What to expect when I buy new construction?

Hi /r/HVAC,

My wife and I are about to become homeowners and one thing that is on my mind is how we should handle cooling our home.

The default plan for the home includes a gas furnace (located in the garage) but does not include A/C. The builder offers an "upgrade" for $5000 to install an A/C unit. I have no idea what the specs for the AC unit are that they would install and have no idea if it's a reasonable price.

What I've been told is that if I choose to not have the A/C upgrade installed that the house will still be fully ducted for A/C and all the power should be present as well. The model has an AC unit that has the pipes running from the side yard under the house (crawlspace) and to the garage where the furnace is.

My question is if I choose to do this after we buy the home what should I expect the cost to be and is it ever worth it to have the builder do it as the build the house?

We are located in the Pacific Northwest and will take possession of the property in November or December so we won't need A/C for several months after moving in.

The house is 2 story, approx 1700 sqft on a cement slab foundation with a crawlspace. I know almost nothing about anything to do with home maintenance or HVAC systems so I'm curious if someone can give me some guidance as to what to expect.

Thanks!

submitted by /u/Shatteredreality
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