There will be quite a few disappointed folks out there, but I think most will still go through with a purchase if they really made up there mind already to move here. I for one did not want to settle and did not feel like spending a fortune and also rip out a fortune in already in place upgrades such as granite, cabinets etc. I had a certain style, color, model and lot in mind, as well as stretches, so I for one am glad we got a lot and built and closed already in Gilchrist.

Not practical, to your point, but we have seen many spec homes that are built already bumped out.

We closed on our spec Gardenia three months ago. Among it's many upgrades it was bumped out 2 feet on LR, 2nd-3rd bedroom side and 2 feet to the rear.

It has several other popular upgrades. Not all that we wanted but very close so we chose to purchase rather than build.

Our experience was that some spec homes are being built with many, if not most, of the typical custom upgrades buyers want. You may have to look daily on the TV website to find them as they get released for sale. It will require visiting the homes to determine all it's features as the TV website can be vague in it's specifics.

Of course if you are already working with an agent they should be on top of this for you.

I am offering these comments for anyone who is now looking or may be looking soon. If no custom builds are currently available don't get too discouraged.

Don
:)

WE bought in 2008 when ONLY spec homes were available. We bought a great house and there were many to chose from of the same model with different views, different upgrades and additions and stretches. In case someone can't do the math. 2008 was only five years ago. So lots of people bought homes that they still love and they were spec homes.

I have had both and I don't think there is anything inferior to a spec home and on the plus side, you see right there what you are getting and it can be yours immediately.

Wife and I took a ride the other day to look at the Spec Homes that were available. We found 4 homes we could move right into. All were stretched, 1 had Corrion, 2 granite and others Formica. Nice lots. There is nothing wrong with a Spec. The homes are selling very quickly and TV can't wait for people to get design appointments and pick out what they want. Design is backed up big time. Anybody want a Spec in Collier selling for almost 700K look on line it's there.

Are you referring to this? With a view but it backs to a wall? I wonder why it is priced at $766?

Was: $785,613 Now: $765,995

3250 TRITON CT
3 BED, 2 BATH
2219 Sq. Ft.
VNH#: 223029
Model: Gardenia
Construction Type: Concrete w/Cement Finish
County: Sumter

Village of Collier

Features

Homesite: Backs to Wall, View Site
Exterior Features: Architectural Shingles, Gutter and Downspout at Entry, Irrigation System, Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning: Central Air Conditioning
Garage: Attic Access w/Attic Trusses, Garage Door Opener w/Transmitter(s), 3 Car Garage
Stretches Bedroom-2/Bedroom-3/Living Room Stretch, Bedroom-3 Stretch
Additional Rooms: Den With Closet
Interior Layout: Open Kitchen
Master Bath Features: Walk In Shower - Master Bath
Cabinetry: Maple Cabinetry
Counters/Backsplash: Granite Countertops
Appliances: Garbage Disposal, Microwave/Spacesaver - Built in, Range - Electric
Floor Coverings: Floor Tile - Everywhere but Bedrooms
Other: Hand Trowelled Ceilings, Tray/Coffered Ceilings, Vol/Vaulted Ceiling (Main Liv)

Very large lot, large swimming pool area. Great view of the wetlands with an incredible sunset view. But one is paying quite a bit of a premium for the view given the wall separates the house from Buena Vista Blvd.

Seriously?

Yes seriously.

That is a huge lot but backs up to Buena Vista. So the lot price is how much compared to a Gardenia with similar upgrades?
Not bad if you like wildlife knocking on your back door.

I am assuming the cost of the pool area must be significant as well.

AMEN!! I knew exactly what I was getting and closed in 35 days. I can make any improvements I wish as time goes by and my house was bumped out.

I also think that many spec homes or existing homes will suit the needs of most. But for many improvements will not be feasable if you have to pay for but then rip out and re-do floors, granite, cabinets, walls, etc...I believe that is why many, including us, wanted to start with a clean slate as it is much more economical and feasable.

Having just built a similar ( but not identical Gardenia ) my best guess is that the pool and lot premium have added about $425K to the cost plus or minus a couple of thousand.

We built a custom Designer and moved in 19 months ago. It is not our first custom home. Bottom line-----there is no such thing as a "perfect" house-----after moving in you will always find something you would do differently. On the other hand, if I was in the market for a Premier home and was going to spend $750,000-850,000, I would like some say in its design and I think you should IMHO.

:agree::agree::agree::bigbow: