Buying process
Design center strategy at SeaFlower: what to buy from the builder and what to do after closing
Where the design budget actually goes, what must be done before the slab, what the builder marks up, and the spending rule I give every client.
Independent buyer’s guide, not the developer’s or any builder’s website. Figures are as published by the builders and developer on the dates noted and must be verified with them before you rely on them. The developer’s official website.
Quick answer
Buy from the builder what is hard or impossible to change later: structural options, kitchen layout, cabinets, counters, flooring, plumbing rough-ins, electrical locations, and anything inside the walls. Do after closing what is easy and cheaper on the open market: lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, closet systems, window treatments, paint colors, landscaping and pools in many cases. Cardel's own FAQ says buyers typically spend 10% to 20% of base price in the design center; most of my clients land between 5% and 15% with a plan.
Timing
Structural options (extra garage bay, extended lanai, bonus room, garage suite, pool bath, plumbing for a future outdoor kitchen) must be chosen before the slab is poured. Design selections lock a few weeks after contract. Builders order materials early, which is why nobody accepts changes after the cutoff and why owner-supplied flooring, counters or cabinets are not allowed.
Where the money goes
Kitchens and flooring dominate. Cabinet upgrades and countertop levels move the number fastest; tile and wood flooring across the whole home is the second line. Bath tile and plumbing fixtures come next. Lighting packages are the classic place builders make margin on items you can buy for less after closing.
What to insist on from the builder
Anything that requires opening a wall or a slab later: extra outlets and data drops, under-cabinet lighting rough-in, gas stub for a range or grill (SeaFlower has TECO natural gas service), pre-wire for ceiling fans and a generator transfer switch, pool electrical and plumbing stubs, and an upgraded electrical panel if you plan an EV charger or a suite.
What to hold for after closing
Fans, pendant and chandelier fixtures, closet built-ins, blinds and drapes, mirrors, garage storage, screen enclosures on some plans, and landscaping upgrades. Compare the builder's price to a local contractor's quote and you will usually see why.
Credits
Cardel was offering up to $20,000 toward design options in September 2026, and design credits are one of the most negotiable incentives with every builder because they cost the builder less than they are worth to you.
Sources: Cardel Homes FAQ (Sep 3, 2026); David Weekley design center page; builder incentive pages (Sep 3, 2026).
Written by Trenton Miller, MBA
Buyer’s agent with LPT Realty, LLC and founder of Found Your Florida. Seven years on the builder side, including operations at David Weekley Homes, where he briefly oversaw the SeaFlower community. He now represents buyers only. More about Trenton · Book a call
Keep reading
- Lot premiums at SeaFlower: what drives them, how much they run, and when they are negotiable
- Buying a SeaFlower home from out of state: the plan from twelve months out to closing day
- Buying a second home or seasonal home at SeaFlower: lock-and-leave product, HOA coverage and taxes
- SeaFlower rental rules: whole-home leasing, ADU leases, the apartments, and what the HOA documents govern
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