New Construction

    Build the Home
    You've Imagined

    Sarasota County is one of the most active new construction markets in Florida. With the right guidance, you can secure an exceptional home with warranties, modern hurricane-rated construction, and builder incentives working in your favor.

    Talk to an AgentContact Dave

    30+

    Active new construction communities in Sarasota & Manatee

    10yr

    Standard structural warranty on new builds

    3-6%

    Typical builder closing cost contribution available

    $0

    Cost to you for buyer's agent representation in many cases

    Why New Construction

    The Advantages of Buying New

    Everything Brand New

    Modern floor plans, energy-efficient systems, new appliances, and fresh finishes throughout — including hurricane-rated impact windows and current Florida Building Code wind ratings.

    Builder Warranties

    Most builders in Florida provide a 1-year workmanship warranty, 2-year systems warranty, and 10-year structural warranty. This protection has real financial value, especially in a hurricane-rated build.

    Customization Options

    Depending on the build stage, you may choose your lot, floor plan, elevation, countertops, flooring, cabinetry, and more. Build the home that fits your life.

    Builder Incentives

    Builders frequently offer closing cost contributions, rate buydowns, appliance packages, or design center credits to move inventory. We know how to negotiate these.

    Competitive Financing

    Many builders have in-house or preferred lenders offering below-market rates, rate locks during construction, and specialized new construction loan products.

    Predictable Timeline

    Unlike resale, new construction gives you a clear timeline to plan your move, lease end, or sale of your current home without the uncertainty of competing offer situations.

    How It Works

    The New Construction Buying Process

    New construction has its own unique process, pitfalls, and opportunities. Here is exactly what to expect from community selection through closing.

    01.Identify the Right Community and Builder

    Sarasota and Manatee counties have dozens of active new construction communities from production builders like Lennar, KB Home, Pulte, and Taylor Morrison to semi-custom builders like Neal Communities, John Cannon Homes, and Stock Custom Homes. Each has different lot sizes, finishes, and price points. We help you cut through the noise and focus on communities that match your priorities.

    02.Register with Your Agent First

    This is critical. When you visit a builder's model home or sales office, always register with us as your buyer's agent present or already on file. Builders typically require agent registration on or before your first visit. If you walk in unregistered, you may lose the ability to have us represent you on the purchase.

    03.Review the Purchase Contract Carefully

    Builder contracts are written by the builder's attorneys to protect the builder. They are not balanced documents. We review every clause, identify one-sided provisions, and negotiate where possible. Key areas include deposit structure, change order limits, completion date flexibility, CDD assessments, and warranty terms.

    04.Design Center Selections

    Most production builders include a design center appointment where you choose your finishes within included and upgrade tiers. We help you understand which upgrades add resale value, which are overpriced relative to aftermarket options, and how to stay within budget while personalizing your home.

    05.Construction Milestones and Inspections

    We recommend scheduling an independent inspector at pre-drywall and again at final walkthrough. Builder inspectors work for the builder. An independent inspector works for you. This step catches issues that are far less expensive to fix before walls are closed and finishes are installed.

    06.Final Walkthrough and Punch List

    Before closing, you conduct a formal walkthrough with the builder's superintendent to document any incomplete or defective items. We attend this walkthrough with you, know what to look for, and ensure the punch list is comprehensive and completed before you close.

    07.Closing and First Year Warranty Service

    At closing, review all warranty documentation and understand the process for submitting warranty claims. Most builders have a 30-day and 11-month warranty service window. We advise you to schedule your 11-month inspection before the structural warranty expires.

    Where to Build

    Active New Construction Corridors

    From downtown luxury condos to the master-planned suburbs of Lakewood Ranch and Wellen Park, here is where the most active new construction activity is happening right now.

    Lakewood Ranch (34202 / 34211 / 34240)

    $450K to $2M+

    Neal Communities, Toll Brothers, Pulte, Taylor Morrison, Lennar

    The nation's top-selling multigenerational master-planned community, spanning Sarasota and Manatee counties. A-rated schools, extensive amenities, golf, and quick I-75 access to downtown Sarasota and SRQ airport.

    Wellen Park / West Villages (34293)

    $380K to $1.2M

    Mattamy Homes, Neal, Lennar, Pulte, Sam Rodgers Homes

    South Sarasota County master plan with Downtown Wellen, CoolToday Park (Atlanta Braves spring training), and a growing trail and lake system. Strong value relative to north-county pricing.

    North Port & Eastern Sarasota County

    $280K to $500K

    Lennar, DR Horton, Adams Homes, Maronda

    Sarasota County's most affordable entry point for new construction. Larger lots, newer infrastructure, and quick I-75 access. Popular with first-time buyers and investors.

    Palmer Ranch (34238)

    $600K to $1.5M+

    Toll Brothers, Neal Communities, Pulte

    Established South Sarasota master plan with Legacy Trail access, top schools, and quick proximity to Siesta Key. Lower density and premium finishes.

    Downtown Sarasota & Rosemary District

    $1.5M to $10M+

    The Kolter Group, KAST Construction (boutique mid-rise)

    Luxury condo new construction along Quay, Bayso, Epoch, and Rosewood Residences. Walkable urban living with bayfront views, valet, and concierge service.

    Common Questions

    New Construction FAQ

    Do I need a buyer's agent for new construction?

    Yes. The builder's sales agent represents the builder, not you. Having your own agent ensures someone is reviewing the contract, advocating for your interests, and protecting you through inspections and closing. Compensation is negotiated upfront in writing.

    Can I negotiate on a new construction home?

    Yes. While builders rarely reduce the base price significantly to protect neighborhood comparables, there is often significant room to negotiate on upgrades, closing costs, rate buydowns, and lot premiums. We know which builders are most flexible and when.

    How long does new construction take?

    Spec homes (already under construction) can close in 30 to 90 days. To-be-built homes typically take 7 to 14 months depending on the builder, supply chain conditions, hurricane season delays, and your selections. We help you plan your timeline around your current living situation.

    What is a spec home versus a to-be-built home?

    A spec home is one the builder started without a specific buyer, often already under construction or complete. You have less customization ability but can close much faster. A to-be-built home is designed and built specifically for you with full selections available.

    Should I use the builder's preferred lender?

    Not automatically. Builder preferred lenders sometimes offer genuine incentives tied to the purchase, but they are not always the most competitive. We recommend getting a quote from an independent lender to compare before committing.

    Start Building

    Ready to Explore New Construction?

    Let us introduce you to the best new construction communities in Sarasota County, negotiate builder incentives on your behalf, and protect your interests every step of the way.

    Schedule a Free Consultation