If you're house hunting around Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, or Bonney Lake, don’t overlook one of today’s best-kept secrets in real estate—new construction homes. While many buyers are sticking to the resale market, brand-new homes might just offer the price and mortgage relief you’ve been searching for.
More New Homes Are Available Than You Think
According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), roughly 1 in 5 homes for sale today is newly built. That’s a significant portion of the market—and if you’re not exploring new construction options, you could be missing out on a better fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Home Builders Are More Motivated Than Ever
Many builders across the Puget Sound region—especially in areas like Tacoma and Bonney Lake—are eager to sell their existing inventory. This means they’re offering competitive pricing and valuable incentives to attract buyers.
As Buddy Hughes, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), recently said:
“Almost 40% of home builders reduced sales prices in the last month.”
In today’s higher interest rate environment, that’s a huge benefit. Builders are not only lowering home prices—they’re also more open to negotiation. With the right agent by your side, you may be able to get even more for your money than expected.
Lower Mortgage Rates on New Builds? Yes, Really.
One of the biggest advantages of buying a newly built home right now is builder-backed mortgage rate buydowns. Builders are often offering special financing to help reduce your monthly payment, something not typically seen in resale transactions.
Data from Realtor.com reveals that in 2023 and 2024, buyers of new homes secured mortgage rates about half a percent lower than those buying existing homes. That kind of savings can go a long way in your budget, especially in areas like SeaTac, Auburn, and Normandy Park, where price and affordability matter more than ever.
What’s Next?
If you haven’t found the perfect home yet, now might be the ideal time to explore newly built communities around Puyallup, Sumner, or Lake Tapps. With more inventory, motivated builders, and better financing options, new construction homes can offer the comfort, customization, and value you’ve been looking for.
For personalized guidance and access to the latest listings in these cities, connect with a local real estate expert today. Whether you’re searching for affordability, a lower rate, or a fresh start—your real estate story starts here.
