Signing a new construction condo contract often feels like a final, locked-in moment. Many buyers assume that once the contract is executed, everything about the purchase is set in stone.
In reality, some elements can still change after signing, while others cannot. Knowing the difference helps buyers avoid confusion, manage expectations, and make better decisions throughout the construction process.
Here’s what buyers can typically still change after signing a new construction contract—and what usually remains fixed.
Interior Finishes and Design Selections
In many new construction projects, buyers can select certain interior finishes after the contract is signed. These may include flooring options, cabinetry finishes, countertops, backsplash materials, and color palettes.
The availability of customization depends on the project’s stage and the extent of construction when the contract is executed. Early buyers generally have more flexibility, while later buyers may be limited to pre-selected packages.
Once design selection deadlines pass, changes are usually no longer permitted.
Appliance and Fixture Upgrades
Some developers allow buyers to upgrade appliances or fixtures after contract execution, particularly in projects offering tiered finish packages. These upgrades are typically optional and cost extra.
Approval is time-sensitive. Changes must align with construction schedules, and late requests may not be feasible once installation phases begin.
Ownership Structure and Title Planning
Buyers can often still adjust how they take title after signing, such as:
- Individual ownership versus an entity
- Adding or removing a co-owner
- Updating beneficiary or estate planning details
These changes usually need to be finalized before closing and may require additional documentation, but they are often flexible up to a certain point.
Financing Strategy
Even after signing a contract, buyers are not locked into a specific financing approach. Many buyers:
- Switch lenders
- Decide between cash and financing
- Adjust loan products closer to delivery
Most developers require proof of financial ability rather than finalized loan approval at contract signing. Financing is typically finalized closer to completion.
Unit Use Planning
In some cases, buyers may still decide how the unit will be used—primary residence, second home, or rental—after signing, as long as the use complies with building rules.
This is especially relevant in projects that allow both personal use and rentals. However, the rental rules themselves cannot be changed by the buyer.
What Buyers Usually Cannot Change
While some flexibility exists, many core elements are fixed once the contract is signed.
These typically include:
- Purchase price
- Unit size and layout
- Floor level and orientation
- Building amenities
- Rental restrictions and HOA rules
- Delivery timelines (which are estimates, not guarantees)
These terms are established in the contract and condo documents and are not negotiable after execution.
Why Understanding This Matters
Most buyer frustration comes from assuming flexibility where none exists—or from missing flexibility that does.
Knowing what can still change allows buyers to:
- Make confident decisions earlier
- Avoid last-minute surprises
- Plan finances and use strategies more effectively
This understanding is especially important in new construction, where timelines are longer and decisions unfold over time.
Signing a new construction contract does not freeze every detail, but it does set important boundaries.
Buyers who understand which decisions remain flexible—and which do not—tend to feel more comfortable throughout the build process and better prepared at closing.
Clarity at this stage reduces stress later.
Thinking about signing a new construction contract and want clarity on what’s still flexible?
Condos Global helps buyers understand the process, timelines, and decision points before and after contract execution—so expectations stay aligned.
FAQs
Can I change my floor plan after signing
No. Unit layout and square footage are fixed once the contract is signed.
Can I upgrade finishes later if I change my mind
Only if the developer’s deadlines allow it. Once selection periods close, changes are typically not permitted.
Can I change how I take title after signing
In most cases, yes, as long as changes are completed before closing and approved by the developer.
Can I change my lender before closing
Yes. Buyers often finalize financing closer to delivery rather than at contract signing.