New Homes Offer Better Value Nationwide

Here's something you don't see every day: across the country, brand new homes are now selling for a median $205 per square foot—less than the $212 per square foot for existing homes. That flips the script from previous years when new construction always carried a premium. About one in three major markets is seeing this shift, mainly because builders have gotten serious about competing: more price cuts, more incentives, and more options, especially where inventory has grown. For buyers (especially those who need room to negotiate), it means new builds are actually worth a second look—particularly in areas with plenty of supply. As someone who’s helped a lot of VA buyers and military families make sense of the Duval County market, I know how much value matters. One thing is clear: the best way to keep homes affordable is to keep building, though slower permitting could slow things down. If you’re weighing your options, this is a good time to consider what new construction can offer.