We purchased our first home (brand new) approx. 6 months ago...?

and the community we live in is still under construction. Recently I found out that the base price for our home is currently 18K more than what it was when we signed the contract 13 months ago. Is this an average increase for a new home still under development? Did we make a good investment? Also, our home was valued at $5K over what we paid when we finalized it's purchase 6 mths. ago. Is this more or less than most homes upon signing?

One possibility is that you may of bought early enough in the construction stage that the builders may of misjudged what the house will appraise for. Every once in awhile families get lucky and they get in before the price adjustments are made or it could be the increase in fuel cost and materials caused the builders to raise the price. This is a blessing for you and be glad that you made the decision you made. Home prices go up and down but it seems in your situation you have made a great investment!

No one can answer your questions with much more information, particularly the location in which you live. In today's home market, it is unusual for home prices to increase so rapidly, because in most of the countries prices are declining. so you can assume that you have done very well with your purchase. Although home prices are down nationally because there is a huge supply and little demand, construction costs are up, so new homes being constructed in your area may very well be selling for more than you paid six months ago. Prices may also be rising because there is particularly good deman for homes in the area.