Basements, like most things, have evolved over the years. A hundred years ago, having a coal bin in the basement was the norm. Coal was delivered through a chute into the basement and homeowners lifted shovelfuls of coal into the furnace to ensure their homes stayed comfortably warm. Let’s celebrate the fact that most of us no longer have to do that. Today, basements are used for everything, including additional living spaces for extended families, a home gym, housing memorabilia collections, and a home theater. The possibilities are endless. Read on to learn whether finishing your basement is the right option for you.

Empire Communities provides a variety of finished basement layouts. Most plans offer the following options:

 

 

1.   A large leisure room with an optional full bath or powder room
2.   An extended leisure room for an expansive space
3.   A leisure room plus a guest bedroom and full bath; some plans offer a comprehensive suite

 

 

Be sure to ask your Sales Consultant about our finished basement layouts — they’re happy to help you find the right layout to suit your family’s needs. Then, you can start enjoying your valuable basement space as soon as you move in. Similar to choosing upgrades for the main living area, you can personalize your finished basement during your Design Studio appointment.

If you are planning to finish your basement after closing, here’s what our unfinished basements include:

 

• Poured walls and concrete stoop
• Fully weather-stripped door between heated and non-heated space
• Insulated common vertical walls with heated space
• Stairs with a handrail plus unfinished treads and risers
• 400-amp electrical panel, white toggle switches, keyless light fixtures, a smoke detector, and a receptacle for future sewer pump and alarm installation

 

 Some floor plans also have:

 

• Water supply to the bath area
• Tub and toilet drain lines
• Holding tank for future finish

 

 *Not all floor plans have these extras — see your Sales Consultant for details.

Adding more space to your home may cost more, but did you know that turning the unheated area into a heated living space can actually lower the cost per square foot? Empire’s finished basement options can add up to or more than 24% of living space to your home. Plus, homes with finished basements increase in value quicker than those with unfinished ones.

 

You can save money on the purchase price now by finishing your basement after closing, but will it be worth it in the long run? Consider the hassle of a renovation later — screening contractors, juggling schedules for consultations, managing rising costs of labor and materials, and dealing with the mess. Opting to finish your basement at build time is hassle-free if you plan on having it completed in the future. It is a matter of personal choice and what works for your budget, so be sure to discuss your immediate and future plans for the basement with your Sales Consultant who will help guide you through the decision-making process. 

We are pleased to share that our River Reserve community in Greer, SC, offers numerous basement opportunities. This provides residents with the opportunity to customize their living spaces to meet their individual needs. Whether you desire a tranquil retreat, an expansive entertainment area, or simply more storage space, these basement options offer versatility.

 

For more details on these offerings, please visit our community page. These plans enable you to design a home that aligns with your vision right here in River Reserve.

 

Moving into a new home can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help.

Explore our guide on choosing the right lighting for your home and five clever ideas to maximize storage space in your garage.

When purchasing a new home, there are so many decisions to make that can feel overwhelming at times. The very first decision is how you plan to pay for your home. That is typically one of the easiest choices, and for most, the choice is to take out a mortgage. So now what? Where do you begin, what should you consider, and who do you trust? This is where things get a bit more complicated.

 

A good starting point would be to contact one of our Preferred Lenders who are familiar with our contracts and communities. They will be able to give you the most honest and accurate estimate and can walk you through their pre-approval process. Getting an accurate estimate is key. It tells you what you qualify for and how much you need for closing. Knowing how much you are approved for before you purchase will help protect your investment when it comes time to pay the earnest money deposit. It is important to determine how much you can afford before going to contract.  

 

Consider the following when choosing a lender:

 

1. Check Closing Fees: Make sure all fees are included.
2. Compare Estimates: Use our Preferred Lender’s estimate for comparison.
3. Know Your Contact: Ask who will handle your loan.
4. Avoid Repetition: Find out how often you’ll need to submit the same information.
5. Listen and Adapt: Make sure they listen to you and can work with your schedule.
6. Location and Time Zone: Check if they are in the same time zone for easy communication.
7. Smooth Closing: Ensure they can transfer funds efficiently on the closing day for a hassle-free experience.
8. Experience: Do they have experience with new construction loans? There are some subtle differences that the lender should be aware of and familiar with.

At Empire Communities, we’ve carefully chosen our Preferred Lenders. They are trusted, respected professionals with years of experience. We have a cooperative relationship with them to ensure an easy and smooth closing. Our Preferred Lenders provide competitive rates and tailored programs to suit your needs. They also strive to approve your loan quickly, handle any unexpected issues, and offer you peace of mind during the home-building process.

