By Gabrielle Enfield, November 8, 2019
Recently, I helped first time homebuyers purchase a terrific new construction townhome in Concordia (btw, love Concordia). CONGRATS, Cory and Taylor!! Thought I’d share my impressions of what to look for from the builder/seller side of the fence, as this one was a great experience and one that I thought set the bar high.
- Access to Q&A with the builder: In this case, the builder met the buyers onsite once their offer was accepted to do an initial walk through to answer questions about the design, finishes and in general. Ceanne, from Caliber Homes, also did a thorough “pre-blue tape” walk through to see what kinds of dings and damage happened in the finishing touches of construction, creating a thorough log of repairs to complete, in addition to those that turned up in the inspection (which were few).
- Incentives: Don’t be shy about asking for any missing appliances or “extras”. Builders get great deals on appliances and if it means closing the deal, they’ll often install. In this recent case, I was able to negotiate the installation of an AC, washer dryer and a new fridge AND closing cost credit. Boom.
- Warranty: Most new construction comes with a builder’s warranty. Be sure to get a good understanding of what is covered, in addition to any home warranty coverage you should always ask for that is layered on top as part of the sale.
- After move in walk through: This was also a pleasant surprise – Caliber offered a walk through after the buyers moved in, so they could repair any paint, scuffs or other cosmetic dings that often occur at move in
- One year walk through: Caliber also will be performing a one year walk through to make sure all systems are operational. Pretty thorough service, if you ask me.
New construction definitely has its appeal – you are getting all new systems and appliances. And depending on the builder, great quality. What can be lacking is the soul and architecture of old Portland.
At any rate, if you’re thinking of buying new construction, give me a shout – we can walk through in more detail.
Till then, high fives!
Gabrielle Enfield
Broker | OR
She/Her
Real estate can be a wild ride. It's important you find your wingperson.
At Working Magic Group, we understand the important decision of choosing an agent partner for buying or selling in Portland. It's a relationship for the long haul. The team's goal is to apply myriad experiences, both personally and professionally, to help guide client partners through a thoughtful, strategic, seamless and fun journey. Founded by top broker Gabrielle Enfield, Working Magic's goal is to bust down the stereotypes of who Realtors are and how they serve. We are full service brokers, in it for the long haul, and believe in the relationship imperative. We operate from a place of trust with people at the center. Without that, we can’t do our work. Need an understanding of where to start, when it comes to getting ready to sell? We'll put backgrounds in project management to work and let you know what needs to happen, complete with spreadsheets, if you're into it. We've got the magicians on speed dial to show up and get it done so you can hit the easy button. We treat each listing as a brand we're launching and create emotional and sensory experiences that stand out. Custom playlists, anyone? We've been told our open houses are the best in town. Looking to purchase a vacation property and need it to generate rental income? Expect sharp pencils to make sure the numbers make sense. We can even help with the interior design and advise how to set it up to make top dollar. Ready to downsize? We'll be with you on this important chapter and gently guide you to what stays and what goes. First-timer who needs a steady hand to help guide you through the real estate process? Mama Bear's got you covered, and we'll be sure to point out what you need to look for or stay away from. Moving to PDX and need a proxy to get to know Rose City? Gab's a Pac NW native, and even with all its growth and change, this place still gives her butterflies. Plus, her background in video production makes those remote FaceTime home tours a breeze. About Gabrielle Enfield, Founder, Working Magic at Living Room Realty: I grew up in Woodland, Washington, and live in the wooded hills of Bridlemile, where I'm raising my family. #boymom. Today I am the #1 agent at my brokerage - which is Portland's #1 real estate office - and consistently rank in the top 1% of more than 8,400 brokers in the Portland metro. I love what I do and it shows. Before real estate, my career spans two decades of expertise I'm fortunate enough to apply every day. These experiences range from being a TV news anchor (visual storyteller) to helping develop some of the world's beloved brands like Xbox and Dave's Killer Bread (strategy and engagement). I also helped launch Paul Allen's MoPop to a global stage; it combined two of my life loves: music + architecture. I was on the forefront of integrated media, crisis communications, digital productions and managed events and massive teams that delivered headline-making news. I was practically born to sell Real Estate: my Dad is a retired custom home designer and builder, my Uncle is an architect and my Grandpa was a Realtor and developer. I am an active listener, have a keen eye for "good bones", and solving my clients' real estate needs in a creative and often unexpected way brings me joy. In my spare time, I am raising my kiddos to be confident weirdos, championing my spouse Per who is an IP attorney at Nike, hitting the thrift store circuit as often as I can, and volunteering my time as a Broker Advisor at Living Room. In 2023 I launched Hi Buddy Hospitality Group, a burgeoning hostel and restaurant in NE Portland. I also am a member of Project Color Corps Portland Chapter, a national non-profit that collaborates with people to add color to their essential community spaces, creating beauty, belonging, and joy. Please give a call – I'd love to see what it would be like to partner with you. For a look inside my everyday life, be sure to follow along on Instagram. Let's Work Magic together. High fives!
- T: 503-388-2788
- gabrielle@livingroomre.com
