How long do new build homes built by Meritage Homes take?
The construction timeline for new build homes can vary depending on various factors, including the size and complexity of the home, the location, and any customization options selected by the buyer. On average, Meritage Homes typically takes between 6-9 months to construct a new build home. However, it is important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual timeline may vary.
Where can I find information on Meritage Homes communities, floor plans, pricing, upgrades, and incentives?
Meritage'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 Meritage 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 Meritage 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 Meritage Homes pay closing costs?
Incentives vary from builder to builder, but yes, Meritage generally has year-round incentives for closing costs and interest rate buydowns. Keep in mind you may have to use their preferred Lenders & Title companies to recieve these incentives.
What happens if after I’ve signed my contract with Meritage Homes and my home is under construction and I want to change something?
If you change your mind about a feature, finish, or aspect of the layout after signing the contract with Meritage Homes and your home is already under construction, it may be possible to make certain modifications using whats called a 'change order'. A fee may apply to a change order, its important that you discuss with your OnDemand Realtor about these fees the builder may charge.
Whats the price per square foot when building with Meritage 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, features, CC&R requirements, and permit and impact fees. Any builder will provide an approximate cost estimate after understanding your specific requirements.
Does Meritage 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 Meritage Homes? When do i make my first payment?
No, it is not more difficult. Actually, with their incentives most builders offer it could potentially be easier! Also home insurance costs on a brand new home are generally up to 50% cheaper than an older home.
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 Meritage Homes come with appliances?
All builders will include Dishwasher, Microwave, and oven. Refrigerator, Washer, and Dryer are often not included but can be negotiated.
How much should I expect to pay in property taxes for a Meritage 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 Meritage 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 Meritage Homes? Do I need a Realtor present?
At your first meeting the Meritage 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 Meritage 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 Meritage homes energy efficient?
Meritage 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.
Buying A Meritage Home: Step-By-Step
Buying a new construction home with Meritage Homes is an exciting opportunity, but builder contracts, timelines, and incentives work very differently than resale transactions. At OnDemand Realty, we regularly help buyers purchase Meritage Homes across the Dallas–Fort Worth area, and the key to a smooth experience is understanding the process before stepping into a model home. Below is a clear, step-by-step overview of how buying a Meritage home works from first tour to move-in day.
Step 1: Explore Meritage Homes Communities Across Dallas–Fort Worth
Start by browsing available Meritage Homes communities throughout Dallas–Fort Worth. Meritage builds in a wide range of cities including Denton, Corinth, Saginaw, Princeton, McKinney, Fate, Royse City, DeSoto, and Crowley. Review floor plans, pricing, energy-efficient features, and community amenities online, then visit model homes in person to compare layouts, lot sizes, and neighborhood feel. We recommend narrowing your search to a short list of communities that fit both your lifestyle and long-term goals.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved Before You Fall in Love
Before selecting a home or lot, it’s important to get fully pre-approved for a mortgage. This gives you a clear budget range and positions you as a serious buyer. Meritage Homes often offers incentives through their in-house lender that offers great incentives such as 4.99% interest rates and up to $30,000 in either closing cost credit or reduction of sales price. At OnDemand Realty, we help you evaluate those offers against outside lenders so you can choose the option that truly makes the most financial sense.
Step 3: Bring Your Own Realtor From the Start
Meritage’s onsite sales representatives work for the builder, not the buyer. Having your own Realtor ensures your interests are represented, contracts are clearly explained, inspections are handled properly, and builder incentives are fully negotiated. Builder contracts are not standard Texas resale contracts, so experienced representation matters.
Step 4: Tour Communities and Select Your Home
When you tour a Meritage community, you’ll review model homes, standard features, and available inventory. At this stage, you’ll decide whether a move-in-ready spec home fits your needs or if you want to build from the ground up. We help buyers compare timelines, pricing differences, and resale considerations before making a commitment.
Step 5: Sign the Meritage Purchase Agreement
Once you select a floor plan and lot, you’ll sign Meritage’s purchase agreement and submit earnest money. This contract outlines pricing, construction timelines, upgrade options, financing requirements, and builder responsibilities. We review these agreements in detail to help buyers avoid unexpected deadlines, deposits, or restrictions.
Step 6: Design Options and Selections
Meritage Homes 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 Timeline and Inspections
New construction timelines typically range from several months depending on the community and build stage. Even with energy-efficient new homes, we strongly recommend third-party inspections during construction and before closing to ensure quality and peace of mind.
Step 8: Final Walk-Through
Before closing, you’ll complete a final walk-through to confirm the home is complete and identify any items that need correction. We help buyers create a clear punch list and ensure those items are documented with the builder prior to closing.
Step 9: Closing Day
On closing day, you’ll sign loan and title documents, finalize down payment and closing costs, and receive the keys to your new Meritage home. Closings typically take place at a local title company. We remain involved through closing to confirm all agreed-upon incentives and contract terms are honored.
Step 10: Warranty and Life After Move-In
Meritage Homes provides a builder warranty covering workmanship and structural components for specific periods. We make sure buyers understand warranty coverage, service request procedures, and what to expect after move-in.
Important Tips from OnDemand Realty
- Builder incentives change often, so always confirm current promotions and financing details.
- Professional inspections are recommended even for brand-new construction.
- Property taxes on new construction in Texas may increase after the first full assessment, so budgeting ahead is essential.
If you’re considering a Meritage home anywhere in Dallas–Fort Worth, working with an experienced new construction team can protect your interests and save you money. At OnDemand Realty, we represent buyers at no additional cost while guiding you through every step of the Meritage Homes purchase process—from first tour to closing day.
Interested In Purchasing A Brand New Home?
