The home buying process can be intimidating and stressful. Many purchasers fear the prospect of visiting new housing sites to shop for a new home. Learning more about the construction of new homes, however, can help make the home buying process less intimidating. The various inspection recommendations that follow should help enable purchasers make a good decision when buying a new home.

Foundation: Carry out a visual check to ensure that the walls and floors are plumb and level. Ask about waterproofing, weeping tile and back filling, as these elements help maintain a dry foundation and decrease water penetration.

Framing: Although inspections take place at the various stages of construction, it may be beneficial to study the framing of the home. View the wall studs to see if they are straight or twisted. Inspect the roof system and the way in which the headers are set above the doors and windows to ensure that these items are properly installed.

Drainage: Conduct a visual inspection of the property and look at its grading to determine how rain water would flow around the home. In some cases, additional backfill or topsoil is required to offset settling that may occur.

Energy Efficiency: New homes are generally built with the most energy efficient materials. Ask about the level of insulation used in the walls and ceiling. Look at the size of the furnace and water heater to ensure that they meet household requirements.

Windows: Down the road, energy efficient windows can save purchasers money. Insulated glass is usually the standard for most builders, but upgraded windows can help reduce ultraviolet rays and increase energy efficiency. Choose the lot carefully by taking into account the views that will be available.

Carpentry: The trim and finish in a home add detail to its overall appearance. Trim requires maintenance that may include staining or painting. Additionally, because trim adds to the beauty of a home and affects its future purchase price and the ease with which it will sell, it is important that it is of good quality.

Flooring: Well-installed floors are vital, regardless of the material that is being used. Ceramic tile, vinyl flooring and hardwood are the most common types of flooring. For those with allergies, it is wise to consider as little carpet as possible. Purchasers can speak with the builder about changing the type of flooring to address health concerns. Floors that are poorly installed will creak or squeak. One of the best ways to prevent this is to ensure that the floors are properly screwed -- not nailed -- down.

Many of these items will be addressed by the building inspector or the purchaser when the final inspection is conducted just prior to closing. It is very important to do a thorough pre-delivery inspection of the new home so that any deficiencies and incomplete work are identified. These should be noted in writing on the appropriate form. If deficiencies do appear after closing, Tarion (formerly the Ontario New Home Warranty Program) provides excellent coverage for many problems.