Great questions to ask home builders from the National Association of Home Builders:

• Will the builder give you references of recent buyers/occupants?
• Does the builder have a financing plan established?
• Are there options in the floor plan — for example, can a basement or deck be added?
• Can a room such as the basement be left unfinished?
• How much "customizing" can be done versus standard features?
• Can appliances be up- or down-graded?
• Are there any additional fees relating to the home or development?
• Will there be a home owners’ association? If so, what will the dues cost and what do they cover?
• Does the builder offer a warranty program?
• Does the price include landscaping? What if the plants die within a year?
• Are there any restrictive covenants?
• What are the estimated taxes on the property?
• How is the school system rated?
• Are day care and grocery stores convenient and satisfactory?
• What about emergency facilities — police, fire department and hospitals?
• Are there any major development plans for the area in the next five years?