New construction home buying process: Options for buyers

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 01/14/2024

The new construction home buying process differs significantly from the buying process for an existing home. However, one thing that remains the same in each case is that no two homes are exactly alike.

While it’s common for newer developments to have “cookie cutter” homes with similar layouts, many builders have options for customization.

Here is a basic explanation of the major types of new construction home options you’re likely to encounter:

Tract homes

Tract homes are built as part of a large development on a single piece – or tract – of land. Tract homes are mass-produced and usually built quickly, making them an excellent choice for prospective homeowners who don’t want as long a process as a fully custom home would entail.

However, these homes can be almost identical in floor plan and features. While very affordable and convenient, they do lack built-in customization options.

Spec homes

A spec home is a brand-new, move-in-ready home. These homes are sold strictly as-is, so any desired changes and upgrades are your responsibility. The “spec” in spec homes comes from “speculative,” meaning the builder has created a unique design for a particular market.

Therefore, spec homes can vary greatly in style and features, making them a great option for buyers who want something beyond the cookie-cutter of a tract home development.

Semi-custom homes

As the name suggests, a semi-custom home is only partially customized by the prospective buyer. These homes come with many of the structures and features set by default, and others you can customize.

Some builders provide catalogs of options for things like materials, finishes and layouts. Spec homes will generally have the same exterior style, but the interiors depend on the choices of each buyer.

Custom homes

A fully custom home is built to the buyer’s every choice. Working closely with an architect and real estate agent, buyers determine every single detail of the home, from architectural style to light switch location.

While the design and building process mean countless decisions, if you have a vision for the perfect home and a larger budget, a custom new construction house might be the best choice for you.

Every home purchase is different, and even once you decide between new construction and existing homes, you have important choices to make. Keep these new construction options in mind to make the best decision for your future home.

About the Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”