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July 25, 2018

The Benefits of Buying a New Home Versus a Resale

When you’re trying to decide on a purchase, you compare your options. Quality, price, and features all factor into your decision. When that purchase is as large as a new home, the price is a reflection of more than purchasing the home, but also taking care of this investment in the long term. When you look at all of those costs, the benefits of buying a new home versus a resale present a very different picture of the total cost of ownership.

A resale home might be less expensive than a new construction home initially. But after the closing, how much more money will you spend to make it the way you want and need it to be?

Alvarez Construction Company wants you to be aware of the real bottom line for your home choice. 

Repair, replace, remodel

How old is the roof, the air conditioning system, the water heater? A roof on an older home could be nearing the end of its life, which will cost you $15,000 or more to replace. The air conditioner’s replacement cost will depend on what you choose, but if you want an energy-efficient model, like the ones used in many new homes, you can expect to pay at least $7,000.

Next, let’s think about the upgrades your existing home will require. It could be as simple as repainting the rooms or more complex, like renovating the kitchen and bathrooms. Maybe you want to tear out the flooring and replace it with something new that is more durable and better suits your style. If you’ve ever watched the home renovation shows on television, you can hear the sound of “ca-ching” as the costs pile up.

A new home allows you to choose the home’s design, floor plan, and finishes. There’s nothing quite as “move-in ready” as a home that is exactly the way you want it to be, with no hidden surprises lurking in the systems, appliances, or structure.

The not-so-energy-efficient home

“Green building” practices incorporate methods, materials, systems, and products into new home construction to conserve natural resources and provide a healthier environment. Insulation and vinyl windows have been improved. Furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, and appliances are running efficiently while using less energy. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets produce a stronger flow of water pressure than before but manage to save on water use. Low-VOC paints dramatically reduce the emissions that filter into your home’s indoor air.

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) reflects the industry standard for gaging the energy efficiency of a home. According to this scale, a standard new home is 30% more energy efficient than a typical resale home. That difference equates to an average annual savings of $539. Over a five-year period, you’d save over $2,600—or more, depending on the energy-efficient features and usage in your home!

Guaranteed peace of mind

A new home is backed by a warranty. Alvarez Construction Company, for example, provides a 5-2-1 new home warranty. The entire home, including appliances, is covered for one full year from the closing date. The mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, and ventilating) are covered for two years. Your new home’s structure is warrantied for five years.

You can purchase a home warranty when you buy a resale home, but that’s another expense. Do you want to add more to the cost of buying a resale home?

While you’re trying to decide whether to buy a new home versus a resale, add up all the extras that are part of purchasing someone else’s home. Then ask yourself if you’re ready to pay for that choice. Alvarez Construction Company invites you to look at our new homes for sale around Baton Rouge. We build affordable, single-family homes and communities that provide the lasting value you deserve. Contact us to learn more about your choices, including our currently available, move-in ready homes.

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