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Why 2025 Might Be the Perfect Time to Build Your Custom Home

  • Writer: Bobby Graham
    Bobby Graham
  • May 20
  • 3 min read


Pictured - The Grand Retreat - Suncadia, WA
Pictured - The Grand Retreat - Suncadia, WA

--Bobby Graham -- CEO -- NW Roots Construction--


While headlines about the housing market can feel uncertain, 2025 may actually offer unique advantages for clients looking to build in Central Washington—especially in the Cle Elum area (98922). At NW Roots Construction, we’re closely watching national trends and local shifts, and we believe there are several silver linings that make this a smart time to start your custom home project.


1. Less Competition = Greater Attention to Your Build


National single-family housing starts are down 12% year-over-year, and builder activity is cooling in many parts of the country. In resort communities like Suncadia and the surrounding areas in the greater Kittitas County area, where subcontractor availability is often tight, this slowdown can free up skilled trades and give your project more focus from the top teams in the region.


What this means for you:

  • Better access to the best subcontractors

  • Shorter lead times

  • Higher quality control


2. Opportunity to Negotiate Materials and Labor


Yes, building material prices remain high overall, but with fewer homes under construction, our suppliers and subcontractors are more motivated to win work. We’re seeing early signs of increased pricing flexibility and better availability of materials that were previously backlogged.


Bottom line: Subcontractors and vendors are more willing to make deals to secure your project.


3. Land Prices Are Stabilizing


In Cle Elum, the median home price dropped 11.5% compared to last year, and Kittitas County overall saw a modest 2.8% dip. While that's a concern for sellers, it's good news for buyers and builders: land and lot prices are no longer escalating at the pace we saw in 2022–2023.


For future homeowners, this means:

  • More affordable entry points for land acquisition

  • Better ROI on new builds


4. Demand for Larger, Custom Homes is Growing


Data shows that 4-bedroom homes in Cle Elum have increased in value by nearly 50% year-over-year. This suggests a growing demand for homes that offer more space, flexible layouts, and premium finishes.


If you’re building a larger or luxury home, you’re investing in a product that’s increasingly in demand—and potentially more valuable in the long run.


5. Interest Rate Outlook May Improve


While interest rates remain elevated in early 2025, many economists are forecasting potential cuts by late this year or early 2026. If you're building now, you can lock in a construction loan and potentially refinance into a better rate once your home is complete.


Builder + Lender Incentives: Finance Smarter


To help offset higher rates in the short term, many lenders (yes, reputable ones like Loan Depot and US Banks) are offering financing buydown programs and cash incentives that lower your interest rate for the first few years—or even for the life of your loan.


At NW Roots Construction, we can help connect you with preferred lenders offering:

  • Temporary rate buydowns (e.g., 2-1 buydown structures)

  • Permanent rate buydowns with builder-paid credits

  • Closing cost contributions or lender-paid appraisal fees


These tools can significantly lower your monthly payment while giving you time to refinance when rates drop—helping make your dream home more financially comfortable from day one.


6. Central Washington Continues to Shine


Our area continues to attract:

  • Remote workers seeking lifestyle and space

  • Seattle-based buyers investing in second homes

  • Families and retirees looking to settle down in a walkable, mountain town


Projects like The Suncadia Social (Shameless plug but true!) https://www.nwrootsconstruction.com/suncadiasocial - Our newest Urban-planned community—are designed to align with these lifestyle preferences, offering walkability, Immediate access to amenities, and flexible home designs that grow with your needs.


Build Smart. Build Now. Build Local.


If you’ve been considering building your custom home, don’t let headlines hold you back. 2025 could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for—with more availability, stronger value potential, and a chance to build in one of Washington’s most desirable mountain communities.


Want to explore what’s possible? Contact NW Roots Construction today and let’s start planning your forever home!!




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