New Construction vs. Resale
Considerations For Buying New vs. Used
What kind of home are you looking to buy? New construction or previously owned? Across Central Florida there are many options to choose from and there are advantages to each approach.
Benefits of New Construction
Floor Plan & Layout: Custom and pre-built new construction homes typically include popular room types and layouts that might not be available in older homes. Kitchens flow into family rooms so you can cook and oversee homework or watch the game. Rooms in new construction homes – especially bedrooms and bathrooms – tend to be larger and brighter, with lots of natural light.
Personalization: When you buy a new home, you often have the opportunity to choose the appliances you want and pick custom details like flooring options, window treatment, paint colors, etc. (Though these choices/upgrades usually come with additional cost.)
Modern Materials: New homes are often constructed with energy-efficient materials and system including insulation, windows and heating/cooling systems. More efficient insulation and windows create buttoned up homes that are less expensive to heat and cool than older models, which translates into lower utility bills.
Low Maintenance: New construction homes require less maintenance since everything from appliances to the HVAC system and roof are brand new. Additionally, builders offer warranties (up to 15 years in some cases) on construction and systems. This means you can better predict monthly home ownership costs, since you’ll likely spend less to maintain your home.
Resale Home Benefits
Location: You may not have the option to purchase or build a new construction home in your desired neighborhood. New construction typically grows up in exurbia where land is plentiful but commutes can be longer. If location is a top priority, buying a resale home may be your only choice.
Readiness: A home that was previously occupied will typically be sold with all necessary appliances and fixtures included, so there won't be additional cost. Though you'll certainly have an inspection on a resale home before closing, however, any maintenance issues or repairs will be between you and the seller to negotiate. There is no guarantee that the seller will repair all that might be found in an inspection.
Establishment: Existing construction is often surrounded by mature trees that shade the home in summer, protect against wind in winter, and block out traffic noises at bedtime. Mature trees may be salvaged at new building sites but often the landscaping takes years to grow into itself. Old, established neighborhoods can also sometimes provide a stronger community base than newer developments.
