Investing

Pre-construction in Miami: a buyer’s playbook

How buying a Miami condo before it’s built actually works — the deposits, the timeline, and how to protect yourself.

6 min read

What “pre-construction” means

Buying pre-construction (a lançamento) means reserving a unit in a new development before — or while — it’s being built. You lock in today’s price and get first choice of layouts and views, then pay in stages as the building goes up.

How the deposits work

Miami pre-construction typically follows a staged deposit schedule — often something like 10% at reservation, 10% at contract, more at groundbreaking and at milestones, with the balance at closing. Your deposits are usually held in escrow. The exact structure varies by developer, so always read it carefully.

The upside

You buy at pre-construction pricing (often below the market by the time it delivers), choose the best units first, and get a brand-new home with warranties and modern layouts. For investors, there’s potential appreciation between contract and closing.

The risks — and how to manage them

Timelines can slip, and the market can move between contract and delivery. Protect yourself by focusing on developers with a strong track record of finished projects, confirming your deposits are held in escrow, reading the contract’s delivery and cancellation terms, and making sure your financing plan fits the timeline.

Why work with an agent

In pre-construction, the on-site sales team works for the developer — not for you. I represent your side: comparing projects, reading the deposit and delivery terms, and steering you toward buildings that hold value and actually get finished. It usually costs you nothing extra, since the developer covers the commission.

Thinking about a new development? Send me a message and I’ll walk you through the current launches — or download my free relocation guide to start.

Ready to make your move?

Get my free relocation guide, or start a conversation — I’m one message away.

Meg Miami