By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read
When the market slows, homeowners can wait, but builders with finished homes carry costs every month. That can make builders more willing to negotiate on price, rate buydowns, closing costs, or upgrades.
NAR reported that pending home sales fell 7.3 percent in September and 11.3 percent compared with the prior year. The National Association of Home Builders said builder confidence dropped to 29 in October, its lowest level since June 2012, and that buyer traffic was at its lowest in more than a decade, excluding the start of the pandemic.
In NAHB’s October survey, 65 percent of builders were offering sales incentives, 43 percent were cutting prices, and the typical price cut was about 6 percent.
Look for completed homes that have not sold, often called quick move-in or spec homes. The longer one sits, the more reason a builder may have to consider an offer.
Some builders are more flexible on rates or closing costs than on price.
Hire your own agent before you visit a builder, compare the full cost including lot premiums and upgrades, and review metro district taxes and HOA dues. Get your own inspection, even on a new home.
NAR and NAHB data as reported in October 2026. National figures.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.
David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.
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