Can you negotiate the price on new construction? If you think buying a brand-new home means paying the full sticker price, think again. While new construction homes may seem set in stone, savvy buyers in Fort Lauderdale are discovering ways to save big without sacrificing style or quality.
Want luxury, location, and leverage? This guide reveals the insider strategies for negotiating your dream new build at a price that works for you.
1. Can You Negotiate the Price on New Construction?
The short answer: Yes, But It’s not always about price.
Builders don’t typically advertise that their prices are flexible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate. Unlike resale homes, where private sellers may be more emotional or reactive to offers, builders have structured goals and financial models. They’re less likely to slash the base price outright, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
In Fort Lauderdale’s competitive real estate landscape, where demand for quality housing continues to climb, new developments still offer opportunities, especially when a builder wants to close out a phase, reduce standing inventory, or hit quarterly targets. Builders are also sensitive to appraisals, which can affect financing, so rather than lowering the base price, they may offer:
- Complimentary design upgrades
- Contribution toward closing costs
- Better financing through affiliated lenders
- Flexible closing or move-in timelines
How the Market Affects Builder Flexibility
- Buyers’ Market: Builders may offer generous incentives when inventory is high and demand is moderate.
- Sellers’ Market: In a hot market like Fort Lauderdale, especially near waterfronts or luxury zones, negotiation opportunities may exist, but you’ll need a strategic approach.
2. What You Can and Can’t Negotiate in New Builds
What’s Usually Negotiable
Understanding what you can negotiate is key to maximizing your value:
- Upgrades and Finishes: These can significantly boost the home’s appeal and future resale value. Builders may offer granite countertops, upgraded cabinetry, tile flooring, or appliance packages.
- Closing Costs: Many builders offer closing cost assistance if you use their in-house lending team, which can save you thousands at the time of purchase.
- Lot Premiums: A lot with a water view or corner location might carry a premium, but builders sometimes reduce or waive this to close a deal.
- Design Center Credits: Instead of reducing the sale price, a builder might offer a credit at their design studio, allowing you to customize finishes to your taste.
What’s Rarely Negotiable
Some items are virtually set in stone:
- Base Price (in High-Demand Areas): Builders must maintain price integrity for appraisals and community consistency.
- Structural Options: Items such as floor plan changes, room additions, or layout shifts are often locked in early in the building process.
- HOA Fees or Development Assessments: These are typically regulated by the developer or city and are not subject to change.
Understanding what’s fair game ensures you negotiate smart, not just hard.
3. Tips for Negotiating a New Construction Home in Fort Lauderdale
If you want to walk away with the best possible deal, here are practical, proven strategies:
Do Your Market Research
Before you even step foot in a model home or speak with a builder’s sales rep, you must do your homework. Fort Lauderdale has a diverse real estate market, with each neighborhood and development offering different pricing structures, upgrade options, and incentives. Start by comparing recently sold homes in the area, paying close attention to price per square foot, included features, and community amenities.
Look at several builders to understand their reputations, the quality of their craftsmanship, and how their prices compare. Also, investigate how long homes have been on the market. If inventory is sitting unsold, that’s a sign that builders may be open to negotiations.
Hire a Realtor Who Specializes in New Builds
Many buyers assume they don’t need a real estate agent when buying directly from a builder, but this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Builders’ sales representatives work for the builder, not you. Hiring a licensed Realtor specializing in new construction ensures your interests are protected.
A knowledgeable agent will understand how different builders operate, what typical incentives are being offered, and where there’s room to negotiate. They can help you compare floor plans, evaluate lot premiums, and review contracts line by line.
Best of all, using a buyer’s agent costs you nothing; builders pay the commission. In a competitive market like Fort Lauderdale, where communities like Marina Landings are in high demand, having a Realtor by your side can be the difference between overpaying and walking away with a great deal.
Get Pre-Approved First
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is essential before you start touring model homes or submitting offers. A pre-approval tells you how much house you can afford and shows the builder that you’re a serious and qualified buyer. This is a powerful negotiating tool because it positions you as someone financially ready to close the deal. Builders are more inclined to offer concessions or flexible terms to buyers already cleared for financing.
Knowing your borrowing limit also helps prevent you from falling in love with a home out of your budget. Using the builder’s preferred lender can sometimes unlock special deals, such as lower interest rates or closing cost assistance. However, don’t skip comparing offers from independent lenders to ensure you’re getting the best terms.
Ask for Incentives, Not Just Discounts
Regarding new construction, price reductions on the base price are rare, especially in sought-after areas like Fort Lauderdale. However, builders often have more flexibility with incentives that add real value. Instead of focusing solely on lowering the price, consider asking for upgrades, closing cost assistance, or design center credits. These extras can easily total thousands of dollars and enhance your living experience and the home’s resale value.
For example, you might negotiate for premium flooring, upgraded kitchen appliances, smart home features, or outdoor landscaping packages. These are often easier for builders to provide than cash discounts and can dramatically increase the overall value of your home. Being creative and strategic with what you ask for allows you to walk away with a far better deal than the sticker price might suggest.
4. Why Marina Landings is Your Smartest Move in Fort Lauderdale
Live Where Others Vacation
Marina Landings isn’t just another new construction project; it’s a community crafted for elevated coastal living. Situated in one of Fort Lauderdale’s most desirable areas, it blends modern architecture, smart-home features, and access to water, dining, and nightlife.
- Spacious floor plans with upscale finishes
- Resort-style amenities, including pool, fitness center, and clubhouse
- Prime waterfront and city access, perfect for professionals, families, and retirees
- Innovative investment potential, thanks to Fort Lauderdale’s growing real estate value
Whether you’re looking for a forever home or a strong ROI, Marina Landings delivers.
FAQs
1. Can I bring my real estate agent to purchase a new build?
Yes, and you should. Your agent protects your interests, handles negotiation, and ensures you’re not overpaying or missing builder incentives.
2. Do builders offer better deals at certain times of the year?
Yes. Builders often sweeten deals at the end of the quarter or year to meet sales goals. You might also find incentives during slower months (e.g., late summer).
3. Can I make an offer below the price of a new build?
You can, but you’re more likely to get value through incentives than a lower base price. Builders prefer keeping sale prices consistent for appraisals.
4. Should I still get a home inspection on new construction?
Absolutely. Even brand-new homes can have defects or construction oversights. Hire an independent inspector to catch issues early.
5. Will I pay more for a newly built home in Fort Lauderdale than a resale?
Not always. While the price per square foot may be higher, new builds offer lower maintenance, energy efficiency, and warranties, saving you money in the long term.
Conclusion
Buying a new construction home in Fort Lauderdale is a significant investment, but it doesn’t mean you must accept everything at face value. From timing your purchase to negotiating key incentives, you have more power than you think. Don’t leave money on the table. Partner with the right experts, know what to ask for, and explore communities that offer the best luxury, value, and location blend.
Marina Landings in Fort Lauderdale offers everything today’s savvy buyer wants, plus more room to negotiate than you might expect.
