My list is based on two property turnovers I've experienced so far from different real estate developers. First-timers or not, it's worth being reminded of some tips.
Turnover is the most-awaited date of any property buyer. It's the day where all of your late nights at work in order to afford both rent and mortgage pull off. It's the day where all your daydreams end and your new realities begin. Heck, it's your first official day in your home sweet home.
Our own house & lot turnover
The turnover of our Nuvali home was delayed for four months. The ordeal I had in following up with the developer was unnecessarily stressful. But I am sure all real estate companies, may it be DMCI, Megaworld (according to my colleague is now called by its customers as "Megaproblem"), Cityland, SMDC, etc. have at one point broke their delivery date promises for a multitude of reasons.
Finally, after seriously long threads of depressing emails and frantic calls with Avida, we were provided with a turnover date. Just a few minutes before we were officially welcomed to our house, we spotted two ladies in all-white uniforms cleaning the unit.
The unit was bare as expected. We tested faucets to ensure normal water flow, we checked the sinks, flushes, windows and cabinets if they work properly, aaaand we brought plugs for each electricity sockets. Lo and behold, our unit didn't have Meralco connection just yet! I was flabbergasted when the Avida employee said it's a norm to turnover houses without electricity.
I almost snapped. The day was going fine until this.
I also asked for a punch list and she said it's not their usual turnover routine. I'm like WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? That was the opposite of the turnover I had with the Manila condo I bought with my sister years back. Everything there was working -- although maybe because it was a ready-for-occupancy building.
I said in the title that this is gonna be 'quick'
So before I rant any further, and it's never going to change things anyway, let me now lead you to the actual guide:
1. Check all functionalities
Are the faucets and sinks working? Are all doors and windows opening and closing like they're supposed to do? Are all sockets working properly (bring plugs and bulbs, please)? Inspect paint works from ground up. Do you see any "bubbles"? Are the stairs stable?
2. Bring a list of questions
As silly these may sound, but you have the right to ask questions like a) Are there work permits required for repairs, delivery trucks, etc? b) Are pets allowed? c) Where are the emergency exits or other gates we can access? Are these only open on certain times of the day? d) What is the schedule for pest controls, trash pickups, grass-cuts, etc.? e) Do our guests need to bring IDs? f) Is there a village car sticker for homeowners? g) Is there a fee for guests using the swimming pool? h) What is the hotline for emergencies?
3. Take pictures
When you find faults, provide pieces of evidence. Take a shot of the anomalies you find like bad paint job, leaks, uneven cabinets, etc. If you bought a brand new house from a reputable developer, chances are you've got years of warranty for it. You can always demand them to fix these things for free, as long as you can prove it's their wrongdoing.
Remember your rights
The turnover date does not end their commitment to you as developers. You should be able to identify when it is time to step up and push for your rights as homeowners. Your first electricity bill looks bloated? Ask for a breakdown of charges. Your streetlights are so dim that your phone's flashlight do the job better? File a complaint. Don't be hesitant when you know your concerns are valid.
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