Northern California Homes: Century Communities At a Glance
Home Type
Single-family homes
Bedroom Count
2 to 5 bedrooms
Square Footage
1,118 to 3,674 square feet
Stories
One to two stories
Standard Features
Century Home Connect® smart home package, granite or quartz countertops, garages
Buyer Questions About Northern California
+ How long does new construction take in Northern California?
On average, a to-be-built home takes 6–8 months from permit to close. Quick move-in homes typically close in 30–45 days after contract.
+ How much earnest money is typical in Northern California?
Buyers usually deposit 1–2% of the purchase price. In competitive areas, deposits can be higher, but most builders stay within this range.
+ What closing costs should I expect in Northern California?
Most buyers pay 2–3% of the purchase price. Costs include lender fees, title, prepaid taxes, and insurance.
+ Are Mello-Roos fees or HOAs more common here?
Many new communities in Northern California are part of a Mello-Roos or Community Facilities District (CFD), which levies property taxes. HOAs are also common.
+ Does new construction come with a warranty?
Yes—new homes typically include a builder warranty that covers structural elements and key systems for set periods.
+ Can I get upgrades or incentives on new homes?
Builders often offer closing cost credits or rate buydowns, especially on quick move-in homes. Offers vary by market.
+ What schools serve new communities in the Northern California?
Most Century Communities neighborhoods are zoned to well-regarded districts like Lammersville Joint Unified School District, Western Placer Unified School District, Rocklin Unified School District, and Elk Grove Unified School District.
Why Buy a Home in Northern California?
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Thriving, innovation-driven economy: Northern California is home to one of the most dynamic economies in the world, led by global innovators such as Apple, Google, Meta, and Intel. The region’s blend of technology, healthcare, education, and agriculture supports diverse career opportunities and sustained economic growth.
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Strong population and housing demand: With millions drawn to its job market, lifestyle, and natural beauty, Northern California continues to attract new residents seeking a balance of opportunity and quality of life.
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World-class education: Anchored by top-tier universities like Stanford University; the University of California, Berkeley; University of California, Davis; and Sacramento State University—along with numerous well-rated K–12 districts—Northern California is a hub for research, innovation, and academic excellence.
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Transportation and accessibility: Major interstates and transit systems connect residents across the Bay Area, Sacramento, and Central Valley, while international gateways like San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF) provide global access.
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Outdoor lifestyle and scenery: From the ocean views of the Bay area and wine country of Napa and Sonoma to the Sierra Nevada foothills and Lake Tahoe, residents enjoy unmatched access to parks, trails, and natural landmarks.
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Mild, varied climate: Northern California offers a comfortable year-round climate with distinct regional diversity—from the cool coastal breezes of the Bay Area to the sunny valleys and foothills inland. Residents enjoy mild winters, warm dry summers, and abundant sunshine, making it easy to explore the outdoors and enjoy activities throughout all four seasons.
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Cultural and recreational richness: The region offers world-class dining, arts, and entertainment—from San Francisco’s museums and music venues to historic Gold Country towns and vibrant Central Valley festivals—reflecting its diversity and creativity.
Moving to Northern California Quick Checklist
Get pre-qualified with Inspire Home Loans®
Tour model homes in your target area
Review HOA and Mello-Roos fees
Budget for seasonal weather
Align move-in with closing timeline
Why Century Communities?
Century Communities has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies three years in a row. Our Northern California homes feature modern floor plans, energy-efficient designs, and quick access to local amenities. With Inspire Home Loans® and Parkway Title, we deliver a streamlined buying experience from financing to closing.
How Does Century Compare to Other Builders in Northern California?
Century Communities is one of the Top 10 U.S. homebuilders—alongside other national homebuilders like Lennar, D.R. Horton, Meritage, and Taylor Morrison. We lead the industry in online homebuying, proudly providing homebuyers with best-in-class resources that offer more control and convenience.
Key Takeaways for Northern California Buyers
Build Timeline
6–8 months (to-be-built); 30–45 days (quick move-in)
Earnest Money
Typically 1–2% of purchase price
Closing Costs
Typically 2–3% of purchase price
Mello-Roos Fees
Common (often with HOA)
Schools
Strong options in districts like Lammersville Joint Unified School District, Western Placer Unified School District, Rocklin Unified School District, and Elk Grove Unified School District.
Homebuyer Resources
3 Qualities to Look for When Choosing a New Homebuilder
Discover the top qualities to consider when selecting a community homebuilder and ensure your dream home becomes a reality.
Read More : 3 Qualities to Look for When Choosing a New Homebuilder
Navigating the Homebuying Process in California
Have your heart set on purchasing a home in California? Check out our step-by-step guide.
Read More : Navigating the Homebuying Process in California
Steps of the Home Loan Process
It pays to understand how to secure a home loan—especially if you're a first-time buyer. Check out the basic steps of the process!
Read More : Steps of the Home Loan Process
What Is an All-Electric House?
Learn more about all-electric homes, discovering their advantages and challenges, how they compare to conventional homes, and their most common components.
Read More : What Is an All-Electric House?This is a carousel with a large content area or card above and control buttons below. Select any of the control buttons to change the active carousel item.
3 Qualities to Look for When Choosing a New Homebuilder
Discover the top qualities to consider when selecting a community homebuilder and ensure your dream home becomes a reality.
Read More : 3 Qualities to Look for When Choosing a New Homebuilder
Navigating the Homebuying Process in California
Have your heart set on purchasing a home in California? Check out our step-by-step guide.
Read More : Navigating the Homebuying Process in California
Steps of the Home Loan Process
It pays to understand how to secure a home loan—especially if you're a first-time buyer. Check out the basic steps of the process!
Read More : Steps of the Home Loan Process
What Is an All-Electric House?
Learn more about all-electric homes, discovering their advantages and challenges, how they compare to conventional homes, and their most common components.
Read More : What Is an All-Electric House?Ready to find your Northern California area dream home?
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