When you decide to buy a house, you'll have to make a number of important choices, Among the first of these is whether to buy a fixer upper or new construction. Each approach has pros and cons, and choosing which way to go is a highly personal decision.
New construction is the go-to-choice for many buyers. Many of these properties are move-in ready, so if time is of the essence, then this may be the way to go. Some builders give buyers the opportunity to customize the new construction to a degree. For instance, you may be able to choose wall colors, some flooring or include upgraded ki
tchen cabinets and appliances.
You can rest assured that new construction properties are structurally sound and that all plumbing and electrical systems are functional and up to code New constructions may have also been built using green practices with the resulting structure being more energy efficient. You're likely to discover that a new house is a bit safer as well. Asbestos and lead-based pant have been banned for many years now, so you won't have to worry about exposing your family to toxic substances. Also buyers of new construction houses may benefit from a builder's home warranty. If certain things go wrong with the house within a specified time frame, any necessary repairs may be made at the expense of the builder.
Buying a new house sounds good, but there are down sides as well. New houses tend to cost quite a bit more and are less negotiable, which id a significant consideration for many buyers. In fact, some buyers may find that they are "priced-out" of the most desirable neighborhoods. Another potential disadvantage is the sometimes "cookie cutter" look and design of modern houses. It's not unusual to find entire neighborhoods filled with homes that all look very much the same. For many buyers, this can be a deal breaker. Buyers may also be bothered by the immature landscaping in new homes. In some cases, the new house is built on a dirt lot leaving the buyer with all the trouble and expense of landscaping, which can take years to perfect and mature.
A fixer upper tends to be much more affordable. This appeals to people who are looking for smaller down payments and easier monthly payments. People gravitate to a fixer upper if they are looking for personality and charm. Many older homes simply have character because the builder put many customized touches into the structure. You many find hardwood floors, claw-foot tubs and grand staircases. Gorgeous neighborhoods also attract buyers to these houses. Many of them are found on wide tree-lined streets among many other attractive properties.
Of course, many of the things that make an older house such an attractive option also contribute to its disadvantages. A house that's been around for several decades may require extensive remodeling, and perhaps much of this work must be completed before the house is habitable. Any savings in the purchase price can quickly be eaten up in the cost of endless remodeling projects. It is possible to save money on the updating if you plan to do much of the work yourself. Still, you may need to hire a professional to handle more complex plumbing and electrical work that are beyond your abilities.
Nonetheless, many people who buy a fixer upper feel a great deal of satisfaction aft
er completing the renovations. After putting so much time, effort and expense into the projects their attachment to the house is unbreakable. Of course, many, people are just as attached to a new house simply because it does not require such difficult labor. It's important to factor in the stress of working on a fixer upper into you calculations. Living in a property while it's being renovated can be particularly trying. Even if you live off-site during the work, the risk of your enthusiasm waning before the house is complete, is high.
Home ownership is filled with joy and heartache, whether you decide to go with new construction or a fixer upper, you will want to be with the best real estate agent in the the Richmond, Virginia area. At the Murray Morris Group we take great pride in the level of expertise we bring to our clients.
We specialize in catering to the needs of each and every one of our clients. You can read their testimonials here. Put your trust and valuable time in the hands of industry experts! Your results will always be the best they can be! Give us a call today! We’ll work diligently on your behalf by putting your needs at the forefront of every transaction.
Shannon Murray & Scidney Morris
Contact us at 804-874-5030 or email mmg@themurraymorrisgroup.com
Legendary Service | Exceptional Results | Clients for Life!
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