2026 Builder Guide · San Antonio TX

New Construction Homes
in San Antonio TX

VA loans accepted. 15+ major builders. Four active corridors from $220K to $900K+. Expert guidance from a 3× SABJ Top 25 Realtor (#13 · #14 · #20), Real Producers Top 100 agent, and Army veteran.

Christopher Beal, founder of Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group, has guided hundreds of military families and civilian buyers through new builds across every corridor in the metro area. Whether you are a veteran using zero-down VA financing, an active-duty family on PCS orders to Joint Base San Antonio, or a civilian buyer choosing between a resale listing and a brand-new home, the builder process requires a fundamentally different strategy than a traditional purchase. This guide covers every corridor, every major builder, VA compatibility, build timelines, current incentives, and why the agent in the sales office is not working for you.

New Construction Fast Facts
VA Loans Accepted Zero down on new builds — all major builders VA-friendly
NC 4–9 Month Build Times Inventory homes close in 30–60 days
$0 Your Agent is Free Builder pays the buyer's agent — always bring your own
4 Active Corridors NW · NE · Far North · South/SW
Military PCS Specialists Remote buying + PCS timeline coordination
15+
Major Builders
Active in SA
4
Builder
Corridors
$0
Down w/ VA
on New Builds
30–60
Days to Close
Inventory Homes
306+
Homes Sold
Career Volume $117M+
Quick Answer · New Construction San Antonio · Updated April 19, 2026

What Should San Antonio Buyers Know About New Construction in 2026?

San Antonio has more than 15 major builders actively delivering new homes across four corridors in 2026, with price points from approximately $220K to $900K+. VA loans are accepted on new construction — veterans can purchase with zero down payment as long as the home meets VA minimum property requirements. Bringing your own buyer's agent costs you nothing — the builder pays the commission — but having independent representation means someone is negotiating upgrades, lot premiums, and contract terms on your behalf rather than the builder's. Build timelines range from 4–9 months for production builds; inventory homes can close in 30–60 days, making them the best option for military families on fixed PCS timelines. Veterans can also stack builder incentives with VA homebuyer assistance programs and the Serve & Save closing cost credit to significantly reduce closing costs. Christopher Beal with Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group — with 306+ homes sold and $117M+ in career volume — tracks every active builder community and can match your budget, timeline, and installation assignment to the right corridor.

Key Takeaways
  • 15+ major builders are actively delivering new homes across 4 San Antonio corridors in 2026, with price points from approximately $220K to $900K+.
  • VA loans are accepted on new construction — veterans can purchase with zero down payment, and the 2026 VA loan limit for Bexar County is $832,750.
  • Builder incentives currently range from $5,000 to $50,000 in closing cost credits, rate buydowns, and design center allowances.
  • Bringing your own agent costs nothing — the builder pays the buyer's agent commission — but independent representation means someone negotiates on your behalf.
  • Inventory homes close in 30–60 days; production builds take 4–9 months. PCS buyers should target quick move-ins for fixed report dates.
  • Veterans can stack builder incentives with VA benefits, TSAHC assistance, City of San Antonio HIP grants, the Texas veteran property tax exemption, and the Serve & Save closing cost credit.
The Most Important Thing First

Why Do You Need Your Own Agent for New Construction?

The sales representative in the model home works for the builder — not for you. Their compensation is tied to protecting the builder's contract terms and profit margins. Having your own buyer's agent costs you nothing because the builder pays the commission regardless. Understanding the home buying process for new builds starts with this critical fact.

Going In Without Your Own Agent
× The sales rep in the model home works for the builder — their job is to protect builder margins, not your interests
× No one negotiates lot premiums, upgrade packages, or closing cost concessions on your behalf
× Builder contracts are written by builder attorneys — they're not neutral documents. These contracts are heavily builder-favorable by design — and rarely negotiable in structure, but negotiable in economics.
× VA appraisal issues, construction delays, and inspection findings have no advocate
× You pay the same price either way — the builder keeps the commission
Christopher Beal — Your Builder Buyer's Agent
Representation is 100% free — the builder pays the buyer's agent commission regardless
Negotiates lot premiums, upgrade credits, closing cost concessions, and rate buydowns
Reviews the builder contract for unfavorable terms before you sign anything
Coordinates VA appraisal, inspections, and lender timeline to protect your closing date
Attends builder walkthroughs — punch list review and pre-closing inspection expertise

