10/08/2026
The buyer headline you need to be ready for:
“Why buy resale when new construction is cheaper?”
Zillow reported on Sept. 29, 2026, that in one-third of major markets, new homes were cheaper per square foot than existing homes, roughly $205 versus $212. Builders are using price cuts and rate buydowns to move inventory.
That is a conversation, not a conclusion.
Coach your buyer to compare total monthly carrying cost, not sticker price.
Illustrative example:
• $600,000 resale at 6.5%: about $3,034 P&I + $1,950 taxes, insurance and HOA = approximately $4,984/month
• $575,000 new build with a 5.5% temporary buydown: about $2,612 P&I + $1,658 taxes, insurance and HOA = approximately $4,270/month
Illustrative only. These examples assume 20% down. Rates, fees, taxes, insurance, HOA dues and incentives vary. Ask what the payment becomes after the buydown expires.
Then investigate:
🏠 HOA dues and possible special assessments
🛡️ Insurance and tax differences
📍 Location and commute trade-offs
🏗️ Delivery risk if the home is pre-construction
📄 What is included, and what is not
Your job is not to defend resale or sell new construction. It is to make the comparison complete.
At Grand Realty, direct broker access plus a network of lenders, title professionals, attorneys, inspectors and appraisers helps our agents answer with facts, not improvisation.
Build a stronger advisory business at www.joingrandrealty.com