What’s Included (and What’s Not) in a New Construction Purchase in Austin

When buying a new construction home in Austin, what you see isn’t always what you get. Model homes are often dressed to impress: with upgraded tile, designer lighting, and luxury finishes that aren’t always part of the standard package. For buyers comparing builders, floorplans, and final budgets, it’s critical to understand exactly what’s included in your base purchase and what counts as an upgrade that may cost extra.

This guide is designed for buyers in the final stage of decision-making. Whether you’re narrowing down communities, walking through spec homes, or reviewing builder packages, this breakdown will help you avoid last-minute surprises and confidently evaluate which homes truly offer the best value. 

What’s Typically Included in a New Build

In most new construction homes across Austin, builders aim to deliver a move-in ready experience, but that doesn’t always mean every detail is included. However, there are standard features you can expect from reputable builders in the area.

Appliances such as the range, microwave, and dishwasher are typically part of the base package. These are often stainless steel or matte black finishes, offering a clean, modern look. Flooring usually consists of builder-grade tile or laminate, and standard lighting packages are included both inside and out.

Buyers can also expect sod in the front yard, basic fencing, and a garage door opener; all of which help the home feel more complete on day one. Inside, most builders include quartz or granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, though the level of finish may vary.

Some homes also come with basic smart home features such as programmable thermostats, video doorbells, or garage doors that can be controlled via an app. And importantly, a builder warranty is typically included, usually covering workmanship for one year, systems for two years, and structural elements for up to ten years.

These inclusions form the core of what buyers can expect in a standard Austin-area build, but it’s equally important to understand what falls outside of this base package—which we’ll explore next.

What’s Commonly an Upgrade

While Austin builders include many essentials, there’s a long list of features that fall outside the standard package, especially when it comes to design, customization, and outdoor enhancements.

Designer lighting and high-end plumbing fixtures are often among the first upgrades buyers consider. While basic packages come standard, any statement chandeliers, pendant lights, or unique faucets will likely cost extra.

Interior style choices like accent walls, premium paint colors, or floor-to-ceiling cabinetry are also commonly treated as upgrades. If you're drawn to the sleek look of soft-close drawers, full-height backsplashes, or premium tile patterns you’ve seen in model homes, know that these are usually optional add-ons.

Outdoor spaces are another major upgrade category. Extended covered patios, outdoor kitchens, custom landscaping, and even artificial turf are popular, especially in Austin’s climate, but rarely included in the base price.

Many buyers are also asking about sustainability features like solar panels or EV chargers. These may be included in eco-focused communities but are more often available only as upgrades or add-ons. Likewise, garage epoxy flooring, glass sliders instead of standard windows, and rooftop decks are part of the premium tier in many multi-level urban homes.

Understanding what’s included versus what’s considered an upgrade helps you prioritize what really matters for your lifestyle and budget before falling in love with features that may significantly raise the total price.

Builder Spotlight: Mopac, Canedo, and Ravel Architecture

Not all builders define “standard” the same way. In East Austin, standout names like Mopac Builders, Canedo Builders, and Ravel Architecture have set themselves apart by including premium features as part of their base packages, offering buyers more value without having to stretch for every upgrade.

These builders typically include full appliance packages, advanced smart home systems, high-end tilework, and quality cabinetry in the base price: finishes that other developers may classify as upgrades. This upfront quality makes their homes especially attractive to buyers seeking design-forward properties without excessive customization costs.

However, even with these premium inclusions, there are still high-impact upgrades available. In their multi-level urban homes, features like rooftop decks, hot tubs, and built-in sound systems are often treated as optional enhancements. These additions offer luxury lifestyle perks, but they do require additional investment beyond the base contract.

If you’re comparing builders, looking at what’s included by default versus what’s extra can make all the difference. With builders like Mopac, Canedo, and Ravel, much of the visual appeal and functionality is already baked in, making your buying decision easier and more transparent.

What to Know About Closing Costs

Closing costs for new construction in Austin can catch buyers off guard especially when it comes to items that feel essential but aren’t included in the base price. For example, blinds or window coverings are often left out, and so are refrigerators and washer/dryer sets. Buyers should also double-check if backyard landscaping is included. Many builders only sod the front yard and leave the back as a blank slate.

Beyond physical items, buyers should account for homeowner association (HOA) dues, transfer fees, and other community-related costs. These are not typically advertised upfront but can impact your total out-of-pocket at closing.

On the upside, many builders offer closing cost incentives through preferred lenders. These can include interest rate buydowns (e.g., 5.5% fixed for 30 years) or seller credits of $10,000 or more. These incentives can meaningfully reduce your financial burden at closing but it’s still worth comparing quotes from independent lenders to ensure the offer is competitive and not inflated elsewhere in the contract.

Being clear-eyed about what’s included and budgeting for what’s not can help you avoid surprises and walk into closing fully prepared.

Avoiding Common Misunderstandings

One of the biggest sources of confusion for buyers comes down to expectations, especially when purchasing a home that’s still under construction. It’s easy to assume that because the home isn’t finished, everything is customizable. But in reality, most new builds in Austin are spec homes, not full custom builds.

This means that major structural elements and layouts are already finalized before a buyer ever enters the picture. While some builders may allow early buyers to choose finishes like tile, paint, or cabinet hardware, customization is usually limited to a narrow selection window; even then, choices are made from pre-approved options, not a blank slate.

Understanding the semi-custom nature of new construction is key. These homes offer quality and efficiency, but they aren’t designed to be reworked from scratch. When buyers approach the process with clear expectations, focusing on the value of what’s being delivered rather than what could be changed, they’re more likely to feel satisfied with their purchase and less likely to encounter friction during the build.

Setting realistic expectations from the start not only streamlines decision-making but also builds trust between buyer and builder.

Work With Us

Buying new construction in Austin offers exciting possibilities, but it also comes with fine print. From what appliances are included to which upgrades add real value, understanding the difference between standard features and optional enhancements is essential for making a smart, confident purchase. Not every builder offers the same base package, and not every model home reflects what you’ll actually receive.

By knowing what’s typically included, what costs extra, how closing costs really work, and where customization ends, you’ll be better equipped to evaluate your options and avoid costly surprises. Builders like Mopac, Canedo, and Ravel Architecture offer strong starting points, but every home deserves a closer look.

Ready to see what’s actually included? Book a builder walkthrough with Darsh Parikh and get a clear, expert-guided look at your potential new home, no guesswork required.