Resources: Dictionary of Home Building Terms It is one of our goals to educate you to not only make the buying process easier and more enjoyable, but to improve our communication and deliver a product and service that will meet or exceed your expectations. The following is a list of home-building terms and definitions you may encounter throughout the home-buying process or as a new homeowner. Build Contract This is the contract we use for homes that are to be built or are under construction. It lays out the terms and conditions for the home to be built. It is often used instead of a traditional "earnest money agreement" in this case because there are too many unknowns and it provides much more specific details about the home. Builder Direct This is a term we use to describe our ability and desire to work directly with you (the customer) in order to ensure the best communication, product, support, and price. We have an in-house sales team that knows our products best and can quickly give you the information you need to make your purchase decision. Community We take pride in offering "planned developments" that make a subdivision of homes more than just homes, but a "community". Architectural details, exterior colors, and landscaping are consistent throughout the projects. It is of utmost importance that our projects look great for years to come. Earnest Money Agreement This is a general sale agreement form used by builders and realtors alike that outlines the conditions for the sale of property. Each state has it's own recognized legal form. On homes that are complete or nearing completion, and the final product or home is visibly apparent, we use this form instead of a build contract, which is used primarily when details and specifications of the home need to be outlined so it is clear what the home will consist of. Easement A right given to a third party to use a portion of property for certain purposes, such as utilities, roads, etc. Easements are recorded on the title of property and are transfered from owner to owner. Elevation The exterior facade of a home, including the roof lines and pitch and materials including rock, brick, and wood accents. On pre-built homes, you have the opportunity customize your elevation, by changing rock types, locations etc. Final Plat When the development work including utilities, roads, sidewalks etc. are done and the city has signed off essentially putting their stamp of approval on the subdivision, it is said to have "final plat". Upon final plat, construction can officially begin. Framing The construction of the skeletal structure or framework of the home. Framing is one of the initial stages of home construction and the first major step that makes your home really take shape. Floor Plan An architectural drawing that shows the layout of the home, with locations and dimensions for each room, wall, door, window etc. At Northridge, we are very flexible for floor plan design and customization. Home Owners Association Many new communities are setup with a home owners association (HOA) to enforce rules and regulations of the community, and for the maintenance and upkeep of any common areas, including pools, waterfeatures, and landscaping. We do NOT setup HOA's because they frankly are a pain in the neck to manage and to each and every home owner. We typically can find better alternative to ensure maintenance of such grounds. Homesite Homesite, or building "lot" as it's normally called, is the physical area within the development that the home will be built on and ultimately owned by the home-buyer. We typically have several developments to chose the perfect homesite for your home. Homeowner Orientation The homeowner orientation provides you with the opportunity to get acquainted with your new home and do a final walk-thru to ensure it is not only built to your satisfaction, but our satisfaction as well. Lot Reservation Agreement Prior to the final plat of the subdivision, you may chose a lot to be built upon and reserve the right to that lot. It legally doesn't have any merit, but an agreement and handshake is enough for us. Upon final plat, we will enter a build contract to make it legally binding.  © 2007 Agent Image, Inc. All rights reserved. | Terms | Login Design by Agent Image - Real Estate Web Site Design