If you've been thinking about building a new home, there's no better time than right now. At Jenkins Homes, we're seeing more families than ever choose 2026 as the year they finally stop dreaming and start building. Here's why this year presents unique opportunities for Louisiana homebuyers, and why waiting might mean missing out!
Let's talk about something that can save you thousands: builder incentives.
Right now, 62% of builders nationwide are offering significant incentives to buyers, and Jenkins Homes is no exception. We're currently offering $7,000 in buyer benefits (money that can go towards closing costs, rate buy-downs, or upgrades that make your home truly yours). Why does this matter? Because these incentive programs respond to market conditions, and they won't last forever. As inventory tightens and demand increases throughout 2026, these programs will likely scale back. Buyers who act in Q1 get the best deals.
So, what does this mean for you? It means your tax refund, combined with builder incentives, could cover most or all of your closing costs! That's money that stays in your pocket instead of going to fees!
There's a myth that new construction is only for wealthy buyers with unlimited budgets. The reality? Building new in 2026 might actually be a smarter financial decision than buying a used home. Here's what nobody tells you about "cheaper" existing homes:
When you factor in the true cost of home ownership over 5-10 years, new construction often costs less than buying used. Plus, you get exactly what you want instead of inheriting someone else's choices.
One of the biggest changes to the housing market is what economists call the "lock-in effect." Homeowners who refinanced at 2-3% interest rates during 2020-2021 are staying put. They don't want to give up those low rates, which means they are not listing their homes.
Meanwhile, new construction inventory is readily available. At Jenkins Homes, we have move-in ready homes in Spring Haven and Robindale, plus the ability to customize spec homes or build exactly what you want on available lots.
You're not competing with 10 other buyers. You're working directly with a builder who wants to create your perfect home.
If you're considering building in St. Tammany Parish, you're looking at Louisiana's fastest-growing region, and for good reason! The numbers tell a story:
Five years from now, you'll be glad you built when you did.
This might be the most important reason of all: when you build, you get to make the choices.
At Jenkins Homes, we even offer customization on spec homes. Love the location and most of the layout, but wish the bonus room were set up differently? We can often make those changes before completion. That's the flexibility you'll never get with a used home.
For over 40 years, Jenkins Homes has been building quality custom homes across Louisiana. As a family-owned, local builder, we're not a national company churning out cookie-cutter houses. We're your neighbors.
We know building a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make. That's why we treat every client like family and every home like it's our own.
Let's talk about your dream home! Whether you're just starting to explore options or you're ready to break ground, Jenkins Homes is here to help.
