Category: House Developer News & Tips

With 2025 in full swing, builders and residential developers are facing a wave of new expectations when it comes to energy efficiency, materials, and overall home design. Whether you’re working on a small subdivision of single-family homes or building on spec, staying ahead of these trends isn’t just smart—it’s necessary.

In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in how homes are being designed, not only to meet tightening sustainability regulations but also to appeal to buyers who are more conscious of energy costs, environmental impact, and long-term livability.

Energy Efficiency Is More Than a Buzzword

One of the biggest shifts in the residential market is the increasing demand for energy-efficient homes that don’t sacrifice comfort or style. Many states and provinces have updated their building codes for 2025, with more expected to follow. These updates include higher standards for insulation, air sealing, and mechanical ventilation. For example, California’s Title 24 energy code has pushed builders toward all-electric homes, while parts of Canada are moving toward net-zero ready standards by default. For developers working across North America, understanding regional code differences is becoming just as important as choosing the right floor plan.

Material Trends That Speed Up Builds and Improve Performance

Materials are another area where innovation is taking hold. Traditional stick framing is still common, but there’s growing interest in materials like structural insulated panels (SIPs) and insulated concrete forms (ICFs), which offer excellent thermal performance and speed up construction. These materials can help builders meet strict energy codes while reducing long-term maintenance for homeowners—an increasingly important selling point.

Design Choices That Balance Style and Sustainability

In terms of design, buyers and local governments alike are leaning into smarter, more adaptable layouts. Homes between 1,200 and 2,000 square feet are especially in demand, particularly when they include open-concept living areas that maximize light and airflow. Floor plans that allow for flexible spaces—like home offices, multi-use guest rooms, or aging-in-place features—are rising in popularity. These design choices don’t just appeal to modern buyers; they also make homes more resilient to market shifts.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we’re seeing an uptick in interest for plans that are both efficient and easily customizable. Builders are asking for layouts that allow easy integration of rooftop solar, heat pump systems, or advanced HVAC zoning. Features like covered porches, thoughtfully placed windows for passive solar gain, and mechanical rooms sized for future tech upgrades are no longer considered extras—they’re expected.

Whether you’re working on a small-lot infill project or building a new neighborhood from the ground up, understanding how these trends in efficiency, materials, and layout are converging is key. Smart builders are not only designing for code compliance today but also planning for flexibility tomorrow.

If you’re looking for home designs that align with these evolving needs, browse our curated selection of plans that offer smart square footage, sustainable layouts, and builder-friendly customization options. W.L. Martin Home Designs has a growing catalog of homes under and around 2,000 square feet that are designed with today’s expectations—and tomorrow’s innovations—in mind.

Did you know that color psychology—how colors affect our mood—was first seriously studied in the early 1800s? Fast forward to 2025, and we’re still just as fascinated by how our surroundings make us feel. In fact, that’s one of the biggest drivers behind this year’s top interior design trends. Today’s homeowners and builders aren’t just looking for style—they want spaces that support comfort, well-being, and personality.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we design home plans for how people actually live—from compact cottages to spacious family homes. Whether you’re a builder looking to keep your developments fresh or a homeowner dreaming about the perfect layout, here are the interior trends you’ll be seeing everywhere in 2025—and how to use them in homes of every size.

Warm Minimalism

Warm minimalism is the name of the game this year. It’s still about clean lines and uncluttered layouts, but with a softer touch. Think muted earth tones, natural textures, and cozy lighting that invites people to stay a while. This is a perfect fit for open-concept floor plans and smaller homes, where warmth and intentional simplicity can make compact spaces feel airy yet grounded.

Saturated Color Palettes

Saturated colors are also making a comeback, especially deep greens, clay reds, and rich ochres. While neutrals still have their place, 2025 is leaning into more expressive interiors that tell a story. Accent walls, bold cabinetry, or even colorful ceilings are all on the table. Developers can offer buyers a neutral base and still leave room for those personalized pops of color.

Curved and Organic Shapes

Curves and organic shapes are taking over from hard-edged furniture and rigid layouts. Arched doorways, curved kitchen islands, and round mirrors bring softness to interiors and help make a space feel more relaxed and welcoming. This trend is surprisingly easy to incorporate into existing house plans through furnishings and finishes, without major architectural changes.

