Miller and Smith Blog
Miller and Smith

Homebuying Process

When you build a new home with Miller & Smith, we may do the heavy lifting, but you will be intimately involved in bringing your home to life. The following outlines our buying and building process, and the steps we take to ensure you are informed and involved along the way.

One Visit Can Change Everything.

One Visit Can Change Everything.
No matter which Miller & Smith home or community you visit, one thing is always noticeably absent pressure. Our Sales Managers assist, support and facilitate the process. We work very hard to create a positive home buying experience for everyone. Our 'One Visit Can Change Everything' philosophy is evident in everything we do from our innovative architectural designs to our customer-care attitude. At Miller & Smith you'll know that you're home.
 

Making it Official.

Making it Official.
Once you know you're home and you're ready, your Sales Manager will sit down with you to discuss everyone's roles and responsibilities. Working with you, your Sales Manager will prepare the purchase agreement paperwork, which includes selecting your structural features and options [if applicable]. Your earnest money deposit taken at this time will signify your commitment to purchase your home. You will also receive your Miller & Smith Homeowner's Guide. Congratulations, you're well on your way to living in a new Miller & Smith home!
 

Financing the Dream.

Financing the Dream.
Applying for your loan in a timely manner is critical to keeping the process moving forward. We recommend speaking freely to any of our preferred lenders for the most current and accurate loan information as well as the added benefit of receiving seller assistance towards your closing costs. Timeliness is important, in order to comply with the terms of your agreement.

Putting Your Personal Style In Your Home.

Putting Your Personal Style In Your Home.
If you're purchasing a to-be-built home, this is the stage where our design is transformed into a home that's uniquely yours. Prior to your appointment, browse our Design Center, so that you can make the most of your time at the appointment. During the appointment you will select everything from kitchen cabinets, countertops, appliances and hardware, to flooring, lighting, design accents and more.

Meet Your Builder.

Meet Your Builder.
To keep you informed and involved at key stages of construction, we offer you the opportunity to meet with your Construction Superintendent onsite before construction begins. During your Pre-Construction Orientation, you and your Superintendent will review blueprints, homesite placement, landscape plans, final selections and more.

Before the Drywall Goes Up.

Before the Drywall Goes Up.
This is the stage where you gain a greater appreciation for our construction methods and our commitment to quality. Before the drywall is installed, your Construction Superintendent will familiarize you with the infrastructure of your home, including framing, heating & air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, and insulation. This is your opportunity to review all of your selections.
 

Nearly Done.

Nearly Done.
At this stage, your home is nearly complete and ready for you to tour with your Superintendent. Your Pre-Settlement Orientation will be scheduled to occur approximately 7 days prior to your settlement date. Your Superintendent will review all of the components, equipment and appliances in your home, and demonstrate their operation. Your Superintendent, along with county officials, inspects your home closely throughout its construction. This is your opportunity to do the same.

Safety is one of Miller & Smith's top priorities and for this reason only purchasers listed on the purchase agreement and their real estate agents are permitted to attend any onsite meetings or orientations. As our communities are active construction sites, children under the age of 18 must be left at home.
 

One Last Look.

One Last Look.
So close now you can almost taste the cake at your housewarming party. This is your opportunity to review and sign off on the items noted during your Pre-Settlement Orientation. Typically, this is scheduled to occur on the same day as your settlement. You will be introduced to your Warranty Service Craftsman who will assist your Warranty Service Manager for the next year.

Sign on the Dotted Line.

Sign on the Dotted Line.
You're just hours away from getting the keys to your new Miller & Smith home. Settlement is the final stage. The settlement of your new home will be conducted at the settlement company you chose at the time of contract, and is where you will sign a variety of documents related to your mortgage. Congratulations! It's time to pop the cork on that special bottle you've been saving. You are a proud new Miller & Smith homeowner!

A Friendly Expert.

A Friendly Expert.
Your Warranty Service Manager will introduce themselves to you within 7-10 days after your settlement. Any questions you have should be addressed to your Warranty Service Manager, rather than your Sales Manager or Construction Superintendent.
 

Working Out the Bugs.

Working Out the Bugs.
With any new home construction, minor fixes and repairs are expected, and the 60-day Post-Settlement Orientation is your opportunity to address them. This orientation is scheduled approximately 60 days after your settlement and will be conducted by your Warranty Service Craftsman. For a list of items normally covered at this appointment, please refer to your Homeowner's Guide.
 

Tender, Loving Care.

Tender, Loving Care.
For your added assurance, your Warranty Service Manager will contact you during the 11th month after you've settled on your home to schedule your year end appointment. This is the time to point out any repairs that are necessary on the items covered in your Homeowner's Guide.