We work with specific Loan Officers, and seller-paid incentives are tied to both our Preferred Lenders and the Loan Officers. So, who are our Preferred Lenders?

Empire provides a comprehensive range of choices to meet your needs. Our Preferred Lenders have a 100% track record of closing on time. We encourage you to consider one of our Preferred Lenders for the best experience in your home buying journey.

Next, discover what you need to know about securing a mortgage, and the top reasons to buy a new home in the Carolinas with Empire.

As the creative hub where visions come to life, our skilled design consultants at the Empire Design Centre in Caledonia are the driving force behind transforming houses into personalized spaces. Read on to meet the brilliant minds that can bring your design dreams to life, as well as tips and tricks straight from our consultants to elevate your home’s interiors.

Looking for inspiration for your new or current home? Visit the design page of our blog for all the latest styles and trends.

 

Purchasing a new home is an exciting experience, filled with significant milestones and financial considerations. Before embarking on this venture, it’s essential to understand the nuances of deposits, down payments, and closing costs to make informed and confident decisions about your new home. To help, we break down these three terms below to make homebuying easier than ever.

When you purchase a home with Empire, your journey begins with a deposit, specifically the earnest money deposit. This initial deposit is required to secure the contract and is calculated as a percentage of the lot premium, base price of the house, and structural items. If you’re customizing your home from the ground up, additional deposit funds — a percentage of your Design Studio selections — is required after completing the design phase.

 

Our sales consultants can provide you with an estimated breakdown of the deposit and outline when they’re due. It’s important to note that 100% of the deposit provided at the contract and design stages is credited to you at closing, effectively reducing your down payment for the mortgage.

The mortgage down payment is a significant financial aspect of the homebuying process, representing your commitment to the investment. Typically based on the loan program, the down payment is paid at the time of closing. It can range from as low as 3% to as high as 20%, providing you with instant equity in your new home.

 

The deposit funds you’ve given to us are factored into the down payment calculation. The more you contribute upfront, the less you need to finance, resulting in lower monthly mortgage payments.

Closing costs are the final piece of the puzzle, involving a lump sum of money paid by the buyer at the scheduled closing date. This sum comprises the down payment plus the closing costs, minus any deposit or design funds given to us, and may also include closing cost incentives we offer.

 

To estimate your closing costs, plan for approximately 2% to 2.5% of the final purchase price of the home. Empire’s preferred lenders can provide accurate estimates for all mortgage-related costs, ensuring you’re well-prepared for this crucial step.

 

Example: You’re purchasing an Empire home with a final price of $500,000. Planning to make a 10% ($50,000) down payment, you’ve already paid a $23,000 deposit during the contract and design phases. Closing costs amount to $12,500, with Empire providing a $3,000* seller credit to help cover some of these costs.

 

In this scenario, your total amount due at closing would be roughly $36,500, calculated as follows: $50,000 (down payment) + $12,500 (closing costs) – $23,000 (deposit/design money) – $3,000 (Empire’s closing cost incentive).

 

*Amount varies by community.

 

Next, learn how to prepare for Empire’s new home releases, and discover why new homes are still the smarter long-term choice.

If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably purchased a home with Empire Communities, and will soon have a Pre-Construction and Interior Finishes appointment lined up with our team. One of the advantages of building a new home is the opportunity to make choices that reflect your unique style and needs, which are established during these two meetings. But exactly what do these appointments entail? If you’re unsure about the differences between the two, don’t stress. Continue reading to discover all you need to know about these appointments, including how to best prepare for them.

• Review the pre-construction and interior finishes wishlists of available upgrades.
• Come prepared with inspirational images to communicate your vision and intended use of the space.
• Create a list of appliances outside of the standard openings including built-in cooktops, wall ovens, built-in microwaves, etc. so these can be accounted for ahead of time. *Please note, electrical and gas requirements must be ordered at the Pre-Construction appointment to accommodate speciality appliances (if kitchen layout permits).
  
• Provide an updated bank letter if you anticipate total upgrades exceeding the threshold specified for your community.
• Review our policies and procedures, as well as which features come standard with our homes.