Nature-Inspired Materials

Nature-inspired materials continue to be in high demand. Think stone, clay, wood, and linen—materials that age well and bring a sense of authenticity to a home. This ties in beautifully with W.L. Martin’s house plans that favor natural light and open spaces. A home with lots of windows, for example, pairs perfectly with wood flooring and soft, organic textiles.

Multifunctional Spaces

Multifunctional spaces are more important than ever. Whether it’s a homework nook tucked under the stairs or a flex room that can serve as a guest room or gym, today’s buyers want homes that can adapt. If you’re a builder looking to future-proof your offerings, look for plans that offer smart use of square footage and bonus rooms that aren’t locked into a single purpose.

Statement Lighting

Statement lighting is getting bolder, too. Sculptural fixtures are being treated like functional art, adding personality without clutter. In smaller homes, this can make a big impact—drawing the eye upward and adding visual interest without taking up floor space.

Wellness-Focused Design

Finally, expect to see more emphasis on wellness in the home. From air-purifying plants to spa-like bathrooms, homeowners are prioritizing spaces that support a healthy lifestyle. Natural light, good ventilation, and calming color palettes all play a role. Many of our home plans are designed with large windows and thoughtful layouts that naturally support this trend.

As interior design evolves, it’s all about flexibility, comfort, and creativity. These 2025 trends reflect a shift toward more personal, livable spaces—and that’s right in line with what W.L. Martin Home Designs is all about. Whether you’re developing a community or building your dream home, incorporating these trends can make your project more appealing, marketable, and future-ready.

Looking for house plans that fit today’s design trends? Browse our collection of modern, functional homes from tiny homes and duplexes to unique farmhouse designs at W.L. Martin Home Designs.

Developers and Buyers Alike Gain New Opportunities as the Market Shifts

As we step into the spring homebuying season, the U.S. housing market is showing signs of being more favorable to buyers than it has been in recent years. But affordability challenges remain — and while some relief is in sight, it’s clear that both buyers and developers need to navigate a complex and shifting landscape.

The most encouraging news? Inventory is up. Active listings across the country jumped more than 28% year-over-year, with some major markets like Denver and Las Vegas seeing spikes above 60%. More homes sitting on the market for longer has led to greater price flexibility and concessions from sellers. We’re seeing more price reductions, more negotiation room, and in many cases, sellers willing to buy down mortgage rates or cover closing costs.

This kind of market shift puts developers in a powerful position. With more buyers shopping and looking for better deals, now is an ideal time to invest in quality home plans that hit the sweet spot of affordability and livability. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we specialize in offering house plans from compact cottages to large family homes — perfect for today’s more price-sensitive market.

Easing Mortgage Rates, Increased Listings, and Buyer Incentives Point to a Shifting Real Estate Landscape

Though mortgage rates remain elevated, they’ve eased from the highs we saw just a few months ago. At the start of the year, the average 30-year fixed rate hovered over 7%. Now, it’s closer to 6.6% and could fall further if the U.S. economy continues to show signs of strain under the Trump administration’s sweeping tariffs. These tariffs have rattled global markets, increasing recession fears, and are already driving investors toward safer bonds, pushing the 10-year Treasury yield lower. That’s a key metric influencing mortgage rates — and it could be a green light for buyers to jump in.

But the market isn’t without its complications. Inflation remains sticky, and although mortgage rates might decline further, economic uncertainty could hold back buyer enthusiasm. High home prices, even with recent drops, are still 47% higher than they were just five years ago. The average American household is now spending nearly half its income on a median-priced home, right at the edge of what’s considered unaffordable by federal standards.

Despite that, many buyers — especially those relocating or upsizing — are making moves. In cities like Denver, Austin, and Miami, median listing prices have dropped as much as 6% over the past year. Buyers are gaining leverage. Real estate agents report nearly every buyer is requesting concessions, whether it’s waived inspection requirements, repair credits, or seller-paid closing costs.

This market presents a unique opportunity for developers. With more buyers active, especially those looking for newly built homes that offer efficiency, modern design, and smart layouts, the demand for the right home plan is high. W.L. Martin’s collection of house plans was created with flexibility in mind — ideal for developers who want to respond quickly to market shifts while keeping construction costs under control.

With Economic Uncertainty Ahead, Now May Be the Best Time to Invest in Smart, Scalable Home Design Plans

Let’s not forget: While more homes are on the market, inventory is still historically low. We’re at just over 1.2 million unsold homes nationwide — far short of the 2.2 million monthly average that would bring real balance. That means there’s room, and demand, for new construction — especially if it’s thoughtfully designed and priced right.

