For as much as we all clamor for the latest and greatest in pretty and shiny when it comes to the finishes in a new home, nothing will add to the value like where the home is located.

Because, yes - location, location, location.

This month, we look at the cities and townships around Metro Detroit that have seen the largest increases in value for new single-family homes, from the period between 2019-2024 (which features the most accurate data).

When looking at the largest increase in value by dollar amount, there are few surprises: Novi leads the way, followed by Northville, Rochester Hills, Troy, and Canton. All popular, established locales, driven by high demand for their school districts.

However, when looking at the largest increase value by percentage, some might be surprised to see that Macomb Township leads the way, followed by Shelby Township, Sterling Heights, Canton, and Rochester Hills. From our experience, the appeal to these locations has been relative affordability (in several instances, specifically compared to neighboring cities), or the availability of inventory. Or both.

It’s worth noting that the markets listed above are largely driven by production builds - new neighborhoods, as opposed to homes being built on individual lots via vacant land or teardown.

It is there, on the individual lots, where the biggest gains in Metro Detroit were seen during that period. Specifically, in Birmingham where the value in dollars has increased more than $1M on average, and the percentage - on the low end - has increased more than 70%.

Neighboring cities such as Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and Berkley, hot spots for tear-downs, have seen impressive increases as well.

So where is the ideal location for your new home? Let’s connect and discuss! With current market conditions, don’t assume you’re seeing everything online - work with the New Home Experts® and know for certain that you’ve seen all your options.

Pictured at top: Parc Vista in Northville by Toll Brothers.

The owners of The New Home Experts®, have over 40 years of combined experience in real estate, including time with builders like Pulte & Toll Brothers.  They also provide market research for area builders, developers, and national firms.  If you’re considering a new home, remember: the builders' rep represents the builder, not you.  Work with the only local agents in Metro Detroit to specialize in new homes, and save money in the process – ask us how!