Barden Building Products Blog Archive

Kitchen updates often begin with good intentions and a rough budget. Then estimates come back, priorities shift, and homeowners start rethinking how much change is really necessary. That tension is normal, especially when the kitchen still works but feels dated.

Every custom home tells a story — one of dreams, aspirations, and personalized touches that transform a house into a haven. As we close the chapter on 2025, it’s time to set our sights on what lies ahead in custom home design for 2026.

If you’ve been house hunting or researching building options, you’ve probably noticed a growing buzz around prefab homes. But “prefab” doesn’t always mean the same thing, and that’s where confusion begins. Some people picture small, boxy designs with little flexibility, while others think of modern, sleek architecture. The truth is, prefab is an umbrella term that covers a range of construction methods.

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.

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? 

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. 

When we say Barden homes are 100% customizable, we really mean it – they are indeed completely customizable from top to bottom.