Top 5 Things First-Time Home Buyers Wish They Knew Before Building a New Construction Home with D.R. Horton
- Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
- Feb 15
- 3 min read
Building a new construction home with D.R. Horton can be an exciting experience, especially for first-time buyers. However, many homeowners later realize there were key details they wish they had known before signing the contract. Here are the top five things first-time home buyers often overlook when building a new home with D.R. Horton.
1. The Base Price Is Just the Starting Point
D.R. Horton advertises affordable new construction homes, but many first-time buyers don’t realize that the base price doesn’t include many of the features they see in model homes.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
Upgrades cost extra – granite countertops, premium flooring, and smart home features often come with additional costs.
Lot premiums apply – desirable lots (cul-de-sac, larger yards, or greenbelt views) can add thousands to the final price.
Appliances & landscaping may not be included – basic front landscaping is included, but backyard landscaping is often the buyer’s responsibility.
💡 Tip: Get a detailed breakdown of included features vs. upgrade costs before finalizing your contract.
2. Limited Customization Options
Unlike custom or semi-custom builders, D.R. Horton follows a production-style homebuilding model, meaning buyers get pre-set floor plans and finishes with minimal customization.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
No major structural changes – you can’t move walls or modify floor plans.
Pre-selected design packages – you choose from preset color schemes rather than fully customizing materials.
Limited electrical or plumbing adjustments – adding extra outlets or moving plumbing lines may not be possible.
💡 Tip: If personalization is important, consider other builders that offer more customization, or plan for post-closing upgrades.
3. Warranty Coverage Is Limited
D.R. Horton homes come with a builder’s warranty, but it doesn’t cover everything—and many buyers mistakenly believe it will fix any issue that arises.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
The one-year warranty only covers minor defects in materials and workmanship.
Cosmetic issues (paint, drywall cracks, etc.) may not be covered if not reported within the first year.
Major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) may have only a two-year warranty, while structural issues are covered for 10 years.
💡 Tip: Document all issues before the one-year warranty expires and consider getting a third-party home inspection before closing.
4. Closing Costs & Builder Incentives Have Trade-Offs
D.R. Horton often offers closing cost assistance or incentives like discounted interest rates—but these benefits may come with conditions.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
You must use their preferred lender to receive closing cost assistance, which may not always offer the best mortgage rate.
Incentives can be rolled into the home price, meaning you’re still paying for them indirectly.
Closing timelines may be strict, leaving little room for negotiation.
💡 Tip: Compare loan offers from outside lenders to ensure you’re getting the best deal before committing to D.R. Horton’s financing.
5. Not All Lots Are Equal—Choose Wisely
D.R. Horton builds homes in large master-planned communities, but some buyers later regret not paying more attention to their lot selection.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
Some lots have poor drainage, leading to standing water or foundation issues.
Lots near busy roads, highways, or future commercial development can lead to noise and traffic problems.
Smaller lot sizes may limit future expansion (like adding a pool or patio).
💡 Tip: Ask about future development plans and visit the lot at different times of the day to check for noise, traffic, and drainage issues.
Final Thoughts: Be an Informed Buyer
D.R. Horton offers affordable, move-in-ready homes, but first-time buyers should understand upgrade costs, warranty limitations, lender incentives, and lot selection before signing a contract.
🏡 Thinking about buying a new construction home? Let’s connect to make sure you get the best deal and avoid costly mistakes!
Please call us at 469-269-6541 for more details about DR Horton Homes and available homes!
