Barden Building Products Blog Archive

If you're thinking about buying a house in Upstate New York, you’ve likely discovered just how challenging the process can be. 

The moment a decent listing goes live, it’s flooded with offers and often disappears within days. Prices are climbing. Choices are shrinking. And for many buyers — especially first-timers or growing families — the entire process can feel exhausting.

But here’s the good news: You’re not stuck. Instead of battling it out in a tough market, you can build the home you actually want, from the ground up.

Barden’s panelized construction method gives future homeowners unmatched flexibility — including the option to take a more active role in their build. Some clients even choose to manage the project themselves, stepping into the role of custom home project manager.

Panel built homes bring together the best parts of stick-built and modular construction without the usual compromises.

They offer the freedom to design your home your way, paired with a faster and more efficient building process. For many homeowners, that combination just makes sense.

But when it comes to building a house, no one wants to second-guess their decision later. That’s why it’s so important to understand the real pros and cons of panel built homes, especially from people who’ve been through it.

That moment when the idea of a brand-new home takes root is unforgettable. A blank canvas. A place tailored to your life. A sanctuary built for you, not someone else.

The Upstate New York housing market is tighter than ever. Buyers from Buffalo to Syracuse are battling for a limited supply of homes — listings are scarce, prices are climbing, and properties vanish almost as soon as they’re listed. For families and first-time buyers, the struggle to secure a home that fits their needs and budgets is very real.

You’ve decided it’s time for your own home – an exciting step, but now comes the big question: Should a first-time home buyer build or buy? 

Framing is one of the most important steps in construction – but it doesn’t have to be the most frustrating. 

Post frame buildings are becoming more popular among people looking to build their own custom homes, whether they’re dreaming of a spacious barndominium (barndo), a workshop, or even a commercial building. 

As we head into 2025, many are wondering: will lumber prices go down, or will building costs stay higher than we’d like?