Eyeing a new build in Wildblue and wondering how long it will really take from lot to keys? You are not alone. The process has moving parts, from HOA approvals to county permits, and the timeline can shift with weather and material availability. In this guide, you will see what to expect at each stage, how long it usually takes in Estero, and simple ways to keep your build on schedule. Let’s dive in.
Wildblue new-build paths and timelines
Three ways to buy new
There are three common paths in Wildblue and the Estero area. Your choice sets the overall timeline.
- Spec or inventory home: Already built or nearing completion. Typical closing is 1–3 months once your loan and the certificate of occupancy are ready.
- Production builder, build-to-order: You choose a standard plan and make design selections. Expect 6–9 months from groundbreaking to certificate of occupancy, plus 4–8 weeks before groundbreaking for design and permitting.
- Semi-custom or full custom: More design control and often site-specific engineering. Plan for 9–14+ months, depending on permitting, finishes, and lead times.
Tip: If timing is critical, ask about any inventory homes or homes in late-stage construction that fit your needs. If you want specific finishes or structural options, a build-to-order plan often provides the best balance of speed and customization.
Step-by-step: Lot to keys in Wildblue
Below is the typical sequence for a production build in Estero. Custom builds follow the same steps with more time for design and engineering.
Lot selection and reservation (1 day–4 weeks)
You choose a lot and reserve it with the builder or developer. Confirm the lot’s orientation, setbacks, and any conservation or lake buffers common in Wildblue. Review HOA covenants and any conditions that impact grading or landscaping.
What you do: Compare views, sun exposure, and proximity to amenities. Ask about future adjacent phases, utility stub locations, and drainage.
What to watch: Community design guidelines may limit exterior colors, screen enclosures, and pavers. Clarify ARC approval steps early.
Contract and financing or escrow (2–8 weeks)
You sign the purchase or build contract, select a lender, and complete loan approval. Some buyers use a construction loan that converts to a mortgage at completion, while others use an end loan at closing.
What you do: Provide financial documents fast and ask your lender about appraisal timing for new builds. Confirm deposit schedules in your contract.
What to watch: Ask if the builder offers a preferred lender or closing incentives. Verify who pays impact and tap fees. Contracts often include estimated completion rather than fixed dates.
Design center and selections (2–8 weeks)
You choose cabinets, flooring, countertops, fixtures, paint, and appliances. Finalizing selections before construction helps avoid change-order delays.
What you do: Make timely selections and sign off in writing. If you want specialty items like custom cabinetry or unique windows, confirm lead times.
What to watch: Changes after contract can add weeks and may require revised permits. Lock in appliances early if you have specific models in mind.
Permitting and utility approvals (4–12+ weeks)
The builder submits plans for county review and secures any HOA or ARC approvals. Utility connections and tap fees are scheduled as needed.
What you do: Keep an eye on your permit status through the builder’s updates. Ask for current Lee County review timelines.
What to watch: Standard plans in active communities tend to move faster. Lots with wetlands, flood zone concerns, or special site work can add time.
Site work and foundation (2–6 weeks)
Crews clear, grade, and prepare the site. Foundations in coastal counties may require elevation work. You will see form boards, plumbing rough-ins, and the slab or pilings set.
What you do: Consider an independent pre-pour inspection to verify footing, rebar, and plumbing placement.
What to watch: Heavy rain can pause concrete schedules. Confirm who communicates inspection results to you.
Framing (3–6 weeks)
Walls go up, roof trusses are set, and sheathing is installed. The home’s shape comes to life.
What you do: Walk the plan on site and confirm any field clarifications in writing.
What to watch: Truss availability can affect timing. Verify that any structural options in your contract match what is built.
Rough-ins: electrical, plumbing, HVAC (2–6 weeks)
Trades run wiring, pipes, and ductwork. County inspections usually occur after these rough stages.
What you do: Consider a pre-drywall inspection to confirm framing, penetrations, and fire-blocking.
What to watch: Keep notes for outlet placements, low-voltage drops, and any future tech needs.
Insulation, drywall, and interior finishes (4–10 weeks)
Insulation is installed, drywall goes up, then paint, cabinets, flooring, and trim follow. The home shifts from shell to finished interior.
What you do: Verify cabinet layouts and finish schedules. Visit during daylight to spot punch-list items early.
What to watch: Specialty materials and custom cabinetry can extend this stage. Protect floors during later trades.
Exterior finishes and utilities (2–6 weeks)
Driveways, pavers, paint, exterior lighting, landscaping, and final utility hookups are completed.
What you do: Confirm landscape choices fit HOA guidelines. Ask about irrigation and sod schedules.
What to watch: Tap connections and capacity scheduling can affect final sign-off. Make sure driveway and screen enclosure details align with ARC approvals.
Final inspections, punch list, CO, and closing (1–4 weeks)
The builder requests final municipal inspections and the Certificate of Occupancy. You complete a final walk-through and punch list. Closing usually occurs soon after CO and recording.
What you do: Bring your inspector for the final walk. Confirm warranty contacts and emergency procedures.
