Why Homebuyers Are Choosing New Construction in 2026

January 28, 2026  |  Florida Living, Homebuilding

Florida’s real estate market is expected to “level out” a bit more in 2026 with more inventory on the market. More inventory gives buyers more negotiating power. Nationally, inventory levels are about 20% above where they were last year according to the National Association of Realtors. Most notable is the statement from NAR about new construction homes. “New homes vs. resale pricing—an unexpected dynamic: The median resale home price right now is actually more expensive than the median price of a newly built home. That’s only happened two or three times over the last few decades. The combination of builder incentives, including price cuts and the geography of where new construction is occurring has produced this odd situation where the typical resale home is more expensive than a newly built home.”

The Florida Association of Realtors says Florida remains a strong market as it continues to attract new residents. Holiday Builders is growing its footprint in Florida, investing in land and creating new developments. Additionally, Holiday Builders offers buy down rates for qualified buyers when using Coastal Loans for financing. Other financial incentives may include monies toward closing costs or full appliance packages on move-in ready homes. In summary, the availability of new construction homes in desirable areas of the state, and financial incentives to help buyers purchase a new home corroborate NAR’s findings. In today’s market, the typical resale home is more expensive than a newly built house.

Obvious advantages of purchasing a new construction home remain consistent, no matter market conditions. New energy-star rated appliances, new HVAC systems, new plumbing, and new building materials all create an energy-efficient home, built to today’s building standards. There are no renovations needed, no roofs or water heaters to replace as is a possibility with a resale home. Lower insurance costs for new construction and a full-year of a transferable warranty protect new homeowners from unpleasant and expensive surprises.

The real estate market is balancing out with greater inventory and mortgage interest rates are slowly inching downward. Homebuilders are sweetening the pot with financial incentives and by building new home in new communities in growing areas. Given the choices, new construction offers a greater value and a lesser price in 2026 and that’s great news for homebuyers.

This post was written by Tina Suiter.