A builder’s base price typically includes the home, standard specifications and a specific lot or lot allowance, but exactly what’s included varies by builder. Flooring, cabinets, lighting, exterior finishes, landscaping, appliances and other features you see in a showhome may be upgrades. I’ll help you separate what’s standard from what costs extra.

There’s no one-size-fits-all number. It depends on the builder, home and how much you customize. Before you start choosing upgrades, we’ll look at your overall budget and identify where spending more makes sense — and where it may not.

Some lots cost more because of their size, location or features — such as backing onto green space, a lake, park or having a larger frontage. That additional cost is generally referred to as a lot premium and can significantly affect your final purchase price.

Construction timelines vary depending on the builder, home design, permits, trades, materials and time of year. Your builder will provide an estimated possession date, and I’ll help you understand the timeline and what to expect along the way.

Not every upgrade delivers the same value. Structural changes and items that are difficult or expensive to change later often deserve consideration first. We can look at upgrades from both a lifestyle and future resale perspective.

You can purchase directly from a builder, but the builder’s sales representative represents the builder. Having your own REALTOR® gives you someone focused on your interests who can help you compare builders, understand the paperwork and ask questions you may not know to ask.

Before is best. Builder policies regarding REALTOR® representation can vary, so involving me before your first visit helps make sure we understand the builder’s process from the beginning. Plus, we can walk into the showhome already knowing what questions we want answered.

In many new-home transactions, the builder offers compensation to the buyer’s brokerage, but policies vary by builder and development. We’ll confirm how representation and compensation work before you commit to anything.

Absolutely. In fact, you should. Builders can differ significantly in their standard specifications, pricing, upgrade costs, construction methods, timelines and warranty service. I can help you compare the complete package — not just the model home or advertised starting price — so you can decide which builder is the best fit for you.