How to Buy a New Construction Home in Florida

Looking to buy a new construction home in Florida? Whether you're drawn to the vibrant lifestyle of Orlando, the resort-style living in Davenport, or the family-friendly charm of Clermont, Central Florida is filled with exciting new communities. These homes offer the latest in design trends, energy efficiency, and smart technology—plus the chance to personalize your space from the ground up.

But buying new construction is different from purchasing a resale home. It comes with unique timelines, builder contracts, customization options, and inspections. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to buy a new construction home in Florida—step by step.

What Is a New Construction Home in Florida?

Simply put, a new construction home is one where the buyer is the first to ever live in the home. If you were buying a home from the current homeowner, who lives in the property, that would be considered a resale purchase. While this process can take many forms, the result of being the first resident in the property is the same.

How the New Construction Home Buying Process Works in Florida

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before touring model homes or browsing builder websites, your first move should be mortgage pre-approval. This will:

Help you understand your borrowing power
Set realistic expectations for your monthly payment
Show builders that you’re a qualified buyer

Some builders offer financing through their preferred lenders and may provide closing cost credits or upgrades as incentives. Still, it’s smart to shop around and compare terms with outside lenders, too. Try our Mortgage Calculator.

Here's What You’ll Need to Qualify for a full breakdown on credit scores, income documentation, and more.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location and Builder

Florida’s new construction boom means you’ll find homes popping up in many regions, but location makes a huge difference in your daily life and long-term home value.

Key things to consider:

Commute times and highway access
School districts and nearby parks or trails
Proximity to attractions like Disney, Universal, or golf courses
HOA fees and community amenities (pools, gyms, walking paths)

Once you’ve narrowed down your ideal area—Orlando or Davenport and beyond—it’s time to evaluate builders. Compare their:

Customer reviews and builder warranty policies
Range of floor plans and design flexibility
Reputation for on-time delivery and build quality

Still deciding between new vs. used? Read Why More Buyers Are Choosing New Homes Over Resale Properties.

Step 3: Understand the Builder’s Process and Timeline

Each builder has its own process, from contract to completion, and timelines can vary. Most new construction homes in Florida take between six to nine months to complete, but delays from weather, supply chain issues, or permitting can extend that.

Some important questions to ask when buying new construction homes:

What’s the estimated completion date?
What happens if the timeline changes?
When do I make design decisions and submit deposits?
Will I be allowed access to the site during construction?

If you're renting, be sure to build in a buffer so you’re not left without a place to live if the project is delayed.

Step 4: Hire a Realtor Who Specializes in New Construction

You might be tempted to go through the builder’s on-site agent, but remember that agent works for the builder, not for you.

Hiring your own licensed real estate agent gives you expert guidance through contracts, upgrades, and negotiations. However, buyers will need to pay their agent directly, rather than having the builder or seller cover that cost. This means you'll need to discuss and agree on the commission with your agent upfront.

Even with this change, having your own agent, especially one experienced in new construction, can help you avoid costly mistakes and navigate the process with confidence.

Step 5: Review Floor Plans and Customization Options

One of the biggest perks of new construction is customization. Depending on the builder, you may choose a quick move-in home with preselected finishes or build from scratch with full design control.

Common customization opportunities include:

Structural upgrades – extended lanais, extra bedrooms, lofts, or expanded garages
Interior finishes – upgraded flooring, countertops, lighting, backsplash, and cabinetry
Smart home features – video doorbells, thermostats, garage door openers, app-controlled lights
Energy-efficient upgrades – tankless water heaters, double-pane windows, upgraded HVAC
Outdoor enhancements – fences, landscaping, irrigation systems, or pool pre-wiring

Some builders offer tiered design packages (Silver, Gold, Platinum), while others allow you to select each upgrade à la carte. Be sure to ask what’s included in the base price and what’s considered an upgrade. Costs can add up quickly.

Step 6: Schedule Inspections and Stay Involved

Many buyers assume a new home won’t have issues, but that’s not always true. Construction mistakes or oversights can happen, and catching them early is essential.

Here’s how to stay protected:

Hire a third-party inspector (even if the builder offers their own)
Schedule a pre-drywall inspection to check plumbing, electrical, and framing
Attend the final walkthrough to identify unfinished or defective work

Even brand-new homes can have problems with grading, windows, or electrical outlets. A professional inspector provides peace of mind and protects your investment.

Step 7: Complete Your Final Walkthrough and Close

As the home nears completion, your builder will schedule a final walkthrough—also called a blue tape walk—to flag cosmetic issues, incomplete features, or warranty-related concerns.

Bring your checklist and take your time inspecting:

Paint, drywall, trim, flooring
Appliance installation and functionality
Light switches, outlets, HVAC system
Plumbing fixtures and water pressure

Once the punch list is complete, you'll head to closing where you’ll sign the final paperwork and officially take ownership of your new Florida home!

Find Your Dream New Construction Home with Florida Realty Marketplace

Buying a new construction home in Florida—especially in sought-after areas like Davenport, Orlando, and Clermont—can be a smooth and exciting experience with the right knowledge and support. From choosing upgrades to navigating builder contracts and timelines, a local expert can make all the difference.

Florida Realty Marketplace specializes in helping buyers find and purchase new homes that fit their lifestyle and budget. Our experienced agents have strong relationships with local builders and know how to advocate for your best interests throughout the process.

Let’s make your new construction home journey easy and enjoyable. See What Your Home Is Worth and start planning your next move today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying New Construction Homes in Florida

What customization options are available in Florida new construction homes?

Builders typically offer standard features with optional upgrades. Some use preset design packages, while others let you pick upgrades à la carte. Common customization options include:

Structural changes like extended patios or added rooms
Interior upgrades such as luxury flooring or quartz countertops
Smart home features like video doorbells and app-controlled lighting
Energy-efficient systems including tankless water heaters and impact windows
Outdoor enhancements like fencing, landscaping, or pool pre-wiring

How long does it take to build a new construction home in Florida?

Most new homes take 6 to 9 months to complete, but delays from weather or supply issues are common. Renters should prepare for potential overlap or lease extensions.

Do I need a real estate agent when buying new construction?

Yes. The builder’s agent represents the builder, not you. A real estate agent familiar with new construction can help review contracts, compare builders, negotiate incentives, and keep your purchase on track.

Should I get a home inspection on a brand-new home?

Definitely. Builders do their own inspections, but hiring a third-party inspector helps catch issues that may have been missed. It's best to schedule both a pre-drywall and final inspection before closing.

Posted by Florida Realty Marketplace on June 25th, 2025