Complete Guide to Buying a New Construction Home

Explore the Benefits of Buying New in Oregon & Washington

Thinking about buying a home in Washington or Oregon? These states have the perfect mix of natural beauty and lively communities, so it’s easy to see why people are flocking to these areas. In the Pacific Northwest, new construction homes are a popular choice because they offer modern designs, energy-efficient features, and the chance to create a space that’s truly yours.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or experienced homeowner, we’ll guide you every step of the way, from finding a trusted builder and understanding timelines to securing financing, all the way to closing and moving into your new home. Ready to dive in? Let's go!

Interested in exploring new homes? Check out Holt’s virtual tours.

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What is a new construction home?

A new construction home is exactly what it sounds like—a property that has never been lived in before and is either already being built or has just been completed. Buying a new construction home means you’ll get the latest quality materials, modern designs, and energy-efficient features that might not be available in older homes. Think contemporary details such as an open floor plan, smart tech and appliances, and built-in solar prewiring.

With a new construction home, you can expect fewer unexpected repairs and the chance to truly personalize your space from day one. Here are some different types of new construction homes:

Pre-sale Homes

• Purchase before construction begins, and choose a design or floor plan.
• Personalize features like finishes and layouts to create your perfect space.
• Choose from a variety of floor plans when buying a lot with Holt Homes or other builders.

Move-in Ready Homes

• Buy a home that is already under construction or completed at the time of purchase.
• Move in faster with homes already built with popular features and finishes.
• Enjoy the convenience of a home that’s ready for you to move into.

Custom Builds

• Design your home from the ground up, with full control over floor plans and details.
• Collaborate with an architect or builder to create your dream home.
• Experience flexibility and customization, bringing your unique vision to life.

Looking for a home with more space? Explore Holt’s floor plans over 2000 square ft.

Is It Better to Buy a New Construction or an Existing Home?

Imagine walking through the front door of your dream home. Do you step into a bright, open space with modern finishes or into a cozy room with a feeling of history? Deciding between buying a new construction home vs. existing ones really comes down to what matters most to you.

Purchasing a resale home means inheriting not only that beautifully rustic claw-foot tub but also whatever issues the home may have: outdated plumbing, old appliances, or worn-out flooring. With that said, there are beautiful older homes on the market that may be worth exploring.

Buying a new construction home gives you control over the entire process. From picking out the floor plan to choosing things like a spa-like bathroom or a spacious chef's kitchen, you can personalize your new home just how you need it. Because everything is brand new, you’ll have fewer maintenance worries and more energy-efficient features that really add up over the years.

Here are a few things to consider when weighing your options:

• Pre-owned vs. Brand New: With an existing home, you inherit all its quirks and potential issues. With new construction, you control the design and know everything is up to date.
• Maintenance: Older homes often come with hidden issues that can result in costly repairs. New homes come with warranties and lower maintenance costs.
• Personalization: New homes give you the opportunity to personalize everything from the floor plan to finishes, which is harder to do with an existing home.
• Timeline: Buying an existing home means a quicker move-in, but you might need to compromise on what you want. Pre-built new construction may take longer, but you get exactly what you're looking for. If you're choosing a move-in-ready new construction home, the timeline is often comparable to buying a pre-owned home.

Ready to explore your options? Discover why now is the perfect time to buy new.

Pros of Buying a New Construction Home

Ever dreamed of durable granite countertops in your kitchen? How about an extended patio for year-round hosting, or a laundry pass-through right from your primary walk-in closet? New homes offer the freedom and flexibility to make every detail yours.

A major benefit of buying new construction is the energy-efficient technology. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Star-certified heating and cooling systems can save you between 10–30% annually on your energy bills. At Holt Homes, we build zero-energy-ready homes that focus on efficiency. 

New homes usually come with warranties that cover major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, so you can have peace of mind knowing you're covered if something goes wrong.

Here’s a breakdown of the main pros of buying new construction homes:

• Personalization: Choose the floor plan and finishes that perfectly fit your personal style and needs.
• Energy Efficiency: Enjoy lower energy bills with zero-energy-ready homes, energy-efficient windows, insulation, and smart appliances.
• Peace of Mind: Benefit from warranties that cover major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
• Sustainability: Live in a home built with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient features to reduce environmental impact.

One of the greatest parts of building a new home is creating the perfect space to host family and friends. Check out our best floor plans for entertaining.

Cons of Buying a New Construction Home

So you’ve been going over all the possibilities of buying a new construction home and are starting to get excited. You like the idea of collaborating with a builder to bring your vision to life and can picture everything from your dream kitchen down to the doorknobs.

But before diving in, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons. This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and being fully informed will help you move forward with confidence.

