home building

Built to Be Seen: Bardwell Homes on the 2026 Parade of Homes Route

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Parade season is here. The 2026 Parade of Homes opens in April, and this year Bardwell has two homes on the route.

They’re in different communities, at different price points, and they’re built for different ways of living. What they have in common is the kind of detail that doesn’t come through in photos — the way a layout actually functions, the weight of the finishes, the feeling of a space that was thought through from the beginning.

Our Two Stops This Year

Baton Rouge Parade of Homes

Bardwell Homes | Inniswylde

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,855 SF | $799,000

This is the last new Bardwell home available in Inniswylde, and it’s one we’re proud to show.

Walk in and you’ll notice the custom cabinetry, the coffered beams overhead, and the marble and quartz finishes — refined without feeling untouchable. The primary suite sits on the first floor, tucked away from the rest of the house. That’s the kind of detail that matters more the longer you live somewhere.

Step outside and you’re on a side porch built for late-night conversations after lingering dinner parties, complete with a fireplace and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. In South Louisiana, that’s almost a necessity. 

Inniswylde is a well-established community, and new construction opportunities there are rare. If it’s been on your radar, now is the time.

Baton Rouge Parade of Homes

Bardwell Homes | Preserve at Harveston

3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 2,374 SF | $695,000 | Primary Suite on Main Level

This home is bright from the moment you walk in. The main living area opens around a fireplace, with windows that pull in natural light and lead right into the formal dining area. The kitchen has a large eat-in island with marble countertops, the kind of space people naturally gather around. A separate back kitchen handles the overflow, so when the party gets bigger, the main space stays calm.

The primary suite sits toward the back of the home, with a spa bath featuring a custom cypress door, soaking tub, and glass-enclosed shower. The guest bedrooms are toward the front — everyone has room to breathe.

Outside, the covered side porch has its own fireplace and outdoor kitchen. It’s a natural extension of everything the inside already does well.  

Preserve at Harveston sits within the larger Harveston community in South Baton Rouge, which includes a pool, clubhouse, pickleball courts, scenic lakes, and walking trails. It’s a neighborhood worth seeing in person.

What Happens After the Parade

Last year, conversations that started during Parade weekends turned into a record number of new contracts for us. Every year we hear some version of the same thing: I didn’t know I wanted this until I walked in.

If one of our homes sparks that feeling and you want to know what building with Bardwell looks like, here’s how the process works:

Meet with your Realtor — Heather Kirkpatrick of Keller Williams will help you explore communities, available lots, and floor plans to find the right fit.

Personalize your home — Select your finishes from a curated selection of options, with guidance from our design team.

Construction begins — We keep you updated through every stage: foundation, framing, drywall, trim, and finishes.

Final walkthrough and move-in — We walk through everything together, complete the punch list, and get you ready to move in.

Baton Rouge Parade of Homes

About the Parade of Homes

The 2026 Parade of Homes, presented by GSE Integrated, opens finished new construction homes across Greater Baton Rouge to the public for two weekends each April. Dozens of homes, multiple builders, no appointment required.

It’s one of the best ways to understand what’s being built in this market–the layouts, the finishes, the communities — in a way that no listing can replicate. You can meet builders, material and service providers, and realtors all in one place, and you’ll get a firsthand look at what’s current and what’s timeless at the same time.

Bardwell Homes has been part of the Parade for years. Our founder, Scott Bardwell, has served on the HBA board. We keep coming back because we believe in what this event does for buyers.

April 18-19 and April 25-26, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Tickets at paradegbr.fun

We recommend downloading the HBAGBR Parade of Homes app — it includes an interactive map, the Plan My Day feature, builder and vendor info, the full digital Parade Book, and restaurant specials running all Parade week.

Both Bardwell homes are open both weekends. Walk through at your own pace, ask questions, and get a real feel for what we build.

Bardwell Announces Lot Release in Benton at Magnolia Woods in Baton Rouge

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Bardwell Returns to Build on Highland Road

In 2003, Bardwell developed Providence, a community along Highland Road distinct from most Baton Rouge developments at the time. We sat down with Remson Haley Architects and drew something different. And we planned out the city’s first alley-lot community in decades, designed to complement the land and its natural beauty. We planted street trees. We studied where the light fell. And we worked diligently to protect the historic live oaks that had been standing long before any of us arrived.