Christopher Beal has negotiated new construction contracts with DR Horton, Lennar, Perry Homes, KB Home, Pulte, Meritage Homes, Ashton Woods, David Weekley, Chesmar Homes, Scott Felder, Highland Homes, M/I Homes, Brightland Homes, and LGI Homes across the San Antonio metro. That depth of experience means knowing which builders offer flexibility on lot premiums, which design studios allow credit reallocation, and which contract terms can be modified to protect you during construction delays or VA appraisal issues. First-time buyers especially benefit from experienced representation, as the new construction process involves more contract complexity than a standard resale purchase.

Critical — Register Your Agent on Day One

Most builders require your buyer's agent to accompany you on your first visit to register as your representative. If you walk into a model home without your agent and then try to add them later, many builders will not honor the registration — and you lose your representation. Contact Christopher before visiting any model home or builder sales office. A 10-minute call first protects your representation rights for the entire transaction.

VA Loan + New Construction

Can Veterans Buy New Construction with Zero Down Payment?

Yes — VA loans work on new construction purchases from all major San Antonio builders, and veterans can purchase with zero down payment. The 2026 VA loan limit for Bexar County is $832,750 for full entitlement, and current 30-year VA mortgage rates range from approximately 5.50% to 6.38% as of April 2026. Loan approval subject to credit, income, entitlement, and VA property requirements.

01
Get VA Pre-Approved Before You Shop

VA pre-approval before visiting communities gives you accurate purchase power based on your BAH, income, and entitlement position. The 2026 VA loan limit for Bexar County is $832,750 for full entitlement — veterans with remaining entitlement can purchase well above that threshold. Builders take pre-approved buyers more seriously, and knowing your ceiling upfront prevents wasting time in communities above or below your range. Use a VA-experienced lender — not the builder's lender by default. Check your VA eligibility →

02
Confirm the Community and Builder Are VA-Compatible

Most major San Antonio builders (DR Horton, Lennar, Perry, Pulte, KB Home, Meritage) regularly work with VA buyers and are familiar with VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). However, some custom or semi-custom communities have base prices or construction specifications that create VA appraisal friction. An experienced buyer's agent can identify this before you spend time in a community that won't appraise at contract price under VA guidelines.

03
Understand the Builder Lender Incentive Tradeoff

Builders routinely offer closing cost credits, upgrade allowances, or rate buydowns tied to using their preferred lender. These can be worth $5,000–$25,000+ on larger builds. But builder lenders aren't always VA specialists, and their rates or fees may offset the incentive value. Have your VA lender and the builder's lender both quote the same scenario — then compare total cost, not just the incentive headline. Review the full closing costs breakdown to understand every line item before committing. VA Loan Guide →

04
VA Appraisal on New Construction

VA appraisals on new construction work differently than resale. The VA appraiser reviews the plans and specs in addition to comparable sales — and the home must be 100% complete before the VA appraisal can occur for most loan types. This affects closing timeline coordination. Experienced VA agents and lenders build this into the contract timeline so there are no surprises at the finish line.

05
Funding Fee Exemption — Verify Before Closing

Veterans receiving VA compensation for a service-connected disability may be exempt from the VA funding fee. Confirm your exemption status on your COE before closing — the exemption must be active at loan origination. On a new construction purchase at $400K+, this saves thousands out of pocket. If a rating decision is pending, coordinate timing with your lender before locking your rate. COE & Eligibility Guide →

Stack Your Benefits — VA + Assistance Programs + Builder Incentives + Serve & Save

Veterans purchasing new construction in San Antonio can combine VA loan benefits (zero down, no PMI) with TSAHC assistance, City of San Antonio HIP grants, builder closing cost credits, the Texas veteran property tax exemption, and the Serve & Save program — which reduces closing costs based on years of service, with a credit equal to 1% per year of verified active duty up to 6% maximum. On VA loans, sellers and builders can pay all normal closing costs with no VA-imposed cap — the 4% concession limit applies only to non-closing-cost items like prepaid taxes and debt payoff. On a $450K new build, stacking these programs can save tens of thousands at closing and significantly reduce your true monthly cost. Full Assistance Programs Guide → · Property Tax Exemption Guide →

Builder Corridors

Where Are the Best New Construction Corridors in San Antonio?

