The Pros and Cons of New v Existing Homes Press Release

March 13, 2025
Construction, Home Buying, Real Estate
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Franklin, WI: According to an article from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the share of newly-built single-family homes on the market is at a record high. In fact, the NAR story notes that in December 2021, the inventory of existing homes available on the market fell to an all-time low and that 34% of U.S. single-family homes for sale were new construction. To help consumers make the best decision possible, Angela Kallay, a relentless real estate sales professional from CENTURY 21 Benefit Realty, notes that there are ‘pros and cons’ for each to consider when purchasing either existing or new homes.

“This real estate market right now offers many opportunities and many challenges, and consumers are faced with a number of critical decisions including whether buying a newly built home or purchasing an existing property is in their best financial interests,” said Kallay. “There are variables and considerations for each, and it is in the best interests of homebuyers to partner with a relentless sales professionals who will deliver them a personalized, unique experience. In fact, they deserve it and should demand that level of quality service.”

While many consider the decision to be an easy one, “it’s not,” warns Kallay, who offers the following list of ‘pros and cons’ for both existing and new homes:

Newly Built Homes: Pros

It’s new. Interior and exterior features new construction with, in some cases, home warranties.
It’s personalized, sometimes. You may be able to customize your own floor plans, for example.
It’s more energy efficient. Think Green.
It’s turnkey. Less repairs or renovations and low maintenance costs.

Existing Homes: Pros

It’s more desirable. Known property values and neighborhood offerings.
Its proximity. Typically closer to schools, shopping, and places of worship.
Its character. Many prefer the look and charm of older structures over newer ones.
It’s less costly, in most markets. Existing homes may be less expensive and more negotiable.

New Built Homes: Cons

It’s costlier, in some markets. New homes may be more expensive than resale properties.
It’s further away from the ‘must-haves.’ Commutes to shopping, schools, etc. could be longer.
Its appearance. Homes all may look the same i.e., ‘cookie-cutter.’
It’s noisier. If you buy in early, the ongoing construction in the neighborhood can be an issue.

Existing Homes: Cons

It’s hard to find. Challenges of locating and securing the ‘right’ property in competitive markets.
It’s older. More likelihood of necessary repairs and renovations.
Its appraised value. Borrowers may have a harder time securing a mortgage.
It’s less energy efficient. Older appliances and energy-saving features.

“We understand that buying a home is the single largest investment most will make in a lifetime so a homebuyer should consider the ‘pros and cons’ of new and existing homes,” said Kallay. “There’s the financial side and there’s the emotional side and then there’s a lengthy process to ensure a consumer gets to the best outcome possible. Make sure you partner with a professionals who gets that, and more importantly, gets you as a person and or family and how a home can support and enhance your personalized lifestyle.”

Real estate sales professionals and others from different industries, and members of the media in need of sources, are invited to learn more about the value proposition behind the CENTURY 21® brand. Go to century21.com/about-us/contact/media or email Erin Siegel, Senior Director, Public Relations and Executive Communications, at Erin.siegel@century21.net.

About Century 21 Benefit Realty:

CENTURY 21 Benefit Realty is an independently owned and operated franchise affiliate of CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC (century21.com), franchisor of the iconic CENTURY 21® brand. The approximately 132,000 independent sales professionals in approximately 11,000 offices spanning 80 countries and territories in the CENTURY 21® System live their mission every day: to defy mediocrity and deliver extraordinary experiences. By consistently chasing excellence, giving 121% and always elevating, the CENTURY 21 brand is helping its affiliated brokers/agents to be the first choice for real estate consumers and industry professionals worldwide. Century 21 Real Estate has numerous websites to help answer specific consumer needs. They are , century21.com, century21.com/global, commercial.century21.com, finehomes.century21.com and espanol.century21.com.