🏗️ The Rise of New Construction in Oregon
In 2025, more Oregon homebuyers are stepping away from the unpredictability of resale homes—and turning toward new construction for better value, peace of mind, and long-term savings.
Why is this trend growing?
- Older homes come with big-ticket repairs
- Many resale homes are not built for today’s lifestyle
- New construction = energy efficiency, modern design, and peace of mind
And with communities like Deer Fern Ridge in Bethany offering high-quality homes under $900K, new construction is now within reach for many families, professionals, and first-time buyers.
📊 National Trends Confirm It’s the Right Time to Buy
If you're waiting for prices to drop... you might be waiting too long. According to national forecasts, home prices are expected to continue rising in 2025—just not as rapidly. Fannie Mae forecasts a 4.1% increase, with other analysts like CoreLogic and HPES not far behind.
The average of all 8 major housing economists? +1.6% price growth. Even if the market cools slightly, most experts agree prices will trend upward, making now one of the best times to lock in value before appreciation accelerates again.
🏡 New Construction vs. Resale What’s the Real Difference?
When it comes to buying a home, the real choice isn’t just where—it’s what. Resale or new construction? On the surface, they may seem similar. But once you dig into the details, the differences impact how your home functions, what it costs over time, and how easy life feels once you move in.
| 🧩 Point of Difference | 🔄 Resale Homes | 🆕 New Construction |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Layout | Outdated layouts and mechanical systems | Flexible, modern layouts with work-from-home spaces |
| Condition | Deferred maintenance (roof, HVAC, plumbing) | Everything is brand new and move-in ready |
| Home History | Unknown or unclear home history | Zero guesswork — you’re the first owner |
| Energy Efficiency | Less efficient = higher utility bills | Energy-efficient appliances and insulation |
| Smart/Modern Features | Rare or require retrofitting | Smart home features, healthier materials, and more natural light |
| Buyer Experience | Competitive bidding, often waive inspections | No bidding wars or surprises — transparent builder pricing |
| Protection & Warranty | Limited or expired warranties | Built-in warranty covering workmanship, systems, and structure |
💸 What Most Buyers Don’t Realize About Mortgage Rates
When comparing new construction vs resale, price isn’t the only factor—mortgage rates can differ too. In fact, builders often partner with preferred lenders to offer exclusive rate incentives that resale homes simply can’t match. And as this chart reveals, newly built homes have consistently come with lower average mortgage rates over the past several years.
📉 What many buyers overlook is how quickly costs can add up—whether it’s a higher mortgage rate or unexpected repairs. That slight rate difference on a new home can save you tens of thousands over the life of your loan, while the “deal” you think you’re getting on a resale could disappear after one surprise plumbing bill or a roof replacement.
📋 Step-by-Step How to Buy a New Construction Home in Oregon
New construction is exciting—but it’s a little different than buying resale. Here’s exactly how it works.
➤ Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for Financing
Builders want you pre-approved before writing a contract. Why it’s different:
- Your rate lock timeline may need to match construction phases
- Some builders offer incentives only through preferred lenders
- A local lender keeps your timeline on track
➤ Step 2: Choose the Right Builder and Community
Not all builders—and not all communities—are created equal. The builder you choose will impact everything from construction quality to communication, and ultimately, your peace of mind during the process. When evaluating builders, look for one that’s local, established, and transparent. A regional builder like Riverside Homes, who understands Oregon’s codes, weather, and buyer preferences, often delivers a smoother, more reliable experience than out-of-state developers.
Pair that with a community like Deer Fern Ridge, where the location, design, and livability are thoughtfully aligned, and you're setting yourself up for a purchase that pays off long after move-in day. Why buyers love Deer Fern Ridge:
- Built by Riverside Homes (30+ years of experience)
- Represented by Tamiko Warren of TK Real Estate Group (23+ years in the area)
- Located in Bethany, one of Oregon’s top school districts
➤ Step 3: Review Floorplans and Available Lots
This is where the fun begins—choosing the layout and location that fits your lifestyle. Start by asking yourself:
👉 Do I want a move-in ready home with everything finished?
