Posted by Alyssa Harper in Chicago, Home Building Industry, Local Guides and Resources

Illinois is growing, and so is its new home market. Across Chicagoland and beyond, leading national and regional builders are meeting the demand with homes that blend style, comfort, and convenience. If you're looking to make the move and build a new home, you're faced with an important decision: which home builder is right for you?

With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. To help you get started, we've compiled a list of some of the most respected builders in the Illinois / Chicagoland area.

A Closer Look at the Best Builders in Illinois

1. D.R. Horton

D.R. Horton is one of the most active builders in Illinois, especially in suburbs like Joliet, Plainfield, and Oswego. Known as “America’s Builder,” they offer affordable floorplans, quick move-in homes, and family-friendly communities with parks and trails.

2. Pulte Homes

Pulte builds across Chicagoland with brands like Centex, Del Webb, and Pulte. They focus on personalization, offering flexible floorplans, design tools, and well-planned neighborhoods that appeal to every stage of life.

3. Lennar

Lennar’s “Everything’s Included®” approach brings upgraded finishes, appliances, and smart home technology as standard. Active throughout the Chicago suburbs, they provide stylish, move-in ready options for busy buyers.

4. Ryan Homes

Ryan Homes delivers affordability and efficiency with open layouts and practical designs. They’re especially popular with first-time buyers and families looking for move-in ready homes in suburban locations.

5. Toll Brothers

Toll Brothers is known for luxury homes in prestigious Illinois communities. Buyers choose them for customizable layouts, architectural detail, and neighborhoods with high-end amenities like golf courses and clubhouses.

6. Hartz Homes

A family-owned builder since 1963, Hartz Homes has a long history in the Chicago area. Their communities include single-family homes, townhomes, and condos in sought-after suburbs like Addison and Oak Brook. Hartz focuses on flexible floorplans and quality construction, with an emphasis on locations near schools, shopping, and transit. Many Chicagoland buyers trust Hartz for their local expertise and decades of reliable homebuilding.

7. Lexington Homes

Lexington Homes is a well-known Chicago builder specializing in urban-suburban living. They’re currently active with communities in Geneva, Northbrook, and Chicago’s city neighborhoods. Buyers love Lexington’s stylish townhomes, efficient single-family designs, and locations near Metra stations and walkable downtowns. Their attention to modern architecture and energy efficiency appeals to both first-time buyers and move-up families.

8. Silverthorne Homebuilders

Silverthorne builds across Chicagoland and the Quad Cities, with active communities in towns like Sycamore and Yorkville. Their semi-custom approach allows buyers to personalize layouts, finishes, and features without the stress of a fully custom build. Known for approachable pricing and flexible designs, Silverthorne is popular among families looking for value and space in growing Illinois suburbs.

9. KLM Builders

KLM Builders has been building homes in Lake and McHenry Counties for more than 35 years. Their communities include ranch and two-story homes with modern, family-friendly layouts. Buyers appreciate the option to personalize plans, the variety of quick move-in homes available, and KLM’s focus on delivering quality craftsmanship in scenic, suburban settings.

10. M/I Homes

For over 40 years, we've been dedicated to building high-quality homes with unwavering integrity. We believe in a thoughtful and transparent process, where you're involved and informed every step of the way. From our innovative and flexible floor plans to our industry-leading 10-Year Transferable Structural Warranty, we strive to provide not just a house, but a forever home you can be proud of.

What to Look for in an Illinois Home Builder

  • Reputation & Trust: Consistent reviews and community presence are strong indicators.
  • Craftsmanship: Tour models to compare quality and finishes.
  • Lifestyle Fit: Match your stage of life with the right builder’s designs.
  • Financing Options: Many builders offer incentives or in-house lending.
  • Warranty & Care: Post-sale support ensures lasting peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Builder for You

When it comes to choosing the right builder for your new home, your perfect match depends on what matters most—whether that’s affordability, customization, luxury, or lifestyle amenities. The best next step? Tour model homes, explore communities, and see for yourself how these builders are creating homes designed around the way you want to live.



Author

Alyssa Harper
Alyssa Harper

Blog Author

Alyssa joined M/I Homes in 2022 and began her sales career as part of the Internet Sales team in our Chicago division. With over 6+ years of customer service experience, she helps buyers find a home within their budget and can answer any questions about the building/buying process. Alyssa has a passion for helping customers and discovering what is truly important in finding their dream home. When Alyssa isn’t assisting homebuyers, she loves to spend time with her husband, having a relaxed night in, or going on walks with her dogs, Irwin and Jax.

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