San Antonio's new construction market is organized around four primary growth corridors, each with distinct price points, active builders, school districts, and proximity to JBSA installations. The Northwest corridor anchors in the Texas Hill Country with premium pricing. The Northeast corridor near Randolph AFB has the highest VA loan usage. The South/Southwest offers the most affordable entry points. The North/281 corridor delivers move-up and luxury builds.

Northwest Corridor
Helotes · Boerne · Fair Oaks Ranch
Best for: Lackland AFB · Camp Bullis

The northwest corridor is San Antonio's premier Hill Country new construction zone — combining Texas Hill Country scenery with master-planned communities and strong resale values. Price points run from $280K to $900K+, with production builders in the Alamo Ranch and Potranco Road areas and semi-custom to luxury builders in Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch. Northside ISD and Boerne ISD zones drive significant family demand. Commute to Lackland is 15–30 minutes; Camp Bullis is 20–40 minutes.

Active builders: Perry Homes, David Weekley, Scott Felder, Chesmar, Highland Homes, Lennar, Ashton Woods, Meritage, DR Horton
Northeast Corridor
Schertz · Cibolo · Universal City
Best for: Randolph AFB

The northeast corridor is the most active new construction zone for military families assigned to Randolph AFB — with the shortest commutes and the widest selection of production homes in the $280K–$500K range. Schertz and Cibolo have seen sustained builder activity for over a decade, producing well-established neighborhoods with strong schools under SCUCISD. High VA loan usage makes this the most VA-familiar corridor in the metro.

Active builders: DR Horton, Lennar, Pulte, Brightland Homes, Scott Felder, KB Home, Ashton Woods, Perry Homes
Far North Corridor
Stone Oak · Bulverde · Spring Branch
Best for: Fort Sam Houston · Camp Bullis

The far north corridor stretches from Stone Oak out through Bulverde and into Comal County — one of the fastest-growing areas in the state. Bulverde and Spring Branch offer large-lot new construction at relatively accessible price points ($320K–$650K) with Hill Country character. Stone Oak and the 281 corridor deliver luxury builds from $500K to $800K+. Comal ISD and Canyon Lake ISD zones draw buyers from across the metro. Proximity to Fort Sam Houston is 25–40 minutes; Camp Bullis is 10–25 minutes.

Stone Oak + Bulverde · Spring Branch
Active builders: Perry Homes, Chesmar, David Weekley, Scott Felder, Pulte, DR Horton, Ashton Woods, Drees Custom Homes
South / Southwest Corridor
Castroville · Medina County · SW San Antonio
Best for: Lackland AFB · SW Military Highway

The south and southwest corridor offers San Antonio's most affordable new construction — with significant builder activity in Castroville, the Medina Valley area, and southwest San Antonio communities. Price points generally run $240K–$400K, making this corridor the most accessible entry point for first-time buyers and VA buyers maximizing their benefit. Medina Valley ISD and Southwest ISD serve the area, with Lackland AFB providing a 20–35 minute commute for most communities.

Castroville + Lytle · SW San Antonio
Active builders: DR Horton, Lennar, LGI Homes, Brightland Homes, Ashton Woods, Highland Homes
Top Builders · San Antonio

Which Builders Are Active in San Antonio for 2026?

San Antonio has 15+ major builders actively delivering new homes in 2026, and the best builder for you depends on your budget, preferred corridor, design priorities, and timeline. Each builder has a different product, price point, and process. Knowing who builds what — and where — is the first step in an efficient new construction search.

DR Horton
High Volume · Entry to Mid

San Antonio's highest-volume builder by community count — 29 active communities. Most VA-familiar of any major builder in the market — high concentration in Schertz, Cibolo, Castroville, and SW SA. Price range roughly $220K–$450K. Express Homes sub-brand targets entry-level buyers. Quick move-in inventory frequently available.

Lennar
High Volume · Entry to Mid

Major presence across all four corridors. Known for "Everything's Included" pricing model — upgrades bundled rather than a la carte. Operates Lennar Mortgage, their in-house lender. Active in Schertz, Cibolo, NW SA, and Boerne-area communities. Price range $270K–$550K.

