Questions to Ask a Magnolia Home Builder (and Who Represents You in Texas)

Model homes are built to sell. A good set of questions turns a polished tour into a clear-eyed comparison of the delivered home, the true cost, and the timeline you can actually plan around. Bring this checklist to every Magnolia-area builder you visit.

First, keep your representation clear

In Texas, a builder’s on-site sales agent works for the builder, not for you. You can still be represented by your own agent, but how that works often depends on being registered on your first visit to the community. Before you tour, understand who represents whom and what has to happen for your representation to be recognized. The Texas Real Estate Commission’s Information About Brokerage Services form explains these roles and is worth reading before any formal conversation.

Questions to ask up front:

• Do you require my agent to accompany or register me on the first visit?
• Who represents the buyer’s interests in this transaction, and who represents yours?
• What is put in writing, and when do I sign it?

Price, incentives, and what actually moves the number

The base price on the sign is rarely the price you pay. Ask what is included at that price and what is an upgrade, and get incentives in writing.

• What is the base price, and what does it include versus what is an upgrade?
• Are current incentives tied to using the builder’s preferred lender or title company?
• What are typical upgrade costs for the finishes shown in the model?
• What closing costs, community fees, or transfer fees apply at closing?

The lot is part of the purchase

Two identical floor plans can live very differently depending on the lot. Confirm the specifics for the exact address, not the community in general.

• What is the lot premium, and what am I paying it for?
• What are the drainage, easement, and setback details for this lot?
• What backs up to this lot now, and what is planned for the surrounding land?
• Is this address in a MUD or other special district, and how does that affect the tax rate?

Timeline, delays, and lock terms

Build timing shapes your move, your financing, and your temporary-housing costs. Ask how timing is handled when it slips.

• What is the estimated completion date, and how firm is it?
• What happens to my price and rate if the build runs long?
• Can I lock the plan and lot, and under what terms?
• What is the process and cost if I need to cancel?

Warranty and what happens after closing

A new home still needs a maintenance and warranty plan. Get the coverage in writing and understand how issues are handled.

• What does the builder warranty cover, and for how long?
• How are warranty requests submitted and resolved after I move in?
• Which major systems and appliances carry separate manufacturer warranties?

Inspect the new home anyway

New does not mean flawless. You are entitled to your own inspections.

• Can I bring an independent inspector before closing and at key build stages?
• How are inspection findings documented and corrected before I take possession?

Before you sign

Write every builder’s answers in the same format so you can compare them side by side, and verify anything that affects cost or risk independently rather than relying on the sales office alone. If a detail changes the true cost or your timeline, confirm it in writing before you commit.