How many sq feet are the HC homes? The more sf, the more rooms, the higher the cost for upgrades. You COULD just get by with standard paint from the builder but buying a house in that price range is going to get most people to add bedroom feature walls (wainscot, wall tile, bricks, etc), built in entertainment centers, built in offices, very nice bathrooms, nice backyard with upscale outdoor kitchen, fireplaces, water features, driveways redone, nice hardscape, etc. All costs money and it's definitely a keep up with the Jones environment.
U want that HC home to look like a standard tract home............. keep the $700K in your pocket. If u want it to look decent, plan on spending a LOT of money.
If you don't mind your neighbors being like Caitlyn and you being like a wannabe Caitlyn, keep the cash and hope your kids don't invite any neighbors over.