Is Buying A New Home Better Than A Previously Owned Home?
Is Buying A New Home Better Than A Previously Owned Home?
June 18, 2024
One of the biggest investments you’ll ever make is buying a home. Among the many decisions that come with this purchase, the first one is whether you will be buying a new construction home or a previously-owned home. At first glance it may seem like an existing home is the way to go, but depending on your budget, where you want to live, your desired lifestyle, and more, you may want to consider buying a new home.
At Riverside Homes, we’re dedicated to providing you with value and quality. From exceptional craftsmanship to flawless features and high-performance design, a beautiful new home in a community you love makes life easier and more enjoyable every day.
What To Know About New Construction Homes in Florida
For years, Jacksonville, FL has ranked as one of the U.S. cities with the highest number of new construction homes. Considering the nationwide housing shortage, it’s no surprise that people are flocking here as thousands of new homes are built every year.
What’s the difference between new construction homes and previously owned homes? New construction homes are homes that are brand new and have never been lived in. There are different types with varying timelines and benefits. You could purchase a to-be-built home, one that has not been constructed, where you choose the lot, floor plan, and many of the features and finishes. Or you could look for quick move-in homes, homes that are in the process of being built or already completed, and features and finishes are preselected. Lastly, you could opt for a custom home where you choose all of your design selections.
Resale homes or previously owned homes have been lived in before. They are often move-in ready but can also be fixer-uppers, needing an array of renovations depending on the work that’s been done and the year the home was originally built.
As one of the most experienced home builders in Jacksonville, FL, Riverside Homes has helped many homeowners find their dream homes. Only you can make the best decision for you, but we believe newly built homes offer unmatched benefits over previously owned homes.
Here are a few advantages of choosing new construction homes in Jacksonville, Florida.
Overall Costs
From maintenance and repairs to closing costs and additional fees, there are a lot of costs involved in buying a home, whether new or used. Something to keep in mind are the short-term and long-term costs. While it may cost more to purchase a new construction home upfront, pre-owned homes will cost more in the long run due to the need for short-term maintenance and repairs. Unlike brand-new homes, a pre-owned home won’t have all new and updated systems, appliances, roof, and foundation. This means you’ll not only have to think about the insurance implications (insurance rates tend to be higher with older, outdated homes due to higher risks of damage) but also the cost to fix or update those things in the future.
Value
New construction homes cost more upfront than existing homes, but your new home will hold its value under certain circumstances:
- A new construction home tends to hold its value over the long run. Though it may cost more initially, you’ll recoup that expenditure, particularly if you stay in the home for a few years.
- If the neighborhood surrounding your new home is thriving — good schools, new businesses, attractive recreation — home values in your area are likely increasing.
- Attractive community amenities — pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, sports courts, gathering spaces, open green spaces, walking trails — add value by offering convenience and community-building opportunities.
Modern Floor Plans & Building Codes
New construction homes are designed for modern living. You’ll see open-concept and functional layouts with flexible rooms in newly built homes versus closed-off spaces of pre-owned homes. Rooms in new construction homes — especially bedrooms and bathrooms — tend to be larger, with lots of natural light. With new homes, you won’t have to worry about updating the home to fit your lifestyle since it will already be built with the way you live in mind. You may also find that previously owned and older homes are not built to current standards and codes. This is important to ensure the home’s stability against weather damage and will even save you in utility costs due to updated insulation.
Personalization
Unless you’re choosing a completed quick move-in home, many new construction homes, especially custom homes, allow you to design it to your liking. Since a home is a long-term purchase it may be worth being able to choose the features and finishes that make it feel more like home. With a pre-owned home, you may need to make several changes to get it to a place that feels like it's really yours and fits your style. This is certainly possible, but it will take more time and money in the long term. You might find it difficult to locate a used home that already matches your style.
Timelines
Existing homes have a fast move-in time frame since the home is already completed. Even so, there are similar options available with newly built homes. As mentioned above, if you need to move quickly, consider choosing a quick move-in home since they are closer to completion, if not fully complete. If your timeline is more flexible, new construction homes and custom homes offer some breathing room. You can be a part of the process of selecting design packages throughout the home. While this may take several months, the wait is worth it once you step into your brand-new home.
Energy Efficiency & Warranties
Today, especially in Florida, energy efficiency is more important than ever. It helps the environment and keeps utility costs low. Older homes are unlikely to include many energy-efficient features to ensure the HVAC is overworking to retain heat or air in certain weather conditions. The insulation may not be properly installed. They may lack healthier building materials like low-VOC paint or UV-protective impact-resistant windows. In new construction homes, you’re guaranteed to have a healthy home inside and out. Plus, they include home warranties to protect components of the home giving you peace of mind if something does need repairing. This may include covering materials and workmanship, and plumbing and electrical.
