New Construction vs. Existing Homes on LBI: A 2025 LBI Real Estate Market Comparison
- Nathan Colmer
- 13 hours ago
- 3 min read
Long Beach Island Real Estate Sales
The Long Beach Island real estate market in 2025 highlighted a clear contrast between new construction homes and existing properties. While new builds continued to command premium pricing across the island, existing homes remained highly competitive by offering broader accessibility and renovation potential. For buyers, sellers, and investors, understanding how new construction compares to existing homes on LBI provides valuable insight into pricing, demand, and long‑term value.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com
Comparing New Construction and Existing Homes on Long Beach Island
In 2025, newly built homes consistently sold at higher price points than existing properties throughout Long Beach Island. Buyers showed a strong willingness to pay for modern design, elevated construction standards, and low‑maintenance living.
At the same time, existing homes played a critical role in market liquidity. With lower entry prices and faster absorption, resale homes remained an appealing option for buyers looking for flexibility, customization, or a more attainable purchase price.
Pricing Differences Between New Construction and Existing Homes by Town in the LBI Real Estate Market
Surf City
Surf City experienced one of the most noticeable price gaps between new construction and existing homes in 2025 LBI real estate market.
New construction homes averaged approximately $600,000 higher than existing properties.
This price difference reflects strong demand for newly built homes in Surf City’s highly walkable neighborhoods, as well as limited land availability driving redevelopment premiums.
Beach Haven
Beach Haven continued to attract buyers seeking both charm and modern amenities.
New construction exceeded existing home prices by roughly $650,000.
Buyers were willing to pay a higher price for updated layouts, flood‑compliant construction, and proximity to Beach Haven’s downtown district, while existing homes remained popular for renovation and rental use.
Long Beach Township
Long Beach Township showed the largest pricing gap on the island in 2025.
New construction homes sold for more than $1.1 million above existing home prices on average.
This significant premium is largely due to larger lot sizes, luxury‑oriented design, and high‑end finishes that dominate new construction projects throughout the township.
Why New Construction Commands a Premium on LBI
New construction homes on Long Beach Island consistently outperformed existing homes on price due to several key factors:
Modern, open floor plans designed for coastal living
Elevated construction meeting current flood and building standards
Outdoor living features such as rooftop decks, pools, and covered entertaining areas
Lower short‑term maintenance costs compared to older homes
These features align closely with today’s buyer preferences, particularly in the luxury and second‑home segments.
Why Existing Homes Remain Competitive in the LBI Real Estate Market
Despite the strong pricing advantage of new construction, existing homes remained a vital part of the LBI real estate market in 2025.
Key advantages of existing homes include:
Broader pricing range, allowing more buyers to enter the market
Faster absorption rates, especially for well‑located properties
Renovation and value‑add potential, appealing to investors and buyers with long‑term plans
Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping and character
For many buyers, existing homes offered flexibility and opportunity that new construction simply could not.
New Construction vs. Existing Homes on LBI: A 2025 Market Comparison
Both new construction and existing homes played essential roles in Long Beach Island’s 2025 real estate market. New builds led pricing and set market highs, while existing homes delivered value, accessibility, and versatility. Understanding the trade‑offs between these two property types allows buyers and sellers to make informed decisions based on budget, lifestyle goals, and future plans in the LBI real estate market.
If you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in the LBI real estate market, contact me, Nathan Colmer, for expert guidance backed by years of local experience, deep market insight, and a proven track record in helping clients navigate LBI's unique market. My experience extends over 20 years of selling homes on Long Beach Island, with a special focus on second homes and investment properties. In addition to representing buyers and sellers, I personally invest in the LBI real estate market and can share my firsthand knowledge of this investment strategy. Whether you are searching for a vacation home, planning a wise investment, or ready to list your property, I can offer you personalized strategies and unmatched knowledge to help you succeed.
By: Nathan Colmer | LBI Real Estate Agent | The Van Dyk Group
Cell: 609-290-4293 | Office: 800-222-0131 | ncolmer@vandykgroup.com
