Homebuying Tips

10 Easy Steps to Home Ownership

You've made a wonderful and exciting decision to buy a brand-new Joshua Home. As you move forward through each phase of the building process, our Joshua Homes team will work with you side-by-side to make sure you understand and are prepared for each step of new home ownership. It's all part of our absolute commitment to offering the highest quality service. Making sure you get the home you want, just the way you want it!

1) Finding the right home
It's the first step in the exciting process of owning your new home. You've chosen a wonderful Joshua Homes neighborhood. Now you can pick a great homesite and floor plan. A salesperson will assist you in choosing a homesite or discuss future availability.

At this time, one of our preferred lenders can prequalify you for a loan. This is extremely helpful because now you'll have an idea of how much home you can responsibly afford! Our sales team can also offer guidance and support if time must be taken to improve your credit-worthiness.

2) Completing your purchase agreement
An appointment will be set to complete your purchase agreement. The meeting will last two to three hours. You'll want to bring your checkbook and have the following materials available:

• W-2 statements (2 years) or tax returns if self-employed
• pay stubs covering most recent 30-day pay period
• most recent 2 months' bank statements

Because the homebuying process consists of numerous details, we encourage you to ask any questions along the way. We want to keep you informed and aware of all phases and requirements of the homebuilding process. By paying close attention to the details, you'll be a well-informed homebuyer!

At this time, Design Studio personnel will contact you to set your appointment with Joshua Homes Studio—where you'll pick your favorite personalizing options. We encourage you to browse the decor options at the Design Studio prior to your final appointment.

3) Creating the perfect home
Now it's time to show your style with the help of Joshua Homes Design Studio.

There are two steps to using Joshua Homes Design Studio. First, because of all the wonderful choices available, you'll want to begin by browsing all the options as soon as possible.

Bring fabric swatches or pillows and great ideas for designing your new Joshua Home. It may take a few browsing visits to determine all the options you desire. Consider all your choices, including appliances, electrical fixtures, flooring, blinds, home theater and more. In the end, browsing pays off because you've given yourself the time and opportunity to make the perfect choice for your home.

The second step is the finalization appointment, which will last approximately two to three hours. A Joshua Homes Design Studio consultant will help you submit all of your option choices. This is your final opportunity to choose your options.

4) You're approved !
At this point, you've moved from prequalification to the final loan approval for your new home. Approval is required within 30 days of signing the Purchase Agreement. Please consult with your home loan consultant if you are planning any changes to your financial profile. Remember, along the way, your home loan consultant may request updated information.

5) Building excitement
Permits have been in process --- The day to start building your new home has arrived! You'll have a preconstruction meeting with a superintendent who will provide details on what you can expect during each phase of building. The superintendent will also review your options and answer any questions. Here are some helpful tips to remember for your visit:

• set aside 30-60 minutes
• give yourself time to arrive and begin on time
• wear closed-toe shoes
• follow all site safety regulations

6) Taking shape - We love your involvment
Your home has been framed and is ready for drywall. Electrical has been added and plumbing is in place. It's a great time to independently tour the building site. You should take the same safety precautions, which include wearing closed-toe shoes. Plus, make sure to bring your Data Sheet in case you need to check any details.

7) Finishing touches
Your new home is close to being finished! This is an important time to:

• check with your home loan consultant to make sure you have locked your interest rate. Remember, the loan is the responsibility of the customer.
• set your appointment to sign closing documents
• prepare to transfer accounts with your utility companies
• make sure you have obtained homeowners insurance

At closing you'll receive your Homeowner's Manual. Please re-review this before your 60-day post closing walk-thru so we can answer any questions you may have.

8) Getting to know your home
Your pre-settlement walk-thru will take approximately two hours. Please arrive early to make sure we can begin your orientation on time. Also, have any questions you may have prepared to review with your Joshua Homes representative.

Your representative will confirm your pre-settlement completion, which is usually 10 working days after the closing.

9) Signing the closing papers
As you get closer to finally owning your brand-new home, you'll meet with the title company representative. This appointment will take approximately one hour. It is important to bring:

• cashier's check made payable to title company
• valid driver's license or passport

The recording of your title may take a couple weeks. Once it's been recorded with the county, you'll receive a copy in the mail.

10) You get the keys
THE BIG DAY HAS ARRIVED!

At closing, you will receive the keys to your new Joshua Home!