Those oaks still remain. And many of the original families who moved into Providence still call it home.

Dozens of developments across the region followed Providence’s lead. Because what we helped start there was not just the alley-lot format or the attention to streetscape, it was our insistence that a neighborhood should feel like something more. You don’t always notice it until you’re driving through a community and thinking, this feels right, without being quite sure why.

Now, twenty-three years later, we’re back on Highland Road. This time as a featured builder at Benton at Magnolia Woods. 

Why Highland Road Corridor Earns Its Reputation

There are so many factors that homebuyers searching for new-construction homes in Baton Rouge consider. Location, design quality, and neighborhood planning are often the most important priorities. These elements converge beautifully throughout the Highland Road Corridor, offering a rare balance of convenience and character. Canopied in mature oaks and situated between established neighborhoods, there’s a tangible sense that the people who built here were thinking beyond the next five years.

Benton at Magnolia Woods fits right into that story. Positioned just off Highland Road, the community was planned with the same intention we bring to every project: walkability first, creative use of shared green space, and architectural continuity that keeps a neighborhood from feeling rushed or haphazard. When you drive through a development where the homes feel like they belong together, you’re experiencing the result of intentional planning. 

What Bardwell Is Building in Benton 

As a featured builder within Benton at Magnolia Woods, we’re offering a select collection of homes designed by JDE Architects that reflect the same careful thinking we put into every project, scaled for the way families in South Louisiana actually live.

These are homes with room to breathe. Open living spaces with high-end finishes designed for the kind of everyday entertaining that doesn’t require an occasion. Practical layouts that support a busy household without making you feel like you’re always navigating around yourselves. The kind of proportions that feel right the first time you walk through and years after you’ve settled in.

At a Glance

Square Footage~ 2,700 – 3,000 SF
StoriesOne- and two-story plans
GarageEnclosed two-car
Architectural StandardBenton design guidelines
PricingFrom the $800s
Currently Available18 Homesites

A $1,000 deposit secures your price prior to contract. Reserve your lot now.

What It Means to Invest in Character  

We’ve said it before, and it’s worth repeating: a home shouldn’t be an island. The way a neighborhood is laid out matters. Consider where the sidewalks lead, how the porches face the street, and whether there’s a place to gather that doesn’t require driving somewhere. These features shape how connected people feel long after the move-in boxes are unpacked, not to mention long-term satisfaction and investment potential. 

Benton at Magnolia Woods includes a two-acre park with a pond at its center. There’s mixed-use commercial space planned for the community as well, including a building intended for hospitality and lifestyle offerings. These amenities are evidence of a developer who thought about what it means to live here, not just what it means to buy here.

Add walkable streets, planned infrastructure, and proximity to Highland Road Community Park with its 144 acres of trails, athletic fields, and open space; then you have a neighborhood designed for people who want to be outside, and who want their neighbors to feel like neighbors.

Premier Location in South Baton Rouge 

Two miles from LSU. Easy access to Interstate 10. Minutes from the restaurants, groceries, and specialty shops along Highland Road and Burbank Drive. Benton at Magnolia Woods sits inside an established residential corridor that rarely opens up for new construction. The established character of the area, combined with limited new inventory, makes Benton a straightforward opportunity for buyers who know what this part of Baton Rouge is worth.

Build for the Long Run at Benton 

Some things are worth saying plainly. We know what new construction sometimes looks like: rushed, impersonal, built to a minimum standard that will start showing its age in five years. That’s not what we do, and it’s not what Benton at Magnolia Woods is. Beyond the homes themselves, Benton at Magnolia Woods has been planned to create a neighborhood with a strong sense of place.

From the ceiling height, how natural light moves through a room, the flow from the kitchen to the back of the house, we make every decision with the understanding that someone is going to live in this home for a long time. Quality isn’t a box on a checklist. It’s a commitment that runs through every stage of a build, well past what’s required.

The live oaks on Highland Road have been standing for a hundred years. We try to build homes that belong in their company.

Ready to Reserve Your Homesite?

Eighteen homesites. A community worth coming back to. If you’re ready to have a conversation about what Bardwell is building at Benton at Magnolia Woods, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Bardwell Homes to learn more or reserve your homesite today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Benton at Magnolia Woods located?

