By Anthony Spitaleri, Miami Realtor | Living in Miami
In Davie, Florida, new construction homes are turning heads, and for good reason. Buyers relocating from places like New York, California, and even abroad are increasingly drawn to the clean design, generous lot sizes, and the promise of a home that’s entirely their own.
But while new construction can offer convenience and customization, it also requires an informed approach. I’ve worked with buyers spending anywhere from $1.5 to $4 million on brand-new estates in Davie, and even the most experienced investors are surprised by what they didn’t expect.
If you’re considering a new build in one of Davie’s gated communities like Stonebrook Estates, Mystique Estates, or Grove Creek Ranches, here are a few critical things you need to watch out for.
1. Builder Reputation Is Everything
One of the biggest variables in new construction is the builder themselves. Some operate with a deep understanding of South Florida buyers and deliver high-end finishes, strong communication, and long-term quality. Others may cut corners behind the walls while keeping the surfaces looking sleek.
Before moving forward, research the builder’s past projects. Ask for references or, if possible, walk a completed home. You’re not just buying the design, you’re buying the construction integrity, warranty support, and responsiveness that come with it.
2. “Move-In Ready” Rarely Means What You Think
It’s easy to fall in love with a model home, but be cautious about assumptions. The model is often packed with upgrades such as flooring, lighting, cabinetry, and even landscaping that aren’t included in the base price.
In Davie, where buyers expect outdoor kitchens, wine rooms, or custom closets, the upgrade list can easily add hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s essential to clarify what’s standard and what’s extra and get all upgrade costs in writing before you sign anything.
3. Warranties Have Limits
Many assume that a brand-new home means no problems for years. But in reality, warranties vary widely. Structural coverage might last 10 years, while cosmetic or appliance coverage could expire in 12 months or less.
And not everything is covered. Pools, fences, smart systems, and landscaping are often outside the scope. I always recommend reading the full warranty line-by-line and asking your agent or attorney to review anything unclear.
4. Construction Timelines Are Not Set in Stone
Buyers relocating on a deadline often hear a builder’s estimate of “six to eight months” and build their entire move around it. In practice, delays happen.
Permits, supply chain issues, weather (especially during hurricane season), and labor shortages can all affect your timeline. That’s why I encourage buyers to have flexible short-term housing, and to avoid locking in interest rates or school enrollment dates until you’ve seen real progress.
5. Yes, You Still Need an Inspection
This might be the most overlooked step in new construction. Just because the home is new doesn’t mean it’s flawless. I’ve seen everything from incorrectly wired panels to drainage problems in the landscaping, all discovered through private inspections.
Hire an inspector who specializes in new construction. Some buyers also opt for a pre-drywall inspection to catch hidden issues before walls are sealed.
6. Customization Should Be in Writing, Always
Many builders offer semi-customization, think cabinetry, flooring, room layout changes. But too often, buyers assume verbal agreements will be honored later in the build. They won’t.
If you want a specific fridge enclosure, built-in shelving, or a larger pool deck, make sure it’s documented in the contract. That includes finishes, brands, renderings, and installation timelines.
The Bottom Line
New construction in Davie offers something rare: the ability to design a luxury home that matches your lifestyle on land, within a gated community, and still close to beaches and airports.
But this isn’t a process to approach casually. The best outcomes happen when buyers bring strategy to the table: they hire the right professionals, ask the right questions, and make every decision with long-term value in mind.
Whether you’re exploring boutique developments or gated estate communities, I’ll help you navigate the build process, vet the right properties, and protect your investment from day one.
Interested in new construction in Davie?
Book a new construction strategy session by clicking here or the link below:
https://calendly.com/anthonyspitaleri/livinginmiamisurvey
