Thinking about a brand-new home in Camas? You are not alone. New communities continue to pop up around town, offering modern layouts, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. Still, buying new construction is different from buying a resale home, and the process comes with unique steps and risks.
This guide walks you through what to check, how to protect yourself, and who to contact for answers in Camas. You will learn how contracts work, how inspections and permits fit together, what to expect with financing and taxes in Washington, and how to plan for resale. Let’s dive in.
Why buy new in Camas
You get a home built to current codes, with modern systems and the chance to personalize finishes. Camas also offers access to parks, trails, and proximity to Vancouver and Portland. Growth here is guided by the city’s comprehensive plan and zoning, which shape what gets built and where.
For up-to-date planning, zoning, and permit guidance, start with the City of Camas Community Development. You can also review the city’s municipal code and check nearby approved projects to understand what might change around your lot. For parcel-level history or broader land-use context, Clark County’s portals at Clark County are helpful.
How new construction differs from resale
Buying new usually means a different contract structure. You might start with a lot reservation, then a purchase agreement tied to plans and specifications. Deposits can be staged and upgrades often require separate change orders and additional deposits.
Timelines are estimates. Weather, permits, and supply chains can shift schedules. Some builder contracts limit certain contingencies or encourage you to use a preferred lender. Plan for appraisal, loan, and title contingencies to be handled differently than in resale.
Municipal inspections are required, but you should still hire an independent inspector at key stages. Finally, expect a punch-list process before closing, plus written warranties for workmanship, systems, and structure after you move in.
What to verify before you sign
Before you commit, confirm the basics in writing. Ask the builder for the building permit number, inspection history, and final approvals plan with the City. The City of Camas can confirm permit status and required inspections for occupancy.
- Zoning and nearby development: Verify current zoning, allowed uses, and any approved projects that could change traffic, views, or noise levels. Start with the city’s planning pages and the county’s mapping tools at Clark County.
- Utilities and fees: Confirm providers for electricity, water, sewer, and stormwater. Ask who pays for connection or impact fees. Check service details with Clark Public Utilities and request documentation from the builder.
- Environmental constraints: Camas includes lakes, streams, wetlands, and sloped areas. Ask whether the lot is within a critical area or floodplain. You can explore federal flood maps at FEMA and request any critical-area approvals from the seller.
- Schools and services: School boundaries can change. Confirm current school assignments with the Camas School District and consider commute routes, parks, and retail access.
Inspections, permits, and quality control
City inspections verify code compliance at each phase, but they are not a substitute for an independent inspection. Hire an inspector experienced with new construction.
Recommended inspection stages:
- Pre-pour/footing and foundation
- Framing and pre-drywall (electrical, plumbing, HVAC visible)
- Insulation and air sealing
- Final inspection and walk-through prior to closing
At your final walk-through, create a detailed punch list. Clarify which items get fixed before closing and which after. If any work will be completed later, consider an escrow holdback to protect your interests.
Pro tip: Ask for proof of energy-code compliance and any available performance documentation. Washington homes must meet current state energy codes overseen by the Washington State Building Code Council.
Financing, appraisals, and taxes in Washington
Financing can be different for new builds. Some buyers use construction loans or construction-to-permanent loans that convert to a standard mortgage after completion. Builders sometimes offer credits or rate incentives with a preferred lender. Compare offers and make sure any incentive does not reduce your protections or increase other fees.
Appraisals in new subdivisions can be tricky. If there are few comparable sales, your appraisal may not capture the value of upgrades or lot premiums. Plan for that possibility by discussing down payment options and appraisal strategies with your lender.
At closing, Washington’s Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) typically applies to the sale, with the seller often responsible. You can review statewide guidance at the Washington Department of Revenue. After completion, the property will be assessed at its improved value, so plan for an increase in property taxes. For local assessment and tax context, check Clark County.
Warranties and dispute terms
Most builders provide a short-term workmanship warranty, limited coverage for systems, and a longer structural warranty, often through a third-party provider. Ask for the full warranty packet in advance and review the claim process and any exclusions. To see how third-party programs often work, you can browse resources from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.
Read your contract for dispute resolution clauses, such as mediation or arbitration. These terms affect your options if issues arise. Consider having an attorney review the agreement, especially if you see strict timelines, limited remedies, or broad arbitration provisions.
HOA, phases, and resale factors
Many Camas communities include HOAs with covenants, conditions, restrictions, and design standards. Request the full HOA documents, budget, and fees before you commit. Ask about any reserve study and rules that affect modifications or rentals.
New neighborhoods often build in phases. Early buyers may experience active construction, evolving streetscapes, and temporary landscaping. Ask for the developer’s phasing plan and timing for amenities and public improvements.
For resale, location still matters. Consider lot placement, neighborhood reputation, access to commute corridors, and nearby amenities. Energy-efficient features and current codes can help future appeal, but the builder’s quality and warranty responsiveness also influence value over time.
Buyer checklist for Camas new builds
Before closing, ask for these items in writing:
- Signed purchase agreement with final specifications and price
- Full plans and finish schedules, including appliance models
- Deposit schedule and upgrade/change-order costs
- Permit numbers and municipal inspection records
- Anticipated closing date and plan for delays
- Certificate of occupancy or final inspection sign-off
- Builder warranty documents and any third-party structural warranty
- HOA governing documents, budget, and fee schedule (if applicable)
- Utility providers and proof of paid connection or impact fees, if applicable
- Agreed remedies for incomplete items, such as escrow holdbacks
- Copies of any environmental or critical-area approvals affecting the lot
- Lien-waiver history for contractors and subcontractors
Work with a local advocate
Buying new construction should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With clear expectations, independent inspections, and a solid contract, you can move in with confidence. If you want a calm, organized process and a guide who knows Clark County builders and city processes, reach out to Joy Johnson. You will get attentive communication, practical advice, and support from the first tour to final walk-through.
FAQs
What makes buying new construction in Camas different from resale?
- New builds use builder contracts, staged deposits, phased inspections, and variable timelines, so you need stronger contract protections and independent inspections.
How can I confirm permits and inspections for a Camas new build?
- Ask the builder for permit numbers and inspection logs, then verify status with the City of Camas before you sign or close.
Who provides utilities for new homes in Camas?
- Electricity, water, and sewer may be provided by city services or regional providers; confirm details with your builder and check service information at Clark Public Utilities.
Do I need separate inspections if the city already inspects?
- Yes. Municipal inspections verify code compliance, but an independent inspector can catch build-quality issues and incomplete items before closing.
How do Washington taxes affect a new construction purchase?
- Washington’s REET applies at sale and the property will be reassessed at completion; review guidance at the Washington Department of Revenue and budget for higher taxes after your home is finished.
