How long do new build homes built by D.R. Horton Homes take?
D.R. Horton homes usually take 5-7 months to build. DR Horton does not do custom builds as of 2026, only spec homes. Meaning the floorplan and finishouts are pre-determined by the builder already. So generally when shopping for a DR Horton homes, you should inquire about the completion date of a spec home you find.
Where can I find information on D.R. Horton Homes communities, floor plans, pricing, upgrades, and incentives?
D.R. Horton's website will have floorplans, communities they build in, and base pricing. Most Builders do not share the pricing of their upgrades to the public. Having an OnDemand Realtor is essentially to the building process to ensure you recieve the best deal.
Which option is more cost-effective: purchasing a new construction home that is move-in ready, buying a spec home from D.R. Horton Homes, or building a house from scratch?
Builders are typically driven to sell Spec homes, which are built according to their own choices. These homes present an opportunity for buyers to secure a good deal.
Can I get a discount from D.R. Horton Homes if I do not have a real estate agent representing me?
If buyers are not represented by a real estate agent, builders typically do not lower the price of the home or provide incentives.
Do builders like D.R. Horton Homes pay closing costs?
DR Horton consistently offers some of the most competitive interest rate incentives and closing cost assistance in the new construction market. Understanding their primary customer base is first-time homebuyers, DR Horton frequently provides attractive financing programs including interest rate buy-downs, full closing cost credits, and buyer-friendly incentive packages designed to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for those purchasing their first home.
What happens if after I’ve signed my contract with D.R. Horton Homes and my home is under construction and I want to change something?
DR Horton does not allow change orders since the Buyer is unable to select any of the finish-outs. These are pre-determined prior to construction and Buyer contract.
Whats the price per square foot when building with D.R. Horton Homes?
The cost of a home cannot be determined solely by the price per square foot, as it is influenced by numerous factors such as lot topography, home size (single or multiple levels), interior finishes, etc. However DR Horton is generally going to be one of the cheaper price per sq ft builders in North Texas.
Does D.R. Horton offer a warranty on their homes?
Yes, all major builders offer whats called a 1-2-10 warranty on their homes. The first year is "bumper-to-bumper", the first two years cover mechanical items such as HVAC, water heaters, electric, etc. And the 10 year warranty covers the foundation and structure of the house. Many appliances inside your new home also come with a manufacturer warranty
Is it harder to get a mortgage on a new construction home from D.R. Horton Homes? When do i make my first payment?
No, it is not more difficult. Actually, with DR Hortons in-house lender DHI Mortgage, its often easier because they are generally offering interest rate incentives or rate buy downs into the 2%-4% range! Also home insurance costs on a brand new home are generally up to 50% cheaper than an older home because of D.R. Hortons in-house insurance coming DHI insurance.
You do not make your first payment on a new construction home until 2 months after you close on the home. So if you decide to build from the ground up, you are not paying a mortgage payment, which is an often misconception.
Do new construction homes from D.R. Horton Homes come with appliances?
All builders will include Dishwasher, Microwave, and oven.
DR Horton can possible offer a "move-in ready package" that your Realtor can negotiate for you that includes blinds, fridge and washer/dryer.
How much should I expect to pay in property taxes for a D.R. Horton Homes home?
Rates of property taxes and property assessments are controlled by each county and vary significantly. Please ask your OnDemand Realtor what the approximate property taxes are for a specific subdivision.
Is the lot included in the sales price offered by D.R. Horton Homes?
Absolutely! When you purchase a new home, a standard homesite is included in the price. This means you will have a place to build your new home without any additional cost. However, if you prefer a larger homesite with beautiful trees, a view of the lake, or one located on a quiet cul-de-sac, these premium homesites may come with an additional fee. Premium lot fees can range significantly from $5,000-$75,000.
What can I expect at my first appointment with D.R. Horton Homes? Do I need a Realtor present?
At your first meeting the D.R. Horton Homes sales rep will go over neighborhood amenities, floor plans, pricing, upgrades, and answer any questions you may have. It is ideal that your OnDemand Realtor be present with you on your first visit to a Model home. Remember, the sales reps work for the Builder. Your Realtor works for you.
Does D.R. Horton Homes have HOA fees?
