There's something exciting about buying a brand-new home. You're the first person to live there, everything feels fresh, and depending on when you purchase, you may even get to choose some of the finishes.

But there's one thing buyers sometimes discover after closing:

“New” doesn't always mean “everything is included.”

The advertised purchase price is only part of the equation. Before buying new construction in Southern Utah, here are five expenses you'll want to ask about.

1. Backyard Landscaping

That beautiful model home backyard isn't necessarily what comes with your home. Depending on the builder and community, front-yard landscaping may be included while the backyard is left unfinished.

Adding artificial turf, rock, plants, irrigation, concrete, walls, fencing, or a pool can quickly turn into a substantial post-closing project. Before signing, ask exactly what landscaping is included and what condition the backyard will be in at closing.

2. Window Coverings

Walk through a model home and every window is usually beautifully finished.

Walk into your newly completed home and you might find something very different.

Blinds, shutters, shades, and curtains aren't always included in new construction. With the amount of sunlight Southern Utah receives, window coverings can quickly move from a decorating decision to a necessity. Ask your builder what's included before assuming you'll have them on move-in day.

3. Appliances

The kitchen may have a range and dishwasher—but what about the refrigerator? And don't forget the washer and dryer.

Appliance packages vary considerably between builders and even between different communities from the same builder.

Rather than relying on what you see inside the model home, ask for a written list of exactly which appliances are included with your specific property.

4. Fencing, Gates and RV Access

Southern Utah buyers love their RVs, boats, trailers, and side-by-sides. But having space beside the house doesn't automatically mean you'll have finished RV parking.

A gate, concrete pad, fencing, additional flatwork, or even retaining walls may still need to be installed after closing. If RV parking is important to you, find out what's actually being delivered—not just what's physically possible on the lot.

5. Builder Upgrades Add Up Quickly

This is where a home that starts at one price can end up somewhere very different.

Cabinet upgrades. Flooring. Countertops. Lighting. Additional electrical. Larger doors. Fireplace options. Plumbing fixtures. Garage finishes.

Individually, each upgrade may seem manageable. Together, they can make a significant difference in the final cost of the home. Before falling in love with the model, ask which features are standard and which are upgrades.

Look at the Total Cost, Not Just the Base Price

New construction can be a fantastic option, especially when builders are offering incentives or you have the ability to select finishes. The key is understanding what you're actually buying.

Two homes with the same advertised price may have very different true costs once you account for landscaping, appliances, window coverings, upgrades, fencing, and other items you'll need after closing.

When comparing new construction with an existing home, look beyond the price on the listing. Sometimes the home that appears more expensive upfront is actually the better value once you compare what's included.

 

If you're considering new construction in Southern Utah, The Wright Team at KW Ascend can help you compare builders, communities, incentives, and resale properties so you can understand the bigger picture before making your decision.