Should You Buy a House or Build a House?
So, you're wondering if you should build a house or buy a house already built. Before I dive into the answer, just know there is no direct answer to this. This all depends on what your goals are. It's just like buying a brand new car... It may cost more upfront but if you plan on staying in the home for a while then it may be worth it.
Here are the pro's and cons to building/buying a house.
Pro’s to building a house are:
It will be brand spanking new!
It will be super clean
You get to design it (to an extent)
You won't have to fix anything right after you move in
You don’t have to do any updates
Sometimes you can get the builder to kick in on your closing costs.
Cons to building a house:
Usually more expensive to buy a brand new home
The length of time that it takes. It can take 4-6 months and sometimes longer
You may have to move in with your in-laws if you have to sell your house before you build a new one
Sometimes you can find homes that are already being built - you just don't have much choice as to what goes into the home. That would probably allow a quicker move in.
Pro’s to buying a house:
Usually less expensive because someone has lived in it before
Some things may already be done - like blinds. You don’t realize how much blinds cost until you have to install 17 of them
Landscaping can be more mature - larger trees throughout the neighborhood
Cons to buying a house:
Painting and updating that needs to be done
Kitchen appliances may be dated
Hvac and other mechanics may be dated and need updated soon
Are you willing to make all of these repairs and upgrades to end up with an awesome house?
So now that we have discussed the pro’s and cons to both buying and building a house, would you prefer to buy one that is already done or would you prefer to build one from scratch? I personally think it all depends on what you need and when you need it by. Sometimes you HAVE to move now and need a place to live, while other times you can move at your own leisure.
Leave those answers in comments below.