What You Need to Know Before Building a New Home

by Team Comerford

Building a new home is an exciting opportunity to create a space tailored to your lifestyle, taste, and long-term needs. However, the process is complex and requires thoughtful planning, financial clarity, and the right team of professionals. Before breaking ground, here are key considerations every buyer should understand.

1. Budgeting Goes Beyond Construction Costs

Many buyers focus only on the builder’s base price, but a true budget should also account for:

Land acquisition and site prep
Permitting and impact fees
Utility connections
Landscaping and fencing
Interior upgrades and finishings
Unexpected expenses (always build in a contingency buffer)

In high-growth regions, such as many South Florida communities, fees and utility connection costs can vary significantly by location.

2. Choosing the Right Lot Matters

The location of your lot affects everything from your commute and school zone to potential insurance premiums and long-term property value. Soil conditions, elevation, flood zones, and municipal zoning restrictions can all impact how and where you build.

3. Understand Builder Contracts and Timelines

Builder agreements often favor the builder, not the buyer. It’s essential to:

Review the contract with a real estate attorney or agent familiar with new construction
Understand your rights if delays occur or costs increase
Clarify what’s included in the base price vs. upgrades

South Florida’s seasonal weather patterns can affect construction timelines, so flexibility and clear communication with your builder are crucial.

4. Know What’s Included—and What Isn’t

Model homes often showcase top-tier finishes, but base models may include much more modest features. Ask for a comprehensive list of included materials, finishes, appliances, and energy-efficiency standards. Clarify whether:

Landscaping is included
Appliances come with the home
Driveways, patios, or fencing are standard or upgrades

5. Permit, Inspection & Insurance Requirements

Navigating local permitting requirements is part of the builder’s job—but you’ll want to understand the timeline and inspection milestones. Some areas, especially coastal or flood-prone zones, may have stricter building codes and higher insurance requirements.

6. Future-Proof Your Home

Think beyond today’s needs. Consider:

Multi-generational living space
Home office setup
Smart home wiring
Storm protection and energy efficiency

Features like impact-resistant windows or elevated foundations can be particularly valuable in Florida's climate and may even lower insurance costs.

7. Work With a Realtor—Even on New Builds

Many buyers don’t realize they can—and should—use a buyer’s agent when building a new home. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help:

Negotiate upgrades or incentives
Advocate for your interests in builder contracts
Connect you with trusted lenders, inspectors, and insurance providers
Provide insight on neighborhood development and future resale value
Have well established relationships with local builders that will facilitate the best possible terms for you

We are new construction experts. Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation of new construction opportunities. Search here for our new construction opportunities to see what is currently available!!

Building Smart from the Start

Building a new home can be one of the most rewarding paths to homeownership, but it’s also a major undertaking. With the right planning, support, and understanding of the process, you can build with confidence.

Looking to build in South Florida? Our team is here to guide you from lot selection to final inspection. Let’s talk about your vision—and how we can make it a reality.