Direct answer

Buyers can generally compare and select mortgage providers, but the builder may condition a particular credit or promotion on using an affiliated or preferred lender or other provider. Read the contract and incentive disclosure before assuming the incentive follows you.

Compare the complete written offers. A larger credit does not automatically create the lowest cost or best structure. Review rate, points, lender fees, payment, cash to close, lock terms, approval strength, communication, and the risk created by the build timeline.

What does this mean for a Northeast Florida buyer?

In Northeast Florida, the answer should be tested against the builder's actual contract, community, expected completion range, taxes, insurance, HOA or CDD obligations, and the buyer's current approval. Jacksonville, St. Johns, Clay, Nassau, and Flagler County transactions do not share one universal cost or timeline.

Primary sources

Where can you verify the framework?

  1. Compare and negotiate your loan offersConsumer Financial Protection Bureau · Accessed August 13, 2026
  2. Loan Estimate explainerConsumer Financial Protection Bureau · Accessed August 13, 2026