Let’s take a look at some potential challenges that might come with buying a brand-new home:

• The cost may be higher upfront: New homes can come with higher initial costs because of new appliances, materials, and personalized options. However, these investments can save you money over time with fewer repairs and energy-efficient features.
• You’ll likely need to wait longer: Building a new home takes time, from design to construction. If you’re not in a rush, it can be well worth the wait for a home that is built with you in mind.
• A different negotiation process: With new construction, prices are typically set, so there’s less room for bargaining compared to resale homes. The upside? You’ll know exactly what your expenses are upfront, which can make the process smoother. While base pricing may be firm, many builders offer incentives—like design upgrades, closing cost assistance, or interest rate buy-downs—especially when you use their preferred lender.
• Backyard landscaping might need some work: New homes often come with backyards that will take time and effort to turn into a lush outdoor oasis. On the plus side, you get to plant exactly what you want, without the hassle of dealing with unwanted shrubs (like that overgrown blackberry bush). On the plus side, front yard maintenance is covered by your HOA!

Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide what’s truly right for you. If you're ready for a new home and need a quicker move-in, take a look at our available homes in Oregon and Washington.

Step-by-Step Process of Buying a New Construction Home 

Step 1: Research & Choose a Builder

Welcome to the first step in building your future home! Choosing the right builder affects the quality, timeline, and your experience throughout the process.

Take your time researching and meeting with different builders. A builder like Holt Homes, with a long history of quality craftsmanship and strong community involvement, can offer a smoother, more supportive experience. Ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. Online reviews can also help—do people rave about quality and service, or are there red flags?

When evaluating a builder, consider:

• Reputation
• Past projects
• Commitment to quality
• Customer reviews
• Community development

You should feel supported at every stage. When meeting with a possible builder, ask yourself:

• Do they answer your questions clearly?
• Are they patient and informative?
• Do they keep you updated throughout the process?

Doing this groundwork will help you find an excellent builder who will bring your vision to life. For more helpful tips, look over our First-Time Homebuyer Checklist.

Step 2: Select a Community Type & Floor Plan

Choose the Right Community for You

Now that you’ve found a builder, it’s time to choose a community. Explore the neighborhoods to get a feel for the vibe. Are there nearby farmers’ markets, walking trails, or community events that interest you?

Holt Homes offers thoughtfully designed communities across Washington and Oregon. For example, Pleasant Valley Villages in Happy Valley features parks, trails, a pool, and a clubhouse, with lots of space for both relaxation and recreation.

Make Sure Essentials Are Close By

Imagine running out of eggs mid-recipe… Are you a short drive or walk away from a store? Holt Homes communities are built with convenience in mind, close to schools, transit, shopping, and essential services like grocery stores and hospitals.

Select Your Floor Plan

An important step in the new construction home buying process is choosing a floor plan that’s a perfect fit. Holt offers a variety of thoughtfully designed options built for households of all sizes. Our layouts feature spacious open-concept designs and flexible spaces like lofts, as well as a range of available upgrades, giving you plenty of room to make it your own.

Ready to find your perfect fit? Explore Holt Homes floor plans!

Step 3: Secure Financing & Down Payment

When you hear the word financing, you might picture a drawn-out, confusing process. The good news is that understanding down payments and financing doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Typical Down Payment

Most buyers put down between 3% and 20%, depending on the loan type and lender.

Preferred Lenders vs. External Financing

• Preferred Lenders: Often offer better rates and faster approvals. They’re familiar with builder timelines, helping everything stay on track.

• External Lenders: May offer competitive rates but aren’t as closely aligned with the builder’s process and timelines.

First-Time Buyer Assistance

• In Washington, The Home Advantage program offers up to 5% down payment assistance for qualifying buyers.

• In Oregon, The Oregon Bond Residential Loan program provides up to 3% in grants for closing costs.

At Holt Homes, we’ve found that working with our preferred lenders makes the whole process smoother and faster. Want more details? Check out the full benefits here.

Step 4: Sign the Purchase Agreement

Once you've chosen your home and secured financing, it's time to sign the purchase agreement. This step locks in your plan, pricing, and build timeline. New construction contracts can differ from resale agreements, so take time to review the details. Holt Homes is here to walk you through everything and answer any questions.

Step 5: Personalization and Upgrades

And now for the fun part… drum roll please… making the space your own! One of the most exciting steps with Holt Homes is the design appointment. This is where you’ll choose your finishes like flooring, countertops, cabinetry, lighting, and fixtures to bring your style to life. Depending on the build stage, you might also have options to tweak structural features, like adding an extra bedroom or an extended covered patio.

Curious what your future home could look like? Explore the Holt Homebuyers Photo Gallery for real-life inspiration from homeowners.

Step 6: Construction Phase & Inspections

This is where your vision really starts to take shape. Holt Homes builders focus on quality and attention to detail every step of the way.

