John R. Wood Properties
Barry Dunleavy, John R. Wood PropertiesPhone: (239) 877-6445
Email: [email protected]

Buying vs. Building a New Home: How to Decide

by Barry Dunleavy 12/05/2021

When buying a home, you can either build a new residence from scratch or buy an existing home already built. This can be a tough decision to make. Here are a few pros and cons of each to help you move forward with your decision.

Buying an Existing Home

There are several advantages to buying a home that’s already built. When it comes down to it, there are two primary benefits: cost savings and convenience. The planning and scheduling needed for a home-build process can be extensive. However, buying an existing home is a more straightforward, more comfortable home-buying approach. After getting pre-approved by a lender, you’re free to shop around for a new home and make an offer.

Schedules

Are you on a tight schedule? If so, you may decide to buy an existing home instead of building a new one. Many homebuyers enjoy a new property that’s move-in ready.

Costs

Mostly, it’s more cost effective to buy an existing home instead of building. However, no matter what approach you take, it’s easy to get a clear estimate of your mortgage. Speaking with a real estate agent can also provide more details on the costs in a particular location.

Convenience

Buying an existing home is usually far more convenient compared to building a new property. While every situation is different, the home-building process usually includes a plethora of planning with many hoops to jump through. If you want a more convenient, straightforward approach, purchase an existing home.

Building a New Home

Building a new home can bring a slew of advantages, but it’s a less convenient home-buying option. After deciding where to build your home and purchase the land, you must find a builder and choose every element of your new home.

However, there are some advantages to consider.

Eco-Friendly Products

Building a new residence means you can add Energy Star rated appliances that are better for the environment. These upgrades can help you design a more sustainable home for the future. You can also use alternative building materials that are more eco-friendly from the beginning.

Customization

One of the leading reasons people choose to build a new home is for personalization. Unless you complete a massive renovation project on an existing home, this is the only way to get a space that’s fully customized.

No matter which you decide to do, you'll want to have a solid team backing your moves and keeping you informed. If you build your home, esnure that you understand the codes, requirements and permits needed. If you buy, double check that there aren't any strange items attached to the house such as liens or odd contractual obligations made prior to you gaining ownership.

About the Author
Author

Barry Dunleavy

Over 25 Years in the Real Estate Industry. Former Senior Managing Director with responsibility for oversight of real estate businesses in Canada and Latin America including CEO of Canadian-based bank; prior to that Sr. Managing Director Construction Financing to large residential builders throughout the USA. He has a BA and MBA in Finance. Memberships include the Naples Board of Realtors, Graduate Realtors Institute, Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Florida Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors. Community activities include New Horizons of Southwest Florida volunteer teaching math and reading to at-risk 3rd to 5th graders while being Chair of their 2016-2018 Golf Event and also involved with the Christian Businessmen's Connection. 2014 Awarded the Distinguished Volunteer for Collier County. He was a former Board of Governors of Hazeltine National Golf Club, host of the upcoming 2016 Ryder Cup Championship.