Central Florida New Construction Homebuyer Guide

Builder financing and preferred lenders

Builders frequently offer incentives when you use their preferred lender. That can be genuinely valuable — or it can be offset by pricing elsewhere in the deal. The way to know is to compare a full cost estimate from the preferred lender against an outside option, including rate, points, credits, and fees.

Incentives: rate buydowns and closing-cost credits

• Rate buydowns lower your interest rate, permanently or temporarily — confirm which.
• Closing-cost credits reduce cash to close but don't change your payment.
• Incentives are often tied to conditions such as using the preferred lender or closing by a certain date. Get the terms in writing.

Lot premiums

Premium lots — conservation, water, oversized, or cul-de-sac — add to your price. They can hold value well, but they're paid for up front and financed over the life of the loan, so weigh them against upgrades you also want.

Design center: structural vs. cosmetic upgrades

A useful rule of thumb: prioritize things that are structural or difficult to add later, and consider deferring cosmetic items you could reasonably do yourself afterward.

• Often worth prioritizing during the build: covered patio, structural extensions, additional electrical, plumbing rough-ins.
• Often possible to complete later: flooring in some cases, lighting fixtures, backsplash, cabinet hardware and fixtures.
• Every builder and community is different — confirm what can and can't be changed post-closing before you decide.

Inspections on a brand-new home

New does not mean flawless. Independent inspections — commonly at pre-drywall and again before closing — are worth considering, along with your builder's warranty walkthrough process.

Builder contracts and timelines

• Builder contracts are written by the builder; read deposit, delay, and cancellation terms closely.
• Timelines can move, which matters for rate locks and for coordinating the sale of a current home.
• Understand what your deposits cover and under what conditions they're refundable.

Representation

The sales agent in the model home represents the builder. Having your own representation means someone is reviewing the contract, the incentive terms, and the upgrade decisions on your behalf. In most cases you should register your representation on your first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

• Orlando Area Homebuying Guide
• Central Florida Guidance
• Mortgage Programs
• How Much House Can I Afford in Florida?