Off Highland Road in East Baton Rouge Parish, in the southern portion of the city. Easy access to LSU, Interstate 10, and the shopping and dining along Highland Road and Burbank Drive.

How many homesites are available through Bardwell?

Eighteen homesites are currently available. A $1,000 deposit locks in your price before contract.

Who is building homes at Benton at Magnolia Woods?

Bardwell Homes is a featured builder in the community, offering a limited collection of homes designed to align with the architectural standards and overall vision of Benton at Magnolia Woods.

When will infrastructure be complete?

Street and underground infrastructure work is underway and expected to be completed by March 2026, clearing the way for home construction to proceed.

How close is the community to LSU?

Approximately two miles. That means close enough that you can make it to a game without a plan, and far enough that the neighborhood stays quiet during contraflow. 

Are there parks nearby?

Yes. The community itself will include a two-acre park with a pond. Highland Road Community Park — 144 acres with trails, sports fields, and open recreational space — is nearby as well.

Why is Highland Road such a desirable location?

It’s one of Baton Rouge’s most established residential corridors. Mature trees, proximity to the university, access to the interstate, and a neighborhood character that took decades to build. That’s not something you replicate in a new development on the edge of town.

Move-In-Ready Luxury: Bardwell Homes Coming 2026

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Explore Luxury New Construction Living in TerraBella 

If you’ve been searching for new homes in Covington, LA that offer a sense of character, walkable design, and aesthetic cohesion, TerraBella could be a great fit for you. With trusted Louisiana builders like Bardwell Homes, this thoughtfully planned neighborhood embraces the charm of traditional Southern living, while encapsulating all the perks of modern luxury, intentional design, and long-term quality.

Two new construction homes by Bardwell are currently available for purchase, with projected completion dates set for March 2026. Whether you prefer to secure a move-in-ready spec home or build a personalized residence from the ground up, TerraBella offers flexibility for prospective homebuyers in one of Covington’s most desirable communities.

Find A Walkable Community in Covington

Located in the heart of Covington, TerraBella is a return to the traditional neighborhood concept. This “new, old way to live” features elements like prominent front porches, neat sidewalks, and lush green spaces to encourage connection. 

TerraBella residents will enjoy:

  • Walkable streetscapes
  • A village square
  • Community green spaces
  • Year-round neighborhood events
  • Intimate, intentional layout planning

The result is a beautiful community that feels established, welcoming, and thoughtfully curated, quite distinct from conventional subdivisions.

For buyers searching for walkable communities in Covington, LA or homes near Mandeville with strong neighborhood identity, TerraBella is an excellent choice.

Two New Construction Homes in TerraBella 

Bardwell Homes currently has two homes under construction in TerraBella, available for purchase now. With completion dates quickly approaching in March 2026, these nearly ready-to-move-in homes represent a fine opportunity for buyers who want to bypass more decisions and walk straight into a beautiful home by a trusted, local builder. 

The Marseille | 119 Sage Alley, Covington, LA 70433

  • 2,381 square feet
  • Listed at $685,000
  • Projected completion: March 20, 2026

Slightly larger in scale, the Marseille-C plan provides 2,381 square feet of architectural sophistication. Designed with a focus on proportion and details, this home delivers understated luxury, from high-quality material selections to a layout that showcases both privacy and openness.

For buyers looking for luxury homes in Covington, Louisiana, the Marseille represents a rare opportunity to secure a residence that feels custom, combining timeless design with modern amenities. 

Because these homes are already under construction, buyers can enjoy the benefit of new construction without undergoing the timelines of a full build process. Either new home is a smart way to take advantage of Bardwell’s signature attention to detail in a very short time. 

The Brussels | Mount Hope Court

  • 2,497 square feet
  • Listed at $685,347
  • Projected completion: Summer 2026

Slightly larger in scale, the Brussels plan provides 2,497 square feet of architectural sophistication. Designed with a focus on proportion and details, this home delivers understated luxury, from high-quality material selections to a layout that showcases both privacy and openness.

For buyers looking for luxury homes in Covington, Louisiana, the Brussels represents a rare opportunity to secure a residence that feels custom, combining timeless design with modern amenities. 

Because these homes are already under construction, buyers can enjoy the benefit of new construction without undergoing the timelines of a full build process. Either new home is a smart way to take advantage of Bardwell’s signature attention to detail in a very short time. 

