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Buyers typically register interest first, which can give early access to availability and pricing. After choosing a unit, you sign a purchase contract and pay deposits on the schedule it sets. Construction follows, and closing happens when the building is complete and the unit is ready to transfer.

In Florida, buyers of new condos have a 15-day rescission period under FS 718.503. This applies to condos only. Have a real estate attorney review the contract and the developer's disclosure documents within that window.

Pre-construction condos usually let a buyer secure a unit with a deposit paid in stages, then close when the building is complete. That means capital is committed over time, but the buyer also carries the risk that timelines, market conditions and financing change before closing.

If you are considering these projects as an investment, look at how many comparable units are being released in West Palm Beach, how quickly similar buildings have sold, and what rents for comparable condos look like. Also review the HOA and maintenance fees, carrying costs, and the contract terms on assignment and closing. No outcome, appreciation or return is guaranteed.

First-time buyers should expect to pay a meaningful deposit on a pre-construction condo, usually split into several payments. The amounts and schedule are set in each project's purchase contract, so confirm them before you commit. Ask a lender early what you will qualify for at closing, since that happens later than signing.

Florida has down payment assistance programs, and eligibility depends on income, price limits and the lender. Confirm current details with a Florida-approved lender. Registering early with a project can give you earlier access to floor plans and pricing, before wider release.