And for buyers concerned about today’s rates? Many are adopting a “buy now, refinance later” mindset. With the possibility of lower rates in the future, locking in a home they love now while negotiating concessions is a strategy more buyers are comfortable with — especially as fears of a cooling economy loom.

In short, spring 2025 is shaping up to be a mixed but promising market. For developers, now is the time to prepare. Having the right house plans ready means being able to meet buyer demand quickly — especially as more shoppers look for value, livability, and style without stretching their budgets too far.

Whether you’re planning a small community or adding to your portfolio of single-family homes, W.L. Martin Home Designs offers customizable, builder-friendly home plans ready to meet the moment. With prices stabilizing, inventory rising, and buyers regaining negotiating power, there may not be a better time to select your next great home design.

When it comes to selling new construction homes, what gets buyers through the door is often the view from the street. For developers and builders, curb appeal isn’t just cosmetic — it’s strategic. In fact, research shows homes with strong curb appeal sell for 7% more on average than similar homes with less attractive exteriors, according to a study from the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington. That number jumps to 14% in slower housing markets.

In 2025, it’s not just about a pretty front porch — it’s about designing elevations that match today’s buyer expectations while staying cost-effective to build. Let’s take a closer look at the top exterior design trends that are helping builders sell faster and stand out in crowded markets.

1. Modern Farmhouse Still Reigns — But It’s Evolving

The Modern Farmhouse look is still in demand, especially in suburban and semi-rural markets, but it’s getting a facelift. Clean lines, black window frames, and metal roof accents are replacing ultra-rustic details. Think white vertical siding with minimal trim and sleek porch columns. Developer tip: W.L. Martin Homes Designs Plan #24138 Modern Farmhouse plan is a great example of a simple but stylish elevation that offers mass appeal without breaking the bank. Design cue: Use fiber cement siding and faux wood accents to deliver the look of premium materials with better durability and lower cost.

2. Cottage-Core Is Winning Over First-Time Buyers

With affordability being a big concern, smaller homes with charming cottage-style exteriors are getting noticed. Buyers are drawn to warm, inviting elements like gabled roofs, window boxes, and cozy front porches. The “simplified storybook” look is especially popular among millennials and younger Gen X buyers. According to a 2024 Zillow report, homes with descriptors like “charming” and “curb appeal” in the listing sold up to 10 days faster than comparable listings without those keywords. Design cue: Add one gable detail, a covered porch, and a pop of color on the front door — it can make a simple plan feel custom.

3. Mixed Materials Add Texture Without Major Cost

Today’s buyers are visually savvy. They expect detail and dimension in a home’s exterior, but you don’t have to spend big to achieve the look. Developers are increasingly using combinations like board-and-batten with horizontal siding, or stone accents just around the base of columns and entryways. Smart strategy: Use affordable stone veneer or brick as accent cladding only where it’s most visible — like near the entry or along a garage front.

4. Dark, Moody Colors Are In — Especially in Urban Infill Markets

While white and gray homes are still popular, darker colors like navy, charcoal, and even black are becoming statement choices. These palettes offer a sleek, modern look that resonates with younger buyers, especially in revitalized neighborhoods and city-adjacent builds. Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore both listed deep greens and dark blues in their 2024 “Colors of the Year,” signaling continued popularity through 2025. Pro tip: Pair a darker body color with light trim and a natural wood front door for contrast and warmth.

5. Symmetry and Simplicity Still Sell

Even with trends leaning modern or rustic, symmetry and clean lines remain timeless — especially for entry-level buyers. Elevations that feel balanced and easy to understand visually help buyers feel grounded and comfortable. In NAR’s 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 87% of recent buyers said the appearance of the exterior was “very important” in their decision to view a home. Design cue: Even in a compact footprint, placing the front door at the center flanked by balanced window groupings can go a long way in visual appeal.

Final Thoughts for Developers

Whether you’re building 5 homes or 50, investing a little thought into your elevations can translate into faster sales, higher perceived value, and fewer days on market. Curb appeal starts with the plan — not just the landscaping.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, our house plans are crafted with real-world building costs and buyer preferences in mind. From modern farmhouses to cozy cottages, we offer flexible designs that help developers deliver homes that don’t just sell — they stand out.

