New Construction in Hurricane and St. George: 15 Questions to Ask Before You Sign

New construction is a big part of the Southern Utah market right now, especially in Hurricane, Washington, and the growing edges of St. George. I love new homes for a lot of reasons: clean slate, modern layouts, energy efficiency, and usually less immediate maintenance.

But “new” doesn’t automatically mean “perfect.” The best experience comes from asking the right questions early, getting everything in writing, and keeping expectations realistic on timelines and finishes.

Here are 15 questions I recommend asking before you sign a purchase contract on a new build.

1) What is included in the base price?

Ask for a written list of standard features. Items like flooring, counters, cabinets, lighting, and landscaping can vary a lot between communities, even within the same builder.

2) What upgrades are the most common in this neighborhood?

Some upgrades are more “nice to have,” while others help resale later. Think about ceiling height, window coverings, flooring quality, and backyard finish.

3) How much is the design center budget really going to cost?

Builders love to advertise a starting price, then buyers find out most of the photos they liked are upgrades. Get a realistic estimate based on what you actually want.

4) What is the estimated completion date, and what could change it?

Construction schedules can shift. Ask what typically causes delays in this area, and how updates are communicated during the build.

5) Who pays for what closing costs?

Some builders offer incentives that can help with closing costs or rate buydowns, but the details matter. Make sure you understand what is being offered and what it is tied to.

6) Is the lot premium priced, and why?

Lot premiums can be based on views, cul-de-sac placement, lot size, backing conditions, and proximity to amenities. Ask what you are paying for and whether it fits your goals.

7) What are the HOA dues and what do they cover?

In Southern Utah, HOAs can range from light-touch to very hands-on. Get the monthly cost, what it includes, and any rules that could affect how you use the property.

8) Are there any special assessments or planned community changes?

Newer communities sometimes add amenities later. Ask whether anything is planned that could impact dues, parking, noise, or traffic near your lot.

9) What are the property taxes estimated to be once fully assessed?

New builds can have lower taxes initially, then adjust after the county fully assesses the home and land. Ask for a realistic estimate so there are no surprises.

10) How does the builder handle punch lists and warranty work?

Ask how to submit requests, typical response times, and whether they schedule a formal warranty walk at 30 days, 11 months, or both.

11) Can you do a third-party inspection, and when?

Even with new construction, I recommend a professional inspection. Many buyers do one before drywall and another before closing, depending on the build stage.

12) What is the warranty coverage, in plain English?

Get the warranty document and review what is covered and for how long. Pay attention to workmanship, systems, and structural coverage.

13) What utilities and features are already stubbed or installed?

Ask about EV outlets, gas stub for a grill, backyard water stub, internet provider options, and whether the home is pre-wired for fans, speakers, or security.

14) What will the backyard and front yard look like at closing?

Some homes come with a full landscape package, others are minimal, and some may be unfinished. In a desert climate, landscaping plans affect comfort and ongoing costs.

15) What are the resale factors in this specific community?

Even if this is a long-term home, it helps to think ahead. Lot location, parking, floor plan function, and nearby phases of construction can all impact resale.

My quick advice as a local agent

• Get everything in writing. Verbal promises do not help later.
• Plan for a realistic upgrade budget. Most buyers spend more than expected.
• Do an inspection. New homes are built by humans, and details get missed.
• Think about your lifestyle. HOA rules, yard size, and parking matter day to day.

If you are considering a new build in Hurricane or St. George, I’m happy to help you compare communities, evaluate incentives, and negotiate terms that protect you. The goal is a smooth build and a home you feel great about on day one.

Want help narrowing down neighborhoods and builders? Reach out anytime and I’ll point you in the right direction.