Why Buy Now in TerraBella?

For buyers comparing new construction homes in Covington with resale options, the difference often lies in design, energy efficiencies, and attention to detail. Bardwell’s approach ensures every home reflects both aesthetic refinement and structural integrity.

Covington continues to see strong demand for high-quality new construction homes, particularly in communities with defined character and walkability. With limited lots available and only two spec homes currently under construction, timing really matters.

Purchasing during the construction phase offers several potential advantages:

  • Lock in pricing now
  • Secure a home in a limited-inventory neighborhood
  • Plan ahead for a Spring 2026 move-in

For those considering relocation within St. Tammany Parish, TerraBella offers the ideal balance of personalization and community cohesion. Join a community that’s growing and thriving. 

Prefer to Personalize? Build in TerraBella

While the two new homes on Sage Alley offer an enticing opportunity immediately, TerraBella also allows buyers to build a fully personalized home through Bardwell’s pre-sold process. Available lots can be reviewed through the community plat, and multiple Bardwell floor plans are available for selection. 

Visit TerraBella or Schedule a Private Appointment

We encourage you to visit TerraBella to experience the neighborhood firsthand. You may stop by during office hours or schedule a private appointment with our realtor, Heather Kirkpatrick to:

  • Review available homes
  • Explore the lot plat
  • Discuss pre-sold building options
  • Learn more about available floor plans

Whether you’re interested in securing one of the current spec homes on Sage Alley or designing a personalized residence from the ground up, Bardwell Homes provides expert guidance from first consultation through final walkthrough.

Schedule your appointment and discover how Bardwell Homes continues to redefine new construction in Covington.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Construction Homes in TerraBella, Covington, LA

1. Are there new construction homes available in Covington, LA right now?

Yes. Bardwell Homes currently has two new construction homes under construction in TerraBella in Covington, LA, with projected completion dates in March 2026.

2. Where is TerraBella located in Covington?

TerraBella is located in the heart of Covington, Louisiana, in St. Tammany Parish. The community offers convenient access to Mandeville and surrounding Northshore areas.

3. What makes TerraBella different from other Covington neighborhoods?

TerraBella is a walkable community designed around a traditional neighborhood concept, featuring front porches, sidewalks, green spaces, a village square, and year-round community events.

4. What homes are currently available in TerraBella?

Two Bardwell Homes are available on Sage Alley:

  • 536 Mount Hope Court (Brussels)-2,497
  • 119 Sage Alley (Marseille) – 2,381 sq ft
    Both are projected for completion in Spring/Summer 2026.

5. What is the price range of the available homes?

Current homes in TerraBella are listed from the mid-$600s, with pricing depending on floor plan, size, and finishes.

6. Can I buy a move-in-ready home in TerraBella?

Yes. The two homes currently under construction offer a move-in-ready opportunity without the extended timeline of a fully custom build.

7. Can I build a custom home in TerraBella?

Yes. Buyers may select from available lots and build a personalized home through Bardwell Homes’ pre-sold building process, choosing from multiple floor plans.

8. Why choose new construction over resale in Covington, LA?

New construction homes in Covington typically offer modern layouts, improved energy efficiency, updated materials, and lower maintenance compared to many resale homes.

9. Is TerraBella a walkable community?

Yes. TerraBella was intentionally designed with walkable streetscapes, sidewalks, a playground, clubhouse, green spaces, and a village-style layout to encourage connection and community.

10. How close is TerraBella to Mandeville?

TerraBella is conveniently located near Mandeville, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for homes near Mandeville with strong neighborhood identity.

11. Is Covington, LA a good place to buy a new home?

Covington continues to see strong demand for high-quality new construction homes due to its community atmosphere, Northshore location, and access to St. Tammany Parish amenities.

12. How do I schedule a tour of TerraBella?

You can visit during office hours or schedule a private appointment with the community realtor to review available homes, lot availability, and building options.

Bardwell Custom Homes : Build for the Long Run

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The Bardwell Difference

At Bardwell, we combine intuitive touches and thoughtful design to build homes that express your personal style. We believe that unexpected details make homes inspiring. It’s why we let design drive the process behind every Bardwell home.

