How long has Berks Homes been in business?
Since 1973
Where do you build?
We build in the following regions in PA:
• The Central region spans from State College to Bloomsburg, covering Centre, Columbia, Northumberland and Union Counties.
• The South Central region is based in Harrisburg, but covers all the way down to York and Adams County and back up through Cumberland and Dauphin to Perry County.
• The Southeast region has expanded from our roots in Berks County and now includes Chester, Lancaster, Lebanon, Schuylkill and Northampton Counties.
We also have an On Your Land program to build on your property in any of the regions listed above, and the surrounding areas.
What kind of homes do you build?
We have a diverse portfolio of floorplans that includes Single Family Homes, Duplex Homes, and Townhomes. Our sales team is does a fantastic job guiding you towards a floorplan that will be best suited for your lifestyle, but if you would like to so a little research on your own, click here for a blog post detailing the features and benefits of some of our floorplans.
How long does it take to build a home?
The average build time is 6 months.
How do I get started?
Call or email our OSC, Kelly...contact details at top right of this page.
What makes us different?
• Simple Process
• Personal Choices
• Trusted Results
Why is it important to get a pre-approval?
A pre-approval is helpful for mainly two reasons, the first is for planning and understanding your overall budget, and the second is to show you are ready to take the next step in purchasing a home.
How far in advance should I get a pre-approval?
The timeframe depends on your lender and how long they keep your pre-approval valid, but the overall range for a valid pre-approval is generally 30-90 days after being issued. Be sure to ask your lender their terms to ensure you have a valid pre-approval during the timeframe you are hoping to sign a Purchase Agreement for your brand new home.
What factors are considered in the pre-approval process ?
Credit score, income, length of employment, debt to income ratio, funds available.
Is there a fee to get pre-approved?
No. Visit our financial resources page and contact a lender to get pre-approved or receive free guidance on repairing credit if needed. Getting a pre-approval early helps get any credit issues resolved before purchasing a home.
Do pre-approvals hurt my credit score?
If you have your credit pulled for the same type of inquiry, such as a mortgage, as long as it is done within 45 days there should be no impact, but if you have it pulled for other reasons during that time it could impact your score.
What if I change jobs after my pre-approval?
Contact your lender to ensure your mortgage pre-approval is still valid with the new employment.
Should I pay off debt and close accounts before getting pre-approved?
Not necessarily. Check with your lender first as closing accounts may lower your credit score.
Can I have a co-signer?
Yes, depending on the loan type.
Can I use gift funds?
Yes, gift funds are allowed but must be documented during the process.
Am I really speaking to Kelly from the website?
Yes!
How long will this initial phone call take?
Most calls range from 3-5 minutes.
Is any personal information taken on this phone call?
Yes, name, phone, email and area/community of interest.
Who do I call to get when I want information about building with Berks Homes?
The OSC is the quickest way to get more about Berks Homes.
What are the model home hours?
Model homes are open Wednesday - Saturday from 11am - 5pm.
What should I expect after I schedule an appointment to see a model home or meet with a sales consultant?
1) Upon scheduling with Kelly our OSC, you'll receive a confirmation with appointment details and the sales consultant's contact information.
2) As a reminder, you will receive a confirmation the day before your scheduled appointment.
3) After your appointment, Kelly will check in to address any remaining questions.
How long will this meeting last?
The average meeting 1.5 hours.
What questions will I be asked?
• Home & homesite wants and needs
• Timeline
• Budget
What information can I expect to receive?
• Community & homesite details
• Available options per floorplan
• Pricing
Will I be expected to sign a contract at this meeting?
No, however if you are ready you may with a mortgage pre-approval and earnest deposit money ($5,000).
Do I need a mortgage pre-approval at this meeting?
No, however a mortgage pre-approval will help you understand your budget and make this appointment easier.
Will I be able to tour a completed home at this meeting?
Typically yes, but if you are one of the fortunate homebuyers to get into a community early before any homes are complete, the home tour might have to be scheduled in a different location. Feel free to mention you would like to see a specific floorplan or a finished home so we can make it happen!
What do I need to sign an Agreement of Sale?
Earnest deposit money of $5,000 and a Mortgage Pre-approval.
What happens after I sign an Agreement of Sale?
• Selection Gallery Appointment
• Contact financial lender to complete your mortgage application
• You will receive an email from your customer coordinator
It's official... you're now a new home buyer! Signing the purchase agreement starts the wheels in motion. Our team will now get busy drawing, planning, and constructing your new Berks Home. Click the link above and check out our next section in the Build Process to discover what to expect as we build your new home.
