Most large Treasure Valley builders offer at least one single-level plan, but one-story homes are usually a small share of each community, and they're often the first lots to sell. The biggest things to watch are lot size, what the base price actually includes, and whether the builder's incentives come with strings attached.
Who's Building in the Treasure Valley
These were the ten most active builders by permits in Ada, Canyon and Gem counties through July 2026, per Build Idaho's 2026 rankings.
| Builder | Type | 2026 permits to date |
|---|---|---|
| CBH Homes | Production | 915 |
| Toll Brothers | National | 396 |
| Lennar | Production | 254 |
| Hubble Homes | Regional, semi-custom | 238 |
| Hayden Homes | Regional | 200 |
| KB Home | Production | 165 |
| Blackrock Homes | Regional | 103 |
| 1215 Design | Semi-custom | 76 |
| Brighton Homes | Semi-custom | 74 |
| Tresidio Homes | Semi-custom | 66 |
Which plans are one story changes by community and phase, so ask for the plan list for the exact community you're considering. No builder named here is affiliated with Dave Carney or Sweet Group Realty.
New construction is a big part of the single-level market. In October 2026, 39% of single-level sales in Ada and Canyon counties were new construction, and 57% of single-level homes for sale were new, under construction or to be built.
Ask each builder which lots in the current phase allow a one-story plan. That list is often shorter than the brochure suggests.
What to Watch for on a New One-Story Home
| Item | Why it matters | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Lot size and premiums | One-story plans need wider lots, which often carry a premium | Which lots fit this plan, and what's the premium? |
| Base price vs. what you'll pay | Models show upgrades; base homes are plainer | What does the model include that the base doesn't? |
| Incentives | Rate buydowns and closing credits often require the builder's lender | What's the incentive with and without the preferred lender? |
| Zero-step entry | Not standard on every plan | Is a no-step front entry and garage entry available? |
| Shower and doorways | Curbless showers and wider doors are usually options | What do they cost to add? |
| HOA | Covers rules, fees and sometimes yard care | Can I see the CC&Rs and the budget? |
| Timeline | To-be-built homes can take months | Is there a one-story quick move-in home now? |
Have Your Own Agent From the First Visit
The builder's sales team works for the builder. Bring your own agent to the first visit, since many builders require it to be registered then. Your agent can compare incentives across builders, push back on lot premiums and line up a third-party inspection before drywall and before closing.
Register your agent before you sign in at a model home, or you may lose the option.
Your Next Step
Ask Dave for his current list of one-story quick move-in homes and builder incentives across the valley.
Questions About New Construction
Do I need my own agent to buy a new construction home in Boise?
You don't have to, but the builder's sales team works for the builder. Your agent's fee is usually paid by the builder; confirm it in writing. Many builders require your agent to be registered at your first visit.
Should I get an inspection on a brand-new home?
Yes. A pre-drywall inspection and a final inspection catch things the city inspection doesn't.
Are builder incentives worth it?
Often, but compare the total cost with and without the builder's preferred lender. Rate buydowns and closing credits frequently require that lender.
Can I add a zero-step entry to a new home later?
Sometimes, but it's much cheaper to choose it before the foundation is poured.
Sources
Permit counts: Build Idaho, July 24, 2026, from Construction Monitor filings in Ada, Canyon and Gem counties. New construction share: Treasure Valley MLS, Ada and Canyon counties, homes closed October 1 to 31, 2026 and listings active November 2, 2026. Plans and incentives change often; confirm with each builder.