If you’re house hunting in Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, or Bonney Lake, you might be passing over newly built homes without even realizing you’re making a mistake. A lot of that hesitation comes from old myths that don’t hold up in today’s market. Let’s set the record straight so you can make a fully informed decision.
Myth 1: New Homes Are Always More Expensive
It’s easy to assume a shiny, just-finished home costs more than an existing one—but right now, that’s not always true.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median price of a newly built home is actually lower than the median price of an existing home. That’s partly because builders are creating smaller, more affordable homes and also offering price cuts to keep sales moving.
If you’ve written off new construction because of cost, it’s worth revisiting your options—especially with local builders in areas like Puyallup and Auburn eager to make deals.
Myth 2: Builders Won’t Negotiate
Many buyers think builders have rigid pricing. In reality, a builder sitting on finished inventory is highly motivated to sell. Some are offering incentives like closing cost assistance or mortgage rate buydowns, which you may not see from a traditional seller.
In June, industry tracker Zonda found that 75% of new home communities offered incentives on quick move-in homes. In places like Bonney Lake and Lake Tapps, that could mean thousands of dollars saved.
Myth 3: They Don’t Build Them Like They Used To
Concerns about craftsmanship aren’t tied to a home’s age—they’re tied to the builder. Quality varies in every era, which is why choosing a reputable builder matters most.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends speaking with recent buyers to gauge satisfaction, and your local real estate agent can point you toward builders in Tacoma, SeaTac, and surrounding areas with a strong track record.
Myth 4: You Don’t Need Your Own Real Estate Agent
When buying a newly built home, having your own agent is not optional—it’s essential. Builder contracts have unique terms, and you want someone advocating solely for your best interests.
In a Realtor.com survey, buyers who purchased new construction rated their agent’s help as more valuable than the builder’s representative. Whether you’re in Burien, Normandy Park, or Sumner, a local pro can navigate the fine print and ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Bottom line: Don’t let myths steer you away from new construction homes. With the right strategy—and the right agent—you might find your perfect fit for less than you think.
Start your search with local real estate expertise that keeps your best interests front and center.