Looking to refresh your lineup of house plans? Explore our best-selling plans or contact us for recommendations based on your target market.

When you’re selecting house plans for a new development, aesthetics are important—but smart developers know buildability is just as critical. The simpler the design, the faster and more cost-effective the construction process becomes. That’s why house plans with clean rooflines and efficient footprints aren’t just practical—they’re profitable.

At WL Martin Home Designs, we focus on house plans that balance visual appeal with construction efficiency. In this post, we’ll break down why simpler designs are smarter for developers and back it up with real data and insights from trusted industry sources.

1. Complex Designs Come With Complex Costs

It’s easy to get caught up in the latest design trends—multi-level roofs, bump-outs, decorative dormers—but these features can add significant time and cost to a build. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), framing and roofing make up about 33% of the total construction cost for a typical single-family home. That means added complexity in these areas can blow up your budget fast.

A study from Builder Magazine also notes that simpler rooflines not only reduce framing labor but also minimize waste, which is a growing concern with rising material costs and supply chain unpredictability.

Developer tip: Choose house plans with rectangular or square footprints and minimal roofline changes. These types of plans are faster to frame, easier to roof, and generate less construction waste—making them ideal for repeat builds in new subdivisions.

2. Faster Builds = Faster Returns

Time is money in construction. Every extra day a build stays open adds carrying costs—interest, insurance, and labor overhead. The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) points out that construction delays can cost as much as $1,000 per day on average for single-family homes.

Plans with a simple layout and fewer construction stages allow builders to move faster, hit milestones on time, and get to closing (or renting) quicker. Developers who use repeatable, build-efficient plans can significantly improve their margins.

Developer tip: Look for WL Martin plans that prioritize streamlined building stages—like single-story homes with slab foundations and pre-engineered truss roof systems.

3. Simpler Doesn’t Mean Boring

Let’s be clear—simple doesn’t mean unattractive. In fact, some of the most appealing homes on the market today feature modest footprints and clean rooflines. Think of the classic ranch, modern farmhouse, or craftsman bungalows. These designs offer charm and curb appeal while keeping the construction process straightforward.

At WL Martin, many of our best-selling plans under 2,000 square feet focus on symmetry, efficient layouts, and balanced exteriors. With smart material choices and color palettes, even a simple design can stand out in a crowded market.

Developer tip: Focus on cost-effective architectural details like board-and-batten siding, gable brackets, and front porch columns to add character without complexity.

4. Simple Plans Are Easier to Customize and Scale

When you’re developing multiple homes in a subdivision or infill lot project, scalability matters. Simple designs make it easier to mirror or rotate the plan, swap materials, or slightly modify square footage without needing a complete redesign.

In an NAHB survey, 67% of builders said offering multiple elevations or facade options using the same basic plan was a key strategy to maintaining both variety and efficiency in new developments.

Developer tip: Use a single core plan with multiple front elevation styles to create variety in your development without reinventing the wheel for each lot.

Build Smart, Build Simple

Developers who focus on streamlined home designs gain a competitive edge—faster build times, lower costs, and easier project management. At WL Martin Home Designs, we specialize in house plans that are construction-friendly while still offering the charm and curb appeal today’s buyers are looking for.

Ready to explore plans that are designed for real-world buildability? Browse our most builder-friendly home plans here.

The Build-to-Rent (BTR) market has evolved rapidly over the past few years, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of its most transformative yet. As affordability challenges continue to shape the housing market, developers across North America are capitalizing on demand for high-quality, smaller-footprint homes that are designed specifically for long-term rental. One of the smartest moves for developers entering or expanding in this space is to invest in compact house plans that are efficient, affordable to build, and easy to replicate.

Build-to-Rent Growth: The Numbers Behind the Trend

According to Yardi Matrix, the number of single-family rental homes delivered as part of BTR communities grew by more than 40% in 2023, with projections estimating more than 180,000 BTR units will be built nationwide by the end of 2025. Much of this growth is fueled by investors and developers responding to renter demand for the feel of a single-family home without the long-term financial commitment of ownership.

Compact house plans—ranging from about 1,000 to 1,800 square feet—are becoming the sweet spot for these communities. These floor plans offer enough space for renters seeking more privacy and functionality than an apartment, while remaining efficient for builders to construct quickly and affordably.

