Most people would agree that the housing market has taken buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders on a wild ride the past couple of years. Over that time, low interest rates and buyer demand set the stage for intense bidding wars, relentless competition, soaring home prices, and inventory shortages. Now, the scene is shifting once more due to rising mortgage rates, supply chain challenges, and inflation concerns, and has left many people wondering: is this really a good time to buy?

Read on for some expert insights and answers to common homebuilding questions often asked here at John Houston Homes.

Insights on Building a New Construction or Buying a Home For Sale

Q: Are home lots available? Yes! First things first, you need a residential lot if you plan to build a home from the ground up. While John Houston Homes is not building on land owned by prospective homebuyers at this time, we do have available lots in select communities. Our lots are offered on a first come, first served basis and are not on a waiting list, nor are they selected by lottery. Our expert teams are available to assist with selecting lots and floorplans at contract for your new construction. 

Q: Can I build my own house? Absolutely! While we are not currently building on land owned by prospective homebuyers, it is possible to build a home from the ground up on available lots in select John Houston communities. If you dream of designing your home’s colors, textures, amenities, finishes, and more, our experienced teams can help you every step of the way. Visit our communities online to learn more.

Q: Do you have new homes for sale? Yes! We have a wide array of designer inventory homes across North and Central Texas under various stages of development. All our communities, many of which are master-planned, offer a sophisticated style of living. For more than 15 years, John Houston has been building high-quality homes in elegant architectural styles and floor plans for a range of needs and budgets.

Q: What is a John Houston designer inventory home? To help expedite homebuyers’ move into a new home, John Houston offers designer inventory homes in an array of beautiful communities. For homebuyers, this translates to a fast-tracked new home experience. John Houston’s inventory homes showcase superb attention to detail and designer touches that incorporate the latest trends, looks, and products while ensuring classic and timeless appeal. You can search our designer inventory homes on our website.

Q: What might impact my build timeline? This is a loaded question with many variables. But, in general, weather is one of the biggest factors that could impact build time. The homebuilding process tends to move more quickly in the hot, dry summer months, while rain and colder temperatures can slow things up in fall and winter months. Additionally, nearly every industry has been hit with global supply chain issues, and the homebuilding industry is no exception. From lumber and brick to resins and microchips, supply chain challenges can impact everything from the home’s exterior to flooring and appliances. 

Q: What are current build times for a John Houston new home? Historically, build times have been about 7 months from signing to completion. Under current market conditions, construction might take anywhere from 9 to 12 months. That said, timelines are starting to get a bit shorter, and we expect build times to improve in the future as buyer demand continues to slow down. Rest assured, we will keep you apprised of any delays throughout the homebuilding process.

Q: What is the John Houston Design Studio? Located across from John Houston headquarters in Red Oak, Texas, our interactive 6,000-square-foot design studio lets homebuyers explore fresh possibilities in home design, style, and functionality. When building a new home from the ground up with John Houston, homebuyers can enjoy a one-stop-shop opportunity to peruse everything from paint colors, carpet, wood, tile, and stone choices to lighting elements, cabinet hardware, plumbing fixtures, stair railing and spindles. Additionally, homebuyers can use our online Exterior Visualizer Tool to explore computer-generated renderings of exterior colors, materials, and designs.

Q: In what regions are you building? John Houston homes can currently be found across the North Texas Dallas-Fort Worth area and Central Texas region. We offer homes for sale in Waxahachie, Midlothian, Ferris, Arlington, Mansfield, Fort Worth, Burleson, Temple, and Waco.

Q: Are there any financing incentives available? Yes. At John Houston Homes, we want to ensure that our clients can get into a new home as affordably as possible. We offer flexible financing options, as well as incentives that could go toward closing costs, buying down interest rates, or home upgrades when possible. Above all, we want to make sure your home buying experience is positive and cost-effective.

Q: What if I’m worried about interest rates? First, remember that the lowest rate may not always translate into the best loan for you. While it seems counterintuitive, interest rates are only part of the equation when buying a new home. Additionally, when you purchase a home under construction, you can often take advantage of an interest rate buy-down and lock in today. You might also consider a community situated a little further out that is more affordable and offers an opportunity for greater equity gains as the area builds up. Our mission as a home builder is to help you carefully evaluate all your options to figure out the best financial solution for your situation. Above all, remember that nothing has to be permanent. If you don’t love your interest rate or the terms of your loan down the road, you can always refinance.

We Are More than a Home Builder

John Houston Homes is here to listen, discuss, educate, and be your partner during the entire home buying process. We pride ourselves on communicating with our clients and strive for transparency every step of the way. Your “right time” to buy a home for sale in North Central Texas will not be the same as anyone else’s. Your decision is a personal one driven by your season of life, financial situation, and personal needs. 

Just know that John Houston Homes is ready to welcome you home…whenever the time is right for you! And we are always happy to help answer any questions.

Talk to a John Houston new home advisor today to start your homebuilding journey by calling 866-244-3875!