Hey, so you’re on the fence about buying a home because you’re stressing about the maintenance costs, right? No worries, I’ve got some valuable info that might help you out. Let’s chat about both new builds and pre-loved homes (you know, the ones that have already been lived in).
Newly Built Homes Need Less Upfront Maintenance
If you can afford it, going for a brand new home might actually save you some headaches when it comes to fixing maintenance costs. Think about it – everything’s fresh out of the box, so you won’t have to deal with all that wear and tear you’d see in an older place. That means less chance of things breaking down on you and you’re less likely to shell out for big or small repairs in those first few years of owning a home.
As an extra incentive, a lot of builders throw in warranties on their homes too. So if something major goes south, you might be covered. Things like your plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems usually come with a one or two-year warranty.
Existing Homes Can Still Have Great Perks
Great news, it’s not only brand-new homes that come with warranties. Older homes can have them too! Your agent might be able to negotiate with the seller to include one as part of the deal. But heads up, not all sellers are going to go for it. If they’re not, you could always purchase a Home Warranty Policy.
And get this – it’s actually a win-win for both sides. A buyer’s home warranty is good for both buyers and sellers. It helps the seller close the deal, and it gives the new homeowner some peace of mind that they’re covered if something breaks down. Sometimes, a seller will even pay for the first year of the warranty to make the deal more tempting, but it really depends on what’s going on in the real estate market.
So, Should I Buy New or Existing?
Here’s the deal with new vs. existing homes. Sure, new builds are great because you don’t have to worry about fixing stuff right away, but older homes have their own cool perks.
Think about it – older homes have this awesome character and charm that’s kinda hard to fake. All those little quirks? They make the place feel super cozy and lived-in. Plus, you usually get some established landscaping that’s already grown in, and the neighborhood’s got that established vibe going on. It may feel more welcoming than starting from scratch with a new build.
Bottom Line
Whether you choose a newly built or an existing home, you may be able to ease some of your concerns over maintenance with a home warranty. To weigh your options and go over what’s the top priority for you, talk to the professionals.