West Michigan Spring Housing Update

Spring is here, and West Michigan’s real estate market is heating up – but not in the way buyers might hope. To help buyers prepare, we spoke with Becky Sims at Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) about what they can expect in the current market. 

Becky shared that the region is experiencing a severe shortage of homes for sale, leading to fierce competition and frequent bidding wars. Does this mean we’ll be reliving the 2021 spring market? Maybe, but with a higher interest rate to contend with. 

As of February 2025, the Greater Grand Rapids area had only 1.2 months of housing supply—far below the 4–6 months considered a balanced market. This leaves buyers facing limited choices and skyrocketing prices. Homes are selling fast, often above asking price, with the median sale price in Grand Rapids rising about 5% compared to last year. If you’re feeling frustrated by the lack of options, you’re not alone.

“In a market defined by scarce listings and rising prices, building a new home in West Michigan is an increasingly smart move,” Becky advises. “New construction allows you to sidestep fierce bidding wars and secure a home on your own terms – complete with personalized design choices, the latest energy-efficient technology, and minimal upkeep. With reputable local builders, like Eastbrook Homes, actively opening new communities around the area, a brand-new home offers the space, comfort, and value that can be hard to find in the current resale market. Choosing to build now means getting the home you truly want while also enjoying long-term savings and peace of mind that come with new construction quality.”

But what about the other factor making buyers sweat these days? Despite being stabilized, high mortgage interest rates, which remain between 6.5% and 7%, still have a big impact on affordability. Becky reminds us it’s important to consider what new construction homes have to offer that help offset higher borrowing costs. 

Significant advantages of building new include:

• Newer HVAC systems, roofs, and insulation: Modern construction prioritizes energy efficiency, reducing overall heating and cooling costs. With high-quality insulation and state-of-the-art HVAC systems, homeowners can enjoy lower energy bills year-round.
  
• Minimal maintenance costs: Since everything in a new home is brand new—plumbing, electrical, roofing, and appliances—homeowners can avoid the costly repairs and unexpected maintenance that often come with older homes. This means more time enjoying your home and less time worrying about upkeep.
  
• Locked-in pricing: With home values continuing to rise, purchasing a new construction home allows buyers to lock in their price before demand drives costs even higher. This can provide long-term financial benefits, especially in a competitive market like West Michigan.

With inventory tight and competition fierce, buyers face a challenging market this spring. But as Becky Sims explains, there are still opportunities for those willing to think outside the box. Instead of competing in bidding wars, building new with Eastbrook Homes allows you to lock in your rate and secure a space that’s tailored to your needs, with modern features and lasting value. If you’re ready to escape the resale market chaos and create your dream home, we’re here to help.

Let’s turn today’s market challenges into an opportunity. Browse our move-in ready options, and experience the possibilities of new construction by exploring our feature gallery. Connect with us today to discuss your options and start building the home that’s truly right for you.