Why Compact Homes Work for BTR

Smaller homes allow developers to maximize density on land parcels, which is especially important as land prices remain high in many fast-growing suburban areas. Another key driver behind the popularity of compact plans in the BTR space is maintenance. From HVAC systems to roofing, smaller homes come with fewer components to maintain and repair. That’s a significant advantage for developers managing dozens—or even hundreds—of homes in a single community.

Energy efficiency is also a major factor. Smaller homes generally mean lower utility costs, which appeals to environmentally conscious renters and helps developers market the sustainability of their communities. Compact homes are also faster to build, which reduces labor and holding costs for builders working at scale.

The Shift Toward Simplicity and Efficiency

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reports that the average size of new single-family homes has been declining slightly since the height of the pandemic, signaling a continued interest in smaller homes that meet practical needs without excess square footage. Many renters—especially Millennials and Gen Z—prioritize layout and livability over size. Open-concept living areas, flex spaces for working from home, and well-integrated storage solutions are all top priorities, and these features can be achieved within plans under 2,000 square feet.

House Plans Designed for Repeat Builds

At WL Martin, we’ve seen a notable increase in developers requesting house plans specifically suited for BTR communities. Many are looking for designs that can be built multiple times with minimal changes, simplifying permitting and construction timelines. Features like slab foundations, simple rooflines, and efficient layouts make our plans ideal for the scale and speed that BTR developments require.

For developers looking to include compact or even micro-homes in a rental mix, our Tiny Home Plans are standout options. Many of the tiny home plans offer smart space usage with a full kitchen, living area, and private bedroom—all in a footprint perfect for dense, cost-effective BTR layouts.

Compact Doesn’t Mean Compromise

Build-to-Rent is no longer a niche—it’s a long-term strategy that’s changing the residential development landscape. As more investors and developers enter this space, the demand for versatile, buildable, and renter-friendly home designs will only increase. Choosing the right house plan is a foundational step, and for BTR, compact doesn’t mean compromise—it means opportunity.

Looking for house plans tailored for BTR communities? Explore our collection of homes under 2,000 square feet designed with efficiency, style, and repeat builds in mind.

At W.L. Martin Homes, we’re always watching the housing market closely—especially because so many of our clients are developers who need to make smart investments in both timing and location. Zillow’s latest report for February 2025 offers a fresh look at where buyers and sellers hold the most leverage right now, using its proprietary Zillow Market Heat Index, and the findings could help guide your next build or purchase.

Let’s break it down and look at what this means for developers in 2025.

Zillow’s Market Heat Index: A Quick Refresher

Zillow’s Market Heat Index evaluates over 250 metro areas in the U.S. and ranks each market based on several data points: inventory levels, days on market, buyer demand, and home price changes.

A score of 70 or higher means it’s a strong sellers market. A score of 27 or lower is considered a strong buyers market. Nationally, the U.S. sits at 54, putting us in neutral territory—not exactly favoring buyers or sellers as a whole.

Top 10 Hottest Housing Markets (Seller’s Paradise)

According to Zillow, here are the metro areas where sellers currently have the upper hand:

1. Rochester, NY – 169
2. Buffalo, NY – 113
3. San Jose, CA – 112
4. San Francisco, CA – 105
5. Syracuse, NY – 99
6. Hartford, CT – 95
7. Ann Arbor, MI – 90
8. Boston, MA – 89
9. Bridgeport, CT – 89
10. Seattle, WA – 86

These markets have limited inventory, fast-moving listings, and sustained demand. For developers building in these areas, there’s a real opportunity to command higher prices—especially with modern, efficient home plans that appeal to today’s buyers.

Top 10 Coldest Housing Markets (Buyer’s Advantage)

Now, here’s where buyers are calling the shots:

1. Jackson, TN – 9
2. Gulfport, MS – 18
3. Macon, GA – 23
4. Daphne, AL – 25
5. Brownsville, TX – 26
6. Beaumont, TX – 26
7. Longview, TX – 26
8. Naples, FL – 28
9. Punta Gorda, FL – 30
10. Panama City, FL – 30

Many of these cold markets are in the Gulf Coast and parts of Texas and Florida, with a particular softness in Southwest Florida. Oversupply, slower buyer activity, and longer days on market all contribute to downward pressure on prices. For developers looking to secure land or existing inventory at a lower cost, these regions may offer attractive entry points for long-term plays.

