Everything You Need to Know About Building a Home in the Chicago Suburbs
There’s something incredibly exciting about walking into a home that no one’s ever lived in. The smell of fresh paint, the sparkle of untouched fixtures, and the thrill of knowing every detail was chosen just for you.
But while building a new construction home in communities like Volo, Hawthorn Woods, Lake Zurich, and Kildeer can be a dream come true, but it can also get overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect.
At Helen Oliveri Real Estate, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers navigate new construction across the Chicago suburbs. Whether you’re buying from a national builder or a custom developer, this playbook will guide you through the entire journey, from picking your lot to turning the key.
📍 Step 1: Choosing the Right Location (It’s More Than Just the Lot)
When it comes to new construction, the community you choose matters just as much as the floor plan. Start by asking:
Is it in a growth area with strong resale value?
What amenities are planned (parks, trails, schools, shopping)?
Are there builder incentives available?
How close is it to highways, train stations, and job hubs?
💡 Areas like Volo and Grayslake are booming with modern townhome and single-family developments that balance affordability with lifestyle.
🧱 Step 2: Research the Builder
Not all builders are created equal. Some offer luxury-level finishes and customization, while others focus on volume and efficiency.
Make sure to:
Research the builder’s reputation (look at reviews, talk to past buyers)
Tour model homes to see craftsmanship in person
Ask about warranties, build timelines, and customer service after move-in
We’ve worked with national names like Lennar and local builders alike, and we can help you compare apples to apples.
🏡 Step 3: Pick the Right Floor Plan (and Options That Add Value)
Choosing your layout is exciting, but here’s the secret: Not every upgrade is worth it.
Upgrades that typically bring ROI:
Expanded kitchens & islands
Hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring
Extra bedrooms or home office spaces
Walkout basements or finished lower levels
Energy-efficient windows & insulation
Upgrades that don’t always pay off:
Expensive lighting packages
Top-tier countertops in every room
Overly niche built-ins or decorative trims
We’ll help you select upgrades that balance personal comfort and long-term resale potential.
📑 Step 4: Understand the Contract (It’s Different Than a Resale)
New construction contracts are written by the builder’s attorney, not yours. They often include:
Firm deadlines for decisions
Non-refundable deposits
Escalation clauses tied to material costs
Limited negotiation room on pricing
That’s why you need an experienced agent on your side. We review every line, protect your interests, and help you advocate for the right terms.
⏳ Step 5: What to Expect During Construction
Depending on the home and the builder, timelines range from 3 to 12 months. Here's how the build process usually unfolds:
Lot prep & foundation
Framing & roofing
Electrical & plumbing rough-ins
Drywall & insulation
Interior finishes
Final walkthrough & punch list
Inspections typically occur along the way, and yes, you should hire your own home inspector, even for new construction.
📦 Step 6: Final Walkthrough, Punch List & Closing
The last 1–2 weeks before closing, you’ll do a final walkthrough with the builder to:
Check for incomplete work
Verify that upgrades match what you ordered
Note touch-ups or corrections (this becomes your “punch list”)
At closing, you’ll sign your documents just like a resale, except now you also get warranty details, a builder contact for post-close issues, and often an orientation tour of your new systems.
🔐 Step 7: Protect Your Investment with Warranties & Inspections
Most builders include:
1-year workmanship warranty
2-year systems warranty (electrical, plumbing, HVAC)
10-year structural warranty
We also recommend:
A third-party home inspection before closing
A warranty inspection around the 11-month mark to catch defects before coverage ends
🧠 Why You Need a Realtor (Even With a Builder)
Builders will tell you you don’t need a real estate agent. But remember: their sales rep works for them, not for you.
By working with Helen Oliveri Real Estate, you get:
Expert contract review
Help negotiating upgrades and incentives
Guidance on what adds value and what doesn’t
Referrals to trusted inspectors, attorneys, and lenders
Support from first tour to move-in day—and beyond
- The builder pays our commission, not you.
🛠️ Real Stories, Real Experience
We’ve helped buyers build in:
The Oaks of Volo by Lennar
Tanglewood Oaks in Kildeer
Bridgewater Farms in Hawthorn Woods
Remington Point in Volo
And every one of those buyers had questions, hiccups, decisions, and timelines. We were there every step of the way to make the process easier, faster, and better.
📲 Ready to Build Your Dream Home?
New construction is an incredible opportunity... if you go in prepared. Let our team walk you through it with expert insight, builder knowledge, and your goals front and center.
Call Helen Oliveri Real Estate at 847-967-0022
Or message us on Instagram @helenoliveri 👈