It is interesting that your builder is so aware of these problems but has not found a way to avoid them.

R8 - While not perfect, our builder has worked hard to get us the house we want, been honest about problems, and has fixed them. I don't know how he could have avoided the oven problem. They told him the order was complete and ready and they were wrong and now it will take more time to get that model. He said he is still working with them on making them fix it by getting it here sooner. Don't know what else he could have done.

Sounds more like an oversight than a systemic ordering pattern.

SPF - Carrying less inventory is one way to stay in business in lean times. It runs all the way up to the factory.

Can you get a cheap used oven for now and the one of your dreams later? And go with bare floor for closing?

lazygrdens - Carrying less inventory - yes I have noticed - The house we have just moved into and noticed that the Vicking Range does not have a broiling pan.
I want to get a large one and saw one at Crates & Barrel that would work - it's on back order till Feb. - really!

lazy - thanks for the thoughts. The carpet is now in and the oven is scheduled for the 14th, so we should still make it before Christmas, but barely.