Introduction: The Final Step Before You Get the Keys

Buying a new construction home in Treasure Valley is exciting. From choosing your community in Meridian, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, or Boise to watching your home come together step by step, there’s nothing quite like moving into something brand new. But before you get your keys, there’s one important milestone: your New Home Orientation (NHO).

This walkthrough with your builder is your chance to get a complete tour of your home, learn how everything works, and confirm that everything is ready for move-in. In this blog, I’ll share exactly what to expect during your New Home Orientation here in Treasure Valley, what questions to ask, and how to make sure you’re set up for success as a new homeowner.

What Is a New Home Orientation?

Your New Home Orientation is a detailed walkthrough with the builder or construction manager just before closing. Think of it as the builder’s opportunity to:

• Show you how your new home’s systems operate.
• Review warranties, manuals, and maintenance tips.
• Document any items needing adjustment (known as a punch list).
• Hand off responsibility for the property once you close.

It’s not just a tour, it’s your final checkpoint before ownership officially transfers to you.

When Does It Happen?

Most Treasure Valley builders schedule the NHO about a week before closing. By this point, construction is substantially complete. Touch-ups, cleaning, and small repairs may still be happening, but all major systems should be functional.

If you’re relocating from out of state, many builders - including the ones I work closely with - offer to do a virtual orientation via FaceTime, Zoom, or video walkthroughs. That way, you don’t have to book an extra trip before closing.

Who Attends the Orientation?

Typically, you’ll see:

• You (the buyer) and anyone else listed on the purchase agreement.
• The builder’s superintendent, project manager, or warranty manager.
• Sometimes your real estate agent (I always recommend being there if possible).

This is not the same as a third-party inspection. That’s separate and often done earlier. The orientation is focused on education, review, and final acceptance.

What You’ll Cover During Your New Home Orientation

1. Home Systems Overview

The builder will walk you through all the key systems in your home, including:

• HVAC: How to operate your heating and cooling system, change filters, and program thermostats.
• Plumbing: Location of shut-off valves, water heater settings, irrigation system use.
• Electrical: Breaker box, GFCI outlets, exterior outlets, and any smart home features.
• Appliances: Demo of how to operate your new oven, dishwasher, microwave, and refrigerator.

2. Warranty Explanation

Most Treasure Valley builders provide a 1-2-10 warranty structure:

• 1 year: Workmanship and materials
• 2 years: Major systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
• 10 years: Structural coverage

Ask for warranty documents and make sure you know who to call if an issue arises.

3. Maintenance Guidance

Your home may be brand new, but every system needs regular care. Builders will often review:

• Seasonal HVAC filter changes
• Lawn irrigation schedules
• Caulking windows and doors annually
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts

The Punch List: What It Means for You

During the NHO, you’ll note any items needing attention. This could include:

• Paint touch-ups
• Sticky doors
• Caulking gaps
• Cosmetic flooring adjustments

This is your punch list - the builder’s to-do list before closing (or shortly after). Most items are minor, but documenting them ensures accountability.

Common Issues Found During Orientation

It’s normal to find small imperfections. Here are common items Treasure Valley buyers catch during NHOs:

• Cabinet doors not aligned
• Chips in paint or trim
• Carpet seams visible
• Windows needing adjustment
• Loose outlet covers

Remember: this is not the time for major redesign requests. Orientation focuses on finishing details, not new changes.

How to Prepare for Your Orientation

Bring These Items

• Blue painter’s tape: Many builders use this to mark spots needing touch-up.
• Notebook or phone: Take notes and pictures for your records.
• Copy of your contract: Useful if questions about upgrades arise.

Be Ready to Ask Questions

Some helpful ones include:

• How do I winterize my sprinkler system?
• Where’s the water shut-off?
• How often should I change HVAC filters?
• Who do I call if my dishwasher stops working?

Virtual New Home Orientations: A Relocation-Friendly Option

If you’re relocating from California, Washington, or Oregon (like so many of my clients), you may not be in Idaho yet. Builders here are increasingly offering remote NHOs.

• They’ll walk you through the home with a video call.
• You’ll still see all the details - HVAC, electrical, appliances.
• Builders will email you warranty packets and orientation checklists.
• I often attend in person for out-of-state clients, ensuring nothing is missed.

After the Orientation: What Comes Next?

Final Walkthrough

Some builders schedule a follow-up walkthrough on closing day to ensure punch-list items were addressed.

Move-In Day

Once you close, the home is yours. That means responsibility for maintenance shifts to you. Your builder’s warranty department becomes your main point of contact.

Activities to Pair with Your Orientation Trip

If you’re flying into Boise for your New Home Orientation, make it fun. Explore Treasure Valley while you’re here:

• The Village at Meridian- shopping, dining, and entertainment near many new communities.
• Boise River Greenbelt- perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride.
• Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area: bogusbasin.org
• Roaring Springs Waterpark: roaringsprings.com

This way, your orientation trip doubles as a chance to get familiar with your new hometown.

My Personal Take as a Realtor

As someone who’s helped dozens of families purchase new construction in Treasure Valley, I can’t stress enough how important the New Home Orientation is.

It’s your final opportunity to learn, document, and prepare before moving in. Take it seriously. Ask questions. Don’t rush.

And remember - while builders want you to be happy, their job at the orientation is to hand off the home. My job as your agent is to make sure you’re protected, educated, and ready for this next chapter.

Final Thoughts

Your New Home Orientation is more than just a tour, it’s your introductory class on being a homeowner in Treasure Valley. From learning about your HVAC system to marking paint touch-ups with tape, it’s a crucial step in ensuring you’re comfortable and confident in your brand-new home.

If you’re preparing for a new build closing, let’s connect. I’ll walk you through what to expect, join you for your orientation (in-person or virtually), and make sure no detail gets overlooked.

📲 Call or text Curtis Chism at (208) 510-0427
📥 Ready to relocate remotely? Download our Boise Relocation Guide