If you want more space without giving up a reasonable Broward commute, Davie often rises to the top. The big question is whether a new construction home or a resale fits you best. In this guide, you will compare costs, timelines, warranties, HOA and CDD rules, insurance factors, and lot sizes through a Davie lens, plus get a practical checklist and local resources. Let’s dive in.
Davie’s value proposition
Davie blends suburban and semi-rural living with equestrian roots and historically larger-lot zoning. Many neighborhoods sit within an easy drive to I-595, the Turnpike, and I-75, which keeps commute times manageable to downtown Fort Lauderdale, Plantation and Weston office clusters, and Pompano Beach.
Local micro-conditions matter. Flood risk, elevation, and even which side of a street you buy on can affect insurance, financing, and long-term value. Use the Town’s planning resources to understand zoning and setbacks, and verify your specific parcel details with the Broward County Property Appraiser. For flood zones, confirm your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center before you make an offer.
- Explore zoning and setbacks at the Town of Davie Planning & Zoning page: Town of Davie Planning & Zoning
- Verify parcel and assessment data with the Broward County Property Appraiser
- Check flood zones by address via the FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Cost drivers to compare
Purchase price dynamics
New construction often carries a premium for modern layouts, energy efficiency, and warranties. Resale pricing hinges on location, lot size, and condition. In Davie, older properties on larger lots can command value for land and privacy, while new communities may price in amenities and finishes. Ask your agent for recent neighborhood comparables to set expectations.
Taxes, CDDs, and assessments
Florida homestead exemptions and the Save Our Homes cap can influence your long-term property tax bill. Confirm eligibility and projected taxes with the Broward County Property Appraiser. Some newer communities in Florida use Community Development Districts to finance infrastructure. CDD assessments are recurring and typically separate from your property tax line items, so request current CDD documents and annual amounts before you commit.
Insurance and maintenance
Newer Davie homes are built to the current Florida Building Code and often include impact-rated windows, newer roofs, and modern HVAC. These features can help with wind insurance premiums and reduce near-term repair costs. Resales may require system updates over the first few years, especially for roof, AC, electrical, or plumbing. Flood insurance depends on FEMA flood zone and elevation, so confirm early to avoid surprises.
Financing differences
Resale purchases typically use a standard mortgage with a 30 to 60 day closing timeline. New construction can mean a longer runway and, in some cases, different financing structures. Many buyers in production communities use a standard mortgage at completion, while custom or on-your-lot builds may involve a construction-to-permanent loan with different underwriting. Compare timelines, rate locks, and deposit requirements with your lender.
Timeline and risk considerations
Resale timeline
Resales often move faster. From contract to close, 30 to 60 days is common depending on financing, inspection, and title contingencies. The tradeoff is the possibility of negotiating repairs or credits for issues that arise during inspection.
New construction timeline
New builds include lot selection, permitting, site work, and construction. Delivery can take several months or more than a year depending on the builder’s backlog, supply chain, and permit status. Review the contract for milestone dates, delivery guarantees, and what happens if there are delays.
Inspections and warranties
For resales, order an independent home inspection and verify that any additions or renovations were permitted and closed out. In Davie, you can confirm permit history with the Town’s Building Division. New construction typically includes staged walkthroughs and a punch list before closing. Most builders offer a workmanship warranty for the first year, a systems warranty that often spans one to two years, and a longer structural warranty. Always review the written warranty for coverage, exclusions, and the service process.
- Confirm permits and inspections with the Town of Davie Building Division
- Verify contractor licensing through the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
HOA, CDD, and lot size tradeoffs
HOA structures
Newer master-planned communities may have a developer-controlled HOA during early years, which can shape budgets, amenities, and rules. Established HOAs or non-HOA areas in Davie offer more history and precedent to review. Ask for the CC&Rs, budget, reserve study, and recent meeting minutes.
CDD assessments
If the community uses a CDD, you will see a separate annual assessment that funds infrastructure and amenities. Obtain the latest assessment schedule and bond details so you can compare total ownership costs across properties.
Lot size realities in Davie
Davie’s history includes larger-lot and equestrian-friendly zoning. Many resales offer wider setbacks, deeper setbacks, and more usable yard space. Newer subdivisions often place homes on smaller lots to keep projects feasible. Lot size influences privacy, outdoor amenities, and room for additions, but also affects maintenance. Always request a current survey and check for easements or conservation buffers that limit how you can use the land.
Which option fits your goals
- Choose new construction if you want modern systems, energy efficiency, and builder warranties with community amenities. You will likely trade some private yard space for shared features and predictable maintenance.
- Choose resale if you value larger lots, established neighborhoods, and the flexibility to add or customize over time. Plan for potential updates to roofs, mechanicals, or finishes and confirm past permit history.
Practical Davie buyer checklist
Use this list on every property you consider.
- Zoning and uses: confirm designations, setbacks, and any equestrian allowances with Town of Davie Planning & Zoning
- Lot size and usable area: obtain a current survey and check recorded easements
- Flood zone and elevation: verify at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center
- Parcel details and tax estimate: confirm with the Broward County Property Appraiser
- HOA and CDD: request CC&Rs, budgets, reserve studies, and current assessment schedules
- Permits and close-outs: confirm with the Town of Davie Building Division
- Systems and efficiency: review roof age, impact windows, HVAC specs, and wind mitigation features for insurance credits
- Warranties: obtain the written builder warranty with coverage, terms, and claim process
- Schools: verify attendance boundaries with the Broward County School District
- Contractor credentials: check licenses and status at the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
- Maps and layers: review parcel context on Broward County GIS maps
Next steps in Davie
If you are weighing space, commute, and long-term costs, Davie gives you real options on both the new build and resale side. The smartest path is to compare total cost of ownership by address, including taxes, insurance, HOA or CDD fees, and expected maintenance over the next five years.
If you want a clear plan to the closing table, let’s talk. As your advisor, Julian Calderin will help you benchmark properties, verify parcel-specific details, and negotiate the right terms for your goals.
FAQs
How does Davie’s location affect commutes?
- Davie’s proximity to I-595, the Turnpike, and I-75 places many neighborhoods within commutable range of downtown Fort Lauderdale, Plantation and Weston, and Pompano Beach.
What flood and hurricane factors should I check in Davie?
- Confirm your FEMA flood zone, elevation, and wind mitigation features early since they affect insurance, mortgage requirements, and resale value.
What warranties do Davie new builds usually include?
- Builders commonly offer a one-year workmanship warranty, a limited systems warranty, and a longer structural warranty; always review the written document for specifics.
Are there hidden costs in new communities?
- Ask for the HOA budget and any CDD assessments, which are recurring and typically separate from property taxes, and include them in your total cost of ownership.
How do Davie lot sizes compare between new builds and resales?
- Many resales sit on larger lots due to historic zoning, while newer subdivisions often have smaller lots that trade private yard space for shared amenities.
How fast can I close on a resale versus a new build?
- Resales often close in 30 to 60 days depending on financing and inspections, while new construction delivery can take several months or more based on permitting and builder timelines.