Homebuilders are the ones that are actually building and constructing homes. Homebuilders will setup a model home to showcase floor plans and styles in new communities for potential buyers. The home buyer will meet with the builder to see what their options are for floor plans, interior and exterior styles and upgrades. 

The developer is the actual company the purchased the land and began development. A commercial developer would buy the land that they want commercial property to be built on while a residential developer is going to buy land where homes and planned communities are intended to be built.

Developers have responsibilities including surveying the land, clearing vegetation, zoning and planning for lots and home positions. They’ll stake out driveway beds, create streets, sidewalks and streetlights.