Getting ready to sell your home takes a lot of brain space. There’s so much rolling around in your head — timelines, the question of how you have accumulated SO MUCH stuff, and of course, where will you go if you sell.
Given the roller coaster that is the real estate market, considering where you’ll go next is an important step. There are so many options, all! From buying another home that is on the market to considering new construction. To help decide what one might be right for you, let’s compare the options. If you have questions about either, I am totally here as your friendly real estate professional to assist!
The Benefits of Newly Built Homes
Starting with the newly built, there are so many benefits to purchasing something hot off the construction block. A brand-spanking-new house allows you to:
1. Build your dream home
Start with a blank slate and build something from the ground up to check everything off your wishlist! From appliances, finishes, and landscaping, to layout, and even more. The keyword is customization. You won’t have to imagine how you can make something your own, you get to create it (and have your choice of location)!
2. Take advantage of builder concessions
Like so many things, builders can’t keep churning out houses without selling the ones they have completed. This means awesome things for you my friend! Many companies are offering concessions and are willing to negotiate with you. You may be able to find something brand new that is just right for you.
3. Minimize home repairs
Newer homes may have fewer issues that you will need to tackle (the fewer items on the to do list the better). Though in the case something does come up, many builders offer a warranty (yessss!), so peace of mind will be all yours! Even better? There may also be additional warranties from manufacturers as well!
4. Take advantage of energy efficiency
Who doesn’t want to reduce their utility costs? If you are building a home (or buying a newly built one), you can choose brand-new, energy-efficient options to help lower your utility costs, protect the environment, and reduce your carbon footprint. Win, win, win!
The Benefits of Existing Homes
Shifting gears, let’s take a little u-turn and look at the option of buying an existing home. There are still perks, they are just a slightly different flavor. Let’s take a look-see:
1. Explore a wider variety of home styles and floorplans
Variety is the spice of life, no? With existing homes you can find something that fits your style, regardless of when it was built. Like a little mid-century flair? Some 80s mod? You will be sure to find an option for you. There’s so many floor plans and designs available!
2. Appreciate that lived-in charm
People love to joke about homes with “character,” however, there are so many little details that can’t be reproduced in a new home. If you value timeless craftsmanship or design elements, you may prefer an existing home.
3. Join an established neighborhood
If you have a neighborhood that you love and have always dreamed of living in, now’s your chance! Choose the community, commute, and look that you love.
4. Move in faster
Let’s be honest, building a house takes time (and often more time than that). If your timeline is short and you need somewhere to go after you sell, an existing home might be the option for you.
Bottom Line
Where will you go if you sell? So many options! When you start the process of selling your house, consider what you want, your timeline, and what might work for you. Also working with a trusted real estate agent, like myself, to find out about the options in our area will help sort out what’s right for you, so you’re ready to make your next move with confidence.