Discover New Construction Buyer Trends
Download your free digital copy of the Homes.com What New Home Buyers Want 2026 Survey
Key Findings
Today’s new construction buyers approach the purchase with more information and higher expectations than ever, anchoring their decisions in space, affordability, and long-term financial confidence rather than status.
- More space is the top motivation for new construction home buyers, with 35% of survey respondents seeking a larger home.
- AI is reshaping the home search, with 51% of survey respondents using AI tools to find and explore homes.
- Upfront home-buying costs remain a top concern, with survey respondents citing homeowners insurance (50%), property taxes (49%), and closing costs (49%).
More space and financial autonomy are key motivators.
More space and financial autonomy are key motivators.
Home offices are a necessity.
Home offices are a necessity.
Ai and video drive the search.
Ai and video drive the search.
New construction is seen as an opportunity to customize.
New construction is seen as an opportunity to customize.
Reputation decides the builder.
Reputation decides the builder.
Financial decisions are top of mind.
Financial decisions are top of mind.
Function is more important than aesthetics.
Function is more important than aesthetics.
Desired Vibes of New Home Buyers By State
Scroll through the carousel below to see what kind of vibes new home buyers are looking for.
Who Are New Construction Home Buyers
More than half of all new construction buyers are first-time homeowners. Nearly three-quarters of Gen Z looking at new construction are first-time buyers.
Why Home Buyers Buy New Construction
The motivations behind new construction purchases are both emotional and deeply practical. The 2026 Homes.com New Construction Builder Study reveals that today’s buyer is anchoring decisions in financial independence, personal control, and long-term quality, not just square footage.
