As the annual Parade of Homes set for June 5-12, the question always arises, “As a potential homebuyer, why should I purchase a new home instead of a previously owned home?” Here are 10 reasons supplied by members of the North Texas Home Builders Association.
- Ease of Maintenance — Generally, new homes do not require as much upkeep and the ongoing maintenance as needed in older homes. Appliances and features also are modern and up-to-date.
- Personalization — When purchasing a home during the building stage or when having a home custom built, a homebuyer can choose their interior and exterior colors. They also can select their cabinets, countertops, carpet, flooring, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and many other items. Their new home “feels like their own” from the day they walk in the door. For custom homes, homebuyers also can choose where the electrical outlets go, what type of interior lighting, bathroom fixtures, and much more.
- Instant Community — Homeowners love interacting with their neighbors. Buying a home in a new housing development means buyers have something in common with their neighbors. Community living is very appealing. Often times, buyers feel that it is easier to get acquainted with neighbors in a new housing development instead of an established neighborhood.
- Floor Plans for Today’s Lifestyle — Floor plans in new homes 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 and sitting areas also are popular. Found in many new homes, an open floor plan provides greater flexibility and is ideal for entertaining friends and business associates. New homes today also have more storage space, more electrical outlets, more closet space, and large, modern kitchens.
- Energy Efficiency — New construction techniques, materials, and appliances all work together to dramatically lower utility bills that can save families money on heating and cooling costs. Among the ways new homes can lower utility costs are Low “E” windows, extra insulation in walls and attic, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and the Rinnai tank-less on-demand water heating.
- Appreciation in Value — New homes usually appreciate in value more quickly than older homes. Builders often say that the first buyer makes more money than the builder does! New-home buyers have experienced major run-ups in prices during the past five years.
- Safety — Old homes often have hazards such as asbestos, lead-based paint, leaking gas lines or faulty wiring. Plus they may pre-date current building codes for safety glass in windows or for severe weather or disasters such as tornadoes. Many new homes are built with storm rooms that offer extra protection from a tornado. 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. This can be an fancy as a home theater room or as simple as extra electrical outlets, more phone jacks and wiring for cable television and computers. Homebuyers enjoy the greater flexibility found in a new home designed for families in the 21st Century.
- Warranties and Customer Service — New homes typically come with a complete warranty. Having the builder available if buyers need help also provides an added sense of security. Buyers know the roof will provide many years of protection before needing replacement. They also know the heating and air conditioning systems should last for many years. Major appliances also come with warranties.
- Lead Time — Purchasing a new home gives buyers lead time to sell their own home and to do some planning. This is particularly important for relocation buyers who are moving cross-country.