From the floors to the fixtures, personalize each element of your home’s interior with finishes hand-selected by design professionals. In each step of construction, every curve, line and material selection is planned and implemented with craftsman quality to reflect the real needs of each family and designed with space and style for all occasions.

While fancy finishes and high ceilings alone aren’t quite enough to make a house a home, the customized details in every Bardwell home are designed to simplify your life. Whether it is a trim detail or a perfectly placed nook, no detail is overlooked.

When looking for a home with unique design, look to Bardwell Homes for a blend of tailored Southern style and the luxury of modern living. Inside and out, a home by Bardwell is a build all your own. Some call it thoughtful, we call it The Bardwell Difference.

Why Build with Bardwell

Personalization meets Expertise

We begin by seeking a deep understanding of how you live and how you want your home to support you lifestyle. We combine your vision with our industry expertise to create a home that’s distinctly yours.

Thoughtful Design and Enduring Quality

From smart layouts to locally sourced materials, every detail matters. More than curated finishes, we build homes to stand the test of time, a careful balance of longevity, functionality, and timeless beauty.

A Proven, Trusted Partner

From the first meeting to move-in day, our team prioritizes clear, consistent communication. We value transparency and keep you informed every step of the way to facilitate a stress-free, rewarding experience.

Our Process

1. Secure Land

Build on your own land or choose a lot in one of the several different communities Bardwell has to offer.

2. Architectural Plans

We shape your vision with expert partners (or yours) to design plans that balance beauty, function, and future-ready living.

3. Pricing, Allowances, & Schedules

Get a full cost estimate, selection allowances, estimated build timeline, and draw schedule – all up front and easy to follow.

4. Approval & Construction

Once approved, we break ground. As we focus on the build, you’ll get regular updates, watching your new home come to life.

5. Final Walkthrough

Tour your completed home before closing to survey the final result. Then, get the keys to your new home designed just for you.

What Homeowners Are Saying

“The staff were incredibly friendly, professional, and always willing to answer my questions throughout the process. Everything was completed on time, as promised. I highly recommend Bardwell Homes to anyone looking for a new build.” – George Xue

“After 2 builds and lots of experiences, I can honestly say Scott Bardwell cares about his customers and is a man of great integrity!” – Kayla Silvio

“The attention to detail and the creative use of materials inside and outside of the home were unmatched.” – Scott Berry

“If you’re considering building a new home, I highly recommend taking a look at Bardwell Homes. Our home is everything we wanted it to be.” – Truax Family

Q&A on Curation and Design in Bardwell Homes with Interior Designer Laura Cedor

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Baton Rouge native Laura Cedor has always unequivocally loved design, architecture, and construction. And, Laura’s dedication to her clients and driven nature is what sets her apart as a designer. She is passionate about giving her clients a home that they love and making sure they feel comfortable and heard along the way. We sat down with Laura to discuss her design philosophy and how it impacts the custom and semi-custom home-building experience at Bardwell Homes. 

“My passion is to create timeless spaces that will shape the way families experience life, happiness, and love within their most sacred place, home.”

Tell us about your overall approach to design.  

Because I am a mom of five, I have a firsthand appreciation of the importance of a durable product. So, I strive to select finishes that will withstand real life, whatever that may look like for each individual client and family. Timeless design never compromises overall quality and functionality.

How do you balance functionality and aesthetics? 

This balance depends on each room of the house. For instance, the dining room in the front of the house where events like Christmas dinner, Sunday family get-togethers, and special moments will receive a different treatment in terms of fabric and finishes. 

How does good interior design impact the home experience?

Good design is very much individualized – it is all about emotion, comfort, and feel. Interior design textures and colors impact your emotions, so you have to consider how each person will use and appreciate the spaces. Ultimately, people want to feel comfortable and love the spaces within their home.  

How did your relationship with Bardwell Homes begin?

Our relationship began when one of my custom clients selected Bardwell Homes to build their forever home. I was extremely impressed with Bardwell and was excited to work on future projects with them!

Walk us through the interior design process for a semi-custom home vs. a custom home. 

The semi-custom home process offers a curated selection from a design team in which a homeowner comes in and designs based on these selections. This protects the homeowner and keeps them within budget while still giving a custom-feeling experience with the benefit of selecting from options for wood flooring, millwork, countertops, mirrors, and hardware.

