There are potential misconceptions regarding the prices shown on builder brochures/websites as well as the prices found on my, or that matter, any other searchable database for new homes.
Brochure pricing
This is the price you will see on the builders brochures when you visit models as well as the price you normally see on builder's websites. This is the base price you would pay if you were willing to go to contract today, and even more importantly if the builder has product available for sale. Over the last year, particularly, builders often have nothing currently available and would often require you to go on an interest list to become eligible to purchase. Hypothetically, you could want to purchase, nothing is available and then you would go on the list and wait. Meanwhile the builder would release homes in "phases" for sale with every phase having a potential price increase. You could wait through several "phases" of price increases before you have the opportunity to buy. This scenario is commonplace locally , but the market is cooling down and I see more and more developments with smaller or even no waiting lists.
Even in a normal market, you may find a model you want to purchase, but no lot is currently available that could accommodate that particular model or no lot suitable to you is currently available. That again, would require you to wait until a suitable lot is released. You would then, more than likely pay a higher base price.
Base pricing
This is the price exclusive of lot premiums and upgrades that you will pay for a given home. The lot "premium" is the extra amount you would have to pay to have the home you want built on a particular lot. It is important to know that most lots have premiums. It is usually only the least desirable lots in any particular development that don't have that extra charge. These premiums can be substantial. Many models are very highly upgraded. When you view any particular model it could have many thousands of dollars in upgrades. There are flooring upgrades, cabinet and countertop upgrades, structural and electrical upgrades just to name a few. Often, but not always, front yard landscaping is included in you base price, but not usually backyard landscaping. A stove is usually included in the base price but not normally washer, dryer and refrigerator. Window coverings are also not normally included.
If you have any questions with respect to the above subjects feel free to contact me, I will be happy to help you in any way that I can.