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For loan officers, the data points to more relocation conversations, earlier financing prep, and stronger builder referral opportunities.
New construction home demand is more likely to come from shoppers outside the local metro than existing-home demand, according to Realtor.com Research’s New-Construction Insights published August 26, 2026. Realtor.com reported that 67.2% of new-construction demand came from out-of-metro shoppers, compared with 65.4% for existing homes.
That matters for mortgage professionals because many new-home buyers may be shopping from a distance before they ever sit across from a local builder rep or loan officer. If a borrower is relocating, buying before selling, or comparing unfamiliar markets, the financing conversation usually needs to start earlier and cover more ground.