Top 5 Things First-Time Home Buyers Wish They Knew Before Building a New Construction Home with Normandy Homes

Building a new construction home with Normandy Homes can be a great option for first-time buyers looking for modern designs and energy-efficient features. However, many buyers later realize important details they wish they had known beforehand. Here are the top five things first-time home buyers often overlook when building a home with Normandy Homes.

1. The Base Price Doesn't Include All the Features You See in Model Homes

Model homes are designed to impress, but many first-time buyers don’t realize that most of the high-end features shown aren’t included in the base price.

🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:

• Upgraded kitchens, flooring, and lighting cost extra – the base model includes standard builder-grade materials.

• Customizing cabinets, countertops, or appliances adds to the total cost.

• Landscaping is often minimal, and backyard landscaping may not be included at all.

💡 Tip: Get a detailed list of standard vs. upgraded features, and prioritize structural upgrades that are harder to change later.

2. Customization Options Are More Limited Than Expected

Normandy Homes is considered a semi-custom builder, meaning you get more choices than a production builder but far fewer than a fully custom homebuilder.

🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:

• Floor plans cannot be significantly changed – you can’t move walls or add rooms.

• Design choices are limited to pre-selected packages – you may not get full control over materials.

• Additional electrical outlets, pre-wiring, or plumbing modifications may be restricted.

💡 Tip: Ask about what can and cannot be changed upfront, and plan for any desired upgrades after closing if needed.

3. Delays in Construction Timelines Can Happen

Many buyers expect their Normandy Home to be ready on schedule, but unforeseen delays can extend the move-in date.

🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:

• Supply chain issues or labor shortages can delay completion.

• Weather can push back construction timelines, especially if the foundation isn’t poured yet.

• Some buyers have experienced delays in final inspections or permitting.

💡 Tip: Ask for realistic expectations on move-in dates and avoid locking in lease terminations or moving plans until you get final confirmation.

4. Warranty Coverage Has Limitations

Like most builders, Normandy Homes provides a builder’s warranty, but it doesn’t cover everything.

🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:

• The one-year warranty only covers basic materials and workmanship defects.

• Cosmetic issues like paint or drywall cracks may not be covered after move-in.

• Appliances have separate manufacturer warranties, so repairs must go through those companies.

💡 Tip: Get a third-party home inspection before closing to catch issues early, and document any concerns before the one-year warranty expires.

5. HOA Rules and Fees Can Be Restrictive

Many Normandy Homes communities have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which come with additional costs and restrictions.

🔹 What Buyers Wish They Knew:

• HOA fees may increase over time, adding to monthly expenses.

• Rules on exterior modifications (such as fencing, landscaping, or paint colors) may be strict.

• Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) may not be allowed, limiting investment potential.

💡 Tip: Read the HOA bylaws before signing a contract to avoid surprises down the road.

Final Thoughts: Be an Informed Buyer

Normandy Homes offers quality designs, energy efficiency, and great locations, but first-time buyers should be aware of upgrade costs, customization limits, construction delays, warranty coverage, and HOA rules before committing.

🏡 Thinking about buying a Normandy 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 Normandy Homes and available homes!