Is a new build in Winter Garden the right move, but you are unsure how long it will actually take? You are not alone. Timelines can feel fuzzy when you hear different answers from sales centers, lenders, and contractors. Here, you will get a clear, step-by-step view of the new-construction process around Horizon West, what affects the schedule, and what you can do to keep things moving. Let’s dive in.
Spec vs. semi-custom timelines in Winter Garden
If you want the shortest path to keys, focus on spec or inventory homes. These are already under construction or complete. Many buyers can close in 3–9 months from contract, depending on the current stage. If the home is finished, your timeline usually matches mortgage processing, about 30–60 days.
For a semi-custom home where you choose structural options and finishes earlier in the process, plan on 6–12 months from contract to closing. In Central Florida, many projects land in the 7–10 month range, but your starting point matters. Contracting on a home with framing already complete looks very different from starting on an empty lot.
Why ranges vary
- Starting point. Contracting on a completed spec home moves much faster than starting on a fresh lot.
- Permitting and approvals. Orange County reviews, plus HOA or ARC approvals in master-planned communities, can add weeks.
- Selections and lead times. Cabinets, countertops, windows, and appliances can carry multi-week manufacturing windows.
- Inspections, weather, and trade availability. Central Florida’s rainy season and local trade backlogs can slow certain phases.
Step-by-step build timeline and milestones
Below is a typical sequence for single-family homes in Winter Garden. Your builder may use slightly different names, but the checkpoints are similar.
Pre-contract and reservation (Weeks 0–4)
- What happens: You choose a lot or home, sign the builder contract, and deliver earnest money. You also confirm your loan strategy.
- Your role: Get a strong mortgage pre-approval, not just a pre-qualification. Ask for a written milestone schedule from the builder.
- Lender and team: Your lender outlines the loan path and documentation. If using a preferred lender, request a Loan Estimate and conditional approval.
Pre-construction and design selections (Weeks 1–6 after contract)
- What happens: The builder reviews the site plan, submits to HOA/ARC if required, and schedules your design center appointments.
- Your role: Complete structural and design selections by the deadlines. Pay any required deposits promptly.
- Tip: Treat deadlines as firm. Late or incomplete choices push ordering and extend the timeline.
Permits and site prep (Weeks 3–12+)
- What happens: Permit applications are submitted and issued. The site is cleared and graded. Erosion control goes in, and utilities are planned.
- Your role: Ask for status updates on permits and HOA/ARC reviews. Confirm whether your lot has utility stubs in place.
- Local note: Florida Building Code requirements and flood or drainage considerations can influence foundation design and timing.
Foundation and slab (Weeks 6–14)
- What happens: Footings are formed, plumbing grounds-in, and the slab is poured after inspections.
- Watchouts: Wet weather or soil conditions can add days or weeks. Patience during this phase pays off in fewer issues later.
Framing and exterior shell (Weeks 10–20)
- What happens: Framing, sheathing, roofing, windows, and doors. The home reaches “dried-in” status, so interior work can proceed.
- Your role: Schedule a quick check-in with your agent and builder when the roof and windows are installed.
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough-ins (Weeks 14–24)
- What happens: HVAC ducts, plumbing lines, and electrical wiring are installed and inspected.
- Dependencies: Passing inspections here is critical before insulation and drywall.
Insulation and drywall (Weeks 18–28)
- What happens: Insulation goes in, drywall is hung and finished, and primer often follows.
- Timing notes: Cure times and inspection scheduling can affect when interior finishes start.
Interior finishes (Weeks 22–32)
- What happens: Cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, interior paint, trim, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and appliances.
- Lead-time risk: Custom cabinets and stone often carry multi-week timelines. Early ordering protects your schedule.
Final trim, landscaping, and punch list (Weeks 26–36)
- What happens: Finish carpentry, HVAC balancing, final cleaning, driveway and sidewalks, yard and irrigation.
- Your role: Join your agent and inspector for a walkthrough to create a punch list before final sign-off.
Inspections, CO, and closing (Weeks 28–40+)
- What happens: Final building inspections, Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or temporary CO, lender’s final appraisal or inspection, and closing.
- After closing: Most builders schedule a warranty walkthrough around 11 months after you move in.
Local factors in Winter Garden and Horizon West
County permits and inspections
Orange County permitting and inspections apply to most residential builds in this area. Timelines vary based on workload and the completeness of submissions. Builders typically handle filings, but you should still track progress and ask questions.
HOA and ARC approvals
Master-planned communities often require HOA or Architectural Review Committee approvals for exterior colors, materials, and landscaping. These reviews can add 2–6+ weeks, especially if revisions are needed.
