How Savvy Buyers Save Thousands and You Can To

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can negotiate with home builders on new construction, the short answer is: yes, absolutely. But knowing how, when, and what to negotiate can make all the difference in how much you actually save. In this blog, we’re diving into the practical strategies that can help you walk away with the best deal on your brand-new home.

Two Types of New Construction Homes

When it comes to new builds, not all homes are the same—and that matters when it comes to negotiating.

1. Inventory Homes
   These are homes that are already built or nearly complete. The builder has selected all finishes and design elements in advance.

2. Build-From-Scratch (aka “Dirt” Homes)
   These are homes where you get to make most of the choices—from structural features to interior design selections.

Each type requires a different negotiation approach. Let’s break it down.

How to Negotiate on Inventory Homes

Inventory homes come with a set price, but that doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate. In fact, you often have more room to negotiate, especially if the builder is sitting on unsold homes.

💡 Pro Tip: Builders typically start advertising inventory homes in the final few months of a project. The longer they sit, the more motivated the builder becomes to make a deal.

What Can You Negotiate?

• A lower sale price

• Extras like epoxy garage floors, blinds, upgraded shelving, or appliance packages

Best Time to Negotiate:
In Florida, the third quarter (July–September) is usually the slowest season for builders, which makes it a prime window to negotiate better deals.

But here’s the key: negotiation terms depend on the neighborhood. A builder might offer huge incentives in one community to attract new buyers, while offering far less in a well-established neighborhood that’s already selling well.

For example, Neal Homes might have different incentives at Palm Grove (a new subdivision) versus Windward (an established, high-demand community). It’s not just about the builder—it’s about the context.

Typical Savings?
In the past 18 months, I’ve seen buyers negotiate anywhere from 5% to 15% off the total price of inventory homes—sometimes even more on high-priced properties.

Negotiating on Build-From-Scratch Homes

These are the homes where you’re making most (or all) of the design and structural decisions. Negotiation here is more nuanced because there are more variables at play.

What Can Be Negotiated?

• Lot premiums (e.g., offer $40K instead of $60K)

• Structural options (like including impact windows)

• Pool costs (requesting partial coverage)

• Closing costs (typically the most negotiable)

💡 Why Builders Don’t Like Cutting Base Price:
Builders aim to protect the home values in the community. Dropping base prices significantly can impact comps and resale values. Instead, they’re more willing to offer savings through upgrades or covering closing costs.

Closing Costs: Your Secret Weapon

In Florida, closing costs for a new home typically run:

• ~2% of the purchase price for cash buyers

• ~4% for financed purchases

Builders are often willing to cover part or all of these costs, which is a smart way to save money without lowering the official sales price.

Timing Is Everything

Want to know when builders are most flexible?
📆 End of the month
📆 End of a quarter
📆 End of the builder’s fiscal year

Builders often have sales goals to hit, and those deadlines can lead to major savings for you.

Final Thoughts

Yes—you can negotiate on new construction. Whether it's price, upgrades, or closing costs, there are always options, especially if you know what to ask for and when.

At Sarasota Neighborhood Experts, we specialize in helping buyers like you navigate the complexities of new builds, from finding the right neighborhood to negotiating smartly with builders.

📞 Ready to talk new construction? Let’s connect today and explore your options!

📍 Want help negotiating your next home purchase?
Call us now or shoot us an email—our team is here to help you save money and make confident decisions in the Florida real estate market.