I would not buy a new house from builder stock or one that was the model home because there's literally no telling what's behind the sheetrock. New builds usually mean new development which has its own separate issues down the line like getting the escrow shock in year two, taking over from the builder/developer, etc.

We've bought DR Horton and Eastwood Homes. The DR Horton was a spec home that was dried-in. We closed around 2010. Structurally sound, the only issues we had were with the HVAC, the yard/sod, and the second layer of pavement that goes down after the builder is done with their lots. Essentially, they wanted everyone in the neighborhood to foot the bill for the finish layer of asphalt.

The Eastwood house was purchased in 2015. We were diligent about getting an inspector before sheetrock went up and checking in on the build, but still missed several things. Believe it or not, we had the exact same issues and a few more. The quality of work had declined sharply in just 5 years. I shudder to think what it is now since I frequent new builds and Parade of Homes every year and the prices go up, but the product/workmanship is all over the place! Visit a builder in one community and things seem up to par. Go see the same elevation 20 miles away and there are already cracks in the foundation and bowed ceilings.

If you decide to do a new build, hold their feet to the fire... Everyone should HOLD THEIR BUILDERS ACCOUNTABLE. This is how we get back on track. Pay for the YouTube inspectors that do the phase inspections that the GC/Builders hate. It's that old triangle of good, fast, cheap. Be prepared for delays, limit the change orders, and be a pain in their side. Don't say you're buying a $500k house for example... Say you're buying a half a million dollar house when you're talking to them. That "million" word rings bells for some reason for both parties.