NOVA Homes Blog: Northern Virginia, DC Homebuyers: Should You Choose A New or Existing Home?

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Northern Virginia, DC Homebuyers: Should You Choose A New or Existing Home?

Even if you've already made your homebuyer wish list—detailing everything you want in a property from number of bedrooms to outdoor space—you may not have considered the age of the home itself. Should you choose a new construction home that includes the items on your wish list? Or should you go with an existing property in NoVA that you can make your own?

Before you begin house-hunting, you should be prepared to answer these questions and as your local real estate expert in Northern Virginia, I'm including a few points below that can help you decide!

New Home Pros

You'll be the first to live in the house.
Appliances are brand-new and covered by warranties.
Appliances, roofing and major household systems like plumbing and HVAC will have years before they need to be replaced.
New homes will have the latest energy-efficient and safety features.
Less maintenance.

New Home Cons

A new home will generally cost more per square foot.
Even with new appliances and systems, new homes are subject to malfunctions and breaks just like any other home.
If customizing your home, you may have to compromise on choices like cabinets and flooring due to budget.

Existing Home Pros

Existing homes generally cost less per square foot and give the NoVA homeowner more value for their money.
You can channel the price difference into renovations and upgrades.
Move-in dates tend to be quicker than homes that need to be customized or finished.
Existing homes already have appliances, landscaping and features included— you don't need to choose prior to move-in.

Existing Home Cons

Appliances and major systems can be older and in need of repair when you purchase the home.
The home may have had multiple owners.
Existing homes, depending on their age, may have electrical or plumbing that is not up to current standards.
Renovations can uncover damage from previous years and owners.

Have an idea of which type of home you'd like to purchase this year? Need a little more assistance with your decision? I'm here to help! Give me a call today!

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna.

Earle Whitmore

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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When you first meet Earle, she greets you with a firm handshake and a broad smile. She has a certain charm and friendly nature that immediately set you at ease. As you talk to her, she listens intently. You can see by the earnest look on her face that she’s already developing ideas and strategies to accomplish your goals. By the end of your conversation, you’re surprised that someone can have such a clear understanding of your needs after just one meeting. This is the essence of Earle’s real estate service. She’s a straightforward businesswoman who doesn’t let up until her clients are satisfied.
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Northern Virginia is a thriving area consisting of several communities that thrive with historical and cultural richness as well as physical beauty.
With all that the Northern Virginia area offers, there’s never a shortage of things to do, natural beauty and great schools. From the ocean to the mountains to the nation’s capital, this is a part of the country that has it all!
Earle has assembled some helpful resources to help you with finding your new home. From her comprehensive list of Local Links, her Home Style Guide, or hands on personal help, described below, you know you can count on Earle.