Detroit’s real estate scene is buzzing with new energy as brand-new single-family homes begin capturing the attention of buyers less than a year after launch. Nestled just outside the historic Indian Village neighborhood on the city’s east side, these modern residences are ideally suited for dual-income, younger couples eager to embrace city life without the challenges and expenses tied to older properties. Matt Temkin, a partner at Greatwater Opportunity Capital, noted that the brisk pace of sales is a clear sign that buyers appreciate a turnkey home in a vibrant community—an offering that’s hard to come by in Detroit today.

According to data from the Home Builders Association of Southeastern Michigan, Detroit saw just 76 building permits for single-family homes last year—a number that pales in comparison to those in the surrounding suburban areas. Yet, the Greatwater project is already making significant strides. Sales kicked off last spring near the lively Kercheval Avenue corridor, an area benefiting from nearby commercial and hospitality developments. To date, there have been five completed closings with another one on track, and several additional properties are currently under contract or already occupied.

Exciting developments are on the horizon: six more homes are under construction, with plans to break ground on nine additional properties in the coming weeks. Initial projects on Fisher Street, located between Kercheval Avenue and St. Paul Street, are nearing completion, while new construction is set to begin on Belvidere Street just four blocks away. Temkin projects a total of 15 new house starts this year, with an additional 25 to 30 expected in 2026, underscoring a robust future for new residential construction in Detroit.

The homes offer a wide range of styles—with 12 distinct designs—and sizes that vary from roughly 1,000 to over 2,000 square feet. Buyers can even opt for a finished basement to increase their living space, and many of the houses include the option of a garage, especially those built along alleys. Pricing has generally fallen between $200 and $225 per square foot, presenting an attractive alternative to similar new builds in the suburbs, such as PulteHomes in Canton, which are priced around $263 per square foot. While Temkin did not comment on competitors’ performance, he emphasized that the Greatwater homes are delivering a healthy and sustainable margin.

Nika Jusufi, broker and owner at Detroit-based Nika & Co., has observed a growing interest among buyers, particularly first-timers who are drawn to the low-maintenance lifestyle these homes offer. With no homeowner association fees—often a feature of condo developments—plus the appeal of having a yard without the hassle of repairs, these properties are proving to be a hit. Jusufi’s clients are finding that the carefree nature of new construction perfectly meets their desire for a modern, easygoing urban lifestyle.