Topic
New Construction: your questions answered
Buying a new build works differently from buying a resale home. You deal with a builder contract, upgrade choices, a construction schedule, and warranties. I explain the parts that surprise buyers and the questions worth asking before you sign. If you are thinking about a new home, call or text me before you visit a sales office, so we can go over how representation and the builder contract work.
Answered by Allen Markel, REALTOR®, Texas Premier Realty · 19 questions answered
Questions about New Construction
Which builders are selling new homes in Cypress right now?
Of the 1,326 homes now listed in Cypress, 385 (29%) are new construction. The builders with the most active Cypress listings are David Weekley Homes (60), Taylor Morrison (57), Perry Homes (39), Tri…
Read answerShould I get an independent inspection on a new construction home?
Yes. An independent inspection on new construction reveals issues the builder's warranty may not cover and gives you leverage to negotiate repairs before closing.
Read answerWhat upgrades are worth paying for in new construction?
What matters depends on your use of the home, budget, and what the builder includes.
Read answerHow do I negotiate a better price on new construction?
Price negotiation on new construction depends on the builder, the market, and your timing. Builders have more flexibility early in a project or when inventory is high.
Read answerHow much do you have to put down to buy land?
There is no fixed minimum down payment to buy land in Texas. The amount you put down is negotiated between you and the seller and depends on your finances, the seller's willingness, and what a lender…
Read answerAre new construction homes negotiable?
Yes. New construction homes are negotiable on price, upgrades, closing costs, and builder incentives.
Read answerShould I buy a model home or a spec home?
A model home is a furnished display; a spec home is a completed, unfurnished home ready to move into. The choice depends on your timeline, budget, and what matters most.
Read answerHow do I set up internet and cable in my new home?
Internet and cable setup is not part of the home purchase or builder's responsibility. After closing, contact service providers directly to schedule installation.
Read answerWhat does a pre-drywall inspection actually catch that I should care about?
A pre-drywall inspection catches framing defects, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, HVAC ductwork, insulation placement, and structural issues before they are hidden behind walls.
Read answerIs it a scam when a builder says the incentive is only available this weekend?
No, it is not inherently a scam. Builders use time-limited incentives as a sales tactic.
Read answerWhy would a builder offer tens of thousands in incentives if the deal is already good?
Builders offer incentives to move inventory faster, compete with other builders, or meet sales targets and cash-flow timelines, not because the price is wrong.
Read answerDoes buying early in a new development phase carry more risk than buying later?
Early-phase buying means fewer completed homes to inspect, less builder track record visible, and longer construction timelines. Later phases let you see the builder's work and community taking shape.
Read answerWhat upgrades at the design center actually add resale value?
Design center upgrades vary widely in resale value. Structural and systems upgrades like roof, HVAC, and electrical tend to hold value better than cosmetic choices.
Read answerIs it true builders won't negotiate price but will negotiate on other things?
Builders vary widely in what they will and won't negotiate. Price is often less flexible than other terms, but it depends on the builder, the market, and your timing.
Read answerWhat upgrades in a new build actually add resale value versus just costing me money?
Upgrades that add resale value are those that fix functional gaps in the base home or appeal broadly: kitchen and bath updates, flooring, HVAC efficiency, and structural improvements.
Read answerWhat happens to my rate lock if my new build is delayed by several months?
Your rate lock is between you and your lender, not the builder. A delay does not automatically extend it.
Read answerDoes buying in phase one of a new development carry extra risk?
Phase one carries different risks than later phases, not necessarily more or less. Early buyers may face incomplete amenities, uncertain neighborhood character, and longer construction timelines.
Read answerCan I negotiate lot premiums on a new construction home or are those fixed?
Lot premiums are negotiable, though many builders treat them as fixed prices. Your leverage depends on market conditions, your offer strength, and whether you have your own REALTOR representing you…
Read answerWhat is a builder's design center and do I have to use it?
A design center is where you choose finishes, colors, and upgrades for your new home.
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Talk it through with Allen
A short call can turn a general answer into one for your address, your timeline and your numbers.
Answers describe transactions and public data. They are not legal, tax or financial advice.