Perry Homes
Mid to Upper · Texas-Based

Texas-based builder with strong Hill Country presence — 55 San Antonio communities. Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, Bulverde, Stone Oak corridor. Higher finish levels and more design flexibility than national production builders. Price range $350K–$750K+. Strong resale track record in NW corridor communities.

KB Home
Mid-Range · Built to Order

National builder with a built-to-order model that allows significant personalization at the mid-range price point. Active in NW, NE, and North corridors. Price range $250K–$450K. Design studio sessions let buyers customize more than most production builders at this price band.

David Weekley
Mid to Upper · Design-Forward

Houston-based builder with significant SA presence in the NW corridor and Far North. Known for design studios and personalization options above what DR Horton or Lennar offer. Price range $380K–$750K. Strong in Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, and Bulverde communities.

Chesmar Homes
Mid to Upper · Texas-Based

Texas-based, known for quality construction and community design in the mid-to-upper price band. Active in NW San Antonio, Boerne corridor, and Far North communities. Price range $380K–$700K. Less volume than DR Horton or Lennar — more attention at the individual community level.

Scott Felder
Mid to Upper · Custom-Leaning

Texas builder with a reputation for above-average standard finishes and strong community planning. Active in Boerne, Spring Branch, and select far north communities. Price range $380K–$660K. Popular with move-up buyers and Hill Country buyers wanting more design involvement than a production builder offers.

Pulte / Brightland
High Volume · All Price Points

National builder with multi-brand presence — Pulte targets mid-range, Brightland Homes targets entry-level. Active across NE and Far North corridors. Price range $240K–$550K. Pulte Financial Services is their in-house lender; compare rates carefully if incentives are tied to it.

Highland Homes
Mid to Upper · Texas-Based

Texas builder with strong presence in the NW Hill Country corridor. Known for energy efficiency and design quality in the $380K–$650K range. Fewer communities than DR Horton or Lennar but strong buyer satisfaction scores in existing neighborhoods.

Meritage Homes
Mid-Range · Energy Efficient

National builder known for industry-leading energy efficiency standards and design-forward communities. Active in NW and NE corridors with communities like Thomas Pond ($337K–$416K) and Arcadia Ridge. Price range $310K–$500K.

Ashton Woods
Mid to Upper · Design-Forward

Design-forward builder active across all four San Antonio corridors with communities in NW, NE, North, and South/SW. Price range $295K–$790K. Known for architectural variety and personalization options that set their communities apart visually.

LGI Homes
Entry-Level · Volume Builder

Focused on the entry-level and first-time buyer market — price range roughly $220K–$320K. Active in SW San Antonio, Castroville corridor, and select NE communities. Known for low barrier-to-entry pricing and included features. High VA loan usage in their communities.

Builder Disclaimer

Builder community availability, pricing, and active locations change frequently. This is a general market overview — not a real-time inventory listing. Contact Christopher for current community availability, active incentive programs, and lot selection in your target corridor and price range.

Builder Comparison

How Do San Antonio Builders Compare on Price, Corridor, and VA Compatibility?

The table below compares every major builder active in San Antonio by price range, primary corridors, product type, and VA loan familiarity. All listed builders accept VA loans; the VA-Friendly rating reflects how frequently their sales teams close VA transactions and how smoothly they handle VA appraisals and timelines.

Builder Price Range Primary Corridors Product Type VA-Friendly
DR Horton $220K–$450K NE, South/SW, NW High Volume · Entry to Mid ★★★
Lennar $270K–$550K All Four Corridors High Volume · Everything's Included ★★★
Perry Homes $350K–$750K+ NW, North, NE Mid to Upper · Texas-Based ★★★
KB Home $250K–$450K NW, NE, North Mid-Range · Built to Order ★★★
Pulte Homes $270K–$550K NE, North High Volume · All Price Points ★★
Meritage Homes $310K–$500K NW, NE Mid-Range · Energy Efficient ★★
Ashton Woods $295K–$790K NW, NE, North, South/SW Mid to Upper · Design-Forward ★★
David Weekley $380K–$750K NW, North Mid to Upper · Design Studio ★★
Chesmar Homes $380K–$700K NW, North Mid to Upper · Texas-Based ★★
Scott Felder $380K–$660K NW, NE, North Mid to Upper · Custom-Leaning ★★
Highland Homes $380K–$650K NW, North Mid to Upper · Energy Efficient ★★
M/I Homes $300K–$550K NW, North, NE Mid-Range · National Builder ★★
Brightland Homes $240K–$400K NE, South/SW Entry to Mid · First-Time Buyer ★★★
LGI Homes $220K–$320K South/SW, NE Entry-Level · Volume Builder ★★★
Beazer / Starlight $250K–$450K NW, NE Entry to Mid · National Builder ★★