Utilities and site services
In some new sections, power, water, sewer, gas, or telecom connections depend on the developer’s main lines being ready. Ask your builder if your lot’s schedule is tied to any off-site utility work.
Flood and elevation requirements
FEMA flood mapping and local grading rules can change foundation and slab details. Extra surveys or engineering can extend pre-construction timelines.
Florida Building Code and wind requirements
Central Florida homes follow wind load requirements and use specific rated components. Specialized windows and doors can carry longer lead times, so confirm availability early.
Seasonal weather and humidity
The rainy season can delay excavation and concrete pours. High humidity can slow drywall and paint cure times. Build a reasonable cushion into your plans.
Common delays and how to avoid them
What slows projects
- Permit or ARC delays and resubmittals
- Late or changing design selections
- Long lead times for cabinets, countertops, windows, or appliances
- Failed inspections and rework
- Utility connections not ready
- Financing or appraisal hold-ups
- Weather and trade availability
Your mitigation checklist
- Get a written build schedule with selection deadlines before you sign.
- Secure a firm pre-approval with underwriting conditions, not a basic pre-qual.
- Ask for vendor lead times in writing for cabinets, counters, windows, and appliances.
- Treat design deadlines as non-negotiable. Attend all appointments on time.
- Confirm who orders the appraisal and when. Coordinate access with your builder.
- Request biweekly schedule updates and a clear path to escalate issues.
- Build 2–6 weeks of buffer into your moving plan to absorb final inspection and punch-list shifts.
Financing and appraisal timing
The loan you use influences when the appraiser visits, what inspections are required, and how the closing is scheduled.
- Conventional purchase on a completed spec home. You follow a typical 30–45 day process. Your lender orders an appraisal once the home is ready, and you close after the CO is issued.
- New construction purchase that closes at completion. Your lender will require a final appraisal and a CO. Ask your lender when they want the appraiser to visit.
- Construction-to-permanent loan. Funds release in draws tied to milestones. Your lender performs draw inspections, which adds more scheduling steps. Confirm inspection timing and funding speed after the CO.
Tip: Give your lender the builder’s contact and target completion date. Early coordination helps the appraiser visit at the right stage.
Design selections that keep you on schedule
Selections drive ordering. Ordering drives delivery. Delivery drives installation. If speed matters, plan and order early.
- Know your two key deadlines. Structural options are chosen early, often before framing. Interior selections usually lock before drywall.
- Ask for lead-time visibility. Get written estimates for cabinets, countertops, windows, and appliances. Upgrades sometimes extend timelines.
- Choose with intention. If timing is tight, consider standard packages the builder keeps in stock or can source faster.
- Confirm change order cutoffs. Late changes can trigger rework and inspection repeats.
Smart move-in planning
You can control stress by planning for the last 30 days. Small items at the end can shift dates.
- Schedule your final walkthrough and create a clear punch list.
- Verify that utilities are active for inspections and appraisals.
- Keep your lender updated on completion status and CO timing.
- Avoid hard move-out dates without a buffer. Give yourself room to breathe.
Your next steps
- Decide if a completed spec, a started home, or a semi-custom path fits your timeline.
- Secure a strong pre-approval and understand your loan type’s steps.
- Ask the builder for a written schedule, selection deadlines, and vendor lead times.
- Book design center appointments and finalize choices on time.
- Align appraisal timing with your lender and builder.
- Plan a 2–6 week cushion for punch-list and closing logistics.
- Partner with a local team that tracks milestones, communicates, and advocates for your timeline.
Ready to map your build from contract to keys with less friction? Let’s talk strategy, selections, and timing so you move in on schedule. Connect with Apex Serhant for concierge guidance at every phase.
FAQs
What does “move-in ready” mean for a Winter Garden new build?
- Ask for a valid Certificate of Occupancy, confirm final inspections, and verify your lender’s appraisal is complete if financing.
How long do I get to make semi-custom selections in Horizon West?
- Most builders set two deadlines, one early for structural options and one before drywall for interiors. Get both in writing at contract.
Who is responsible if vendor lead times or permits delay the build?
- Contract language varies. Many agreements allow extra time for delays beyond the builder’s control. Review timing and delay clauses with your agent or attorney.
Can I choose my own lender for a new construction purchase?
- Yes. Compare rates and service, along with turnaround times. Preferred lenders may streamline draw and appraisal steps, but the choice is yours.
What speeds up closing on a newly built home?
- Submit loan documents early, finish design selections on time, coordinate appraisal access with the builder, and ensure utility taps and final inspections are ready.
