If you've been waiting for "the right time" to buy new construction, this week might be it.
Builders across the Orlando area are offering some of the biggest savings I've seen in months: we're talking up to $114,000 off, rate buydowns as low as 4.99%, and homes you can close on in weeks instead of waiting months for a build.
This roundup is all about move-in ready homes: the ones sitting there finished, waiting for buyers who want to skip the construction timeline and get keys fast.
Let's dig into what's available this week.
Why Move-In Ready Matters Right Now
When you buy a move-in ready home, you're cutting out the uncertainty.
No construction delays. No surprise material cost increases. No wondering if your builder will hit the timeline they promised.
You tour it, you see exactly what you're getting, and you close in 30–45 days (sometimes faster).
For buyers relocating, families who need to move before school starts, or anyone tired of renting while they wait: these homes solve the "I need a place now" problem.
Taylor Morrison: Massive Savings in St Cloud & Groveland
Taylor Morrison is running some serious price cuts this week, especially in St Cloud and Groveland.
St Cloud Quick Move-Ins
Esplanade at Center Lake Ranch – Ambra Plan
- $595,000 (saved $114,370!)
- 3 bed / 3 bath
- 2,372 sq ft
This one's the standout deal of the week. Over $114k in savings on a lakefront community with resort-style amenities. If you've been looking in St Cloud and want space + lifestyle, this is worth a tour.
The Waters at Center Lake Ranch – Anastasia Plan
- $575,000 (saved $78,334)
- 4 bed / 3.5 bath
- 2,582 sq ft
Another massive price drop: almost $80k off. Four bedrooms, flex space, and you're still in the Center Lake Ranch area with access to clubhouse, pool, and trails.
Groveland Townhomes (Affordable Entry Point)
Waterstone Townhomes – Marigold Plan
- $274,584 (saved $51,000)
- 3 bed / 2.5 bath
- 1,558 sq ft
If you're a first-time buyer or want a low-maintenance townhome in Groveland, this is $51k off and under $280k. That's rare in this market.
Taylor Morrison's incentives may include closing cost assistance or rate buy-downs depending on the home and your lender: just confirm what's currently available when you tour.
Maronda Homes: Affordability Without Sacrificing Space
Maronda is bringing solid pricing this week, especially if your budget is in the $260k–$500k range.
Haines City
Lake Deer Estates – Victoria Plan
- $269,990
- 3 bed / 2 bath
- 1,492 sq ft
Under $270k for a single-family home with a yard. This is one of the lowest entry points I'm seeing in Central Florida right now.
Poinciana
Violet Plan
- $299,990
- 3 bed / 2 bath
- 1,443 sq ft
Just under $300k in Poinciana. Great for buyers who want affordability and a commute-friendly location between Orlando and Tampa.
Groveland (Bigger Footprint)
Villa Pass – Carlisle Plan
- $499,990
- 4 bed / 2.5 bath
- 2,802 sq ft
Nearly 2,800 square feet for under $500k. If you need room for a growing family or home office setup, this checks the box.
Maronda homes tend to offer simple, functional layouts: no wild upgrades, but solid construction and move-in ready pricing.
Meritage Homes: No Payments Until July + 4.99% Rates
Here's where the incentive game gets interesting.
Meritage is offering no mortgage payments until July 2026 on select homes, plus 4.99% interest rate buy-downs (with preferred lender, subject to buyer qualification).
That's a massive financial cushion if you're trying to time your move or manage cash flow between closing and settling in.
Lady Lake Quick Move-Ins
The Reserve at Hammock Oaks – Calistoga Plan
- $235,874 (saved $40,000)
- 3 bed / 2.5 bath
- 1,485 sq ft
$40k in savings and the payment deferral option. This is one of the best starter-home deals in Lake County right now.
The Reserve at Hammock Oaks – Denali Plan
- $252,564 (saved $55,000)
- 3 bed / 2 bath
- 1,269 sq ft
$55k off + no payments for months. If you're buying your first home and want breathing room to move in without immediate payment pressure, ask about this promo.
Important note: Rate buy-downs and payment deferrals depend on using Meritage's preferred lender and meeting credit/income requirements. These offers can change weekly, so confirm the current terms before you commit.
DR Horton: Under $300k Options Across Central Florida
DR Horton has multiple "Sweet Deals" this week in Lake Wales, Winter Haven, and Haines City: most priced under $300k.
I don't have exact addresses on all of them yet, but here's what I know:
- Homes in the $260k–$299k range
- Move-in ready or 30–60 days out
- 3-bedroom layouts, some with bonus rooms
- Communities with basic amenities (pools, playgrounds)
DR Horton tends to move inventory fast with aggressive pricing, so if you're budget-conscious and flexible on location, these are worth checking out.
You can browse the current DR Horton quick move-in inventory here: New Construction Search Tool.
How to Make the Most of This Week's Deals
Here's my practical advice if you're serious about one of these homes:
1. Tour This Week (Don't Wait)
Move-in ready homes go fast: especially when they're priced aggressively or offering big incentives. If you see something that matches your budget and needs, schedule a tour now.
2. Get Pre-Approved (Or Check Your Pre-Approval)
Builders want to know you can close quickly. If your pre-approval is older than 60 days, get it refreshed. If you don't have one yet, start there.
Need a lender recommendation? I work with several trusted contacts who know new construction inside and out. Call Rachel at the office and she'll connect you.
3. Ask About All Available Incentives
Don't assume the listed price is the final deal. Ask:
- Closing cost assistance
- Rate buy-downs
- Upgrade credits
- HOA prepayment
- Appliance packages
Incentives change weekly (sometimes daily), so confirm what's on the table today.
4. Understand What "Move-In Ready" Actually Means
Some builders say "move-in ready" and mean 30 days out. Others mean you can close next week.
Always confirm:
- Actual estimated closing date
- What's left to finish (landscaping, final inspections, etc.)
- Whether the home is already in the MLS or still in builder inventory
5. Check Downpayment Assistance Programs
If you're a first-time buyer, teacher, healthcare worker, or active military, you may qualify for downpayment assistance that stacks with builder incentives.
Check your eligibility here: Downpayment Assistance Resource.
Who These Homes Are Best For
Taylor Morrison (St Cloud / Groveland): Buyers who want resort-style amenities, lakefront access, and are okay with a slightly longer commute to Orlando.
Maronda Homes: Budget-conscious families who prioritize space and affordability over high-end finishes.
Meritage Homes (Lady Lake): First-time buyers or anyone who wants creative financing (payment deferral, low rates) to ease the transition into homeownership.
DR Horton: Buyers who need to stay under $300k and want a simple, functional home without a lot of extras.
Final Thoughts: This Is the Week to Move
I don't say "act now" lightly, but this week's inventory is genuinely strong.
Big savings. Creative financing. Homes you can close on before spring.
If you've been on the fence about new construction because you didn't want to wait 6–9 months for a build, these move-in ready options give you another path.
Want a private tour? Head to nicoleorlandorealtor.com and let's get you scheduled.
Have questions about pricing, incentives, or which community makes sense for your situation? Call Rachel at the office. She'll walk you through next steps and get you the info you need.
This market moves fast: let's make sure you don't miss the right home.