Orlando, famously known as the “City Beautiful,” offers more than just stunning theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios. It’s also an enticing place to build your dream home. If you’re looking for new construction homes in Orlando, you might be wondering about the costs involved and the process to follow. This article will answer all your queries and help you navigate your home-building journey seamlessly.

Is Building a New Home Cheaper than Buying an Existing House in Orlando?

The answer depends on several factors. While existing homes in Orlando offer the convenience of a move-in ready property, they may also come with hidden maintenance costs and may not entirely meet your specific needs. On the other hand, a new home built to your specifications ensures that every square foot of your house is exactly how you envision it, although it might require a larger initial investment.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Custom Home in Orlando?

Building a custom home in Orlando can vary depending on the location, size, and design of the house. As of now, you might spend around $180 per square foot for new construction. However, this is a rough estimate. Let’s break down the major costs involved:

Land: The cost of land varies considerably based on location, and Orlando is no different. Whether you choose a homesite in downtown Orlando or the peaceful Clermont, the cost will differ.

Site Work: This includes preparing the land for construction. Costs involve home design, plans, permits, and impact fees.

Foundation: The foundation costs depend on the type of foundation you choose. A slab is typically less expensive than a crawl space or basement.

Framing: Framing is one of the significant costs in home construction. It involves the cost of labor and materials.

Exterior Finishes: This includes the roof, exterior walls, windows, and doors. The cost again depends on the materials chosen.

Major Systems: Installing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems form a substantial part of your home building cost.

Understanding the Soft Costs in Your New Construction

Apart from the construction costs, there are soft costs. These include architectural design, engineering, permit costs, and loan fees. These costs are vital to factor into your overall project budget when planning your dream home in Orlando.

What is a Floor Plan and How Can I Find the Perfect One for My Dream Home?

A floor plan is a scaled diagram of a room or building viewed from above . It typically shows the arrangement of rooms, spaces, and other physical features such as walls, doors, windows, stairs, and fixed installations like bathroom fixtures, kitchen cabinetry, and appliances.

Floor plans are used by architects, interior designers, real estate agents, and builders to help design, plan, construct, or sell a building or space. They can also be used for navigating through a building, creating emergency evacuation plans, or organizing furniture and equipment within a space. 

Your floor plan will determine the layout of your home, including the location and size of rooms, windows, and more. When building a custom home in Orlando, you’ll work closely with your builder’s design team to select or create a floor plan that meets your specific needs and preferences.

How to Start Planning to Build Your Home in Orlando, FL

Your home building journey begins with a dream but requires meticulous planning to make it a reality. Here are the steps:

1. Define your budget: Factor in all possible costs including land, construction, interior furnishings, landscaping, and a buffer for unexpected costs.
   
2. Choose the right builder: Orlando is home to several high-quality home builders. Choose one that aligns with your budget, style, and expectations.
   
3. Find the perfect homesite: Consider factors like proximity to amenities, school districts, and commute times.
   
4. Select a floor plan: Choose a floor plan that suits your lifestyle and can adapt to your changing needs.
   
5. Personalize your home: Select your finishes, from the kitchen layout and appliances to the bathroom fixtures and flooring.
   

The Process of Building a New Home in Orlando Area

Building a new home in Orlando, FL, involves several steps, starting with site preparation and ending with the finishing touches.

1. Site Preparation: First, the lot must be cleared of trees and rocks. The land is then leveled and the foundation trench is dug.
   
2. Foundation Construction: The footings are installed, followed by the foundation. Afterward, the foundation is inspected.
   
3. Framing: The house begins to take shape as the walls, roof trusses, and sheathing are installed.
   
4. Installation of Major Systems: Electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems are installed. Insulation is also added.
   
5. Interior and Exterior Finishing: Drywall is hung and painted. Siding and roofing are completed. Inside, flooring is installed, along with cabinets and fixtures.
   
6. Final Steps: Final touches such as landscaping and cleaning are carried out, followed by a final walkthrough with your builder.
   

Additional Home Building Costs to Consider in Orlando

Building a new home also involves other costs, such as:

• Utility Connections: There might be costs involved in connecting utilities like electricity, water, and internet to your new home.
  
• Landscaping: The costs of adding plants, trees, and perhaps a lawn or a patio can add up.
  
• Interior Finishes and Furnishings: Costs for lighting fixtures, appliances, furniture, etc., should also be considered.
  
• Closing Costs: Be prepared for costs related to closing the loan, such as attorney fees, title insurance, and appraisal and filing fees.
  

Are You Ready to Get Started Building Your New Home in Orlando?

Building your dream home in Orlando can be a thrilling adventure. With its booming real estate, diverse communities, and proximity to world-class entertainment, there’s no better time to build in Orlando. Remember, every journey begins with a first step, and in this case, it could be speaking with a professional who can guide you through the process. So, if you’re ready to get started on your home-building journey, contact an expert to discuss your options.

Key Takeaways

• Building a new home in Orlando could provide significant equity advantages over buying a pre-existing home.
• Costs to consider include land, construction, soft costs, and additional costs such as landscaping and utilities.
• The process of building a home involves several key stages from planning to completion.
• Working with a reliable home builder in Orlando can ensure that your home-building process is smooth and enjoyable.
• Plan carefully, and don’t forget to account for potential unexpected costs in your budget.

Orlando, FL, is a beautiful city to call home, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about living in a house that’s been tailored to your preferences. So why wait? Start your home-building journey today. Your dream home in Orlando is waiting for you!