New Construction Timeline

  • Touring + Planning (Week 1–4)

    Tour model homes / communities (and get properly registered with your Realtor).

    Decide: production builder vs. custom, and move-in ready vs. to-be-built.

    Confirm your budget range and monthly comfort zone.

    If you’ll need financing, start the pre-approval conversation early.

  • Lot + Floorplan + Builder Fit (Week 2–6)

    Choose the neighborhood/community and narrow to a few floorplans.

    Review lot options, lot premiums, and any HOA/association details.

    Compare what’s included as “standard” across builders (this varies a lot).

  • Offer / Purchase Agreement (Week 3–8)

    Write the purchase agreement and review key items:

    Upgrade allowances and pricing structure

    Build timeline estimates

    Warranty information

    What happens if there are delays or changes *

    Confirm how you’ll handle inspections

  • Design Selections + Structural Options (Month 1–3)

    Make structural decisions (layout changes, extra windows, bump-outs, finished basement rough-ins, etc.).

    Attend the design studio appointment(s): cabinets, flooring, counters, lighting, tile, hardware.

  • Construction Phase (Month 2–10+)

    Permitting/site prep

    Foundation

    Framing

    Mechanicals (HVAC/electrical/plumbing)

    Insulation + drywall

    Interior finishes

    Exterior/landscaping (season-dependent)

  • Inspections + Walk-Throughs (Final 2–6 weeks)

    Optional but recommended: a third-party inspection (often best before drywall + again near completion).

    Builder orientation / “blue tape” walk-through.

    Confirm punch-list items and re-check any agreed repairs.

  • Closing + Move-In (Final week)

    Final walk-through.

    Closing appointment (loan docs + final numbers).

    Get keys, warranty docs, and service request process for the first year.

Parade of Homes - Twin Cities

The Twin Cities Parade of Homes is one of the best ways to experience new construction in real life — not just online. It’s a large, public home tour hosted by Housing First Minnesota, with hundreds of new homes open across the metro so you can compare neighborhoods, builders, floor plans, and finishes in one season.

If you’re even thinking about building (or buying a move-in-ready new construction home), the Parade is a smart first step. You’ll quickly learn what styles you love, what features you don’t care about, and what “standard” looks like from builder to builder. It’s also a great way to get a feel for different price points — because two homes can look similar online but feel totally different in person.

2026 dates & hours (Twin Cities):

Spring Parade of Homes: March 13–April 12, 2026

Fall Parade of Homes: September 11–October 4, 2026

Typically open Fridays–Sundays, 12–6 PM

Important: If you plan to buy new construction, many builders require your Realtor to be listed/registered on your first visit. If you want me to represent you, reach out before you tour so you’re protected from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick tip: Many builders require you to register your Realtor on your first visit (or before you tour). If you’re planning to check out model homes, text/call me first so we make sure you’re protected from day one.

  • A builder’s on-site agent represents the builder — not you. Having your own Realtor means you have someone protecting your interests from the first tour: comparing builders, explaining what’s actually included, and helping you avoid surprises that don’t show up until you’re already committed.

  • Yes. New construction isn’t just the base price. Lot premiums, structural options, design studio selections, and upgrade packages can add up fast. I help you understand the true all-in cost, prioritize upgrades that hold value, and keep your budget on track.

  • Yes. New construction contracts and deadlines are different from resale. Builders often use their own contracts, their own timelines, and preferred vendors. I help you understand the key terms, stay on top of due dates, and keep communication organized as the build progresses.

  • In most cases, yes. “New” doesn’t always mean flawless. A Realtor can help you plan the right inspection points (like pre-drywall and final), coordinate access and timing, and make sure concerns are documented clearly before closing.

  • Before — or on — your first visit. Many builders require you to register your Realtor the first time you tour (sometimes before you even walk in). If you tour without representation, you may lose the option to have your own agent involved later. Text me before you go so we do it correctly from day one.