On the other hand, the custom home process is a start to finish; the sky is the limit, and the selection of all fabrics, finishes, and materials for each space within the home.  This allows the homeowner to add a personal touch within all the elements of their home – with a larger point of emphasis on budget management, as a result.

What’s the collaboration process like with the client and Bardwell? 

When a client comes to Bardwell Homes, we host a creative meeting about their ideas, pictures, favorite paint colors, etc. In this first meeting we learn a lot about the homeowners’ goals. We hear how they intend to use the space, whether it’s their first home and they are about to get married or they are looking to downsize.

Once we have a full understanding of their vision, we start with big picture items, such as exterior paint, front doors, roof, brick, windows, interior doors, interior cabinets, plumbing fixtures, and cabinets. After that initial meeting we have one or two additional meetings to select the more detailed design elements.

How do you manage budget constraints with the design goals, even if the client’s needs or vision evolves over time?

Budget constraints happen in every single job. I educate my clients that we do not need to include every trendy detail and that there is a way to prioritize what is the most important to them. For instance, my client wanted a beautiful white marble kitchen countertop. To stay within budget, we changed materials in spaces that were not as visible. Still a beautiful product, but we do not need to use the most expensive finish in every room. As a designer, my goal is to guide my clients to the best returns with the biggest personal impact.

What is the client communication process like? 

I am extremely hands on with my clients… We call, text, DM, email, see each other at sporting events, and go out to lunch. When LCI is involved we are ALL IN. Communication is everything.

What advice would you give to homeowners considering a custom build? 

Decide on your designer and architect at the same time! Architects have the big vision, and they work with you on creating the sizes of spaces. Designers work with you on how you live in and experience the space. It makes the process flow much better when they can collaborate from the start.  

What inspires you? 

My family is my inspiration, and they inspire me to be better every single day. My children are my personal inspiration, and my husband is my biggest supporter of my personal and professional aspirations.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite projects?

Oh, that’s easy! I just recently finished one of my all-time favorite projects this spring. Not only was the house design elegantly jaw-dropping, but most importantly, these clients fully trusted my vision from day one, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I really define my success based on the level of the relationship I have with the client.

It’s what matters most for a successful project. The design and everything that goes into the decision-making process leading up to the final product comes naturally when the relationship is strong. This translates into a happy homeowner!

Do you see any trends that you believe are here to stay? 

Warm color is definitely coming back! Warmth, cozy, and color is coming back!  

Work with Laura Cedor 

Laura has worked on designs in the TerraBella community,  but she is available to design in any Bardwell community. If you’d like to learn more about working with Laura Cedor on a Bardwell Home, contact us.

Why Now is the Best Time to Build Your New Home

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Are you considering building a new home?

Whether you’re planning to buy new construction or looking for a move-in ready home, moving is always a big decision, and it’s often a question of timing.

  • Is now the right time for my family?
  • Will we find a home that meets our needs in the long run?
  • Are we ready to make this large investment of money, energy, and resources?

Real estate market conditions also play a substantial role in making an informed decision that you can feel good about.

Right now, we’re experiencing a unique combination of limited housing inventory, stabilized  mortgage rates, and attractive financial incentives. So, if you’re looking to invest in new construction, this is a great time to explore the benefits of building a new home.

Navigating the Current Housing Market

The current housing market does not have enough supply to meet the demand, with a national shortfall of approximately 2 million homes. Since the pandemic, this imbalance has intensified competition and inflated prices for existing properties. And it’s increasingly difficult to find and secure a home that works for your family.

Given the environment, building a new home is a smart move.

Opting for new construction allows you to create a home that aligns precisely with your vision and needs while also avoiding the limitations of existing inventory. Partnering with a reputable and experienced home builder enables you to ensure the highest standards of quality. With access to premium materials and a proven process, Bardwell Homes will tailor your new home to your lifestyle.

Financial Incentives and Falling Mortgage Rates

Recent trends in mortgage rates highlight another compelling reason to consider new construction. After hitting a 20-year high, mortgage rates have recently declined, creating better opportunities for prospective homeowners. Lower interest rates, combined with rising home prices, create a better financial landscape for building a new home.

In addition to lower interest rates, potential buyers can take advantage of various financial incentives, such as tax benefits and lower closing costs. These factors make new construction a more affordable, accessible option, enhancing its value as an investment compared to purchasing an existing property.

