New construction in the Triangle: How to choose the right home builder

New construction is booming across the greater Triangle area. As North Carolina —  and more specifically, Raleigh, Durham and their surrounding communities — continue to attract new businesses and newcomers to the area, builders have responded quickly to the demand for more homes. That means if you’re in the market for a new home, new construction may be the way to go. But how do you choose the right home builder for your dream home? It just takes a few insights to find a reputable builder for your next home.

Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best quality home from a builder you trust.

It’s always wise to start with a budget when you want to purchase a new home. However, knowing your budget can also help you quickly eliminate some of the builders that may not be right for you. For example, if you know you need to stay within a $350,000 to $450,000 price range, you don’t want to hunt for a luxury builder that is out of your price range. And if you’re planning to build a high-end home, you’ll want to find a builder who understands the flourishes that make these homes so luxurious.

When you understand your budget, it’s easier to find a builder who can work within that number. You’ll want to think through any additional budgeting considerations that may come up, such as upgrades or Homeowners Association fees. Consider finding a real estate agent who is experienced in new construction to help you better understand your budget and timelines. This knowledge can also help you begin to choose the right home builder.

If you’ve determined your budget, it can help eliminate or pinpoint the right community for your home. For example, a $450,000 budget in the City of Raleigh isn’t realistic due to land costs. However, smaller communities outside of the Triangle may provide you with more acreage and space in a home.

If you know your budget, finding the right city may be a little clearer. For example, Angier, which is south of Raleigh, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. And according to data from doorifyMLS, the median sales price for homes in Angier at the end of June 2025 was $357,320. But the same data showed that the median sales price for a home in Wake Forest is $520,000. By doing a bit of research, you can figure out the cities that make the most for your budget. Smaller cities in the outskirts of the Triangle area may give you more home for your money.

Once you know your budget and the communities you’re considering, you can start finding the home builders that are active there. Many builders have specific locations within the Triangle where they focus. If you know you’re interested in Zebulon, you won’t want to talk to a builder that concentrates solely Inside the Beltline.

Make sure to explore the local home builders’ association websites to find builders you may be interested in exploring. They include the Homebuilders Association of Raleigh-Wake County; the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties; the Franklin County Home Builders Association; the Vance Granville Home Builders Association; and the Johnston County Building Industry Association.

If you’ve found a builder you would like to learn more about, go tour the communities where they build. Many of these communities have spec homes or model homes that you can visit and tour to get a sense of the work the builder offers and what it will be like living there. Check for hours to see when model homes are available.

Many builders develop full communities with new homes that provide an opportunity to buy new without waiting for construction on a custom home. Others allow you to personalize before the home is complete. Be sure to talk to the on-site agents for insights into how to work with the builder and what they have to offer. These insights can help you choose the right home builder and move forward with confidence.

A key to finding the right builder is to ask for references and to request a portfolio. References and a portfolio provide specific insights into a builder. You can see first-hand what you like or don’t like about a builder’s work. And you can gain insights from a homeowner about their experience working with the builder.

Check Google for reviews, as many people will leave recommendations for potential clients to read. And most builders’ websites feature photos, floor plans, and additional information about working with them. These elements can sometimes be the best source of information that will help you choose the right home builder.

If you know you want to purchase new construction, make sure to work with an agent who knows the process. This is key to ensuring you stay on track and get the home you want. There are numerous builders throughout the Triangle, so don’t let the research process stop you as you work to choose the right home builder.