WILL MCDONALD HOMES BUILD ON A LOT THAT WE ALREADY OWN?
Yes, McDonald Homes will build on a lot owned by a customer. Typically, we prefer to complete the entire process. However, in certain circumstances there may be the option to do some of site preparation work yourself.
There are a couple of ways that this type of build can be financed, however generally this done through a construction mortgage where draws are made at various stages of the build.
WILL MCDONALD HOMES PURCHASE A LOT THAT WE ARE INTERESTED IN PURCHASING?
Yes, McDonald Homes will purchase a lot that you are interested in purchasing to build on.
It is difficult to get a mortgage to purchase vacant land. However, McDonald Homes can assist you with this. If you have identified a lot that you would like to build on, we are able to purchase the land for you, build your house and a sell you a complete home and land package.
ARE WE ABLE TO ADD UPGRADES TO OUR HOME AFTER WE HAVE SIGNED AN AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE?
Yes, during your selection meeting we will go over any upgrades that may be possible.
The final purchase price will then be adjusted by the lawyers at the time of closing.
HOW LONG IS THE BUILDING PROCESS?
The building process typically takes between 3-4 months, complexity of the design and weather dependent.
However, there are other items that impact the length of the entire process.
Drawing design changes can significantly impact the length of the process, we can only apply for permit and begin the build once the home designs are finalized.
Additionally, site work, septic and well installations are site specific and can vary in complexity and could impact the length of the entire process.
WHAT AREAS DO YOU BUILD IN?
Currently McDonald Homes has developments in Belleville, Brighton, Quinte West, Campbellford, Picton and various building lots between Cobourg and Belleville.
Generally, we build anywhere in the Belleville – Cobourg corridor.
IS MY HOME COVERED BY A WARRANTY?
McDonald Homes is a registered Tarion builder. Your home is registered and covered by a Tarion Warranty.
Tarion administers the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act and their mandate is to serve public interest and ensure builders fulfill their warranty obligations.
Each component of your home is required to meet certain construction performance guidelines and the length of warranty coverage varies by component.
HOW MUCH WILL THE HOUSE COST?
Our subdivision homes and country lots are listed with real estate. If you find something on realtor.ca the price will be shown, please contact the listing agent if you require any further information.
A per/foot price is a very unreliable cost estimate. There are many different variables, in pricing a house such as:
If you are looking at a house/lot package where we do not own the land, please give us a call and we can go over the pricing details.
WHAT SHOULD WE CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT LOTS FOR SALE?
We recommend that you don’t always make a decision based on price. A lot can be listed with a lower selling price, however it may require extensive site work in order to establish a suitable building envelope, whereas a higher priced lot may be ready to build on.
Initially, consider municipal zoning and conservation authority restrictions. Then how the water, gas, electricity and sanitary will be provided to the house, and the cost of installing these services.
Each lot will have a set of site-specific issues. We recommend that you contact us prior to purchasing a lot so that we can go over the considerations specific to the lot.
DO WE HAVE TO BUILD FROM AN ESTABLISHED MCDONALD HOMES PLAN OR CAN WE GET A MORE CUSTOM DESIGN?
Typically, in a subdivision we have set plans that work within the zoning restrictions of the lots, however slight modifications can be made to those plans.
In the country where more space is available we can use your ideas to create a custom design. We have experienced designers on staff who will work directly with you to design your dream home.
HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK WHEN I HAVE A HOUSE TO SELL?
Generally, when the agreement of purchase and sale is being drawn up, it would be conditional upon the sale of your current home. A time-line will be established and if the sale of your current home does not occur than you will have the opportunity to proceed with the agreement or the agreement will become null and void.
CAN WE BUILD AN IN-LAW SUITE OR SEPARATE APARTMENT IN THE BASEMENT?
This will depend on municipal by-laws. Not all municipalities allow for secondary suites. McDonald Homes will confirm with the municipality on your behalf, whether or not this option is available.
WE HAVE BEEN THROUGH THE MODEL HOME AND ARE INTERSTED IN MOVING FORWARD, WHAT IS OUR NEXT STEP?
If you are already working with a real estate agent set up a meeting through your agent. If you are not working with a real estate agent feel free to contact our office directly and we can guide you through the process of lot selection and available house designs.
