Buying New Construction in Jacksonville? 7 Questions to Ask Before You Sign

The model home catches your attention. The advertised price looks promising. Then come the decisions: which homesite, which upgrades, which financing offer—and what will it all cost?

Before buying new construction in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, these seven questions can help you compare your options with more confidence.

1. What is the total price of the home as I want it?

Start by asking which features in the model are included in the advertised price. Request an itemized estimate showing the homesite premium, structural options, design selections, and any other charges.

Ask specifically about appliances, window coverings, fencing, gutters, and outdoor features. Knowing what you will need to purchase after closing makes it easier to compare homes realistically.

2. What conditions come with the builder’s incentives?

If a builder offers closing-cost assistance, a rate promotion, or upgrade credits, ask for the terms in writing.

Does the offer require a particular lender or title company? Does it apply only to certain homes or closing dates? If a reduced mortgage rate is advertised, is it temporary or for the full loan term?

You can shop other lenders. Compare written Loan Estimates, including the interest rate, loan costs, lender credits, and cash needed to close—not just the headline incentive.

3. What will I pay beyond the mortgage?

Ask for a breakdown of any HOA dues, Community Development District (CDD) assessments, amenity charges, and one-time community fees.

Have your lender explain how property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and applicable assessments fit into the payment estimate. Ask whether the tax estimate reflects the completed home rather than only the vacant lot.

Also review community rules for features you may want later, such as fencing, pools, or exterior changes.

4. What happens if construction or my plans change?

An estimated completion date is one part of the picture. Ask what the contract says about delays, notice of closing, and your obligations if the schedule shifts.

Before paying a deposit, understand when it is refundable, which option deposits may be nonrefundable, and what happens if financing falls through.

If you need to sell your current home first, raise that early. Have any unclear contract language reviewed before signing.

5. How will independent inspections and repairs work?

Ask when an independent inspector can visit, what access requirements apply, and whether the construction stage allows an inspection before drywall.

Find out how inspection findings are submitted, how the builder responds, and how unfinished or repair items will be documented before closing.

Request a clear process for the final walkthrough, including who will track outstanding items and communicate their completion.

6. What does the warranty actually cover?

Request the written warranty before committing. Review coverage periods, exclusions, maintenance requirements, and claim deadlines.

Ask who handles service requests after closing and how to report an urgent problem. Builder coverage and individual product warranties may have different procedures, so keep those documents together.

7. Who will help me compare the choices before I commit?

The builder’s sales team can explain its homes and options. Your own real estate professional can help you compare communities, organize questions, and evaluate how a particular home fits your priorities.

Before registering online or visiting a model home, contact your agent so you can clarify the builder’s registration and agent participation requirements.

Discuss the scope of your agent’s services and compensation upfront, too.

Considering a new home in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida?

A useful comparison starts with your budget, timing, and what matters most to you—not just a floor plan.

Tu Familia Real Estate can help you narrow the options and prepare the questions worth asking before you commit.

Fill out the contact form on this page and include “New Construction,” your preferred area, and your approximate budget. Let’s find out which options deserve a closer look.