• Pre-Construction appointments can take up to two hours and are virtual meetings. Sign into Microsoft Teams using the link provided via email 15 minutes prior to your scheduled meeting.
• Interior Finishes appointments can take up to three hours and are held in-person at Empire’s Design Centre. Remember to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment.
• A maximum of two people, or those on title, can attend each appointment. For safety, children are not permitted at the Design Centre.

 

For more helpful insight on moving and design, check out our ultimate moving guide to help you navigate your big day, and learn how to curate the coastal retreat of your dreams.

Welcome, new homeowners! Just purchased an Empire home and have questions about our Design Centre? You’re in the right place. Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are tailored to provide insight into our design process and be a helpful resource.

1. Where is the Design Centre located?

The Design Centre is located at 34 Richard William Drive, Caledonia, ON, N3W 2G9.

2. When is the Design Centre open?

The Design Centre’s hours of operation are from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, by appointment.

3. When will my appointment be scheduled?

Design appointments are scheduled according to our construction schedule. Our office assistant will reach out to you with a welcome email when it’s time to begin the design process.

4. Can I visit the Design Centre prior to my appointment?

Your first time visiting the Design Centre will be at your scheduled Interior Finishes appointment with your dedicated design consultant who will guide you through the showroom and assist you with the exciting process of personalizing your new home.

5. What is the design selection process like?

Your design experience will be separated into two appointments with your dedicated design consultant; the first appointment will be a virtual for Pre-Construction selections appointment (up to 2 hours in length), and the second is an in-person Interior Finishes selections appointment at our Design Centre (up to 3 hours in length).

6. Do I need an appointment to visit the Design Centre?

Yes, you will be contacted by our office assistant to schedule your in-person Interior Finishes appointment.

7. If I have questions prior to my appointment, who can I contact?

For questions that may arise prior to your appointments, please email Decor@EmpireCommunities.com

8. Can I make structural changes to my home?

There are pre-determined structural options available for your home which are included on your floor plan and will be reviewed with you by your design consultant at your Pre-Construction appointment. Only the pre-determined structural options are available as structural changes.

9. Will pricing be available to me prior to my Design appointment?

Yes, if you would like pricing, we encourage you to reach out to your design consultant once your appointment has been scheduled.

10. Can I make changes to my selections after they’re finalized?

Once you authorize your selections, these selections are considered final; no additions or deletions to selections will be permitted.

11. How do I pay for my upgrades?

For upgrades totaling less than $5,000, we require payment in the full amount. For upgrades totaling more than $5,000, we collect a 50% deposit payment with the remaining balance amended to the purchaser price at closing. The payments are collected at the appointment(s) when the Options & Upgrades Agreement(s) is signed. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Debit or cheque. If total upgrades exceed the threshold specified for your community, you will be asked to provide a revised mortgage commitment letter from your financial institution. The total amount of all upgrades is added to the total purchase price of your home on closing, and any deposits made on upgrades will be reflected as a further deposit against the total purchaser price.

12. Can I add upgrades to my mortgage?

Yes, if your total spent on upgrades at the Design Centre exceeds $5,000 including taxes, up to 50% of your balance can be added to your mortgage.

13. Can I bring family and friends with me to my Design Centre appointment?

For both virtual Pre-Construction and in-person Interior Finishes appointments, all members on title, or a maximum of 2 people are welcome to attend. For safety reasons, children are strictly prohibited.

14. What if I want to appointment someone to make selections on my behalf?

We provide the option for you to authorize someone who is not listed on title to complete selections and sign all design documents on your behalf. At your request, we will provide you with a Designate Form that must be signed by you and your designate before the date of the appointment.

15. What upgrade options do I need to consider before my Pre-Construction appointment?

For your convenience, we’ve put together a list of the most sought-after Pre-Construction options. This wish list will be sent to you prior to your Pre-Construction appointment. Upgrade options to consider before your Pre-Construction appointment include:

• • Basement Options: larger windows, 3-piece rough-in, cold cellar, etc. Please note: some options are only applicable as per plan.
  • HVAC: air conditioning, humidifier, gas lines, fireplace, etc. Please note: some options are only applicable as per plan.
  • Electrical: interior & exterior pot lights, dimmer switches, 200-Amp service, extra phone & cable outlets, additional lighting, etc.
  • Plumbing & Bathrooms: waterlines, tankless water heater, double sink vanity, upgraded Moen faucets & shower systems, shower niche, glass showers.

