Mortgage Learning Center
New Construction and Builder Financing
Builder contracts, preferred-lender incentives, rate decisions, CDD assessments, taxes, completion, and second-look strategy.
Questions this cluster answers
Start with the decision you need to make.
Should I use the builder's lender?
How should incentives be compared?
What can change during a long build?
Authority cluster
7 focused answers in this topic.
Each article answers a distinct question and connects to the relevant mortgage options and Northeast Florida market guidance.
How New Construction Mortgages Work in Northeast Florida
New construction mortgages in Northeast Florida require financing to stay aligned with the builder contract, completion schedule, borrower approval, property taxes, insurance, community costs, and rate strategy. First Coast Mortgage Funding uses 15 years of new-construction mortgage experience to help buyers and Realtors evaluate those moving parts before closing.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerBuilder Lender vs. Outside Lender: What to Compare
When comparing a builder’s affiliated or preferred lender with an outside lender, review the complete written offer, incentive conditions, loan structure, fees, rate-lock terms, communication, and backup plan. First Coast Mortgage Funding helps Northeast Florida new-construction buyers compare the transaction rather than one headline number.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerHow Extended Rate Locks Work for Florida New Construction
An extended rate lock can protect specified mortgage terms for a longer new-construction timeline, subject to the lender’s written agreement, fees, expiration date, property, and borrower conditions. First Coast Mortgage Funding helps Northeast Florida buyers compare lock length, extension risk, float-down features, and builder schedules before choosing.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerHow CDD Fees Affect New Construction Payments in Florida
Community Development District fees can affect a Florida new-construction buyer’s housing expense because assessments may appear on the property-tax bill or through another disclosed charge. First Coast Mortgage Funding helps Northeast Florida buyers identify applicable CDD obligations and include them in qualification and budgeting before contract decisions.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerCan You Change Lenders After Signing a Builder Contract?
A buyer may be able to change lenders after signing a builder contract, but the contract, financing deadline, incentive conditions, deposits, appraisal, rate lock, and closing schedule must be reviewed first. First Coast Mortgage Funding helps Northeast Florida buyers understand the tradeoffs and unresolved exposure.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerCan Seller Credits Pay Closing Costs or Fund a Buydown?
Seller credits may pay eligible buyer closing costs or fund an allowed temporary or permanent interest-rate buydown, subject to the purchase contract, mortgage program, contribution limits, appraisal, and documented charges. First Coast Mortgage Funding helps Northeast Florida buyers and Realtors structure credits around verified costs instead of assumptions.
Read the answer →By Jason KindlerThe Full Cost of New Construction in St. Johns County
St. Johns County new-home buyers should compare the completed property's expected taxes, HOA dues, CDD or other assessments, insurance, mortgage insurance, builder incentive, rate strategy, and closing timeline as one decision.
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