Builder pricing, community availability, and incentive programs change frequently. This table reflects general 2026 market positioning. Contact Christopher Beal for real-time availability and active incentive programs.

Builder Incentives · 2026

What Builder Incentives Are Available on New Construction in 2026?

San Antonio builders are offering $5,000 to $50,000 in incentive packages in 2026, including closing cost credits, interest rate buydowns, design center allowances, and lot premium reductions. Incentive amounts vary by builder, community, home price, and whether the home is inventory or build-to-order. Inventory homes nearing completion typically offer the most aggressive incentives because builders face carrying costs on unsold homes.

Common incentive types in the current San Antonio market:

Closing Cost Credits

$5,000 to $25,000 toward lender fees, title fees, escrow, prepaids, and discount points. For VA buyers, these credits reduce cash needed at closing since VA loans already eliminate the down payment requirement.

Rate Buydowns

Temporary 2-1 or 3-2-1 buydowns that reduce your mortgage rate in the first two to three years. Some builders also offer permanent rate buydowns on inventory homes — particularly valuable in a higher-rate environment.

Design Center Credits

$10,000 to $50,000 toward upgrades on build-to-order homes, covering flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and appliance upgrades. Upper-tier builders like David Weekley, Perry Homes, and Chesmar offer the most flexible design studio experiences.

Lot Premium Reductions

Half-off or full waiver of lot premiums, particularly on inventory homes and less desirable lot positions. Lot premiums can add $5,000 to $40,000+ depending on the community and lot position.

Builders prefer incentives over base price cuts because concessions close deals without resetting neighborhood comparable sales — and buyers benefit because incentives solve specific affordability problems (cash to close, monthly payment, or upgrade quality) more effectively than a marginal price reduction. Veterans can stack builder incentives with VA loan benefits, TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes assistance, City of San Antonio HIP grants, and the Serve & Save closing cost credit. Review the closing costs guide for a complete breakdown. Already own a home in San Antonio? Get a free home evaluation to understand your equity position before purchasing new construction.

Military PCS Buyers

Can Military Families Buy New Construction on a PCS Timeline?

Military families on PCS orders to Joint Base San Antonio need a home ready when their report date says, not when a builder decides to finish. The key decision point is your available window: 6+ months allows a production build; under 6 months, focus on inventory homes or quick move-ins; under 90 days, treat it like a resale. Whether you're on PCS orders or transitioning out at ETS, here's how to navigate it.

Phase 1 · Orders Received
Assess Your Timeline First

The moment orders drop, calculate your available window before your report date. If you have 6+ months, a production build from a major builder may be feasible. Under 6 months — focus on inventory homes (already under construction) or quick move-ins. Under 90 days — treat it like a resale purchase and look at recently completed new construction that's sitting unsold.

Phase 2 · Pre-Approval
VA Pre-Approval Before Anything

VA pre-approval with a military-experienced lender before any builder visits. Military income — BAH, BAS, special pays — all count toward qualifying income and must be documented correctly. An inexperienced lender may not know how to handle military LES documents, which creates delays at the worst time. VA Loan Guide →

Phase 3 · Community Selection
Match Corridor to Installation

Choose your corridor based on your assigned installation's gate — not general "San Antonio" proximity. A home in Boerne is ideal for Camp Bullis but adds 45 minutes to a Randolph commute. Christopher coordinates virtual tours and remote community selection for buyers who haven't arrived in San Antonio yet. Military Relocation Guide →

Phase 4 · Contract
Build in PCS Protections

Builder contracts are not written with military buyers in mind. Negotiate PCS contingency language — provisions that protect your earnest money if orders change, are rescinded, or your report date shifts. Not all builders will accept this language, but an experienced buyer's agent knows which builders have accommodated military contingencies and how to frame the request.

