New Construction Buyer Guide

Builder incentives can be useful, but they should be compared against price, lot premium, upgrades, lender terms, and closing timeline.

Representation matters before the first visit because many builders require your agent to be registered at the beginning.

Model homes are designed to sell the dream. Compare base price, structural upgrades, design center costs, landscaping, HOA, taxes, and special assessments.

New does not mean inspection-free. Independent inspections can still catch important issues before closing.

Many builders require your agent to be registered at the first visit. Ask before touring so representation is protected.

Base price is only the beginning. Lot premiums, structural options, design center upgrades, landscaping, solar, HOA, taxes, and assessments can change the real number.

Builder lender incentives should be compared against rate, fees, credits, timeline, and outside-lender options.

A new home can still have construction issues. Independent inspections at key stages or before closing can catch items while the builder can still address them.

Review HOA rules, community buildout plans, future phases, schools, commute, noise, and resale competition before choosing a lot.