homes include smart-home technology ranging from thermostats and security systems to remotely programmable appliances and even water-leak detection systems.

Some new homes include smart outlets and smart-lighting options. These allow homeowners to remotely turn lights and devices on or off.

Buyers may even request a smart-home hub. This centralized platform allows all smart devices and controls to come together, simplifying access for the homeowner and allowing interaction between devices.

Your builder might even include an app for managing your home warranties. New homes come with a variety of warranties and accessing them all from the same place streamlines the process of maintenance requests and communication.

Ask each builder to explain how they use technology for transparent, efficient homebuilding and homebuying. They’ll be happy to have the opportunity to share.