👉 Or do I prefer to customize features and wait while my home is being built?
At Deer Fern Ridge you’ll find both options:
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Move-in ready homes are perfect for buyers who want a streamlined purchase with no surprises. These homes are already under construction or finished, with professionally selected finishes, and can often close in 30–60 days.
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Pre-sale homes offer more flexibility. You choose your lot, floorplan, and sometimes even finishes—giving you the chance to tailor your space before it’s built.
Whether you're focused on getting settled quickly or creating a semi-custom layout that fits your needs, reviewing the available floorplans and lots early helps you get the pick of the best options.
➤ Step 4: Understand the Builder Contract
Unlike resale, new construction contracts are builder-specific and not standardized. Key sections to review:
- Earnest money deposit
- Upgrade decision timelines
- Construction phase deadlines
- Penalties for delays or cancellations
➤ Step 5: Make Your Selections
This is where the real excitement begins—designing the inside of your future home to match your style and needs. From cabinets and countertops to flooring and light fixtures, this step lets you bring your vision to life. Depending on the stage of construction, you may have the opportunity to choose:
- Kitchen and bathroom finishes
- Cabinet colors and hardware
- Flooring types and styles
- Lighting packages
- Paint colors and more
At Deer Fern Ridge, Riverside Homes offers a well-curated selection of modern finishes—so you’re not overwhelmed with too many choices, but still have the flexibility to make it feel like your home. Think sleek quartz countertops, wide-plank flooring, and energy-efficient appliances that look as good as they perform.
And don’t worry—you won’t be alone in the process. With Tamiko and the TK Real Estate Group guiding you and the builder’s design team supporting every step, you’ll feel confident in your selections and excited to see it all come together.
➤ Step 6: Monitor Construction and Milestones
Your home progresses in phases:
- Permits and foundation
- Framing and rough-ins
- Drywall, paint, and finish
- Final inspection and orientation
At DFR, you’ll get progress updates, photo check-ins, and walkthroughs with Tamiko.
➤ Step 7: Final Orientation and Closing
Before closing, you’ll attend a new home orientation. It includes:
- System walkthrough (HVAC, water shutoff, smart devices)
- Punch-list review for small fixes
- Warranty paperwork and final sign-off
🏠 Most new homes come with:
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1-Year Workmanship Warranty
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2-Year Systems Warranty
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10-Year Structural Warranty
🔍 What to Ask Before You Buy From a Builder
Don’t sign until you’ve asked:
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What’s included in the base price?
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Are there HOA fees or design restrictions?
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What’s the completion timeline for my lot?
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Can I tour a model or see previous builds?
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Who will guide me from contract to close?
Still have questions? You can always schedule a call with Tamiko to get expert guidance at any stage of the process.
🧠 Why Deer Fern Ridge Makes It Easier
Bethany buyers love DFR for its location, value, and thoughtful design.
🏡 40 homes total — small-scale, community-oriented neighborhood
✅ 4 already sold
🔨 5 under construction now
📆 Launched in 2025
🛠️ Built by Riverside Homes — 30+ years of trusted craftsmanship
👩💼 Represented by Tamiko Warren — 23+ years of local expertise
📍 Prime location near Intel, Bethany Village, and top schools
💡 Modern finishes, efficient systems, flexible spaces
💰 Under $850K — rare in this school district
📩 Ready to Buy New? Here’s What to Do Next
You don’t need to rush—but you do need a plan. Let’s make your move stress-free.
✅ Book a private model tour
✅ Explore quick-move-in homes
✅ Download the DFR floorplan guide
✅ Join the interest list to get early release access
📞 Call or Text Tamiko: 503.515.9293
Invested in your outcome everytime!
Tamiko K. Warren | 503.515.9293
📧 [email protected]
🌐 tkrealestategroup.com
📅 Ready to talk strategy? Book a meeting
📍 Serving Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas & Multnomah Counties
📲 Instagram: @tamikopdxrealtor
👍 Facebook: TK Real Estate Group
📺 YouTube: @newhomesinoregon
