The New-Build Hidden-Cost Checklist

The base price is the start, not the total. Here's where the rest hides — and the question to ask on each line.

Lot premium

Added for size, location, or view. Ask: what's the premium on this lot, and is it negotiable?

Design-center upgrades

Where the price climbs fastest. Ask: which are marked up most, and what can I do after closing instead?

MUD / PID & special-district taxes

Vary by address and raise your monthly. Ask: which district is this lot in and what's the effective rate?

HOA dues + transfer fee

A recurring cost plus a one-time fee at closing. Ask: what are the annual dues and the transfer/capitalization fee?

Fencing, landscaping, blinds

Often not included. Ask: which of these convey and which are on me?

Appliances

Fridge, washer, and dryer are frequently excluded. Ask: exactly which appliances are included?

Independent inspections

Worth doing at pre-drywall, final, and around month 11. Ask: can I schedule my own inspector at each stage?

Closing costs

Title, escrow, prepaids, district fees. Ask: for an itemized estimate, not a lump number.

Rate buydown

A financing question, not a builder promise and not something I provide. Ask your lender and the builder: what would a buydown cost and how long does it last?

Want the all-in number for a specific home?

Send me the community and floor plan and I'll help you build the true, no-surprises number for that exact address — before you're emotionally committed.

Book a 15-minute call →

or visit bookacall.everkinrealtygroup.com

I've lived in 7 states across 20+ homes — as a renter, an owner, and an investor. I model the all-in cost before falling in love, every time.

VJ Muthuraman · Everkin Realty Group · Brokered by eXp Realty · 214-727-6680 · vj@everkinrealtygroup.com · TX Lic 835180

Everkin Realty Group · 5605 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX 75038 · A private resource shared with VJ Muthuraman's clients.