Most new home communities have HOA fees, which can vary from $20 to $150 per month depending on the amenities offered in the community.
Are D.R. Horton homes energy efficient?
D.R. Horton Homes builds green star compliant homes. According to the EPA, new homes are typically up to 30% more efficient than older homes, which translates into significant savings for you on monthly utility costs.
D.R. Horton Home Buying Process Step-by-Step
Buying a new construction home is exciting, but the process is very different from buying a resale. At OnDemand Realty, we walk buyers through D.R. Horton homes in Cedar Hill, Texas every year, and the key is knowing what to expect before you ever step into a model home. Below is a straightforward, real-world breakdown of how the process works—from your first showing to move-in day.
Step 1: Explore D.R. Horton Communities in Cedar Hill
Start by researching available homes in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Look at current neighborhoods, floor plans, pricing, and community amenities online, then visit model homes in person. D.R. Horton Communities allow you to see layouts, finishes, and lot options firsthand. We always recommend narrowing your choices down to a short list of floor plans and lots that fit both your lifestyle and long-term budget.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved Before You Tour Seriously
Before making any decisions, get fully pre-approved for a mortgage. This clarifies your true price range and strengthens your position when it’s time to write a contract. D.R. Horton often promotes incentives through preferred lenders such as DHI Mortgage, including $10,000 in closing cost credits or interest rate buydowns into the 2.99-4.99% range. At OnDemand Realty, we help you compare those offers against outside lenders to make sure the “incentive” actually makes financial sense long term.
Step 3: Have Your Own Representation from Day One
Builder sales reps work for the builder—not the buyer. Having your own Realtor ensures your interests are protected, contract terms are explained clearly, inspections are coordinated properly, and builder incentives are fully negotiated. This is especially important with new construction contracts, which are very different from standard Texas resale contracts. Remember, the sales rep for the Builder works for the Builder, not you.
Step 4: Tour, Compare, and Select Your Home
Once you visit the community, you’ll meet the builder’s onsite sales agent, tour model homes, review standard features, and compare available inventory. At this stage, you’ll decide whether you want a move-in-ready spec home or a home that will be built from the ground up. We help buyers evaluate timelines, pricing differences, and resale value considerations before committing.
Step 5: Sign the Purchase Agreement
After selecting a lot and floor plan, you’ll sign the builder’s purchase contract and submit earnest money. This contract outlines pricing, construction timelines, upgrade allowances, and builder responsibilities. Your OnDemand Realtor will review these contracts carefully with our clients so there are no surprises and everything we discussed verbally is in the contract itself.
Step 6: Design Selections (If Building from Scratch)
D.R. Horton does not have a design center, they utilize 3-5 color packages and Buyers can determine the color package they would like to select for the interior of the home.
Step 7: Construction Phase and Progress Walks
Construction typically takes several months, often around five to seven depending on the community and market conditions. Some builders allow pre-drywall or progress walk-throughs. Even when they don’t, we stay engaged throughout the build and help coordinate third-party inspections when appropriate.
Step 8: Final Walk-Through
Before closing, you’ll complete a final walk-through of the finished home. This is your chance to document any incomplete items or minor issues that need correction prior to closing. We help buyers create a clear punch list and ensure it’s acknowledged by the builder.
Step 9: Closing Day
On closing day, you’ll sign loan and title documents, finalize your down payment and closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home. Closings are typically held at a local title company. We stay involved through closing to make sure timelines, incentives, and credits match what was promised in the contract.
Step 10: Warranty and Life After Move-In
D.R. Horton includes a builder warranty covering workmanship and structural components for specific timeframes. We make sure buyers understand how to submit warranty claims and what is covered after move-in, which is often overlooked during the excitement of closing.
Important Tips from OnDemand Realty
- Builder incentives change frequently, so always ask about current promotions and confirm the fine print.
- Even with brand-new homes, a professional inspection is strongly recommended.
- In Texas, new construction property taxes can be higher than early estimates once the home is fully assessed, so planning ahead is critical.
If you’re considering a D.R. Horton home in Cedar Hill, working with an experienced local team can save you money, protect you contractually, and reduce stress throughout the process. At OnDemand Realty, we represent buyers through every step—at no additional cost to you—while making sure the builder experience works in your favor, not just theirs.
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