Appliances and Window Coverings in New Construction: What's Included and What's Not
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One of the biggest surprises for new construction buyers: the house is done — but there's no refrigerator, no window coverings, and possibly no washer/dryer. Here's what's typically included, what you'll need to budget for, and how to negotiate to get more.
Quick Answer
Most new construction homes in California do not include refrigerators, and many don't include washer/dryer hookups by default (they're often a design center option). Window coverings — blinds, shades, shutters — are almost never included standard. Budgeting $5,000–$20,000 for post-close essentials is common, depending on home size and your preferences. The good news: these items are negotiable as part of your incentive package if you know how to ask.
What's Typically Included Standard
Almost always included:
- Built-in microwave
- Oven/range (gas or electric depending on community)
- Dishwasher
Sometimes included:
- Refrigerator (check the builder's standard features list carefully)
- Washer/dryer hookups (structural rough-in is standard; appliances are usually not)
Almost never included standard:
- Refrigerator (major exception varies by builder)
- Washer and dryer
- Window coverings of any kind
- Landscaping (front sometimes; backyard almost never)
- Garage storage
- Exterior lighting beyond code minimum
- Security system
The Window Covering Problem
A new construction home with no window coverings is genuinely uncomfortable — you're visible from outside, and you'll be living with bare windows for weeks or months while you figure out what you want. A medium-sized home with 20–30 windows can cost $5,000–$15,000 to cover depending on material choice.
Options:
- Builder design center: Convenient but expensive. Expect 150–200% markup on standard blinds.
- Request it as an incentive: "Can we add a window covering credit of $X as part of the package?" Many builders will say yes.
- Budget and shop yourself: Companies like Budget Blinds or IKEA can be much cheaper.
What to Negotiate
When finalizing your incentive package, ask about:
Refrigerator credit or inclusion: Even $1,500–$2,500 toward a refrigerator makes a difference. Some builders will include it directly.
Window covering credit or allowance: $3,000–$8,000 is reasonable to ask for, especially if the builder already covers window coverings for some buyers.
Appliance upgrade package: If the builder has a package that includes nicer appliances, ask if the upgrade cost can be covered by the incentive budget.
Backyard/landscaping credit: Many builders leave the backyard as graded dirt. A $5,000–$15,000 landscaping credit is worth asking for.
→ See also: Builder Incentives Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does new construction include a refrigerator in California?
A: It depends on the builder. Most production builders don't include refrigerators standard — but it varies. Always check the standard features list.
Q: Why don't new construction homes come with window coverings?
A: Builders prefer to offer window coverings as a paid design center option — they have high markup. It's a profit center, not an oversight.
Q: How much should I budget for window coverings on a new build?
A: $4,000–$12,000 for a typical 3–4 bedroom home, depending on material and coverage level. Plantation shutters are the high end; basic blinds are much less.
Q: Can I get appliances included in my new construction deal?
A: Yes, through negotiation. Ask for a credit or inclusion as part of your incentive package. This works better on standing inventory or near quarter-end.
Q: When should I buy appliances for a new build?
A: Measure carefully before ordering. New construction dimensions sometimes differ from standard. Also wait until 60 days before close to avoid delivery timing issues.
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