M/I Homes is known for its energy-efficient designs, flexible floor plans, and quality craftsmanship, making it a great option for first-time and move-up buyers. However, many first-time buyers later realize key details they wish they had known before signing a contract. Here are the top five things first-time home buyers often overlook when building a home with M/I Homes.
1. The Base Price Doesn’t Include Many Features Seen in Model Homes
Model homes are designed to showcase the best possible upgrades, but many first-time buyers assume these features come standard—which isn’t the case.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
Upgraded flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and appliances all come at an extra cost.
Luxury features like extended patios, coffered ceilings, and premium bathroom finishes are not included in the base price.
Lot premiums apply to larger lots, cul-de-sac locations, and homes with scenic views.
💡 Tip: Ask for a detailed list of standard vs. upgraded features, and budget accordingly for must-have additions.
2. Customization Options Are Limited
M/I Homes offers more personalization than some production builders, but it’s not a fully custom home-building experience.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
Major structural changes (such as moving walls or adding rooms) are usually not possible.
Design choices are limited to pre-selected packages and materials from approved vendors.
Some electrical and plumbing modifications must be decided early in the building process and may not be adjustable later.
💡 Tip: Work closely with the design team early in the process to ensure you include the features that matter most.
3. Construction Timelines Can Be Delayed
While M/I Homes strives for on-time delivery, unexpected delays can push back move-in dates.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
Material shortages and labor issues can extend build times.
Weather conditions may delay foundation work and exterior construction.
City inspections and permits can take longer than expected, affecting your final closing date.
💡 Tip: Be flexible with your moving plans and avoid setting a firm move-in date until your home is nearly complete.
4. Warranty Coverage Has Limitations
M/I Homes offers a limited home warranty, but many buyers assume it covers more than it actually does.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
The one-year warranty covers general workmanship defects, but minor cosmetic issues may not be covered after move-in.
HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems have a two-year warranty, but standard wear and tear isn’t included.
The 10-year structural warranty only covers major structural failures, not minor cracks from foundation settling.
💡 Tip: Hire a third-party home inspector before closing to identify potential issues while they’re still covered under warranty.
5. HOA Fees & Rules Can Be Restrictive
Most M/I Homes communities are governed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which have rules and fees that buyers may not fully understand before purchasing.
🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:
HOA fees may increase over time, adding to your long-term costs.
Some HOAs have strict rules regarding exterior modifications, landscaping, fencing, and home additions.
Short-term rentals (like Airbnb) may be restricted, limiting investment potential.
💡 Tip: Request a copy of the HOA bylaws before signing your contract to ensure you’re comfortable with the community’s rules.
Final Thoughts: Be an Informed Buyer
M/I Homes builds high-quality, energy-efficient homes, but first-time buyers should be aware of upgrade costs, customization limits, potential delays, warranty restrictions, and HOA rules before committing.
🏡 Thinking about buying an M/I Home? Let’s connect to ensure you get the best deal and avoid costly mistakes!
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Celina real estate!
About us: Celina New Construction Expert Real Estate Agent
As a Top Real Estate Professional in Celina, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a new construction home. There are over 100 builders in the DFW area. I work with most of the new home builders in Celina and understand how various builders operate. I am familiar with the options they offer, current incentives and I frequently visit the upcoming communities they are building. I guide my clients through all steps of the new home construction process and aggressively protect their interests in the transaction.
As a holder of top real estate industry certifications and designations like CRS, ABR & GRI, I can offer my clients experience as a Buyer's Agent and REALTOR®, top Industry Customer Service, in-depth, up-to-the-minute and comprehensive market knowledge; honesty, integrity, dedication, and professionalism in my business.
Whether you are a first time buyer in Celina looking to buy a home in Fields or whether you are relocating to Celina from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a new construction home in Fields in Celina. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.
What is most important to you in your new construction home in Fields in Celina? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about Fields community that you can use to help make your home buying decision.
