El Paso New Construction Buyer Checklist: What To Review Before You Sign

A new home can offer a layout and finishes that fit your needs. Before choosing a builder or paying a deposit, look beyond the model home and advertised payment. Use this checklist to compare new construction homes in El Paso with the full cost, contract, and move-in plan in view.

1. Price The Home You Actually Want

Request an itemized price for the specific lot and floor plan. Confirm which model-home features are standard and which cost extra. Include lot premiums, structural options, design selections, landscaping, appliances, and window coverings in your budget.

Ask when selections become final, how change orders are priced, and when upgrade payments are due. Keep enough room in your budget for closing costs, moving expenses, and maintenance after move-in.

2. Compare Financing With The Incentive Included

If a builder offers closing-cost assistance or a rate incentive, get its conditions in writing. Ask whether it requires a particular lender, loan product, or closing date.

Compare the preferred lender's Loan Estimate with outside offers for the same loan type, amount, and term. Review the rate, points, lender fees, credits, cash to close, and total monthly payment. For a temporary payment reduction, ask for the payment after it ends. The CFPB's Loan Estimate comparison guide explains the main numbers to check.

3. Read The Contract Before Paying A Deposit

Review the actual agreement, plans, specifications, allowances, and all attachments. Identify deposit deadlines, refund conditions, financing provisions, and any cancellation rights. Ask a Texas real estate attorney about terms you do not understand before signing.

TREC publishes a contract for incomplete new construction, but do not assume every builder's agreement has the same protections. Confirm what your contract says about inspections, substitutions, changes, completion, and warranties.

4. Make A Realistic Move-In Plan

Ask for the estimated completion date and the contractual deadlines. Find out how delays are handled and when the builder will provide progress updates. Coordinate the schedule with your lender, especially the rate-lock expiration and any extension costs.

Before ending a lease or booking nonrefundable movers, allow for the possibility that closing will shift. Decide how you would handle temporary housing or storage if needed.

5. Arrange Your Own Inspection

Confirm access and notice requirements for your chosen inspector before signing. For a home still being built, discuss inspection stages with the inspector and builder early enough to schedule them.

Arrange an independent inspection before closing and review the written findings. TREC's inspection guidance explains why an abbreviated walkthrough may miss important information. Document agreed repairs and completion dates, then verify the work at the final walkthrough.

6. Check Warranty Coverage And Energy Claims

Read the warranty's covered components, exclusions, deadlines, and claim procedure. Save the documents and repair correspondence. New construction can still need repairs, and coverage is limited, as the FTC's new-home warranty guide explains.

Ask for insulation, window, and heating-and-cooling specifications, plus any independent energy rating or certification. Lower bills are not guaranteed: DOE's Home Energy Score guidance notes that occupant behavior affects bills even in an efficient home.

7. Check The Address And Ongoing Costs

For the exact El Paso-area property, verify the commute, utility service, HOA rules and dues, and any special assessments. Ask for property-tax estimates that reflect the completed home and obtain an insurance quote. Check whether advertised amenities are open, under construction, or only proposed.

Choose the home for your needs and a budget you can sustain. Future resale value is uncertain. Bring the written price, financing offers, contract, and warranty together before making your decision.

For help planning an El Paso move, contact Rene Armijo with your timing and the questions you want to discuss.

Sources checked October 12, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the appropriate service provider or professional.