If you’ve been bypassing newly built homes in your home search, you may be doing so based on outdated misconceptions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about new construction homes—and why now might be the perfect time to give them another chance.

Myth 1: New Homes Are Always More Expensive

It’s a common belief that brand-new homes come with a higher price tag than older ones, but that isn’t always the case—especially in today’s market.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median price of a new home is currently lower than that of an existing home that’s already been lived in:

Heather Long, Chief Economist at Navy Federal Credit Union, offers insight into this trend:

“This largely reflects two trends: New homes are getting smaller on average, and builders are doing more price cuts.”

So, if you’ve assumed that new homes are out of your budget, it may be time to revisit that assumption. Your local real estate agent can help you explore new construction options that align with your financial goals.

Myth 2: Builders Don’t Negotiate

Another common myth is that builders are rigid when it comes to negotiation. But the reality is far more encouraging. Many builders currently have completed inventory they’re eager to sell, making them much more open to discussions around pricing and incentives.

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, explains:

“. . . would love to sell you the home because they’re not living in it. It costs money not to sell the home. And many of the public home builders have said in their earnings calls that they are not going to be pulling back on incentives, especially the mortgage rate buydown . . .”

This means you might actually have more room to negotiate with a builder than with a typical home seller. In fact, according to Zonda, 75% of new home communities were offering incentives on quick move-in homes as of June. These deals can include rate buydowns, upgrades, or closing cost assistance—making new construction more attractive than ever.

Myth 3: New Homes Lack Quality

Some buyers worry that modern homes don’t have the same attention to detail or craftsmanship as older homes. But the truth is that quality varies across all types of homes, regardless of when they were built—and choosing a reputable builder can make all the difference.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends doing your homework by speaking with previous buyers. In a helpful article, NAHB states:

“Any high-quality builder should be ready to provide you with the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. If they cannot, consider that a red flag and walk away.”

They also suggest asking questions like:

- Did the builder meet your expectations?

- Would you choose the same builder again?

In addition, your real estate agent can be a valuable resource. Agents often have firsthand experience with local builders and can share insights based on previous client transactions.

Myth 4: You Don’t Need Your Own Real Estate Agent

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you don’t need your own agent when purchasing a new construction home. In fact, having an experienced agent on your side is more important than ever. Builder contracts often contain unique clauses and fine print that require a trained eye to interpret.

A recent Realtor.com survey revealed that buyers who used their own agent to purchase a newly built home found their agent significantly more helpful than the builder or the builder’s representative:

This highlights the value of working with a knowledgeable professional who can advocate for your best interests and ensure you understand every step of the process.

Bottom Line

Don’t let outdated myths stand in the way of discovering the benefits of new construction homes. Whether you’re concerned about cost, negotiation, or quality, there’s a good chance new builds offer more flexibility and opportunity than you might expect.

If you're curious about what’s available in your area or wondering whether a new home could be a great fit for your lifestyle and budget, reach out to Mike Panza and the team at Panza Home Group. They’re here to guide you every step of the way and help you find the perfect home.

For more information or to get in touch, visit: https://panzarealestate.com/team/mike-panza