About Benchmark Builders

The duration of building a new home varies from builder to builder. However, on average the amount of time it takes to build a new home with a new home builder in the U.S. is approximately 6 to 12 months on average. We typically take 6 months to build a home at Benchmark, depending upon the season, how busy we are, and other variables.

A quick move-in home is built by a builder before a buyer purchases it. These homes are often move-in ready or near completion. This gives the buyer the opportunity to fully tour their new home prior to purchasing and speeds up new home living. These homes are ideal for buyers who want a quicker move-in timeline brand-new home without compromising on quality or convenience.

A semi-custom home bridges the gap between production and fully custom homes. Buyers start with a base floor plan and can often modify structural elements such as room layouts, additional bedrooms, or expanded living spaces. Semi-custom builds provide more flexibility than production homes while maintaining a streamlined building process. Benchmark Builders is a semi-custom builder.

No. A construction loan is not required. A mortgage pre-approval is needed to at contract and your home is financed with a traditional mortgage at closing. Builder-approved lenders often simplify financing. We are happy to help you obtain a pre-approval.

A design center is where buyers select finishes, fixtures, colors, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, and other personalization options for their new home. This process allows new homeowners to personalize their home while staying within budget.

Yes, new construction homes are typically more energy efficient than older resale homes. Modern homes are built with updated building codes and advanced materials, including high- performance insulation, energy-efficient HVAC systems, low-E windows, smart thermostats, and energy-rated appliances. This can lead to lower utility bills and improved indoor comfort.

Negotiation flexibility depends on market conditions and inventory levels. New construction home pricing is typically set and doesn’t fluctuate like resale homes. Instead of negotiating price, builders may occasionally offer incentives or promotions depending on market conditions and available inventory.

Upgrades that typically provide strong returns on investment include kitchen enhancements (quartz countertops, upgraded cabinetry), hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring, energy-efficient features, and finished basements or bonus rooms. You’ll also find enhanced curb appeal and exterior upgrades, as well as functional and energy-efficient improvements tend to hold long-term value.

You are not required to use a real estate agent when purchasing directly from a builder.

Quick move-in homes are completed or nearly completed homes available for quick closing, whereas to-be-built homes begin construction after the buyer signs a contract and selects options. Quick move-in homes offer faster occupancy, while to-be-built homes allow for personalization.

We typically request 10% on a new build. Quick move-in homes may be lower.

The final walkthrough allows buyers to inspect the completed home before closing. During this visit, buyers test appliances and systems, check finishes and fixtures, and create a “punch list” of minor corrections.

Closing costs for new construction homes are similar to resale homes and typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. Some builders may include additional administrative or lender- related fees, but incentives may offset these costs.

Minor design selections may be possible early in construction. However, structural changes are usually restricted once framing begins. Builders establish selection deadlines to keep construction on schedule.

The base price typically includes:
• The standard floor plan
• Designer-selected standard finishes
• Initial landscaping (varies by community)
• All required code and safety features
Upgrades, lot premiums, and structural customizations may be available at an additional cost.

The answer depends on the local housing market. While new construction homes may sometimes have a higher upfront price, they often include things like lower maintenance costs, energy savings, modern layouts, and builder warranties. Existing homes may sometimes have lower purchase prices but higher renovation or repair costs.

New homes must pass multiple municipal inspections throughout construction, including foundation, framing, insulation, electrical, plumbing, and final occupancy inspections.

A lot premium is an additional cost for a homesite with desirable features, such as:
● Corner lots
● Cul-de-sac locations
● Water or wooded views
● Larger yard space
● Homes backing to open space
- Walkout conditions
Premiums vary based on location and demand.

Buying a new construction home offers a level of peace of mind that’s hard to match with resale properties. With everything brand new, you can avoid unexpected repairs, benefit from modern building standards, and enjoy warranty protection—so you can focus on living in your home, not fixing it.