Lee Wetherington Homes

Buyers typically register interest, get access to available homesites and plans, then sign a purchase contract and pay deposits on a schedule set in that contract. The home is built, and closing happens when it is complete. Read the contract's deposit, timeline and closing terms closely.

Florida's 15-day rescission period under FS 718.503 applies to new condominiums only. The homes listed for this builder are single-family, so that rule would not generally apply. Have a Florida real-estate attorney review the contract before you sign.

Buying pre-construction usually means paying a deposit in stages, which lets a buyer secure a home now and close later, once it is built. For single-family homes, the factors to weigh include how many comparable homes are for sale nearby, how quickly they sell, and the local rental demand for detached houses.

Before buying, compare the price per square foot across the four communities. Also check the HOA rules, including any limits on leasing. Confirm the carrying costs, and make sure the purchase works if values or rents don't move as you hope. Nothing here is a forecast or a promise of returns.

Plan for a deposit that is larger than a typical resale offer deposit, because it is often paid in installments during construction. Your lender will also need to approve financing close to completion, so keep your credit and income documents in good order.

Florida has first-time buyer assistance, generally offered through state and local housing programs. Eligibility, income limits and funding vary, so confirm the current terms with a lender. Registering early with a builder can give you earlier access to floor plans and homesites, which may be limited.