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Before you visit a model home: the Florida buyer's checklist
Builders' sales teams are friendly, polished and working for the builder. Use this checklist before, during and after your model home visits so you keep your options, your negotiating room and your 50% rebate.
The one step most buyers miss
Call first
before you sign any guest card
Most builders only pay an agent who is registered on your first visit. Builder terms vary and commissions are negotiable.
Email me the checklist
Reviewed by Bryan Berns, Florida real estate broker (License BK3659524), licensed since 2011 · Updated October 2026Before you go
Ten minutes of prep keeps every option open.
- Register your agent before the first visitCall or text us first. Don't sign a guest card or online registration without your agent listed.
- Know your real monthly budgetInclude property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues and any CDD assessment, not just the mortgage.
- Get pre-approved, or have proof of funds readyBuilders take pre-approved buyers more seriously, and some require it to hold a home.
- List must-haves and nice-to-havesBedrooms, office, yard size, school zone and commute. It keeps the model's upgrades in perspective.
At the model home
Models show the best of everything. These questions show what you'd actually get.
- Ask for the standard features listModels are full of upgrades. Take photos of the price sheet and what's included at the base price.
- Ask about lots and lot premiumsWhich homesites are available, what each premium costs, which way the home faces and the flood zone.
- Ask about current incentivesWhat's offered, when it expires, and whether it requires the builder's preferred lender or title company.
- Ask about HOA, CDD and amenity feesGet the yearly amounts in writing. CDD assessments can add meaningfully to your tax bill.
- Ask about the timeline and depositsHow much is due when, which deposits are refundable, and the estimated completion date.
- Ask what the warranty coversWhat's covered, for how long, and how service requests are handled after closing.
After the visit
Compare calmly before you commit to anything.
- Compare builders side by sidePrice per square foot, included features, lot premiums, fees and incentives, all in one place.
- Review the contract with your agentBuilder contracts are written for the builder. Go over deposits, deadlines and contingencies before signing.
- Plan independent inspectionsMany buyers hire their own inspector before drywall and again before closing, even on brand-new homes.
- Confirm your rebate in writing and tell your lenderYour 50% rebate is credited at closing, so your lender needs to know about it from the start.
Get the printable checklist
We'll email you a one-page version to take on your model tours. Tell us the builder or community, and we'll confirm your rebate before you go.
Prefer to talk? Call or text (407) 357-0357
Model home visit FAQ
What happens if I visit a model before registering an agent?
Many builders then won't pay an outside agent for that buyer, which can mean no rebate. Call us before your first visit, even an online appointment.
Can I just look around without registering?
Yes, but sales offices often ask you to sign in. If you do, list your agent, or call us first and we'll register you.
Does using an agent cost me anything with a builder?
No. Builders typically budget buyer-agent compensation, and with us half of what we receive comes back to you at closing. Commissions are negotiable and terms vary.
Can you register me with several builders at once?
Yes. Tell us your shortlist and we'll handle each one before you visit.