16. What upgrade options do I need to consider before my Interior Finishes appointment?

For your convenience, we’ve put together a list of the most sought-after Interior Finishes options. This wish list will also be sent to you prior to your Interior Finishes appointment. Upgrade options to consider before your Interior Finishes appointment include:

• • Cabinetry styles and materials, cabinetry storage solutions, countertops, backsplashes, stair railings & spindles, casing & baseboards, interior door styles, door hardware, hardwood & carpet, floor & wall tiles.

17. Can I request a hardwood, tile or other product upgrade that is not in the Design Centre?

We do not provide the option to source materials outside of our offerings, but you can rest assured that our team works tirelessly to source brands, styles and colours of finishes to include in our Design Centre that provide exceptional quality and value.

18. What happens if the materials I chose at my design appointment are discontinued?

If a material you have selected becomes unavailable, we will provide a substitute material that is of equal or greater value. If a material re-selection is required, a member of our design team will contact you to make your substitute selection.

19. As an investor, are there certain things I should include in my new home?

To extend the life of your investment, it’s recommended that you upgrade frequently-used surfaces to highly-durable materials that are less susceptible to wear and tear. Examples of some of those materials are:

• • Porcelain tiles which stand up to heavy use and are less likely to crack or chip compared to ceramic tiles.
  • Hardwood in the upper hall as it’s a high-traffic area which can show wear on carpet quickly.
  • A tiled backsplash to finish off the kitchen design, and protect walls from moisture and stains.
  • Solid surface counters in the kitchen and bathrooms to protect the counter area from standing water and stains.

 

In a competitive rental market, it is also recommended to choose high-quality options that will make your property stand out, allowing it to appeal to discerning tenants who seek a high-quality property that they will more likely care for like it’s their own.

20. How do I know what’s included in my new home?

Included in your Agreement of Purchase and Sale is a document called the “Schedule B” which details all the included features and finishes of your new home.

21. How do I prioritize and prepare a budget for my new home purchase?

Preparing a budget for your new home purchases starts with deciding which upgrades and extras are must-haves for your new home. Check out these helpful resources to help you make your list:

• • Pre-Construction Wish List
  • Interior Finishes Wish List

22. Do you have model homes available for me to view? If so, where are they located?

Yes, we currently have model homes open in the following locations:

• • Avalon models located at 2 Richard William Drive in Caledonia, Ontario. Please visit the Empire Avalon Sales Centre for access to the model homes.
  • Calderwood models located at 13144 Lundy’s Lane in Thorold, ON. Please visit the Empire Calderwood Sales Centre for access to the model homes.
  • Canals models located at 635 Canal Bank Street in Welland, ON. Please visit the Empire Canals Sales Centre for access to the model homes.

23. What happens if I miss my Pre-Construction and Interior Finishes appointment?

We require 48-hour written notice to reschedule appointments, or a $250 (+HST) missed appointment fee will be applied.

 

On the hunt for other helpful resources? Click here to learn more.

Aspiring homeowners, are you eagerly awaiting our next home release? Well, it might be time to start preparing. With the level of demand there is for our build-to-order homes, we’ve implemented steps to help manage the process of purchasing a home. In this guide, we’ll explain the essential steps to take before a new sales release to help secure that dream home.

Next, discover why new homes are still the smarter long-term choice and everything you need to know before buying a home in the Carolinas.

When it comes to choosing a place to call home, the options can seem endless. You might be drawn to the charm of older homes with their unique character and historical features. However, there’s a strong case for considering a new home over an older, resale one. Let’s explore why new homes are still the premier choice for modern homebuyers looking for a fresh start.

Next, learn how to read a floor plan and discover the ultimate moving guide.

From rate buydowns to design appointments and everything in between, we’ve compiled some of our most helpful homebuyer resources to make your experience of purchasing a new home seamless. Get ready to expand your knowledge and embark on one of the most exciting journeys of your life.

Looking for more resources to make the most of your homebuying experience? Check out our tips to prepare your finances when looking for a new home and learn what it means to buy a new home vs. resale in Charlotte.

Buying a new home is an exciting journey, and selecting the right neighborhood is a crucial step in making your dream home a reality. In Texas, the vibrant cities of Austin, San Antonio, and Houston offer a wide array of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its unique charm and amenities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top considerations for choosing your perfect neighborhood. With the right guidance and preparation, you’ll soon find the perfect place to call home in one of Texas’ vibrant cities.

 

 

To help you along your homebuying journey, check out the benefits of working with our preferred lenders and learn the difference between buying a quick move-in vs. a new-build home.