Happy Monday, Orlando! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. It is Monday, May 4th, and you know what that means at Nicole Orlando Realtor, it is time for the Orlando Quick Move-In Roundup!
I’ve spent my morning going through the latest inventory lists that Eva, my amazing Executive Assistant, pulled for me on Friday. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for interest rates to behave, I have some news that might make you want to grab your checkbook. Builders across Central Florida are getting aggressive. I’m talking about rate buy-downs that bring your interest rate into the 3% or 4% range, massive closing cost credits, and price reductions that make "new" feel like a "steal."
Buying a home that is already built or nearing completion, what we call a "Quick Move-In", is the secret weapon for today’s buyer. You get the brand-new finishes and the structural warranties without the 10-month wait. Plus, builders are highly motivated to get these homes off their books before the next quarter.
Let’s dive into the 10 hottest opportunities hitting the market this week.
1. Skylar Crest in Sanford (Pulte Homes)
If you want to be near the charm of historic Sanford but want a home where the AC actually works and the windows are energy-efficient, Skylar Crest is calling your name. Pulte is currently offering homes in the $329,990 to $358,990 range.
The incentive here is incredible. They are looking to move their current inventory fast, offering significant credits toward your closing costs. Sanford is exploding with new breweries and lakefront dining, so getting in at this price point is a major win.
2. Eagletail Landings in Howey-in-the-Hills (Trinity Family Builders)
Looking for a little more breathing room? Howey-in-the-Hills is one of those "hidden gem" locations that won't stay hidden for long. Trinity Family Builders has homes starting at $329,999.
What I love about Trinity is their commitment to family-centric layouts. This week, they are offering incentives that could save you thousands on your monthly payment. Ask for the sales team over there and tell them Nicole Perpillant sent you! You can check out more options in this area on my New Construction Search.
3. Laureate Park at Lake Nona (David Weekley Homes)
For those who want the ultimate "Medical City" lifestyle, Laureate Park is the place to be. These are higher-end properties, ranging from $845,990 to over $1.1 million.
David Weekley is known for their "Park Series" homes, and right now, they are offering substantial design center incentives. If you’ve been dreaming of that gourmet kitchen with the waterfall island, this is your chance to get it subsidized by the builder. Lake Nona is all about innovation, and these homes reflect that perfectly.
4. Esplanade at Westview in Kissimmee (Taylor Morrison)
Taylor Morrison is bringing the resort life to Kissimmee. These homes are priced between $349,999 and $638,926.
The "Esplanade" brand is all about lifestyle, think clubhouses, pools, and pickleball. This week, Taylor Morrison is leaning heavily into interest rate buy-downs. We are seeing some buyers secure rates significantly lower than the market average by using the builder’s preferred lender. It’s a game-changer for your monthly budget.
5. Hickory Grove in Winter Springs (Mattamy Homes)
Winter Springs is one of the most sought-after zip codes in Central Florida because of the schools and the "small-town" feel. Mattamy Homes has about 14 homes available right now, priced from $369,990.
Mattamy has been very generous with closing cost contributions lately. My friend over at the sales office sent me a note saying they are ready to make deals this week to hit their mid-year targets. If you want to be in Winter Springs for under $400k, this is basically unheard of for new construction.
6. Seasons at Lakeside Forest in Tavares (Richmond American Homes)
Tavares, the "Seaplane City," is perfect for those who love the water. Richmond American is offering their "Seasons" collection starting at $374,950.
These homes are built with value in mind, but the real story is the financing. Richmond American often has special promotional rates that can save you hundreds of dollars a month. If you are a first-time buyer, don’t forget to check your eligibility for Downpayment Assistance to stack your savings.
7. Solace at Corner Lake in Orlando (M/I Homes)
If you need space and luxury, Solace at Corner Lake is a must-see. These homes go up to $2.1 million, but they also have entry points around $798,990.
M/I Homes is currently running a massive incentive program. I’m seeing first-year rates as low as 2.875% on certain 2/1 buy-down programs. That is a massive difference in your qualifying power! Ask for the sales agent at Solace and tell them Nicole Perpillant sent you to get the VIP treatment.
8. Bay Lake Farms in Saint Cloud (M/I Homes)
Saint Cloud is the frontier of growth in Central Florida. Bay Lake Farms offers M/I Homes quality starting at $407,990.
This community is perfect for families who want a brand-new home without the crazy price tag of downtown Orlando. M/I Homes’ Whole Home Building Standards mean you’ll save a ton on your utility bills, too. They are offering great flex-cash incentives this week that you can apply toward closing costs or to lower the sales price.
9. Oakfield at Mount Dora (David Weekley Homes)
Mount Dora is quite possibly the most charming town in Florida. The Oakfield community by David Weekley features their "Cottage Series" with prices between $409,000 and $555,250.
These homes have incredible curb appeal. David Weekley is currently offering a "Build Your Savings" event. Whether you need help with your down payment or want to buy down your rate, they are being very flexible with their "flex dollars" right now.
10. Cyrene at Minneola (Meritage Homes)
Minneola is famous for its rolling hills (yes, we have hills in Florida!) and the incredible Minneola High School. Meritage is offering homes from $428,020 to $530,330.
Meritage is the leader in energy efficiency. Their spray-foam insulation is legendary. Right now, they have quick move-in inventory that they want to close by the end of the month. This means you have more leverage to negotiate for things like a free appliance package or covered closing costs.
WHY BUY NEW CONSTRUCTION NOW?
I get asked all the time: "Nicole, should I wait for rates to drop?"
Here is the truth: If rates drop to 5%, every buyer who is currently waiting on the sidelines is going to jump back into the market at the same time. That creates bidding wars and drives prices up.
When you buy new construction now, the builder is essentially acting as your "rate insurance." They are using their huge capital reserves to buy your rate down to yesterday’s levels. You get the lower price of today and the lower rate of yesterday. It’s the best of both worlds.
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH INCENTIVES?
You might hear words like "Flex Cash" or "Use our Preferred Lender." Here is what that means for your wallet:
- Rate Buy-Downs: The builder pays a fee to the lender to lower your interest rate for the life of the loan (Permanent) or for the first 1-2 years (Temporary).
- Closing Cost Credits: The builder covers the thousands of dollars you usually have to pay for taxes, title insurance, and lender fees.
- Upgrades: Sometimes they’ll throw in a "Design Center Credit" so you can pick the fancy quartz or the wood-look tile for free.
READY TO EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS?
Navigating new construction can be tricky. You want someone in your corner who knows which builders are negotiable and which ones are firm. That’s where we come in!
If you want to see any of these homes or get a custom list of quick move-in properties that fit your specific budget, reach out to us.
Call Rachel at the office: 1 (407) 904-1853
She is ready to answer your questions and get you scheduled for a tour.
GET YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER
Before we go look at these beautiful homes, make sure you talk to a professional. I highly recommend reaching out to our preferred lenders to see what you qualify for:
- Antoinette Pender (Security National Mortgage): 407-310-3865 | Your Mortgage Lady
- Tia Peeks (Edge Home Finance): (540) 809-6562 | Tia’s Site
- Jess Ford (Green Oak Lending): (734) 203-7658 | Green Oak Lending
And if you’re a buyer looking for a modern way to search, check out my Homes.com Buyer Invitation for a better browsing experience!
I'll be back next Monday with another roundup. Until then, happy house hunting!
– Penny
AI Blog Writer, Nicole Orlando Realtor
*We hope all the information is correct, but please contact Nicole Orlando Realtor or the community directly to verify all details, incentives, and availability. Call Rachel at 1 (407) 904-1853 for the most up-to-date info!