Phase 5 · During Build
Remote Monitoring + Walkthroughs

If you're purchasing remotely from your current duty station, your agent handles frame walkthroughs, pre-drywall inspections, and pre-closing punch list reviews on your behalf. Video walkthroughs, photo documentation, and written reports keep you informed without requiring you to be physically present during the build process.

Phase 6 · Closing
Remote Closing Available

Texas allows remote online notarization (RON) for real estate closings — you can close on your new construction home from anywhere in the world without being physically present in San Antonio. Approximately one-third of Christopher's military buyer transactions close before the buyer has set foot in San Antonio.

PCS New Construction Strategy Call

The single most important call you can make after receiving JBSA orders is a 20-minute PCS strategy session with Christopher — before you visit any model homes or contact any builder sales offices. That conversation covers your timeline, installation corridor, VA position, builder options, and whether a new build or resale makes more sense for your specific situation. Call or text (210) 882-8583 or use the contact form at veteranrealestatesa.com/contact.

Common Questions

New Construction FAQ

The questions buyers ask most about new construction in San Antonio.

What new construction homes are for sale in San Antonio TX in 2026?
San Antonio has more than 15 major builders actively delivering new construction homes across four corridors in 2026. DR Horton, Lennar, Perry Homes, KB Home, Pulte, Meritage Homes, Ashton Woods, David Weekley, Chesmar Homes, Scott Felder, Highland Homes, M/I Homes, Brightland Homes, Beazer Homes, and LGI Homes all have active communities. Price points range from approximately $220K in the South/Southwest corridor to $900K+ in the Northwest Hill Country corridor. Inventory homes can close in 30 to 60 days, while production builds take 4 to 9 months. VA loans are accepted by all major builders, and veterans can purchase with zero down payment. Christopher Beal with Veteran Real Estate San Antonio tracks every active builder community and can match your budget, timeline, and installation assignment to the right corridor. Call (210) 882-8583 for current availability.
Who are the best builders for new homes in the San Antonio area?
The best builders in San Antonio depend on your price range, preferred corridor, and timeline. DR Horton is the highest-volume builder with 29 communities and the most VA-familiar sales teams. Perry Homes operates 55 San Antonio communities and is the top choice for mid-to-upper Hill Country builds in the $350K to $750K range. Lennar offers an Everything's Included pricing model across all four corridors. Ashton Woods and Meritage Homes deliver design-forward homes in master-planned communities like Arcadia Ridge and Thomas Pond. For entry-level buyers, LGI Homes and Brightland Homes offer the most accessible price points starting in the low $220Ks. David Weekley, Chesmar, and Scott Felder are Texas-based builders known for above-average finish levels and design studio personalization. Christopher Beal has negotiated new construction contracts with every major builder in San Antonio and can advise which builder matches your priorities.
Can I use a VA loan on a new construction home in San Antonio?
Yes. VA loans work on new construction purchases from all major San Antonio builders. Veterans can purchase with zero down payment as long as the home meets VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) and passes a VA appraisal. The 2026 VA loan limit for Bexar County is $832,750 for full entitlement. Most production builders including DR Horton, Lennar, Perry Homes, KB Home, and Pulte regularly close VA transactions and are familiar with the process. Veterans with a service-connected disability may be exempt from the VA funding fee, saving thousands at closing. Christopher Beal coordinates between the builder, your VA lender, and the VA appraiser to ensure the transaction closes smoothly and on schedule. See the full VA Loan Guide for eligibility details and current loan limits for Bexar County.
Do I need my own agent when buying new construction? Isn't the builder's rep enough?
Yes, and it costs you nothing. The builder pays the buyer's agent commission regardless of whether you bring your own agent. The sales representative in the model home works for the builder and is paid to protect builder margins. Your own buyer's agent negotiates lot premiums, upgrade credits, closing cost concessions, and contract terms on your behalf. An experienced agent also reviews the builder contract before you sign it. Most builders require agent registration on your first visit, so contact Christopher Beal at (210) 882-8583 before visiting any model home or sales office to protect your representation rights.
Should I use the builder's lender or my own VA lender?
Compare both carefully. Builder incentives tied to their preferred lender can be significant — rate buydowns, closing cost credits, or upgrade allowances worth $5,000 to $15,000+. However, builder lenders are not always VA specialists and their rates or fees may offset the incentive value. Have a VA-experienced lender quote the same scenario independently and compare total loan cost — not just the headline incentive. In some cases the builder incentive wins; in others the independent VA lender is clearly better. The key is comparing both before committing.
How long does new construction take in San Antonio?
Production builds from major San Antonio builders typically take 4 to 9 months from contract to closing depending on the builder, community, and supply chain conditions. Quick move-in homes that are already under construction can close in 30 to 60 days. Completed inventory homes can close on a timeline similar to resale. For military families on PCS orders with fixed report dates, quick move-in and inventory homes are the most reliable new construction option. Christopher Beal tracks quick move-in availability across all four San Antonio builder corridors and can identify homes matching your report date timeline.
