Not all incentives are equal. A rate buydown can reduce monthly payment — but a price cut can reduce taxes and interest long-term. The best choice depends on your timeline and strategy.
| Incentive Type | Best For | Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|
| Rate Buydown | Monthly payment focus | Requires builder lender |
| Closing Cost Credit | Preserving cash | Loan type caps |
| Price Reduction | Long-term value | Specific inventory only |
| Design Credit | Upgraded finishes | Over-upgrading |
Rate buydown
A temporary or permanent reduction in your mortgage interest rate, paid for by the builder.
Want to compare incentives across builders? Read the Builder Comparison Guide →
Closing cost credit
Cash credit applied to your closing costs (origination fees, title, pre-paids).
Before you tour: Read how to keep your representation →
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Price reductions (or lot premium reductions)
A direct reduction in the base price or lot premium of the home.
Design center credit
A credit to spend on upgrades and finishes at the design studio.
The correct way to evaluate incentives
Ask:
- What’s the incentive worth in monthly payment?
- What’s it worth over 5 years?
- Does it restrict lender choice?
- Is it tied to a specific home or release?
- Is there a better offer on a different builder’s inventory?
Timing matters—see: River District Timeline: Phases, Release Windows, and What Can Change.
If you’re tracking incentives in real time, join our Join VIP Release Alerts to get current availability + incentive updates.