When you think of your version of the American Dream, it probably includes being a homeowner, right? You’ve undoubtedly envisioned the floor plan of your dream home and thought of what it will feel like to be a first-time homebuyer. All homeowners were once dreamers like yourself. After all, dreaming is the first step of homeownership.

The homebuying journey is long and fraught with paperwork and red tape. The closer you get to the finish line, the readier you’ll be to make the big move. So, can you move into your new home before the ink settles on your paper and the paint dries in your new house? Read on to find out!

Can you live in your home before it’s finished?

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As we covered in the introduction, it’s understandable if you’re ready to move into your new construction house before it’s completed. However, the question is, can you? Well, it depends on where you live.

In most cities in the United States, you can move into your unfinished new construction home as long as you get an occupancy permit. The requirements for getting an occupancy permit for an unfinished new construction home vary from municipality to municipality. However, some common requirements are that the home is weatherproof and has functioning utilities.

It’s also a good idea to speak with the home builder to get their opinion about your new home’s readiness for occupation and see how they feel about working around your family. You might feel like you should be able to move into your own home whenever you’re ready, but there are other factors to consider.

What’s the process of moving into your new home?

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As we covered in the previous section, you have to have an occupancy permit to move into your home while it’s still under construction. However, the requirement of an occupancy permit applies to all new construction homes, even upon completion.

Your home has to undergo several inspections before you can move into it. You have to get a fire safety inspection, an electrical inspection, a plumbing inspection, and a general construction inspection. Once you’ve got all the necessary inspections, you can begin the moving process.

What should you bring into your unfinished home?

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Even if you’re able to get the necessary permits to move into your unfinished home, you have to be strategic about the moving process. It’s a good idea to schedule your move on the weekend so you won’t interfere with the construction crew. Also, you don’t need to bring everything into the house with you, as it will only create more obstacles for your family and the construction crew.

It’s a good idea to put your furniture and large appliances in storage until the completion of your home. Sure, you can begin to move things in, piece by piece, as your home gets closer to being finished. However, it’s important to coordinate details with the moving and storage company handling your relocation.

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There aren’t many things in life more exciting than buying a new home, so, understandably, you’d want to move in as soon as possible. However, there are rules about moving into your home before it’s complete. Of course, you’ll be roughing it for a little while, but it’s a chance to make some unique memories in your new house.

Conventional wisdom is that you should let home builders finish constructing your new home before moving in. However, if you can get the necessary permits, you’re free to move into your house. Still, it’s wise to consult the builder about how they feel about working around you. Of course, you could also stay nearby and check on your home every step of the way until its completion. Ultimately, the choice is yours.