What to watch: Lenders typically require proof of homeowners insurance, and flood insurance if applicable, before closing. Keys are released after funds are disbursed and documents are recorded.
Local factors that impact timing
Permits and ARC reviews
In Estero and Lee County, plan review times vary with workload. Production plans in established communities often move faster than custom designs. In Wildblue, HOA and ARC guidelines may require approvals for items such as exterior colors, pavers, and screen enclosures. Coordinate ARC and county submittals to avoid back-and-forth delays.
Weather and hurricane season
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Heavy rain and storm activity can delay framing, roofing, exterior finishes, and concrete work. Build in schedule float, especially June through October.
Materials and labor availability
Windows, doors, cabinetry, and specialty finishes can have long lead times. Builder workload in high-growth periods can also stretch schedules. Lock selections early and keep a buffer for critical materials.
Flood zones and elevation
Some lots fall within FEMA flood zones. That can trigger elevation requirements or engineered fill and may affect foundation design. Your lender may require flood insurance. Ask your builder to confirm the lot’s flood status and how it affects the plan and permitting.
Utilities and fees
Water and sewer service is typically through Lee County Utilities or a private provider tied to the community. Tap fees and scheduling can influence the final stage. Clarify who pays which fees and when they are due.
How to keep your build on track
Use these practical steps to reduce risk and maintain momentum.
- Get the milestones in writing: Permit submission date, expected permit approval, groundbreaking, framing, mechanical rough-in, drywall, and estimated CO.
- Keep a personalized checklist: Track selection deadlines, deposit dates, lender milestones, HOA submissions, and inspection windows.
- Hire independent inspections: Pre-pour, pre-drywall, and final. Share reports with the builder promptly.
- Confirm responsibilities and costs: Who schedules municipal inspections, pays permit and tap fees, and handles ARC submissions.
- Ask for current timelines: Have the builder or permit expeditor share current Lee County review and inspection turnaround times.
- Plan for buffers: Weather days and material lead-time contingency, especially for windows and appliances.
- Line up insurance and title early: Get quotes for homeowners and flood policies, and select a title company with new construction experience in Lee County.
- Understand punch-list and payment terms: Know what must be finished before closing and what will be completed after, if applicable.
- Choose your lot wisely: Evaluate drainage, utility stubs, sun path, nearby future phases, and conservation buffers.
Sample timelines by build type
Spec or inventory home: 30–90 days
- Week 1–2: Contract, loan application, title opened.
- Week 2–5: Appraisal, lender conditions, insurance binders.
- Week 4–8: Final inspection or CO if near complete, closing scheduled.
- Week 5–12: Closing, recording, keys.
Production build-to-order: 7–11 months
- Weeks 1–4: Lot reservation, contract, lender approval started.
- Weeks 2–8: Design selections completed.
- Weeks 4–12: HOA/ARC plus county permitting.
- Months 3–4: Groundbreaking and foundation.
- Months 4–6: Framing and rough-ins.
- Months 6–8: Drywall and interior finishes.
- Months 8–9: Exterior finishes and utilities.
- Months 9–11: Final inspections, CO, closing.
Semi-custom or custom: 10–16 months
- Add time for site engineering, custom plan review, and specialty finishes. Sequencing is similar, but permits and selections typically take longer.
Closing, keys, and warranties
You usually receive keys after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued, your lender funds the loan, and the closing documents are recorded. This can be the same day as CO or a few days later, depending on the title process and funding.
Most builders provide a limited workmanship warranty for one year, a two-to-ten-year systems or major components warranty, and a ten-year structural warranty that may be administered by a third party. Ask for the written warranty, the claims process, response times, and any exclusions.
Ready to walk this path with a steady local guide who knows Wildblue and Estero new construction inside and out? Connect with Peggy Lotz for white-glove, lot-to-keys representation that keeps your build moving and your interests protected.
FAQs
How long from contract to groundbreaking in Estero?
- For most production builds, expect 4–12 weeks to complete design selections, HOA reviews, and county permits; custom builds often take 3 months or more before site work begins.
Can I buy a lot in Wildblue now and build later?
- Yes, lot-only purchases are common; review contract time limits, carrying costs, and any HOA maintenance or landscape requirements tied to unimproved lots.
Which inspections should I order on new construction?
- At minimum, schedule pre-pour or foundation, pre-drywall, and final inspections; consider a termite or WDO inspection and an independent punch-list review before closing.
Who handles municipal inspections during the build?
- The builder typically schedules county inspections; you can request logs and arrange independent inspections at agreed milestones.
When will I get the keys to my new Wildblue home?
- After the Certificate of Occupancy, lender funding, and recording are complete; this may be the same day as final approvals or a few days later.
How do change orders affect my timeline?
- Changes after contract usually add time because materials must be reordered and permits may need revisions; finalize selections before construction to avoid delays.
What insurance will my lender require for closing?
- Lenders typically require homeowners insurance and may require flood insurance if the lot is in a mapped flood zone; secure quotes early to keep closing on track.