What This Means for Developers Choosing House Plans

Whether you’re building in a hot or cold market, the right house plan can make all the difference in how quickly a property sells and what kind of return you can expect.

Here are a few key takeaways:

Hot Markets: Focus on quick-to-build, in-demand plans. Think modern designs with curb appeal, functional layouts, and energy-efficient features. In a seller’s market, buyers are competing—so small touches that elevate your build can drive up price points.
Cold Markets: Affordability and flexibility are key. Consider plans under 1,800 square feet with open-concept designs, optional garages or bonus rooms, and strong resale appeal. Buyers in these markets are more selective, so efficiency matters.

At W.L. Martin Homes, we offer house plans ranging from 400 to 4,000 square feet, ideal for developers operating in diverse market conditions. From charming cottages to compact modern homes to multi-family investment builds, we’re here to help you match the right plan to your market.

Timing and Location Still Rule the Game

Zillow’s data is clear: the market is shifting, but opportunity still exists—especially for developers who are tuned in to local conditions. Whether you’re eyeing Rochester for your next build or looking to make a smart play in Southwest Florida, we’ve got the house plans to help make your project a success.

Ready to explore your next build?

Browse our best-selling house plans here or contact us for help choosing the right design for your market.

In today’s housing market, affordability is at the forefront of nearly every conversation—especially for developers who are trying to balance rising construction costs with growing buyer expectations. The good news? Building on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on style. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we specialize in creating house plans that are not only budget-friendly but also packed with curb appeal and smart, stylish layouts that today’s buyers want.

Affordable Doesn’t Have to Mean Basic

One of the most common misconceptions in homebuilding is that affordability means giving up on design details, layout flexibility, or exterior charm. That’s simply not the case. With the right house plan, developers can create homes that are both cost-effective and visually appealing—without adding unnecessary square footage or expensive materials.

W.L. Martin Home Designs offers a wide selection of thoughtfully designed home plans ranging from under 1,000 square feet up to about 2,500 square feet, making them perfect for first-time buyers, downsizers, and developers focused on affordable housing markets.

Smart Design = Lower Costs

What makes a house plan truly affordable isn’t just the size—it’s how smart the layout is. Open-concept floor plans, simple rooflines, and efficient use of space all contribute to a lower cost per square foot without sacrificing livability.

For example:

• Plans with fewer corners and complex rooflines are cheaper to build and still offer great exterior charm with the right materials and finishes.
• Compact footprints with open living areas maximize every square foot, giving smaller homes a more spacious feel.
• Thoughtful kitchen and bath layouts reduce plumbing costs and simplify construction.

These are just a few of the design principles we integrate into our most popular affordable home plans.

Popular Budget-Friendly Plans from W.L. Martin

We’ve worked with builders across North America who need affordable housing solutions that look anything but cheap. A few popular categories on our site include:

• Cottage-Style Plans Under 1,200 Sq. Ft. – Perfect for rental properties, guest homes, or starter homes, these designs are compact but full of charm.
• Single-Story Ranch Plans – Straightforward construction with stylish exteriors, often under 1,500 sq. ft.
• Modern Farmhouse Designs – A top trend with timeless appeal. We offer scaled-down versions that keep the charm but cut the construction costs.

Each of these plans is designed with developers in mind—easy to build, customizable, and appealing to a broad range of buyers.

Customization Options to Keep Costs in Check

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we understand that not every lot or budget is the same. That’s why we offer modification services to adjust plans based on your specific needs—whether that’s simplifying a roofline, adjusting square footage, or reworking a layout to reduce build time.

We’re here to help developers get the most value from every build without sacrificing the design elements that help a home sell.

Build Smarter with Stylish, Affordable Plans

Affordability is more important than ever—but so is style. Buyers still want a home that feels personalized, well-designed, and comfortable. Developers want plans that are efficient to build and profitable to sell. W.L. Martin Home Designs delivers on both.

Ready to explore house plans that offer the best of both worlds?
Browse our collection of affordable home plans here or contact us directly to talk about your next project.

Investing in rental properties—whether long-term rentals or short-term Airbnb-style accommodations—requires smart house plan selection. The right design can maximize rental income, attract tenants, and keep maintenance costs low. With the short-term rental market expected to reach $207 billion by 2030 (Statista), choosing a well-designed home can give investors a competitive edge.

