New Construction Questions?
We've Got Answers.
Thinking about buying a brand-new home in Gainesville or Hall County? Get straightforward answers about builder pricing, inspections, financing, timelines, warranties and more—without the sales pitch.
Gainesville is home. Construction is part of my story.
Hey, I'm Shannon Sanborn, The Flying Realtor. I was born and raised right here in Gainesville, and this community has always been home to me. Long before I became a real estate agent with eXp Realty, I spent more than 20 years working in the construction trades. That experience taught me to look beyond the fresh paint and beautiful finishes and pay attention to how a home comes together.
Today, I bring that construction background and lifelong local knowledge to helping buyers explore new homes in Gainesville and Hall County. I know the process can bring up a lot of questions—from builder pricing and inspections to warranties and what happens before closing. That's why I put these answers together: to make the process easier to understand, without the pressure or confusing jargon.
My goal is simple: help you feel informed, prepared, and confident as you find the right place to call home.
Have a question? Let's talk.What's on your mind?
Choose a topic or scroll through all 20 questions. Each one opens a dedicated, in-depth answer.
Money, Pricing & Financing
Understand what you’re paying for—and where you may have options.
Can You Negotiate the Price of a New Construction Home?
Learn what may be negotiable, from price to closing costs and incentives.
Read the answer 02What’s Included in the Base Price?
See how base prices, upgrades and standard features can differ.
Read the answer 03What Hidden Costs Should You Expect?
Look beyond the advertised price before you set your budget.
Read the answer 04Do You Have to Use the Builder’s Lender?
Understand preferred-lender incentives and how to compare your options.
Read the answer 05Do You Need a Construction Loan?
Learn how financing can differ for move-in-ready and custom builds.
Read the answer 06Which Upgrades Are Actually Worth It?
Explore where upgrades may add comfort, function or long-term value.
Read the answerBuilding, Inspections & Closing
Know what happens between signing a contract and getting the keys.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Home?
Understand timelines and what can affect your move-in date.
Read the answer 02What Is a Pre-Drywall Inspection?
Find out why buyers may inspect a home before the walls are closed.
Read the answer 03Do You Need an Inspection on a Brand-New Home?
Learn why new construction can still benefit from an independent inspection.
Read the answer 04What Is a Blue-Tape Walkthrough or Punch List?
Know what to look for as the builder finishes the home.
Read the answer 05What Happens if Construction Is Delayed?
Understand possible delays and the questions to ask about your contract.
Read the answer 06What Happens When You Request a Change Order?
Learn how changes can affect cost, timing and the finished home.
Read the answerBuilders, Homes & Protection
Make confident decisions about the builder and the home itself.
Do You Need a Realtor for New Construction?
See how buyer representation works when you visit a builder.
Read the answer 02How Do You Choose a Reliable Home Builder?
Explore what to research before committing to a builder.
Read the answer 03What Does a New-Home Warranty Cover?
Understand common warranty categories and why the details matter.
Read the answer 04What’s the Difference Between Spec, Tract & Custom Homes?
Find out which type of new construction fits your needs.
Read the answer 05Is New Construction Better Than an Existing Home?
Compare the tradeoffs between brand-new and resale properties.
Read the answerLots, Neighborhoods & Ownership Costs
Explore the costs and rules that come with the community you choose.
What Is a Lot Premium?
Learn why one homesite may cost more than another.
Read the answer 02How Do HOAs Work in New Communities?
Understand dues, rules and what to review before buying.
Read the answer 03How Are Property Taxes Calculated on a New Home?
Find out why early tax estimates may not reflect the completed home.
Read the answerReady to Explore New Construction in Gainesville?
Whether you're comparing builders, exploring communities, or getting ready to tour homes, I'd love to help you make sense of your options. Let's talk about what matters most to you and your next home in Gainesville or Hall County.
Schedule a Buyer ConversationVisit the Buyer Resource Center