We meet a lot of people who are debating about whether to buy in one of the new home communities or in an established neighborhood. New housing communities have a certain allure about them. The homes are brand-spanking new and the neighborhoods are fresh with possibility. Inside the sales office there are often beautiful watercolor sketches of how the neighborhood will look and function once complete. Many of the new master planned communities are designed to promote specific lifestyles and many people find that very desirable.

However, there are some downsides to buying in a brand new community. When walking through the gorgeous model homes, it can be easy to overlook some of those cons. The downsides aren’t necessarily “bad,” but things you will definitely want to consider before you are forced to deal with them.

Pros and Cons of Buying in a New Home Community:

Pros

• The home is entirely new – no marks, remnants or ‘energy’ left over from past residents
• You can add your choice of upgrades during the construction
• Newer communities are often designed to promote specific lifestyles: i.e. family with community playgrounds, common areas, walking paths; 55+/Senior communities with organized events
• Homogeneous look – orderly and consistent
• New homes come with builder and manufacturer warranties

Cons

• You’ll most likely be fitting all of the windows with blinds and curtains
• Normally, you will take on the expense of landscaping the yard(s)
• Home owner’s association fees
• Lack of established foliage – no big trees or sprawling ivy
• No established sense of ‘community’ – all residents are new to the neighborhood
• Homogenous look – houses lack the individual character and charm found in older neighborhoods
• Land costs keep going up therefore new home lot sizes get smaller

Some people just love the idea of a new housing community while others desire the charm and warmth of more established neighborhoods. Only you and your family can decide what is right for you.

Tags: Triangle Real Estate //