A clear and informative guide for anyone considering a new construction purchase in Florida.
Buying pre construction can be one of the smartest moves you make in Florida real estate, especially in cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. New buildings often offer stronger long term value, better maintenance standards, and more flexible rental options.
But before you sign a reservation form or send a deposit, it is important to understand exactly what you are committing to. Every developer works differently and every building has its own structure, costs, and rules.
Here are the most important questions to ask so you can make a confident and informed decision.
1. How does the deposit structure work?
Every project uses a different payment schedule. The most common structure is a percentage at contract, another percentage at groundbreaking, and another percentage at top off.
You should understand:
• When each payment is due
• Whether the dates are tied to construction milestones or fixed on a calendar
• Whether your funds are held in escrow
• Whether any portion is refundable before contract
Knowing this helps you plan your cash flow and timeline.
2. What is included in the price?
Some developers deliver fully finished and furnished residences. Others provide a furniture ready unit that still needs closets, lighting, or flooring.
Ask about:
• Flooring
• Lighting
• Closet systems
• Appliance brands
• Smart home features
• Parking and storage
• Amenity access
This ensures you know the true cost of the home.
3. What are the estimated HOA fees?
Homeowner fees affect your monthly expenses and your investment returns if you plan to rent.
Ask for clarity on:
• What services and amenities are included
• Whether utilities are included
• Whether the fee covers reserves
• How the fees compare to similar buildings in the area
Healthy reserves protect owners from unwanted surprises.
4. What is the construction timeline?
Timelines can shift, but you should still understand the developer’s expectations.
Ask about:
• Planned groundbreaking
• Planned top off
• Estimated completion
• The developer’s track record of delivering on time
A consistent history is a strong signal.
5. Who is the team behind the project?
A successful building starts with a strong team.
Find out:
• The developer
• The general contractor
• The architect
• The interior designer
• Previous buildings they have completed
This gives you insight into quality and reliability.
6. What are the rental rules?
If you plan to rent the residence, this is one of the most important questions.
Ask about:
• Whether short term rental is allowed
• Minimum rental periods
• Annual limits on number of rentals
• Whether the building supports platforms such as Airbnb
• Whether management services are available
These rules vary significantly from one building to another.
7. What warranty does the developer provide?
Most developers offer warranties on structure, systems, and workmanship.
Ask about:
• Structural coverage
• Appliance coverage
• Interior workmanship coverage
• How to submit a claim
• Repair response times
Understanding this will help you feel secure about post closing support.
8. What will the long term view look like?
Future development may affect your view and your property value.
Ask the sales team:
• Whether they know of upcoming nearby projects
• Whether zoning on surrounding lots protects your view
• Whether they can provide view studies or angle drawings for your specific line
A protected view is a long term advantage.
9. What is the assignment policy?
Some buyers want the flexibility to transfer the contract before closing.
Ask whether:
• Assignments are allowed
• There is a fee
• You can publicly market the assignment
• There are limits on how many assignments are permitted
This matters for anyone who wants optionality.
10. What happens if construction delays occur?
Delays can happen in any large project. What matters is how the developer handles them.
Ask about:
• Buyer rights if delays extend beyond a certain period
• Deposit protection
• Whether the contract outlines remedies for the buyer
Clear expectations are always a positive sign.
When you ask the right questions, you protect yourself from unwanted surprises and make sure the building aligns with your lifestyle or investment goals.
If you ever want help comparing developments or reviewing the details of a project, we’re always here to talk through it with you.
👉 [Browse Our Latest Florida Condo Listings]
👉 [Book a One-on-One Strategy Call]