Builder Incentives Hit 5-Year Peak
Even though housing inventory is increasing, many buyers are still struggling to find a home that feels like the right fit and falls within their budget. Maybe the floor plan doesn’t quite work, maybe it needs more upgrades, or maybe it just doesn’t stand out.
That’s why an increasing number of buyers are exploring new construction—and discovering some of the most competitive offers available today.
The reason? Builders currently have more completed homes sitting unsold than usual. Since they run a business, they can’t afford to let inventory sit; they need to move these homes before starting new projects. And that urgency can work to your advantage.
As Lance Lambert, Co-Founder of ResiClub, explains:
“In housing markets where unsold completed inventory has built up, many homebuilders have pulled back on their spec builds—and many are doing bigger incentives or outright price cuts to move unsold inventory.”
Incentives Are the Highest in 5 Years
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 66% of builders offered sales incentives this past August. That’s the highest point so far this year—and the largest share in five years.
This means that two-thirds of builders are sweetening the deal to get buyers into their homes. And when that happens, buyers like you are the ones who benefit.
Price Cuts Are Making a Comeback
One of the most common perks right now is direct price reductions. NAHB reports that nearly 40% of builders are cutting prices. On average, that discount comes to about 5% of the home’s price.
For example, on a $500,000 home, a 5% cut translates to $25,000 in savings. That’s the difference between compromising and finding a home that truly fits your needs.
Even when a builder won’t lower the sticker price, there are other incentives available. As Realtor.com notes:
“. . . there are deals to be found in the market for new homes, with builders increasingly willing to negotiate on price or offer incentives such as rate buydowns and closing cost assistance.”
Why This Matters for Buyers
When purchasing a home, you want more than just any property—you want your home, the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Newly built homes often meet those expectations by offering:
Spacious kitchens and open floor plans
Energy-efficient features that lower utility costs
Smart-home technology
Fewer immediate maintenance concerns
With today’s builder incentives, achieving that dream has become more affordable than it’s been in years.
One Key Tip: Don’t Go It Alone
If you’re considering taking advantage of these offers, be sure to work with your own real estate agent. Builder representatives are hired to protect the builder’s profits—not to save you money. Having your own agent ensures that:
You get honest financial comparisons without sales spin
You know which incentives are truly valuable
Negotiations are handled in your favor
Your best interests remain the priority throughout the process
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been struggling to find the right home, the new construction market offers a unique window of opportunity. With record-high incentives, significant price reductions, and builders eager to sell, now is the best time in years to consider a new build.
Curious how much further today’s incentives could stretch your budget? Let’s connect and explore what builders in our area are offering.
