Are photos and floor plans not enough to decide if a home fits your life? A private model tour at The Grove in Oakland lets you step into the space, feel the scale, and study the details that matter. If you value craftsmanship, flow, and a smooth path from idea to keys, seeing it in person is a smart first move. In this guide, you will learn what a private tour includes, how to prepare, what to inspect, and how to book with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why book a private tour
Orange County has seen tight inventory and steady demand in recent years, which means the best new homes often move fast. Touring privately helps you compare finishes, build quality, and layout before you make any decisions. You also get focused time with a knowledgeable representative who can outline options, timelines, and next steps. It is a calm, thorough way to confirm fit and value.
What you will see up close
Real-life scale and flow
Room dimensions on paper can be hard to picture. A private tour lets you judge ceiling height, natural light, and sightlines between kitchen, living, and outdoor spaces. You can test how furniture might fit and evaluate storage, pantry access, and circulation.
Structure and Florida code context
New homes in Florida follow the Florida Building Code for wind and structural performance. During your tour, ask how the builder addresses wind-load requirements, roof-to-wall connections, and garage door reinforcement. If impact-rated windows or doors are available, request documentation or specs so you understand what is standard and what is an upgrade.
Finishes and workmanship
Small details tell a lot about quality. Open and close cabinet doors and drawers to check alignment and soft-close function. Look at countertop seams and edges, tile cuts and grout joints, and the fit of baseboards at floor transitions. Inspect door swings, hardware fit, paint consistency, and closet shelving.
Mechanical and energy features
Ask about HVAC size and location, return air paths, and thermostat type. Confirm the water heater type and placement, and request specs if tankless is an option. Note outlet placement, lighting controls, and any available energy ratings or third-party verifications. If ratings are referenced, ask for certificates during or after the tour.
Florida essentials to review
Flood zones and site elevation
Parts of Oakland and Orange County include FEMA-designated flood zones. Before you focus on a specific homesite, request the lot’s flood status and, if available, an elevation certificate. This helps you understand potential risk and whether flood insurance could be required by a lender.
Insurance and affordability
Homeowners insurance in Florida can vary by location, construction features, and coverage. Ask how wind and hurricane coverage is handled and where to learn more from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. This context helps you evaluate total monthly ownership costs with clarity.
HOA and community details
Confirm HOA fees, what they cover, and any design or maintenance standards. Request sample covenants and rules so you understand guidelines for landscaping, exterior changes, or short-term use. If the community has planned amenities, ask for current status and any timelines provided by the builder or HOA manager.
How private tours work
Booking and timing
Private appointments are typically scheduled in advance and often run 30 to 60 minutes for one model. If you would like to see multiple plans or review design packages, allow extra time. Weekend or after-hours slots may be limited, so plan ahead and confirm your preferred window.
What to bring
- Mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds
- Driver’s license for check-in
- Your agent’s contact info if you are represented
- A short checklist of must-haves and nice-to-haves
- Phone or notebook for notes and photos, if photography is allowed
On-site guidelines
Builders may set limits on the number of attendees and may have specific photography rules. Ask about these policies when you book. If a home is under active work, safety rules could apply, and certain areas may be restricted.
What happens next
A private tour does not lock you into a contract. If you want to move forward, you can request floor plans, an options list with pricing, and a sample purchase agreement. You can also schedule a design consultation, review the construction timeline, and confirm deposit and milestone details before making a decision.
Buyer checklist for your model visit
- Exterior and lot: Look at orientation, grading, driveway slope, and drainage. Check roof lines, eaves, flashing, and gutters. Inspect window and door thresholds and weather seals.
- Structural cues: Ask about wind protection features, roof-to-wall connectors, and insulation approach. Note ceiling heights and any visible blocking for future fixtures.
- Interior finishes: Open cabinetry, test hardware, and review tile and grout alignments. Check paint consistency, floor transitions, and trim fits.
- Mechanical systems: Confirm HVAC size and returns, water heater type, and electrical outlet placements. Ask about thermostat features and any energy ratings or appliance certifications.
- Community and HOA: Request the community plat map, amenity information, and HOA fee and coverage details. Ask about lawn, irrigation, and exterior maintenance responsibilities.
- Documentation: Request floor plans with dimensions, a list of standard finishes and upgrades, sample upgrade pricing, warranty summaries, and a sample contract. If flood risk is a question, ask about the lot’s FEMA status and any elevation documentation.
Follow-up steps after your tour
- Request floor plans, options and pricing, and a sample purchase agreement for review.
- Ask for a build timeline with major milestones from site work to final inspection and certificate of occupancy.
- Obtain the builder’s written warranty documents and learn what pre- and post-closing walk-throughs are included.
- Schedule a design-center or selections meeting if you are considering upgrades.
- If you are working with an agent, ensure your agent is registered with the builder so they receive disclosures and pricing updates.
About your builder partner
You deserve a clear, design-led process guided by a single, accountable team. Davila Homes is a founder-led, boutique builder based in Central Florida that integrates architecture, interiors, construction, and sales under one roof. This streamlined approach helps protect design intent, align details from concept to completion, and keep communication simple. The team builds curated model and spec homes as well as commissioned custom estates in established luxury enclaves across the region.
Ready to see The Grove
A private walk-through makes the difference between guessing and knowing. If you are ready to step inside, compare finishes, and get your questions answered, schedule your appointment and take the next step toward your new home in Oakland. Book your private visit with Davila Custom Homes.
FAQs
What is included in a private model tour at The Grove?
- A scheduled walk-through of the model home with time to assess layout, finishes, and mechanical features, plus a conversation about options, timelines, and next steps.
How do I qualify for a private tour in Oakland, FL?
- Most builders ask for a mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds, basic contact details for attendees, and advance scheduling; policies can vary by builder and phase.
What should I look for in new construction finishes during a tour?
- Check cabinet alignment, drawer function, tile cuts and grout lines, countertop seams, paint quality, trim fits, and how flooring transitions are handled.
How do flood zones affect buying a new home in Oakland, FL?
- FEMA flood zone status and site elevation can affect lending and insurance requirements; ask for the lot’s flood information and consult your lender and insurance provider.
What documents should I request after a private tour?
- Floor plans with dimensions, standard and upgrade lists with pricing, a community plat map, HOA documents, warranty summaries, and a sample purchase agreement.
Are incentives or prices fixed in new construction communities in Orange County, FL?
- Pricing, incentives, and availability can change based on market conditions and builder timelines; verify current details with the builder at the time of your tour.