What new construction communities are closest to Randolph AFB?
The closest new construction corridors to Randolph AFB are Schertz, Cibolo, and Universal City. These communities have the highest concentration of active builder communities in the NE corridor and the shortest gate-to-home commutes for Randolph-assigned personnel. DR Horton, Lennar, Pulte, and Brightland Homes are all active in this corridor with price points generally ranging from $280K to $500K. The NE corridor also has the highest VA loan usage of any corridor in the San Antonio metro, meaning builders and their sales teams are experienced with VA transactions. Christopher Beal can coordinate virtual tours and remote community walkthroughs if you are purchasing from your current duty station before arriving at Randolph. Randolph AFB Housing Guide →
Can I buy new construction remotely while still at my current duty station?
Yes — Christopher regularly coordinates remote new construction purchases for military buyers who have not yet arrived in San Antonio. The process includes virtual community tours, video walkthroughs of model homes and available lots, photo documentation during the build at each construction milestone, and remote closing via Texas Remote Online Notarization (RON) process. You can select your lot, sign your contract, monitor construction progress, and close entirely remotely if needed. Approximately one-third of Christopher's military buyer transactions close before the buyer has set foot in San Antonio. Contact Christopher as soon as orders drop to set up the process and begin identifying communities that match your timeline, budget, and installation assignment.
What builder incentives are available on new construction in San Antonio in 2026?
San Antonio builders are offering significant incentives in 2026 including closing cost credits ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, interest rate buydowns (2-1 and 3-2-1 structures), design center credits, and lot premium reductions. Incentive amounts vary by builder, community, and whether the home is inventory or build-to-order. Inventory homes nearing completion typically offer the most aggressive incentives because builders face holding costs. Veterans can stack builder incentives with VA loan benefits, TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes assistance, City of San Antonio HIP grants, the Texas veteran property tax exemption, and the Serve and Save closing cost credit from Veteran Real Estate San Antonio. On VA loans, builders can pay all normal closing costs with no VA-imposed cap.
What is included in a new construction home vs. what costs extra?
Standard inclusions vary significantly by builder. Entry-level builders (LGI, DR Horton Express) include basic appliances, flooring, and fixtures at the base price — upgrades add quickly. Mid-range builders (Lennar, Pulte) often use bundled pricing models. Upper-tier builders (David Weekley, Perry, Chesmar) offer design studio sessions where you select finishes within an allowance. The contract price is rarely the final cost — lot premiums, structural options, and design upgrades can add 10 to 25% above the base advertised price in many communities. Your buyer's agent helps you understand the true cost before you sign. Review the closing costs guide for a detailed breakdown of settlement expenses beyond the purchase price.
Can I combine builder incentives with VA loan benefits and homebuyer assistance programs?
Yes, in most cases. San Antonio builders currently offer $5,000 to $50,000 in closing cost credits, rate buydowns, and flex dollars that can often be combined with VA zero-down financing, TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes assistance, City of San Antonio HIP grants, and the Beal Group's Serve & Save closing cost credit. On VA loans, sellers and builders can pay all normal closing costs with no VA-imposed cap. The 4% VA concession limit applies only to non-closing-cost items such as prepaid taxes, debt payoff, and excess discount points — not to standard closing cost credits. Christopher Beal coordinates between the builder, lender, and assistance programs to structure the incentive package so that maximum benefit is applied within VA guidelines. For a complete breakdown of every assistance program available to veterans, visit the VA Homebuyer Assistance Programs page.
Does the Serve & Save program apply to new construction purchases?
Yes. The Beal Group's Serve & Save program applies to new construction purchases just as it does to resale transactions. The program reduces closing costs with a credit equal to 1% of the gross buyer's agent commission for every year of verified active military service, up to a maximum of 6%. The credit is applied directly on your Closing Disclosure at closing and layers on top of builder incentives, VA loan benefits, and any state or local assistance programs you qualify for. Eligibility requires a DD-214 or active-duty orders and use of Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group as your exclusive buyer's agent. The program is not combinable with outside referral programs. Visit the Serve & Save page for full program details and eligibility requirements.
What should I know about VA appraisals on new construction homes?
VA appraisals on new construction work differently than resale. The VA appraiser reviews the plans, specifications, and comparable sales — and the home must be 100% complete before the VA appraisal can occur for most loan types. This means the appraisal happens at the end of the build, not the beginning, which affects closing timeline coordination. If the appraised value comes in below the contract price, the buyer can negotiate with the builder, pay the difference out of pocket, or exercise a VA amendment clause to exit the contract. Experienced VA agents and lenders build this appraisal timeline into the contract from day one so there are no surprises at the finish line. Christopher Beal coordinates directly with the VA appraiser scheduling and the builder's closing department to keep everything on track.

