20 Questions to Ask a Builder Before Going Under Contract

Read the Checklist Below

No email required. No form. Just use it.

If you want help applying these questions to a specific builder or community, call or text Austin at 904-299-9189, or email austin@austinpreik.com.

What is included in the base price?
Ask what comes standard and what costs extra.
Is the model home showing standard features or upgrades?
Model homes are often loaded with upgrades that are not included in the advertised price.
What lot premiums are available, and how much do they cost?
A preserve lot, water lot, corner lot, or oversized lot can change the total price quickly.
What structural options need to be chosen before contract?
Some changes cannot be added later, or they become much more expensive after certain deadlines.
How much should I realistically budget for design center upgrades?
The base price may not reflect the finishes most buyers actually want.
Are there HOA fees, CDD fees, or other community fees?
These can affect your monthly payment and should be part of the budget from the beginning.
What will the property taxes likely look like after the home is fully assessed?
New construction tax estimates can be misleading if they are based on land value or an incomplete assessment.
What builder incentives are currently available?
Ask about closing cost help, rate buy-downs, design credits, and other promotions.
Do I have to use the builder’s preferred lender to receive the incentive?
Many incentives are tied to using the builder’s lender or title company.
Is the advertised rate temporary or permanent?
A temporary buy-down and a permanent rate buy-down are not the same thing.
What deposits are required, and are they refundable?
Understand what money is due, when it is due, and what happens if the deal falls apart.
What is the estimated build timeline?
Ask what could delay the home and how updates will be communicated.
What happens if construction is delayed?
Delays can affect moving plans, rate locks, temporary housing, and closing timing.
What warranties are included?
Ask what is covered, how long coverage lasts, and how warranty requests are handled.
Can I have an independent inspection?
Even with new construction, inspections can help catch issues before closing.
What appliances are included?
Do not assume the refrigerator, washer, dryer, blinds, or other items are included.
What will I still need to add after closing?
Common after-closing costs can include blinds, gutters, fencing, ceiling fans, garage storage, landscaping, and screened lanais.
Are there restrictions on fencing, pools, exterior changes, or rentals?
Community rules can affect how you use the property.
Will the builder still be selling nearby when I may need to resell?
Future resale can be affected if your home competes with brand-new homes and builder incentives.
What should I get in writing before signing?
Verbal promises are not enough. Make sure pricing, incentives, options, timelines, and included features are clearly documented.

My Take

New construction can be a great option, but buyers need to slow down before getting swept up in the model home, the incentives, or the idea of a brand-new house.

The goal is not to grill the builder or assume something shady is happening. Good builders should welcome clear questions because clear expectations make the process better for everyone.

The goal is simple: know what you are buying, what it will really cost, and what you are agreeing to before you sign.

Need Help Comparing Builders or Communities?

If you are looking at new construction in Jacksonville, St. Johns County, Nocatee, SilverLeaf, Beachwalk, Rivertown, eTown, Seven Pines, EverRange, or another Northeast Florida community, I can help you compare the tradeoffs before you start touring model homes.

Call or text me at 904-299-9189, or email austin@austinpreik.com.