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How to Get the Best Deals on a New Construction Home in McKinney as a First-Time Buyer

  • Writer: Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
    Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
  • May 1
  • 4 min read



Buying a brand-new construction home in McKinney, Texas, is an exciting milestone — especially for first-time buyers stepping into the luxury market.But here’s the truth: builders aren't always offering you the best deal upfront.


Knowing how to navigate builder incentives, upgrades, and negotiation strategies can easily save you tens of thousands of dollars.In this guide, we'll break down how first-time buyers can lock in the best possible deals when purchasing a new construction home in McKinney.


Why McKinney Is a Prime Market for New Construction Deals

  • Median new construction home price: $580,000+ (MLS McKinney Data March 2025)

  • Population growth: Over 51% since 2010 (U.S. Census Bureau)

  • Top builders: Highland Homes, Perry Homes, Toll Brothers, Shaddock Homes

  • Inventory levels: 12% higher in 2025 than 2024 (Collin County Association of Realtors)

As Realtor.com states,

"First-time buyers entering growing luxury suburbs like McKinney have more negotiating power than in denser, more saturated markets."

How to Get the Best Deals on a New Construction Home in McKinney


1. Work with Your Own Buyer’s Agent from Day One

One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make? Walking into a builder’s model home without representation.

Why it matters:

  • Builder reps work for the builder, not you.

  • You need an agent who knows how to negotiate on lot premiums, upgrades, and incentives.

  • Builder pays your agent’s commission, not you.

National Association of Realtors (NAR) emphasizes,"Having independent buyer representation in new construction purchases protects the buyer’s financial interests without additional cost."

Connect with an expert here:👉 https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/contact


2. Time Your Purchase Strategically

Builders are businesses — and they have sales goals they need to hit each quarter and year-end.Best times to negotiate better deals:

  • End of the month

  • End of the quarter

  • End of the year (especially December)

Builders under pressure to close out inventory are much more flexible on price, upgrades, or incentives.

Forbes notes,"Builders are most willing to offer discounts when facing financial reporting deadlines."

3. Negotiate Beyond Just the Base Price

Instead of only asking for a price cut, negotiate for value-packed incentives that can save you even more:

What to Ask For:

  • Free or discounted lot premiums

  • Upgraded appliances or flooring

  • Builder-paid closing costs

  • Blinds, backyard landscaping, or fences included

  • Home technology packages (smart thermostats, security systems)

Builder Magazine reports,"Savvy buyers negotiate additional features and upgrades rather than expecting builders to simply reduce the base home price."

4. Compare Builder Lender Incentives Carefully

Many builders offer closing cost contributions if you use their "preferred lender."But preferred doesn’t always mean best.

Tips:

  • Get outside mortgage quotes for comparison.

  • Weigh total costs, not just the interest rate.

  • Ask if you can take the builder incentive but still use your own lender (some builders allow it).

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB),"Borrowers who shop around save an average of $1,500 in closing costs."

5. Buy Inventory or "Spec" Homes

Inventory homes — also called "spec homes" — are homes the builder already started or completed without a specific buyer.Builders want to move these quickly to free up capital.

Advantages:

  • Stronger price negotiation opportunities

  • Faster move-in timeline

  • Sometimes include premium upgrades already installed

Builders are often far more flexible on pricing and incentives for ready-to-move-in homes.


6. Understand Lot Premiums and Upgrade Pricing

Lot premiums can quietly add $10,000–$75,000+ to your final cost.Upgrades typically add 20%-25% above the base price.

Checklist Before Signing a Contract:

  • Request a list of all available lots and corresponding premiums.

  • Get a full "menu" of standard features vs. upgrade options.

  • Have your agent help you prioritize high ROI upgrades (kitchen, flooring, owner’s suite).


7. Don't Skip the Inspection — Even for New Construction

Even new homes can have significant issues — and catching them early can save you from costly repairs later.

Recommended Inspections:

  • Pre-drywall inspection

  • Final walk-through inspection

  • 1-year warranty inspection

Consumer Reports stresses,"Even newly built homes often have hidden defects that only independent inspections can catch."

Key Statistics for New Construction Homes in McKinney

  • Average Lot Premium: $15,000–$50,000 depending on community (MLS 2025)

  • Average Upgrade Spend: 22% of base price (Builder Online)

  • Median Time on Market for Inventory Homes: 37 days (Collin County MLS 2025)

  • Typical Builder Closing Cost Contribution: $5,000–$15,000 depending on lender use


Why You Should Work with a New Construction Expert

Buying new construction is not as simple as picking a floorplan.It requires careful negotiation, expert guidance, and full awareness of the hidden costs and opportunities available.


When you partner with an expert like Nitin Gupta, Broker Associate, REALTOR®, you benefit from:

  • Stronger negotiation outcomes

  • Better lot and upgrade selections

  • Protection throughout the building process

  • Smoother, stress-free closings


Learn more about how we can help:👉 https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/contact


View Nitin Gupta’s certifications and awards:👉 https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/awards-certifications


Final Thoughts


Getting a great deal on a new construction home in McKinney isn't about luck — it's about strategy.With the right timing, negotiation tactics, and expert representation, first-time buyers can unlock incredible savings and upgrades that make all the difference.


Don’t leave money on the table.Get the luxury home you deserve — on your terms — by working with someone who knows how to get it done.


Ready to start your McKinney new home journey?👉 Contact Nitin Gupta today at https://www.nitinguptadfw.com/contact


Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about McKinney real estate!


FIND A LUXURY HOME IN   MCKINNEY, TEXAS WITH NITIN GUPTA, BROKER ASSOCIATE, REALTOR®.


When purchasing a luxury home in   McKinney, Texas, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, architectural style, security, and amenities to ensure the home meets both lifestyle and investment needs. By selecting a property in a prestigious neighborhood with numerous amenities and security measures, buyers can ensure they’re making a valuable and rewarding investment in the vibrant McKinney market.


For those looking to invest in luxury homes in McKinney, Texas, Nitin Gupta is an expert real estate professional ready to assist. Known for his extensive experience, market insights, and numerous awards, he is committed to finding his clients the best properties in the area.


Contact Nitin Gupta at 469-269-6541 or send a message today to explore exclusive listings and secure your ideal luxury residence in one of McKinney elite communities.






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