What Is A Spec House? [Simplified]

Sep 9, 2022

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What is a spec house

A spec house is a new home that is built by a builder without a specific buyer in mind. The builder “speculates” that they will be able to sell the house at a profit once it is completed. Building a spec house can be a risk for the builder because they may not be able to find a buyer who is willing to pay the asking price. However, if the housing market is strong, the builder could make a significant profit on the sale of the home.

There are several things that builders need to take into consideration before starting to build a spec house.

The first is to choose an area that has strong potential for future growth. This means looking at factors such as population trends, job growth, and infrastructure development.

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Once an ideal location has been selected, the builder needs to research what type of homes are in high demand in that area.

 

Advantages and disadvantages of a spec house

There are both advantages and disadvantages to building a spec house, or a speculative house. On the plus side, builders can take advantage of economies of scale when mass-producing houses.

This can lead to lower costs for the builder, which may be passed on to the buyer in the form of a lower purchase price. Additionally, builders can get creative with their designs and try out new ideas without having to worry about whether or not there is a market for them.

On the downside, spec houses are built without knowing who the eventual buyer will be. This means that builders have to make educated guesses about what type of homebuyer will be interested in the property. Including what their needs and wants will be.

build a spec house

If they guessed wrong, it could result in the property sitting on the market for a long time or selling at a loss.

There are a few things to keep in mind when building a spec house.

The first is to make sure the house will appeal to a wide range of buyers. This means choosing neutral colors and finishes that will not turn off potential buyers.

The second is to pay attention to the details. This includes making sure the house is well-built and has all the amenities that buyers are looking for.

The third is to price the house competitively. This will help ensure that it sells quickly and for a good price. Following these tips will help you build a successful spec house.

 

Finding a location to build your spec house

Here are some tips for finding a great location to build a spec house:

1. Start with an online search: Look for websites that specialize in new construction homes and see if any of the builders have any unsold spec homes listed.

2. Drive around neighborhoods where new construction is taking place: This is a great way to see what builders are active in your market and what type of specs they are building.

3. Check with the local multiple listing service: This is a great way to find out if any builders have homes that are listed as “available,” which is another name for unsold spec homes.

4. Contact the builder directly: If you have a relationship with a particular builder, try calling them and see if they have any unsold inventory that hasn’t been marketed yet.

5. Go to their sales office: Check the building plan books for any new homes that haven’t been built yet.

 

Selecting a floor plan for your spec house

When you are ready to build a spec home, the first step is to select a floor plan. You’ll want to select a floor plan that will be popular with buyers and fit well with the surrounding neighborhood.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a floor plan, such as the size of the home, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and type of layout.

Work with your architect or designer or search websites like Architectural Designs (which have thousands of floor plans to choose from) to find a floor plan that meets your needs and the needs of potential buyers.

spec house floor plan

Once you have a few floor plans in mind, take some time to walk through them and imagine how they would look when finished. Pay attention to flow and functionality, as well as aesthetics.

Your goal is to find a floor plan that is both practical and attractive so that it will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

 

Should you build a spec house

Building a spec house can be a great way to make money in the real estate market. However, there are a few things you should consider before taking on such a project.

First, you need to have a good understanding of the building process and the market in your area.

Second, you need to be prepared to hold onto the property for awhile in case it doesn’t sell right away.

And finally, you need to be comfortable with managing construction workers and making decisions on the fly. If you can handle all of that, then building a spec house may be a great opportunity for you!

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