When you’re ready to buy a home, you have basically just two choices: resale or new construction. For must of us, the knee-jerk reaction is to opt for the resale home because we think it will be cheaper. Maybe it will be – but, then again, maybe it will cost more in the long run. Sometimes it’s a tough decision, but a good real estate agent can help you make the right choice for you. And if you’re already leaning toward new, keep in mind that a builder’s rep is working for the builder, but your agent is working for you, helping you get the best deal. But before getting into that, let’s look at the benefits of buying new construction in Northwest Arkansas.
1. Customization Possibilities
Buying new construction in Northwest Arkansas, unlike buying an older resale home, offers you some customization possibilities if the home is still in the construction stage. You can decide what the bathrooms will look like and the kind of flooring you’ll get. Basically, you’ll have more flexibility and will be able to have some input into the final product – rather than just having to accept what is already there.
2. Energy Efficiency
With respect to energy efficiency, building codes have grown progressively more stringent over the last few years. You can be pretty certain that buying new construction will save you a significant amount of money on utility bills. In fact, new construction that conforms to the most recent International Energy Conservation Code are 17% more energy efficient than homes built before the latest code. These new homes are more tightly sealed, they have energy-efficient doors and windows, and they usually have energy-efficient “green” appliances.
3. Far Fewer Repairs
Buying new construction in Northwest Arkansas also means that you won’t have to sink a bunch of money into repairs – as is often the case with resale homes even after inspections. Everything is new so you won’t have to make major plumbing repairs or replace the roof or HVAC unit, and you won’t have to worry about painting for several years. Just be aware that builders do sometimes cut corners, but your agent can be a big help here. To find out more just call (479) 777-3379.
4. Less Need for Maintenance
Similarly, new homes, because they are brand new, will need less maintenance. Wiring and plumbing, trim and siding, appliances and fixtures – they are all newly run, hung, and installed. So, barring manufacturers defects, these shouldn’t need any repairs or painting or looking after for a good long while. Buying new construction means that you can simply enjoy your new home for several years without any maintenance hassles.
5. Warranty Peace of Mind
New construction homes often come with at least a year’s builder’s warranty covering the entire home. So if anything major goes wrong during the warranty period, the builder will have to take care of it. Also, an extended but limited warranty is often available as well. But do make sure you have your agent check into this so that you’ll know exactly what the warranty covers. You don’t want any surprises after the fact.
6. Better Financing Options
Better financing terms may be available through builder financing. Larger builders often have their own preferred mortgage companies and can get better deals in financing the purchase. They may even pay closing costs. Their primary business, after all, is building and selling homes, so financing those sales is a key to their success.
Why You Need an Agent for Buying New Construction in Northwest Arkansas
So there are some significant benefits to buying new construction in Northwest Arkansas. The trick to realizing all these benefits, though, is having a qualified real estate agent in your corner. Your agent will be working to secure the best deal for you, and make sure the construction and closing processes stay on track.