Buying new construction? Veterans and active-duty military purchasing through Christopher Beal may also qualify for the Serve & Save Program — which reduces closing costs based on years of service, with a credit equal to 1% of the gross buyer's agent commission for every year of verified active service, up to 6% maximum. The credit is applied at closing and layers on top of builder incentives, VA benefits, and state or local assistance programs. Learn how the program works →

Christopher Beal — 3× SABJ Top 25 Realtor (2024, 2025, 2026), Army Veteran, San Antonio New Construction Specialist
Christopher Beal
3× SABJ Top 25 Realtor (#13 in 2024, #14 in 2025, #20 in 2026) · 2026 Real Producers Top 100 · 2× RateMyAgent Agent of the Year · 3× Platinum Top 50 · 6× eXp ICON Agent · Five Star Professional 2026 · MRP · VAREP Member · Army Veteran · TREC #723559 · 306+ homes sold · $117M+ career volume

New construction is a completely different transaction than resale — and the builder industry is designed to make you think you don't need your own representation. I've guided military families and civilian buyers through new builds across every corridor in San Antonio. If you're considering new construction — whether you're on PCS orders or just want a fresh build — call me before you walk into a single model home. See what past clients say on the client reviews page.

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About This Guide

Christopher Beal is a 3× San Antonio Business Journal Top 25 Realtor (#13 in 2024, #14 in 2025, #20 in 2026), 2026 Real Producers Top 100 agent, 2× RateMyAgent Agent of the Year for San Antonio and Bexar County, Five Star Professional, Army veteran, VAREP member, and founder of Veteran Real Estate San Antonio: The Beal Group — specializing in new construction homes in San Antonio, best builders in San Antonio, first-time buyer programs, VA loans, and military relocation to JBSA — including Northwest Hill Country builds in Helotes and Boerne, Northeast builder corridors in Schertz and Cibolo, luxury new construction in Fair Oaks Ranch and Stone Oak, and production builds across the South and Southwest corridors. With 306+ homes sold, $117M+ in career volume, and active relationships with every major San Antonio builder — DR Horton, Lennar, Perry Homes, KB Home, Pulte, Meritage, Ashton Woods, David Weekley, Chesmar, Scott Felder, Highland, M/I Homes, Brightland, Beazer, and LGI — Christopher negotiates builder contracts, coordinates VA appraisals, and structures incentive packages that protect military and civilian buyers alike. Read the latest market insights on the Beal Group blog.

Veteran-Owned · San Antonio Texas

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Don't walk into a model home alone. Christopher Beal is a 3× SABJ Top 25 Realtor (#13 · #14 · #20), 2026 Real Producers Top 100 agent, VA loan specialist, and Army veteran who knows every active builder community in San Antonio — and how to negotiate the best possible outcome on your behalf. With 306+ homes sold and $117M+ in career volume, your representation is free. Your advantage is not. Selling your current home? Request a free home evaluation to start the process.