When it comes to buying a new construction home, timing matters — but it doesn’t have to be complicated. At Empire, we like to think in 30, 60, and 90-day windows. Why? Because it gives you a little something for everyone. Whether you’re just starting to plan, getting serious about your move, or almost ready to walk in the door, it helps you see what’s happening and what you might want to focus on.
This isn’t about choosing one timeline over another — it’s about understanding the process and knowing what to expect as your new home comes together. Here’s a look at what buyers typically think about and do at each stage.
90 Days Out: Starting to Picture Your Home
If you’re just starting to explore homeownership, this stage might be your best fit. About 90 days before a home is finished, things are really starting to take shape. Walls are up, framing is complete, and the structure is beginning to look like a home. For buyers, this stage is all about imagination and planning — no pressure, just possibilities.
You might be thinking about:
Colors and finishes: There’s still time to personalize your home — from flooring and paint to countertops and hardware.
Your timeline: Your move isn’t right around the corner, so there’s room to plan. If you’re renting, you can time your home closing with your lease ending. If you’re selling, you have time to prepare your home for the market.
Financing prep: Homes about 90 days from completion give you the perfect window to get pre-approved and explore mortgage options. Having those details lined up now means that when “the one” comes along, you’re ready to act.
It’s the stage for buyers who like to plan ahead, dream a little, and get comfortable with what their home could look like when it’s done. You don’t have to make final decisions yet — just get a feel for the space and start imagining life there.
60 Days Out: Watching It All Come Together
At around 60 days out, everything starts to feel more real. The home is taking shape inside and out, finishes are being installed, and you can start to see the personality of the space. It’s a great point to get hands-on in the process — not rushed, but close enough to picture the finish line.
Here’s what many buyers focus on around this stage:
Move-in planning: It’s time to start thinking ahead — whether that’s preparing to sell your current home, scheduling movers, or setting a realistic moving timeline.
Financing decisions: This is a smart time to lock in your interest rate or finalize loan details with your lender. Having your financing squared away keeps things stress-free as closing gets closer.
Design and details: If you’ve chosen custom finishes or upgrades, this is when you’ll see them coming to life. Many buyers enjoy walking through and watching how those early design choices transform the space.
Final preparations: Start organizing your move-in checklist — things like setting up utilities, reviewing warranties, or planning for internet and cable installation.
The 60-day mark is when excitement and anticipation start to meet reality. You can see your home’s style, sense how it’ll function, and truly start to picture yourself living there.
30 Days Out: Almost There
At 30 days out, everything feels close enough to touch. The home is nearly complete — finishes are in, landscaping is underway, and inspections are happening.
Now, most buyers are focused on logistics and the final details:
Walkthroughs: This is your chance to tour the finished home, confirm everything looks right, and ask any last-minute questions before closing.
Final paperwork: From closing documents to insurance and utilities, this is the phase where everything comes together behind the scenes to make your move seamless.
Packing and planning: Boxes, movers, and excitement — it’s all happening. The best part? You can finally see the home you’ve been waiting for, ready and waiting for move-in day.
The 30-day stage is full of energy and anticipation. It’s not about dreaming anymore — it’s about getting ready to turn the key and start your next chapter.
Putting It All Together
Thinking about a new construction home in Sioux Falls doesn’t have to feel complicated. The 30/60/90 framework just helps you understand what’s happening behind the scenes — and what’s worth focusing on at each stage.
90 days: Picture your space, explore finishes, and start planning.
60 days: Watch it all come together, coordinate logistics, and see your design choices take shape.
30 days: Final walkthroughs, finishing touches, and move-in excitement.
No matter where you are in the process, knowing how each phase unfolds helps you feel confident and prepared. Empire Homes is here to guide you through it all — from that first walkthrough to the moment you finally step inside and call it home.