Key Features of a Profitable Rental Property

1. Compact & Functional Layouts – Smaller homes (800-1,500 sq. ft.) are cost-effective to build and easier to maintain while still offering enough space for guests or tenants.
2. Flexible Floor Plans – Open-concept designs, multi-use spaces, and optional guest suites increase marketability.
3. Energy Efficiency – Homes with smart thermostats, solar panels, and efficient insulation appeal to cost-conscious renters.
4. Low-Maintenance Materials – Durable flooring, easy-to-clean surfaces, and high-quality finishes reduce long-term upkeep.
5. Outdoor Appeal – Covered patios, balconies, or private yards boost rental value, especially for Airbnb properties.

Top House Plan Types for Rentals

• Studio & One-Bedroom Homes (400-800 sq. ft.) – Perfect for Airbnb and urban rentals, offering affordability and high occupancy rates.
• Two- to Three-Bedroom Plans (1,000-1,500 sq. ft.) – Ideal for families and long-term tenants, balancing cost and rental income potential.
• Garage Apartments & ADUs – Great for multi-use rental strategies, providing separate living spaces for guests or tenants.

Maximizing ROI on Rental Properties

According to AirDNA, Airbnb properties with 2-3 bedrooms tend to generate the highest revenue in most U.S. markets. Additionally, homes with unique features like lofts or outdoor entertainment spaces can charge 20-30% more per night. Developers should focus on designs that optimize livability, efficiency, and rental appeal.

Whether you’re building a short-term vacation rental or a long-term income property, selecting the right house plan is key to success. Browse WL Martin Homes for designs that fit your investment strategy.

The housing market is shifting, and for developers looking to build homes and communities, now is an opportune time to act. The real estate market is transitioning into a buyer’s market, with rising inventory, longer days on the market, and more price reductions. This shift creates a prime environment for new home construction, as more buyers actively look for affordable, well-designed homes.

Market Conditions Favor Developers

After years of limited inventory and soaring home prices, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most buyer-friendly markets since the pandemic. According to real estate experts, the market is moving away from the strong seller’s market of recent years. This change is fueled by several factors, including an increase in housing inventory and more sellers adjusting their prices to meet current demand.

Realtor.com’s data shows that the number of homes actively for sale has increased for 16 consecutive months, rising by 27.5% compared to the same time last year. Additionally, homes are spending an average of 66 days on the market—nearly a week longer than in 2024. This means buyers have more options, and sellers are more willing to negotiate, making it an excellent time for developers to introduce new housing inventory to the market.

More Affordable Pricing and Buyer Demand

One of the biggest challenges in recent years has been affordability, as high home prices and mortgage rates kept many buyers on the sidelines. However, the current market shift is opening up new opportunities. Listing prices are starting to come down, and sellers are becoming more flexible. This gives developers an advantage, as new construction homes can offer modern features at competitive prices that appeal to today’s buyers.

Additionally, while mortgage rates remain higher than the record lows seen during the pandemic, they are expected to gradually decline. The current average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage is 6.63%, and forecasts suggest rates may drop into the low 6% range by the end of 2025. As a result, more buyers are entering the market, eager to find homes that fit their needs before rates fluctuate again.

Increased Inventory Creates More Development Opportunities

For developers, the increase in housing supply means more potential for land acquisition, new builds, and community development. Sellers who have held off listing their homes due to the “golden handcuff” effect of low mortgage rates are now entering the market. As inventory continues to rise, landowners and property holders may be more open to selling, giving developers access to better deals on land and existing properties for redevelopment.

Moreover, the growing demand for newly built homes provides an opportunity for developers to introduce thoughtfully designed floor plans that cater to modern buyers. Whether it’s compact homes for first-time buyers or larger homes for growing families, developers who act now can position themselves ahead of the competition.

Why Developers Should Act Now

The combination of increased housing supply, price reductions, and a growing pool of buyers makes this an ideal time for developers to invest in new construction projects. Homebuyers are looking for well-priced, move-in-ready homes, and developers who build efficiently and strategically can capitalize on this demand.

By taking advantage of current market trends, developers can secure better deals on land, build homes that meet evolving buyer preferences, and contribute to thriving communities. As the market continues to transition, those who act now will be well-positioned for success in 2025 and beyond.

Now is the time to build—don’t miss the opportunity to shape the future of homeownership.