In 2026, many Florida inventory/spec homes close in about 45–120 days, while build-to-order homes often take 6–12+ months. The two biggest causes of delays are permits/inspections and weather (rain + storm season).
In 2026, the builder incentive that most directly lowers your cash to close is a closing cost credit that pays for title/settlement fees, lender fees, and prepaid items (taxes + insurance escrows). Design credits help your home, but usually don't reduce closing cash unless they replace upgrades you would have paid for out of pocket.
In 2026, buying new construction in South Florida comes down to five things: true all-in pricing, real builder incentives, realistic timelines, HOA and insurance costs, and proper inspections. Buyers who focus on these avoid budget surprises and contract delays.
Find out what the experts are anticipating for 2026 housing
Quick answer: In 2026, "affordable" in Broward usually means focusing on townhomes and condos, expanding your search beyond the most premium school zones, and watching insurance + HOA fees as closely as the purchase price. Many first-time buyers find the best entry points in pockets of Lauderhill, Sunrise, Tamarac, Margate, parts of Plantation and Davie, and select communities in Hollywood, Miramar, and Pembroke Pines.
Quick answer: In 2026, many buyers get more "value per dollar" in Broward because they can often buy more space, newer construction, or a more predictable HOA/insurance profile at a lower price than comparable areas in Miami-Dade. Miami-Dade can still be the better value if your job, lifestyle, or commute is truly Miami-centered, or if you're targeting specific pockets where transit access and long-term demand justify the premium.
For buyers under 40 in 2026, the “best” Miami neighborhood is the one that matches your commute and your weekly routine. If you want walkability and nightlife, focus on Brickell, Downtown, Edgewater, Wynwood, and Midtown. If you want greener streets and a calmer vibe while staying close to job hubs, look at Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. If you want more space and easier parking with strong highway access, consider Doral.
In 2026, "normal" HOA fees in Florida depend on the property type. Many townhome and gated communities in Broward run $150–$400/month, while many condos in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach run $350–$800+/month (and luxury buildings can be higher). The real risk isn't the fee: it's what it may be hiding: weak reserves, rising insurance, and looming special assessments.
In 2026, some Florida condos are still not mortgage-eligible because of building-level issues like weak reserves, big special assessments, structural concerns, heavy litigation, investor concentration, or poor financials. These "non-warrantable" condos are harder to finance and sometimes cash-only. Buyers can avoid surprises by running a simple early building check with their agent and lender.