I think luck is a big factor. I was really fast the last time they added wards, the moment the servers came online. But the login system can't process that many people simultaneously so many of the people in that first minute got kicked, and some lucky ones made it in.

If you were unlucky and got kicked you have to attempt to login again but it's too late by that point, the login servers can stay heavily congested and broken for as much as 30 minutes on a patch day morning especially one with new wards. By the time it lets you in, all of the plots have been taken by the first wave people who didn't get kicked.

I don't actually need a plot, was just trying to move the FC to a more desirable location and let a friend move into our old plot. Anyway, should be noted that personal homes now allow up to 3 tenants and those tenants can be granted full privileges of decorating and gardening. So sharing with a friend who already owns a plot is an easier path.