A new home.
A fresh start.
More options to explore.

Decide when you need keys and whether you can handle a delay. A completed home, a home under construction, and a home you select from plans have different timelines and choices. Ask what is actually available, what remains to be finished, and whether the proposed closing date is an estimate or a contract deadline.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “If completion moves, what happens to my deposit, rate lock, moving plans, and contract?”

The advertised base price may not include your chosen homesite, elevation, options, or upgrades. Request an itemized price for the specific home and lot. Check appliances, blinds, fencing, landscaping, garage features, and any HOA setup fees instead of assuming the model’s features are included.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “What is my total price after the lot premium and selections, and which items would I still need to buy?”

A large credit or attractive first-year payment does not tell the whole story. Get the offer in writing and ask about eligible homes, expiration dates, preferred lenders, and how the credit can be used. Ask the lender to compare the full payment, cash to close, interest rate, APR, points, and fees using Loan Estimates for comparable loans. For a temporary buydown, request the payment for each year and after the subsidy ends.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “What is the payment after any temporary incentive ends, and what changes if I use a different lender?”

Have your agent explain the process and involve an attorney when legal interpretation is needed. Review the deposit schedule, refund conditions, financing and appraisal terms, selection deadlines, changes, inspection access, completion provisions, and cancellation terms. Document included features and agreed incentives in the contract paperwork.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “When could I lose my deposit, and what happens if financing or the appraisal does not work out?”

Ask early whether the builder allows independent inspections and which stages can be inspected. A pre-drywall inspection may be an option if construction has not passed that stage. A final inspection can help identify issues before closing; the builder walkthrough and lender appraisal serve different purposes. Confirm access, deadlines, repair procedures, and any reinspection arrangements in writing.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “When can my independent inspector visit, and how will findings be addressed before closing?”

Review the home’s condition, agreed work, appliance operation, and included features. Get the punch list, responsible contact, and expected completion dates in writing. Ask the lender or closing team about the completed-home tax estimate, insurance, final payment, and cash to close. Keep contracts, inspection reports, selections, warranty documents, and service contacts together after closing.

Take this question with you:
Ask: “How do I report a warranty issue, what is covered, and what maintenance is my responsibility?”