Items that are of particular importance to keep include:

Brochure: Most developers compile information about the subdivision printed in a brochure format. This brochure contains the various floor plans offered as well as renderings of a variety of exterior views. Your ability to view these plans prior to making a home improvement (is that wall in the family room a load-bearing wall?) will benefit both you and your future buyer. In addition, these brochures often detail the included amenities as well as upgrade options that are available. This information is helpful when detailing what upgrades, replacements and improvements you have made when you market your home in the future. A layout of the community is generally included and very often any future commercial development within close proximity of the residential property is "disclosed" here.

Purchase Contract: Most developer contracts today are several pages long, and include many addenda as well. You will undoubtedly need to reference your contract if a dispute arises between you and your builder.

Homeowner's Association Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions: Each homeowner is given a copy of the CC&R's, if appropriate, describing the rules and regulations of the subdivision. You will need these for your own reference, and you will be obligated to furnish them to the subsequent buyer of your home.

Home Builder's Warranty: Become familiar with the warranty the builder provides and the time frame the builder has in honoring the terms of the warranty as both vary by builder and by area. Many builders offer to come back to your home for repair and replacement items at certain timed intervals (ie. at one month, six months, one year anniversary). At this time, you need to have a listing of those items that need the builder's attention. Keeping a log of those items in your file as well as the time frame such items can be repaired or replaced will be very helpful. (Note: Request copies of all paperwork involved in the repair/replacement work, and keep that in your file in the event of a dispute.)

Appliance Warranties: Whether provided at your walk-through or closing, or whether you find these items in a kitchen drawer after you take possession, it is advantageous to keep them together in your file.
Tip: Check the terms of each warranty and keep an expiration list for yourself on each in your file (and on your calendar, too!).

Care and Maintenance Schedules and Pamphlets: Many developers will provide for you a copy of maintenance schedules (and you are expected to follow their guidelines). I suggest, at the very least, that you keep this in the file (and consider the alternative of placing it where you will see it often).

Subcontractor Phone Numbers: Very often, builders suggest you call the subcontractor directly if problems arise. You can't afford not to have that information easy to access!

The best rule of thumb: Don't throw away paperwork relating to your new home (even if it seems out-of-date)! You never know when you might be in need of one of the items!

©2002 Marge Harris. Publication or use of this article on or off-line without written permission from Marge Harris is prohibited. If you would like to use Marge's articles on your Web site or in your publication, just email Marge for details!

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