Home Builders in Jacksonville, FL
At Riverside Homes, building new homes is our passion. We value our communities and the areas where we live, serve, and work, and we’re committed to giving back through philanthropic contributions and volunteer support. Riverside Homes is proud to be recognized for our achievements over the last decade, including Gold Awards in the Parade of Homes and the winner of Jacksonville Magazine’s Companies With Heart. Striving for excellence through serving others is fundamental for our team. We hope our accomplishments and affiliations demonstrate who we are and how we do things – and make buyers confident when they build with us.
From the time you walk in our door to the day you move in and beyond, we strive to exceed your expectations. We are committed to providing you with exceptional homes that fit your lifestyle. With over 15 years of experience, we understand that building a new home is more than just choosing a community and floor plan. Your home is a reflection of you, your family, and your lifestyle. That's why no two Riverside homes are ever alike. At our one-of-a-kind Design Center, you’ll get expert advice and the opportunity to select from a wide range of design options that will help make your new home yours. You can see, touch, and feel all of your selections from quartz countertops and attractive cabinetry, to elegant flooring and interior paint colors. The possibilities are endless!
Our award-winning homes are located throughout the Jacksonville, FL area, in communities with home designs fit for every lifestyle. Whether you choose a single level home in Ponte Vedra or a luxury country club living in Fernandina Beach, new homes are waiting for you. We’d like to highlight a few of our newly built homes for sale.
Silver Landing at SilverLeaf in St. Augustine
Riverside Homes brings intuitive floor plans and quality construction to Silver Landing at SilverLeaf, one of the top-selling communities in St. Johns County. These conveniently located homes are situated on expansive 60-ft and 70-ft lots. Located between County Road 210 and State Road 16 at St. Johns Parkway west of Interstate 95, Silver Landing at SilverLeaf offers Florida’s best schools and a convenient location. In this golf cart-friendly community, amenities include tennis & pickleball courts, and a bark park for exercise and socializing with furry friends. Additional amenities include a Resident’s Club, spray park, family and adult pools, field house, flag court, event pavilion, and much more. Single family homes are priced from $514,900. Five quick move-in homes are available.
Forest Park at Wildlight in Wildlight
Discover Riverside Homes’ thoughtful floor plans and quality construction in Forest Park at Wildlight, one of the largest new home communities in Nassau County. These ideally located new homes range from 2,300 square feet to more than 3,000 square feet on large 60-ft lots. Enjoy the unique Florida Lowcountry lifestyle inspired by the spirit of original Florida and the surrounding landscape. Front porches create opportunities to connect with neighbors. Interior spaces blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Architectural details celebrate the region’s cultural heritage. Single family homes are priced from $514,900. Quick move-in homes are available from the mid $500s.
Seabrook Village at Nocatee in Ponte Vedra
Riverside Homes is excited to be a preferred builder in Nocatee's newest neighborhood, Seabrook Village. It is an idyllic place for growing families, young professionals, empty-nesters, and retirees to call home. Residents are just steps from Seabrook Park, a new amenity center located in the heart of the neighborhood, featuring a pool, dog park, playground, and a central pavilion. Our thoughtfully designed one- and two-story floor plans will be built on 40-ft and 50-ft lots with preserve and lake views. Choose from a variety of floor plans ranging from 1,450 to 2,900 square feet. Single family homes are priced from $519,900. Quick move-in homes are available from the mid $600s.
Amelia National Country Club in Fernandina Beach
Riverside Homes loves providing luxury, quality homes at Amelia National Golf and Country Club. Situated off A1A in Fernandina Beach, Amelia National Golf and Country Club offers easy access to Jacksonville and the historic charms of Amelia Island. Our ideally located new homes feature floor plans designed for function and lifestyle, ranging from 2,085 to 3,239 square feet. Enjoy amenities such as 18 holes of championship golf designed by Tom Fazio, fine dining at the French Provincial clubhouse, a state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style pool, and state-of-the-art Har-Tru clay tennis courts. Talk about living the good life! Single family homes are priced from $594,900. Quick move-in homes are available from the mid $700s.
There are so many reasons why a new home is the way to go, however, the choice is yours. As one of the most trusted home builders in Florida, Riverside Homes wants you to do what is best for you and your family and find a home that you love. If you decide that a newly built home will fit your finances, your timeline, and your requirements for a home, we’re excited to help you. Take a moment to browse our website to learn about the homes and communities we offer in the Jacksonville area. If you have questions about new construction homes for sale, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!
