Why Right Now Might Be the Best Time To Buy a New Construction Home

If you’ve been feeling like the market hasn’t offered many good opportunities lately, new construction might be your unexpected advantage. Builders are offering more choices and more incentives than we’ve seen in years — giving buyers a rare chance to get both the home they want and a deal that actually feels good.

This kind of buyer-friendly combo doesn’t happen often. Here’s why this moment stands out — and why working with a trusted local agent can help you get the most out of it.

1. There Are More New Homes Available — For Now

Inventory for brand-new homes is running higher than usual, meaning buyers get:

• More communities and locations

• More move-in-ready options

• More floor plans and layouts

• More modern upgrades and features

  
  

But this abundance might not stick around.

Market data from Zonda shows that new home starts have been gradually declining over the past few years. Builders are slowing down — not because demand is gone, but because they want to avoid oversupply.

And forecasts say that slowdown will likely continue next year.

Right now, about 1 in 3 homes for sale (27%) is a new build, according to Redfin. That’s still higher than normal, but it’s also the lowest share in four years — another sign that today’s wide selection may shrink soon.

If you’re looking for the most choices, this is the window.

Why the pullback? Simple: builders already have more inventory than usual and want to sell what’s completed before starting the next wave of projects.

2. Builder Incentives Are at Record Highs

Here’s where buyers really win.

Because builders want to move their current inventory, they’re offering some of the most attractive incentives we’ve seen in years — many of which directly lower your upfront and monthly costs:

• Price reductions on brand-new homes

• Closing cost assistance, sometimes worth thousands

• Included upgrades like premium finishes, appliance packages, or designer features

• Mortgage rate buydowns, which help secure a lower rate and reduce your monthly payment

  
  

These incentives can make new construction far more affordable than most buyers expect.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to explore new homes, this could be it. More options, more incentives, and a softer pace of new construction create a unique opportunity — one that may not last long.