When you decide it’s time to build or buy a new home, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to purchase a move-in ready home or build from the ground up. Both options offer distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your timeline, lifestyle, and priorities—not just preferences.
Understanding the difference can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
What a SPEC Home Really Is
A SPEC home—short for speculative home—is a home built before a buyer is under contract. It allows a builder to move forward using common buyer preferences and proven layouts, while removing the need for a future homeowner to make individual selections during the build.
129 Riviera Dr is a perfect example. From the floor plan and structural details to the finishes and flow of the space, every decision was made thoughtfully by our team.
Rather than waiting for a buyer to guide selections, we leaned into our experience to design a home that reflects how people actually live—balancing function, timeless style, and long-term value.
The difference comes down to timing. With a home like 129 Riviera Dr, the vision is already complete, the selections are finalized, and the home is already finished allowing buyers to move in much sooner.
The Benefits of Buying Move-In Ready
Move-in ready homes offer clarity, efficiency, and simplicity—without sacrificing quality.
Benefits include:
A shorter timeline with no extended build process
Predictable pricing with all standards and upgrades included
Immediate visual confidence—you can walk the home and see exactly what you’re getting
Less potential decision fatigue, since selections are already professionally curated
For buyers who value speed, certainty, or a streamlined experience, a home like 129 Riviera Dr can be the perfect fit.
The Benefits of Building From the Ground Up
Building from the ground up offers a more personalized journey. This path is ideal for homeowners who:
Want to make hands-on design decisions
- Choosing the location/neighborhood
Need specific layout modifications
Have flexibility in their timeline
Enjoy being involved throughout the construction process
With Prodigy Homes, custom builds are supported by guidance, structure, and our Autograph Collection—a curated selection system that simplifies choices while maintaining elevated, custom-quality results.
How to Decide Without Pressure
Choosing between a move-in ready home and building from the ground up isn’t about which option is better—it’s about what fits your life right now. Ask yourself:- How soon do I want or need to move?
- Do I enjoy making design decisions, or would I prefer them handled for me?
- Do I value flexibility, or certainty?
