Buying a new home comes with plenty of decisions, and everyone’s journey looks a little different. During our latest Homebuying Webinar, attendees shared thoughtful questions about financing, incentives, design selections, relocation, and more.
Let’s get into it! Here are some of the most common questions and answers from our very own industry experts.
Meet Your Hosts
Andrea Murphy | National Senior Director, Sales Implementation
Andrea has a homebuilding career spanning 25 years and leads our national sales initiatives. She partners with our markets across the country, IT, Taylor Morrison Home Funding, and Design Studio teams to align resources, enhance productivity, and deliver an exceptional customer experience.
Christie Ferro, NMLS #269639 | Taylor Morrison Home Funding, Inc. NMLS #8588 | Senior Vice President, Financial Services
Christie brings more than 28 years of mortgage industry expertise and has worked at Taylor Morrison Home Funding since 2002. She leads our national loan origination teams and partners closely with mortgage operations, title, and insurance services to ensure a seamless homebuying experience. She also works in collaboration with Taylor Morrison’s Brand Marketing team and provides strategic guidance to Community and Online Sales Managers—leveraging financing solutions as a key driver of sales success.
Meet Your Host | National Director of Design & Model Experience, Lee Crowder
Lee Crowder always has her finger on the pulse of what’s trending and timeless when it comes to home design. With nearly two decades of design experience at Taylor Morrison, Crowder’s design expertise and unique insight into the psyche of homebuyers has made her a go-to subject matter expert for the media. Today, she leads a team of design and color experts across the country to implement Taylor Morrison’s national design and model home strategy, key initiatives and programs.
Financing and Rate Incentives
How is 401(k) income considered when qualifying for a mortgage?
Retirement funds can sometimes be used during the mortgage qualification process, but eligibility depends on several factors, including:
- Your lender guidelines
- Age
- Account balance
- Account distribution history
A mortgage professional can review your specific situation and explain how retirement assets may be considered.*
Are interest rate incentives available in all locations and on any build?
Rate incentives are not always available across every community or home opportunity. Promotional financing offers can vary based on location, market conditions, inventory availability, and timing.
Pro tip
The best way to learn about current incentives is to connect with your Community Sales Manager.
Plus, visit makemoves.com to stay up to date on the latest incentives in your area!
What discounts are available if I want to pay cash?
If you’re paying cash, you may benefit from a streamlined purchasing process and potentially faster closing timelines. Available pricing incentives vary by community and market conditions.
Design Studio and Personalization
Does Taylor Morrison offer showroom or Design Studio dollar incentives?
Design-related incentives may be offered periodically in select communities. Availability depends on current promotions and regional programs. Your Community Sales Manager can provide details about any active offers.
Is there an average cost for design options?
Personalization budgets vary widely based on individual preferences. While some homebuyers focus on a few high-impact upgrades, others choose extensive customization throughout their home. Many buyers prioritize structural selections, flooring, cabinetry, and kitchen features first before considering decorative enhancements.
If pricing isn’t available before signing a contract, how can I create a budget?
A good approach is to discuss priorities early in the process and establish a comfort range for personalization choices. Your Design Consultant can help you understand available options and associated costs once selections begin, allowing you to make informed decisions that align with your overall budget.
Why do some included features feel dated compared to upgrade options?
Included features are carefully selected to provide quality, style, and value while appealing to a wide range of home shoppers.
Design upgrades offer additional flexibility for those who want premium finishes, different aesthetics, or unique personalization opportunities.
Can I view Design Studio options online?
Many communities offer online galleries, inspiration tools, and digital resources that allow you to explore styles and possibilities before appointments. Availability of online experiences varies by location.
Or, take it offline with Discover Design Day! This is your chance to explore our stunning design selections before your official appointment or before you make the decision to build. Chat one-on-one with our expert design consultants, browse beautiful tile, flooring, and countertops, and start building a personalized wish list.
What are the galleries on the design website, and how do I sort through all the options?
Online galleries are designed to help you explore finishes, color palettes, fixtures, and personalization ideas. A great starting point is to select a design style you love, identify your must-have features, and create a shortlist before your design appointment.
Design Studio Appointments and Locations
Once I choose a lot and floor plan, how quickly do I need to make design selections?
Scheduling typically depends on your home’s construction timeline. You may begin selections shortly after contract signing, or you might have additional flexibility. Your Design Consultant will guide you through key milestones and appointment deadlines.
Is there flexibility for remote buyers who need to coordinate travel and work schedules?
Many people purchase from out of state, and flexible options may be available depending on the location. Virtual appointments, digital resources, and advance planning can often help simplify the process for those looking to relocate.
How do I find out where Taylor Morrison Design Studios are located?
Your Community Sales Manager can connect you with the appropriate Design Studio serving your area and explain how appointments are scheduled.
Relocating and Buying from Another State
I live in California but plan to move to Texas. Can I meet with a Taylor Morrison representative locally?
If you’re relocating, you can often begin exploring communities, floor plans, and purchase options remotely. Local sales representatives and online resources can help you narrow your search before visiting your preferred market.
Have More Questions?
Every homebuying journey is unique, and asking questions is one of the best ways to shop with confidence. Whether you’re exploring financing, comparing communities, planning a relocation, or preparing for design selections, we’ll be there to help along every step of the way.
More Resources
Explore new homes and communities here.
See the latest offers in your area here.
Learn more about our affiliated lender, Taylor Morrison Home Funding, Inc., here.
Dive into more Design Studio information here.
Blog is intended for general informational purposes only and not as an exhaustive comparison of all factors applicable to your personal financial situation. Data used was derived from third-party sources and deemed reliable as of the date obtained, but not guaranteed, offered as investment or tax advice, or independently verified by Taylor Morrison; all information remains subject to change outside of Taylor Morrison’s control. Images do not reflect a racial, ethnic, age or familial status preference. All registered and unregistered marks of third parties used for illustrative purposes only are the exclusive property of the respective owners. September 2026, Taylor Morrison, Inc.
Taylor Morrison Home Funding, Inc., affiliated lender of the respective Taylor Morrison selling entities (“Affiliated Lender”), NMLS # 8588, 495 North Keller Road, Suite 550, Maitland, FL 32751, Licensed locations: AL: #8588 | AZ: #BK-0917436 | CA: DFPI #4130023 | CO: Registration #8588, PH# (866) 379-5390 | FL: #MLD1920 | GA: #52654 | IA: #2026-0147 | ID: #MBL-2080008588 | IN: #66890 | KY: #MC938189 | KS: #MC.0027810 | IN: #DFI-66890 | NV: #NMC-1198098 (branch located at 1820 Festival Plaza Dr., Ste. 220A, Las Vegas, NV 89135 PH# 866-379-5390) | NC: #L-191654 | OR: #ML-4272 | SC: #MLS-8588 | TN: #8588 | TX: #8588 | UT: #14303988 | WA: #CL-8588 | www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Buyer is not required to finance through Affiliated Lender to purchase a home; however, Buyer must elect to utilize the services of Affiliated Lender to receive certain promoted incentives as outlined in Buyer’s specific Purchase Agreement, which may differ by time, home selected, community and jurisdiction or contain other qualifying criteria. All loans are subject to underwriting and loan qualification of the lender. Services not available in all states. Rates, terms and conditions offered are subject to change without notice.
