  |
When it comes to selecting your ideal home, one of the biggest choices you’ll face is deciding between new construction vs. resale. This choice will shape your homeownership experience and is influenced by your lifestyle, preferences, and long-term goals.
“A new construction home offers the chance to start fresh. Imagine moving into a space where every detail has been carefully selected by you, from the layout to the finishes,” said Alexa Simpson, VP of Marketing + Customer Care for JayMarc Homes. “Plus, with everything being brand new, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that major repairs are likely far down the road.”
With such a significant decision, however, you need to look at more than just how new your home of choice might be. That’s why we’ve written this blog post.
In this post, you’ll find the detailed differences between buying new construction vs. an existing home, what to keep in mind when choosing between the two, and questions to ask before you make your decision.
What Are the Differences Between a New Build vs. Resale?
When deciding between a new build and a resale home, it’s essential to understand the key differences.
Resale homes are properties that have been previously owned and lived in. They come with a history, including any wear and tear from past occupants. These homes often have a more lived-in feel and they typically come with a lower price tag.
If you’re browsing listings and see a home that’s been bought or sold before, you’re looking at an example of a resale property.
On the other hand, new builds are homes that have not been lived in before. They offer a fresh start with various levels of customization. There are three main types of new homes:
- Fully custom homes: These are the ultimate in personalization, where you control every detail, from architectural style to tile selections.
- Pre-sale new builds: These homes offer some degree of customization—like choosing flooring and finishes—while sticking to a pre-designed floor plan. It’s a quicker option than going fully custom.
- Move-in ready: These are completely finished and ready for move-in. While you won’t have a say in the design, you get to move into a brand-new home right away.
Choosing between a new build and a resale home ultimately depends on your priorities—whether you value customization and modern features or are looking for a more established home at a lower cost.
Still exploring your home-buying options? Give these blogs a look: |
What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Between a New Construction vs. Resale Home
New construction offers the allure of a fresh start, built to the latest standards. But don’t overlook the potential charm of a resale home. Let’s get into the details.
The Appeal of a New Construction Home
The appeal of a new construction home is hard to resist. Everything is fresh and new, and even tailored to your preferences, if you choose to go with a fully customized home. All of this comes without having to deal with the limitations of someone else’s design choices or the upkeep that comes with an older home.
Built to meet the latest building codes and safety standards, these homes are designed for low maintenance and fewer headaches. Instead of worrying about unexpected repairs or outdated systems, you can focus on enjoying your new space and settling into your community. Plus, new construction homes come with new home warranties, providing extra protection for a year or more.
| Tip: When you choose a new home with JayMarc Homes, you get to enjoy home warranties that align with requirements on a state and jurisdiction level. Plus, you also get access to a homeowner portal, where you can submit and track service requests. Once your home is finished, we also provide a 30-day and 12-month walkthrough to ensure quality and your satisfaction. |
Beyond the home itself, new construction often means buying into a community that’s designed with modern living in mind. Many of these developments offer amenities like parks, pools, and community spaces, all conveniently located near schools and public transit.
| If you’ve chosen a fully custom home… Let’s not forget the joy of a home designed just for you. With new construction, you can say goodbye to outdated decor and hello to a space that reflects your style. Choose your finishes, colors, and materials, and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’re the first to make memories in your brand-new kitchen or relax in your custom spa bathroom. It’s your home, tailored to your taste, from day one. |
Potential Cons
Sure, new construction homes can come with a higher price tag, but the benefits—customization, low maintenance, and a vibrant community—make it a compelling choice for those looking to create a space that truly feels like their own.
If you’re on a tight schedule, you might also want to keep an eye on your construction timeline.
Source: National Association of Realtors
Why You Might Opt for a Resale Home
When exploring new construction homes vs. existing homes, opting for a resale home comes with its own set of benefits that might just align perfectly with what you’re looking for.
For instance, cost can be a major advantage—resale homes are generally less expensive in comparison to similar homes that are newly built. This may allow you to get more space for your money or even move into a more desirable neighborhood.
Character and charm are other big draws. Older homes often come with unique architectural features and a sense of history.
There are also additional opportunities for customization. While new homes are move-in ready, resale properties give you the chance to put your own stamp on them over time. Whether it’s through renovations, expansions, or simply updating certain features, you can gradually shape the home to fit your style.
Potential Cons
In the resale vs. new construction debate, of course, maintenance is something to consider—older homes may require more upkeep, and there could be unexpected repairs down the line. In Washington, for example, the average hidden yearly costs of owning an existing home top out at over $23,000, a 32% increase over 2020.
You’re also limited in customization, often stuck with the previous owner’s design choices unless you’re willing to invest in renovations. There’s also the risk of hidden problems, like mold or foundation issues, that might not be apparent during inspections.
24% of homes experience structural issues. Starting with a fresh slate can help you avoid buying into that number by accident.
Your Fresh Slate in Washington Starts HereCustom or move-in ready—we’ve got the right home fit for you.Contact Us |
Questions to Ask if You’re Having Trouble Deciding Between a New-Build Home vs. Resale
Before making any final decisions about picking a new home vs. existing home, ask yourself these key questions to determine the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
- What’s your budget? Are you looking to maximize your square footage or prioritize a specific location? New builds often come with a higher price tag, while resale homes might offer more bang for your buck.
- Do you prefer modern amenities or classic charm? Are you drawn to custom finishes, or do you love the character and history of an older home?
- How much time do you have? Can you wait for a custom build, or do you need a move-in ready option? New construction can also provide both move-in ready options and homes that are nearly ready for move-in, so consider how soon you want to settle into your new space.
- Are you ready for potential repairs and maintenance? Resale homes might need more upkeep, while new construction offers the peace of mind that comes with brand-new systems and builder warranties.
- How important is community to you? Are you excited about the idea of a brand-new neighborhood with modern amenities, or do you prefer an established area?
Excited About the Possibilities of a New Construction Home?
We’re here to make your vision a reality, or help you choose the best-fit move-in ready home. If you want to go fully customizable, our expert team, with over 750 years of combined home-building experience, is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, from design to move-in.
Let’s work together to get you the home you’ve been looking for.
Contact us today to get started.