Building Equity and Ensuring Long-Term Value

Your home is likely to be the most significant purchase you make in life, and making an informed choice is important for securing long-term value. If you build a new home at this time, then you benefit from favorable financing conditions and lock in a price that reflects current market trends.

As property values continue to rise, your investment is well-positioned for appreciation. 

Custom homes and semi-custom homes offer distinct advantages in this context. A custom home allows for a meticulous alignment with your lifestyle requirements, ensuring that your residence balances your functional and aesthetic preferences. Alternatively, a semi-custom home strikes a balance between personalization and convenience, providing pre-designed options that still cater to your individual tastes. 

The Advantages of New Construction

New construction offers a range of benefits that will significantly enhance your living experience. One of the key advantages is the reduced need for maintenance. When every element of the home, from the roof to the appliances, is brand new, the likelihood of unexpected repairs and maintenance issues is greatly diminished. This not only offers peace of mind but also contributes to a more predictable and manageable living environment.

In addition, new construction gives you the opportunity to design a home that precisely suits your family’s needs and desires. Whether through custom design or semi-custom modifications, you can ensure that every detail aligns with your vision, resulting in a new home that truly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations.

The Distinction of the Custom and Semi-Custom Home Experience

Choosing the right home builder is fundamental to your experience, and Bardwell Homes stands as the choice for excellence in Baton Rouge and beyond. With our proven process and meticulous attention to detail, we cultivate custom home-building experiences that marry luxury and practicality. Our approach ensures that each home is a testament to superior craftsmanship and personalized service.

For those seeking a fully customized experience, you can build a custom home with Bardwell and design a home that is uniquely yours, tailored to every specification and preference. Alternatively, our semi-custom homes offer a curated selection of designs with room for personalization, combining elegance with efficiency.

Discover The Bardwell Difference

So, if you’re considering new home construction, the current market does present you with a good opportunity. With the ongoing shortage of existing homes, favorable mortgage rates, and attractive financial incentives, now is an opportune time to invest in a new, custom-built residence. In partnership with a trusted home builder, like the team at Bardwell Homes, you ensure that your new home will not only meet but exceed your expectations in terms of quality, design, and long-term value.

Whether you opt for a custom home or a semi-custom home, the benefits of new construction are definitively substantial. Enjoy reduced maintenance, the potential for equity growth, and the ability to create a residence that aligns with your lifestyle. It’s a good time to buy new construction and build the home you’ve always envisioned. So, embrace this opportunity to secure a home in one of Bardwell’s communities and experience the beauty and intentionality of traditional neighborhood living.

If you’re looking for a new home in Baton Rouge, peruse our selection in Clark’s Ferry, Willow Grove, Harveston, or Inniswylde for beautiful communities conveniently located to city life amenities. For those interested in a move to Covington, learn more about our recent acquisition of new lots in TerraBella.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is 2026 still a good time to build a new home?

Yes — despite shifts in mortgage rates and material costs, 2026 remains a favorable time to build due to stabilizing interest rates and limited housing inventory. Starting construction now lets you secure today’s pricing and avoid the steep competition for existing homes, which are still in short supply.

2. Will building a home now cost more than buying an existing one?

Not necessarily. While new construction can seem more expensive upfront, you often save long-term through energy-efficient features, new appliances, and lower maintenance costs. Plus, with current builder incentives and financing options, you have plenty of options to make an affordable, worthwhile investment. 

3. How do mortgage rate changes affect new home construction?

Even small dips in mortgage rates can make a big difference in affordability. When rates stabilize or drop, you can qualify for a larger loan amount or secure better terms. Many homebuyers choose to lock in rates early during the building process to take advantage of market shifts.

4. What financial incentives are available for new home construction?

Depending on your lender and builder, incentives may include reduced closing costs, rate buydowns, or tax advantages tied to energy-efficient home features. Bardwell Homes can connect you with trusted mortgage partners who specialize in new construction financing.

5. Is it cheaper to buy land and build or buy in a Bardwell community?

Buying within a Bardwell community offers predictable resale value due to pre-developed lots, optimized home plans, and established neighborhood amenities. Purchasing your own land offers flexibility but can introduce higher upfront costs for site prep, permits, and utilities.