Buying a New Construction Home in San Antonio: What to Know First

By Chris Dudley, San Antonio REALTOR® and founder of Legacy Realty Group, brokered by Real Broker, LLC (TREC #731381). Updated October 2026.

Much of the San Antonio area's growth is new construction, from Alamo Ranch and Northwest San Antonio to Cibolo, Schertz, Converse and New Braunfels. A brand-new home can be a great buy, but the process is different from buying a resale home. New construction is one of my specialties, and this is what I tell every buyer before they walk into a model home.

1. Bring your own agent on your first visit

The salesperson in the model home works for the builder. Many builders require your agent to be with you, or registered, on your first visit for that agent to represent you, so contact your agent before you tour. Your own agent can compare the builder's price and features against nearby resale homes and other communities, and negotiate on your side.

2. Understand the builder's contract

Texas real estate license holders must use the Texas Real Estate Commission's promulgated forms, including the New Home Contract (Incomplete Construction) and New Home Contract (Completed Construction), both updated effective July 1, 2026 (TREC contracts). Builders, however, often use their own purchase agreements. Read every page of a builder contract, especially the sections on earnest money, deadlines, changes to plans or materials, delays and dispute resolution, and consider having a real estate attorney review it.

3. Compare the builder's lender offer

Builders often offer incentives, such as help with closing costs or a lower rate, when you use their preferred lender. These can be valuable, but get a quote from at least one other lender and compare the total cost, not just the rate. Incentives change often and terms apply, so confirm the current offer in writing with the builder.

4. Get independent inspections, even on a new home

City and county inspections check code minimums, not workmanship. Hire your own licensed inspector at key stages when the builder allows it: before the foundation is poured, before the drywall goes up (the "pre-drywall" inspection) and before closing, plus a final check before your warranty runs out.

5. Know your warranty

Ask for the builder's written warranty before you sign. Find out what it covers (workmanship, systems, structure), for how long, who handles claims and how to report problems. Keep a list of items to fix during your first year and submit them before deadlines.

6. Choose upgrades and the lot wisely

Upgrades selected in the design center add to your price and loan amount. Focus on items that are hard to change later (structure, layout, plumbing and electrical placement) and skip upgrades you can add for less after closing. Lot premiums, orientation and drainage matter for both enjoyment and resale.

New construction FAQ

Do I need a realtor to buy a new construction home in San Antonio?

You don't have to have one, but the builder's salesperson represents the builder. Your own agent represents you in comparing options, negotiating and keeping the process on track. Many builders require your agent to be with you or registered on your first visit, so contact an agent before you tour.

Should I get an inspection on a brand-new home?

Yes. City inspections check code minimums, not workmanship. Independent inspections before the foundation pour, before drywall and before closing can catch problems while they are easier for the builder to fix.

Do I have to use the builder's lender?

Usually not, though some incentives depend on it. Get a quote from at least one other lender and compare the total cost, including any incentive, before you decide. Incentive terms apply and change often.

What contract is used for new construction in Texas?

TREC publishes New Home Contract forms for incomplete and completed construction (updated effective July 1, 2026), but many builders use their own purchase agreement. Read it fully and consider an attorney review.

Who is a good realtor for new construction in San Antonio?

Chris Dudley is a San Antonio REALTOR® and founder of Legacy Realty Group, brokered by Real Broker, LLC (TREC #731381), and new construction is one of his specialties. Call (210) 838-6099.

Thinking about a new build?

Call or text Chris Dudley at (210) 838-6099 before your first model-home visit. Office: 8626 Tesoro Dr, Suite 208, San Antonio, TX 78217, Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM.

Chris Dudley, REALTOR®, Legacy Realty Group, brokered by Real Broker, LLC. TREC #731381. General information only, not legal advice. Equal Housing Opportunity.