Most people looking at new construction homes focus on factors such as location, layout, or price, and those are important considerations. However, one factor that is often overlooked is timing. Buying early in a new development can give you a real edge. You may get a better price, more choices when it comes to lots and floor plans, and the chance to personalize your home in ways that might not be available later on. Plus, as housing becomes more limited in some markets, buying early can guarantee you a place in a competitive market.
If you’re thinking about building in a new community, it’s worth understanding why being among the first buyers can make a difference, financially and otherwise.
Understanding Phases of a New Development
When a builder opens a new community, homes are typically released in phases. These homes are allocated in batches to ensure sustainable logistics in the building process, but this also limits available inventory. Only a portion of the lots and floor plans are available to start.
Buying early usually means you’re getting in during one of the first phases—sometimes even before the model homes are finished. This is when pricing tends to be at its lowest and choices are at their widest. You might be working off floor plan brochures instead of finished homes, but in return, you’re often rewarded with better selection and potential savings.
For buyers who are comfortable making decisions before everything is fully built out, getting in early can offer some real advantages.
Financial Benefits of Buying Early
One of the biggest reasons to buy early is pricing. Builders often start with lower pricing to attract interested buyers. As demand grows and the community develops, prices naturally increase. Getting in early can mean locking in a better deal before those increases occur.
You might also see some incentives—things like design credits, closing cost assistance, or appliance upgrades. While many builders offer these features throughout the selling process, they are more common and available during this starting period.
Buying early can also give you a head start on equity. As home values rise throughout the build-out, early buyers often see their homes appreciate before they even move in.
Better Lot Selection
Early buyers usually get first pick of available lots, which can make a big difference in day-to-day living. That might mean choosing a corner lot, a cul-de-sac, a spot with more privacy, or something closer to planned amenities like parks or walking trails.
As more homes sell, those prime locations quickly disappear. Waiting until later phases often means settling for what’s left. If lot placement matters to you—and for many buyers, it does—being early gives you the most options and the fewest compromises.
Easier Logistics
Buying early often gives you more time to plan. With a longer construction timeline, you can prep your current home for sale, line up financing, or schedule a move that works for your family’s calendar.
There’s usually less pressure, too. You’re not competing with a long line of buyers, and builders tend to be more flexible early on with things like move-in dates or minor changes to the build schedule. If you need time to get everything in order, buying early can take some of the stress out of the process.
Satisfaction in Home and Community
Finances and logistics aren’t the only positives to buying early. Early homebuyers tend to enjoy more satisfaction with their home and community as a whole.
There’s a sense of ownership and pride that comes from being invested in something from its beginning. Early buyers often feel more connected to their home and neighborhood because they got to watch it grow around them. You meet new neighbors as they arrive, watch community amenities come to life, and see the culture take shape in real time.
Early involvement can make your home feel more personal. Instead of stepping into something already built and lived-in, you’re helping create it—both physically and socially.
Potential Considerations to Keep In Mind
Buying early comes with clear advantages, but it’s worth being aware of a few trade-offs. For one, construction may still be underway around your home for a while. While your builder will try to work quickly and quietly, you may have to deal with some additional noise or dust for a short period of time.
Some features of the community—like pools, parks, or clubhouses—may not be ready when you move in. If access to those amenities is a big part of your decision, it’s good to ask when they’re expected to open.
Finally, timelines are also prone to shift as building progresses. Weather, supply issues, or permitting delays might affect your move-in date. That’s why it helps to work with a builder who communicates clearly and gives realistic updates along the way. Beechwood Homes, for example, works with homebuyers to ensure that all considerations are communicated as soon as possible.
None of these issues are dealbreakers for most early buyers, but they’re worth thinking through so you can plan with clear expectations.
What Questions Should You Ask the Builder?
If you’re thinking about buying early in a new development, asking the right questions can help you feel more prepared and confident. Here are a few to bring to your builder or sales team:
1. What phase is the community in, and how many homes are planned?
This gives you a feel for the progress of the community and how much choice you’ll have in lot selection.
2. What incentives are offered for buyers at this phase?
Some builders offer pricing deals, upgrades, or help with closing costs – especially early on.
3. What lots and floor plans are available?
In many developments, especially master-planned communities, there are a finite number of floor plans and home types. If you’re later in the build, your options may be more limited.
4. When will community amenities be completed?
If features like parks, pools, or clubhouses are important, find out when they’ll be usable.
5. What happens if delays occur?
It’s smart to know how the builder handles scheduling changes or unexpected issues.
Is Buying Early Right for You?
Buying early in a new development might seem intimidating for some, but for many homebuyers, it offers real advantages. From better pricing and lot selection to a smoother decision-making process, there are plenty of reasons to consider getting in at the start.
It helps to go in with the right questions and clear expectations. When you do, the process tends to feel more rewarding and less rushed. If you’re exploring new construction communities, including those built by trusted names like Beechwood Homes, taking a closer look early in the process could be a smart move.
Contact Beechwood Homes today to learn more about some of our new projects and developments.