New construction is gaining attention in two of North Texas's most desirable luxury markets. Here's what buyers and homeowners should know heading into 2027.
If you've spent any time looking at luxury real estate in Southlake or Westlake, you already know these aren't your typical housing markets.
From sprawling custom estates to beautifully designed new construction, both communities offer something special. And with new development activity underway, I'm keeping a close eye on what could be coming next.
As a luxury real estate advisor who has worked extensively in these markets, one of the questions I hear is whether it's better to purchase an existing home, build something custom, or wait for new opportunities.
The answer? It really depends on what matters most to you.
But first, let's look at what's happening.
Westlake: $62.5 Million in New Residential Construction Permits
According to the Town of Westlake's October 20, 2026, council recap, the town reported 25 new single-family home permits, representing approximately $62.5 million in declared construction valuation.
That's a significant amount of residential construction activity for a community the size of Westlake.
Now, here's something important to understand.
That $62.5 million is the reported construction valuation associated with the permits. It does not represent the eventual sale prices of those homes.
And permits don't necessarily mean those properties are currently available for purchase.
Still, it's an interesting indicator of ongoing investment in Westlake's residential market.
For buyers looking for custom construction, it's another reason to keep this community on your radar.
Southlake: Shivers Farm Brings New Residential Opportunities
Just down the road, Southlake has its own exciting development activity.
One project I've been following closely is Shivers Farm, the 40-acre mixed-use development planned north of Highway 114.
While the announcement of Southlake's first Whole Foods Market has certainly generated excitement, there's another part of the project that interests me as a real estate advisor.
The development includes plans for 37 single-family residential lots.
Between the proposed residential opportunities, new retail, restaurants, and public gathering spaces, Shivers Farm has the potential to introduce an entirely different lifestyle offering to this part of Southlake.
Of course, the details that matter most to buyers, including builders, home designs, pricing, and availability, will need to be confirmed as the project progresses.
New Construction vs. Resale: Which Is the Better Investment?
This is where things get interesting.
I work with buyers who absolutely love the idea of building a home designed around their lifestyle.
And I understand why!
There's something exciting about choosing your floor plan, finishes, architectural details, and all those little things that make a home uniquely yours.
But here's what I always encourage my buyers to consider.
New construction isn't automatically the better investment.
An established luxury home may offer advantages that are difficult or expensive to replicate today.
Think mature landscaping, larger or more desirable lots, established neighborhoods, resort-style outdoor spaces, and custom features that would cost substantially more to build now.
On the other hand, new construction may offer more current layouts, modern building systems, energy-efficient features, and fewer immediate renovation needs.
The key is understanding the full picture, not simply comparing price per square foot.
What Does This Mean for Current Homeowners?
If you own a luxury home in Southlake or Westlake, you should absolutely be paying attention to new construction.
Not because it necessarily means your home's value will decline.
But because new construction can influence what buyers expect when they shop at higher price points.
Today's luxury buyers often pay close attention to kitchens, primary suites, indoor-outdoor living, technology, and overall functionality.
If you're considering selling in the next year or two, understanding how your home compares with newer inventory can help you make smarter decisions about pricing, updates, and marketing.
And sometimes, the features that make an established home special are exactly what new construction can't easily duplicate.
My Take: Don't Just Buy the Newest House. Buy the Right House.
One thing I've learned working in luxury real estate is that the most expensive home isn't necessarily the best purchase, and neither is the newest.
The best purchase is the property that aligns with your lifestyle, long-term goals, and the realities of the market.
Southlake and Westlake both offer exceptional opportunities, but they're different communities with different neighborhoods, housing options, and buyer considerations.
That's why I believe having someone who understands the nuances of both markets is so important.
Whether you're considering a custom build in Westlake, exploring upcoming opportunities in Southlake, or wondering how your current home compares with new construction, I'd love to help you navigate those decisions.
Want to Know About Upcoming Luxury Homes Before Everyone Else?
I'm keeping an eye on new construction, proposed developments, and upcoming luxury opportunities throughout Southlake and Westlake.
If you're considering building or buying a luxury home in 2027, let's connect.
I'd love to learn what you're looking for and help you explore the opportunities that fit your goals.
Debbie Soriano
The Agency
Texas & Oklahoma Luxury Real Estate
DebbieLuxury.com
Sources: Town of Westlake, October 20, 2026 Town Council Recap; Trademark Property Company, September 2, 2026 Shivers Farm development announcement. Construction permits, proposed lots, and development plans do not represent completed homes or guaranteed availability.