Buy the kitchen more than a year before completion?

Consultants who sell kitchens? I rather think they just want their commission now -.- We bought the kitchen in December/January and moved in February ... that was really tight though. We obviously planned earlier before us.

If your BU or architect says we need it, then do it. Otherwise, schedule the kitchen selection for the time when you have time. Usually, there is some breathing room shortly before construction, which applies not only to the calendar but also to the mind. Changes can still be made then, even small ones during the shell construction phase.

To 1.
If you know exactly where you want which cabinets with what kind of appliances, the installation plan can also be created with the electrician, no kitchen planner is needed for that.
To 2.
I am not aware that manufacturers increase prices.
If it is not right during the main holiday season, an order placed 8-10 weeks in advance is usually sufficient.
Your skepticism is certainly justified.

So if you only consider the appearance of the new models, it's simple. Because the old models lose value and thus become even cheaper.
On the other hand, the general annual price adjustment (not just kitchens, in general) is usually carried out at the beginning of the year.

But the mere fact that the "Berater" (i.e. salesperson) says that would make me more skeptical than rushed.
After all, his (percentage) commission would rather increase than decrease due to the price increase. That means other reasons seem to prevail (perhaps acute need for vacation money compensation, preparation for his annual financial statement, etc.)

One should free oneself from the idea with any kind of salesperson that they want something good for you. Then life is more relaxed and one also makes more sensible decisions.
The few salespeople nationwide who really want that might then fall through the cracks, but you won’t fall for the other 99%.

Year-end sprint, they want to collect the annual bonuses.

I would wait at least until the shell is completed.

Bought our kitchen in July, I think the ground was not broken yet.
Topic closed. This way we can include the kitchen in the planning early, electrician, plumber, window manufacturer...

Secured the old prices and still have the option to upgrade in autumn if we like a new color better.