This Might Be the Window Buyers Have Been Waiting For on New Construction

If you have been thinking about building or buying a brand new home, this market deserves a closer look. We are seeing a shift that buyers have not had in quite some time, especially here in Elk River, Rogers, and Otsego.

Nationally, the number of new construction homes compared to existing homes is already higher than what we typically see. Locally, the numbers are even more striking. In Elk River, Rogers, and Otsego, nearly 50 percent of available homes on the market are brand new construction. That is a significant portion of inventory, and it creates real opportunities for buyers who know how to navigate it.

So what does this actually mean if you are considering new construction?

First, builders are sitting on more inventory. That includes completed homes that are move-in ready right now, not just homes that need six to twelve months to build. When builders have finished homes on the market, their priorities shift toward getting deals done rather than waiting for the perfect buyer.

Second, incentives are much more common and much more flexible. We are seeing rate buydowns, price adjustments, closing cost assistance, appliance packages, and design credits being offered across multiple builders. In some cases, builders are also offering flexible closing timelines, which can be extremely helpful if you need time to sell your current home before making a move.

This combination creates leverage for buyers. In a traditional new construction market, pricing and terms are often firm, and upgrades come at a premium. Right now, buyers have more room to negotiate pricing, incentives, and even finishes, especially on homes that have been sitting longer or are already completed.

Another major advantage is timing. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a brand new home without waiting through a long build timeline. If you want the benefits of new construction but do not want months of uncertainty, temporary housing, or multiple construction delays, this market offers options that simply were not available a few years ago.

That said, not all builders, incentives, or contracts are created equal. Understanding which incentives truly add value, how builder contracts work, and how new construction impacts your financing and resale matters more than ever.

New construction can be a great opportunity when you understand how the process really works. My New Construction Playbook walks through the key things buyers should know before choosing a builder or a brand new home.  Click below for a copy!