Top 10 reasons to choose a new home over a resale
Interest rates are at historic lows, home prices have dropped tremendously and you need
more space...sounds like perfect combination of factors to buy a new home! But, should
you look for new construction or a resale home? Real estate experts and new-home
buyers say that new construction has many advantages. Here are the top 10 reasons to
choose a new home over a resale home.
Ease of Maintenance
New homes don’t require as much up-keep as older houses, and many are built with lowor
no-maintenance materials. Who has time for maintenance these days anyway!
Personalization
Buyers love the fact that they choose their own paint colors, cabinets, countertops, carpet,
plumbing and lighting fixtures, and countless other items. They get a home that feels like
their own the first day they walk through the door.
Floor Plans for Today’s Lifestyle
The floor plans of new houses are much more in keeping with the way people live today.
Kitchens are more open and are integrated with living spaces to gather families together.
Master suites with luxurious baths, walk in closets and sitting areas are restful retreats.
Open floor plans along with flexible space can make an impact on a new or old family.
Energy Efficiency
New construction techniques, materials, and appliances all work together to dramatically
reduce energy use. Besides being better for the planet, families will save money on
utility bills.
Safety
Old homes often have hidden hazards such as asbestos, lead-based paint, leaking gas
lines, or faulty wiring. Plus, they may predate current building codes for safety glass in
windows, for severe weather, or for other disasters such as earthquakes. New homes are
built with materials that have been tested to meet the strictest safety standards.
Technology
It is much simpler and more cost effective to install technology options in a new home
than to retrofit an old home. A major component in options and upgrades, some
technologies are impossible to install in existing houses.
That doesn’t mean builders have to offer a home theater system to catch a buyer’s
attention. It can be as simple as having plenty of outlets, phone jacks, and cable boxes in
the areas where they are needed.
Warranties & Customer Service
Resale-home buyers often purchase a one-year home warranty that covers appliances and
some major systems. New homes typically come with a more complete warranty.
Having the builder available if buyers need help provides an added sense of security.
Amenities
New home communities frequently offer amenities that many older neighborhoods lack.
Recently planning for swimming pools, walking paths, green spaces and parks have
become part of the master planning process.
Lead Time
Purchasing a new home gives buyers lead-time to sell their own home and to do some
planning. Lead-time is much less predictable on resale houses. If you sell your house
first, you might be under pressure to accept something less than what you really want in
your new home.
Choice
New homes offer the most choice for buyers. New homebuyers can choose everything
from lot location to interior trim. |