Here’s a timeline of what to expect:

• Pre-Construction: Finalize designs, permits, and site prep.
• Foundation: Pour foundation and install footings.
• Framing: Build the frame, roof, and install windows/doors.
• Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC: Run all systems and complete inspections.
• Insulation & Drywall: Add insulation and hang drywall.
• Interior Finishes: Install cabinets, flooring, paint, and trim.
• Exterior Finishes: Complete siding, roofing, landscaping, and driveways.
• Final Inspection & Walkthrough: Ensure everything meets local codes and builder standards.

Why Inspections Matter

Even though your home is brand new, inspections are still super important. They happen at different stages along the way to make sure everything is safe and up to standard. A third-party inspector checks for any issues, big or small, and a final walk-through helps catch anything that might have been missed.

Curious about what comes next after move-in? Explore our homeowner orientation.

Step 7: Closing & Moving In

You’re almost there! The final walkthrough with the builder happens 1–2 weeks before closing. You’ll create a “punch list” of anything that needs to be fixed or finished. These items will be addressed before closing day, so your home is move-in ready.

Documents Needed at Closing:

• Signed Purchase Agreement
• Government-issued ID
• Proof of Homeowners Insurance
• Mortgage documents
• Title insurance
• Down payment & closing costs (via cashier’s check or wire)
• Final inspection reports (if applicable)
• Home warranty info

Typical Timeline:

• 1–2 Weeks Before Closing: Final walkthrough and punch list
• Closing Day: Sign documents, finalize transfer
• Move-In Day: Usually 1–2 days after closing

Moving to a new neighborhood is a big change, especially when it comes to settling into a new school. Check out our tips for making the transition smoother for kids in your household. Check out our Homeowners Home Care Guide for helpful tips and support as you settle in and care for your new home.

Understanding New Construction Community HOAs

In many new construction communities, you’ll find a Homeowners Association (HOA) that takes care of shared spaces and makes sure the neighborhood stays safe, and looking its best. If there's an HOA, there will likely be annual fees and some community guidelines to follow. While there are some rules to consider, having an HOA can add a lot to your neighborhood by handling upkeep and helping protect property values. Just be sure to review the fees and policies so you’re fully prepared.

What Exactly Do HOA Fees Cover?

Communities with an HOA and annual fees use these payments to cover things like road repairs, park upkeep, landscaping, and other shared services. Although it’s an added cost, it plays a big role in keeping the neighborhood well-maintained.

HOA Rules and Regulations

HOAs often have rules in place to help homes look cohesive, protect property values, and ensure shared spaces stay in excellent shape. They may have guidelines about things like:

• House appearance and lawn care
• Trash can placement and pickup day requirements
• Parking rules
• Fire Safety Regulations

Long-Term Benefits of HOAs

HOAs come with some rules and fees, but they can really improve your quality of life. They help maintain property values, keep the neighborhood safe and make sure it stays looking great long-term. Another plus is that if you decide to sell, a well-maintained community can make your property more appealing!

Homeownership can offer other financial perks as well. Discover the tax benefits of owning a home.

Is Buying a New Construction Home Right for You?

If you are considering whether a new construction home is right for you, there are a few key things to keep in mind: budget, timeline, and lifestyle preferences.

• Budget: New homes can cost more upfront due to materials, appliances, and custom options. But with energy-efficient features and modern appliances, you'll save on utilities and repairs in the long run. Many new homes also come with warranties, so you’re covered on major systems, which is a huge bonus.
• Timeline: Building a new home does take some time, but it also gives you the chance to personalize your space. You'll get to choose from a variety of design options to create your perfect home. However, if you need to move in sooner, an existing home may be a better option.
• Lifestyle Preferences: Think about your day-to-day life. Do you want smart tech to make life easier or more space for family gatherings? New homes offer flexibility with amenities like parks, pools, and walking trails nearby. Consider what will work best for your lifestyle and let that help guide your choice.

At Holt Homes, we've been helping families find the perfect homes in Washington and Oregon for over 30 years. We specialize in building energy-efficient, smart-tech homes that are built to last. We offer plenty of customization options to make your space your own. When we meet, we'll help you figure out the best home size and floor plan for your needs. Need help choosing the right-sized home? Explore more here.

Conclusion

Buying a new construction home gives you the chance to start fresh with modern designs, energy-efficient features, and plenty of opportunities to personalize your space. Remember to consider your budget, timeline, and lifestyle preferences to help you decide on a home that’s best for you. With careful planning and a trusted team behind you, the journey to building your new home can be a smooth process and an incredibly rewarding experience.

Ready to start your home-buying journey? Explore Holt Homes communities in Washington and Oregon, and schedule a tour today!

 

*All selections subject to change depending on availability