What the Skyline Report Means for Homebuyers and Builders in Northwest Arkansas

Each year, one of my favorite traditions is diving into the Arvest Skyline Report, a detailed look at the residential real estate market across Benton and Washington Counties. The first half of 2025 numbers are in, and the story is clear: Northwest Arkansas continues to experience tremendous growth.

Key Takeaways from the 2025 Report

• Home Prices Are Rising Steadily. The average home in Benton County now costs $471,427, while Washington County averages $417,489. Both counties have seen more than a 70% increase in value over the past 5 years. For homeowners, that’s incredible equity growth. For buyers, it’s a reminder that waiting often means paying more later.

  
  

• New Construction Plays a Major Role. Nearly 37% of all homes sold in the first half of 2025 were new construction. This is one of the highest levels in Skyline Report history, underscoring just how important custom and newly built homes are in meeting the needs of our growing region.

  
  

• The Pipeline is Strong. Almost 3,000 new home permits were issued in just 6 months, and there are more than 22,000 active subdivision lots across Northwest Arkansas, with another 15,000 already approved. Growth isn’t slowing; it’s building momentum.

  
  

• Most Buyers Are Here to Stay. A majority of homes in our region are owner-occupied: 60% in Benton County, 59% in Washington County, and 77% in Madison County. That means people aren’t just investing — they’re building communities and putting down roots.

  
  

What This Means for You

At Stone Harbor Custom Homes, we see these numbers as more than statistics — they reflect the dreams and decisions of real families. Rising home prices show the long-term value of owning in Northwest Arkansas. The surge in new construction highlights the importance of building homes that fit the way people actually live today.

For those considering a move or exploring the idea of building, the Skyline Report is both a guide and a reminder: this is a growing, thriving place to call home.

Why Custom Matters

Custom building gives homeowners the best of both worlds — the opportunity to take advantage of a strong housing market and the freedom to design a home that truly fits their lifestyle. From thoughtfully designed mudrooms and butler’s pantries to outdoor living spaces and tech-forward features, a custom home lets you create a space that works for the way you live both now and into the future.

Let’s Talk About Your Future Home

The Northwest Arkansas market is full of opportunity, and the Arvest Skyline Report confirms what we see every day: demand is strong, growth is steady, and custom homes are at the center of it all.

If you’ve been considering building, there’s no better time to explore your options. Let’s talk about how Stone Harbor Custom Homes can help you create the home you’ve been dreaming of.