01
Can I use my own agent for a new build?
Yes. Your agent can help you compare the builder's offer and financing. They can also review contract milestones with you and coordinate inspection questions. Involve them before your first substantive contact because registration and compensation rules can vary by property.
- Ask the sales representative whom they represent. The builder's representative works for the builder.
- Put your agent's services and compensation in your written buyer agreement. Review what you may owe after any accepted contribution.
- Confirm the builder's participation and payment policy in writing. An advertised incentive is separate from your own brokerage agreement.
02
How do I compare builder incentives?
Read what you have to do to receive the incentive. A rate buydown or lender credit may depend on using a particular provider. A design allowance or closing contribution has its own restrictions. Compare the full package with outside loan and title quotes.
- Calculate the payment after a temporary buydown expires. Decide whether that later payment fits your budget.
- Compare rate and APR first. Then check fees, points and credits. Note any provider you must use to receive the offer.
- Keep the builder's bonus separate from your negotiated price. Review concessions and buyer-agent compensation in their respective agreements.
03
What can I negotiate with a builder?
Ask about more than the base price. A builder may consider a lot premium or upgrades. There may also be room on a closing contribution or the completion date. Availability depends on the project and market. Get each accepted term into the signed documents.
- Calculate what an incentive saves you after its conditions and extra costs. Use that amount in your comparison.
- Ask which provider you must use and which deadline applies. Confirm that the offer covers the exact home you want.
- Review whether a change affects your appraisal or financing. Check the tax estimate and delivery date again when selections change.
04
When can I inspect a new home?
Ask your inspector which construction stages they cover. Depending on the stage and permitted access, you may arrange a phase or pre-drywall inspection. A final inspection and later warranty inspection serve different purposes. Put access and deadlines into your plan early.
- Review drainage and easements around the lot. Check utilities and any future construction phases nearby.
- Confirm taxes and special-district obligations for the finished home. A vacant-lot tax bill can leave out the completed structure.
- Document the walkthrough and punch list with the builder. Confirm completion, possession and warranty procedures in writing.
- Read the contract's inspection provisions. Arrange access before the applicable deadline and follow up on unresolved findings.
05
Which contract will I sign for a new home?
Texas has separate promulgated forms for completed and incomplete new construction. Many builders use their own contracts instead. Read the actual form you are offered because its signed terms control your purchase.
- Confirm whether the property is complete when you contract. Use that status when reviewing the appropriate form.
- Read completion dates and delay rights. Check selections and change-order terms before paying for an upgrade.
- Review financing and appraisal conditions. Understand when termination is allowed and what happens to your deposit.
- Bring a technical question to the relevant specialist. Legal interpretation and engineering concerns need the appropriately qualified professional.