Homebuilding Insights

September 25, 2017

Advantages to Buying New Construction

Are you looking for a new place to call home? Perhaps you’re considering homeownership instead of apartment living, need more space for your growing family, or are relocating for a new opportunity. Maybe you simply want a change of scenery. No matter the reason, one of your biggest decisions will be whether to purchase a resale home or explore new construction.

Many buyers assume new construction is more expensive than a previously owned home. Fortunately, that’s not always the case. Homebuilders must price their homes in line with the local market. If pricing exceeds what the market can support, builders risk financial loss or being priced out entirely. Material, labor, and land costs guide pricing, but builders also focus on delivering value and staying competitive. And competitive pricing isn’t the only reason new construction deserves a closer look—there are several major advantages.

Have It Your Way

New construction gives you the ability to personalize your home from day one. You can choose the exact floor plan that suits your lifestyle, and many builders offer opportunities for further customization. Select your preferred exterior style, choose colors and finishes that match your taste, and skip outdated finishes or costly renovations you’d need to tackle in a resale home.

Whether you want hardwood, tile, or carpet, upgraded kitchen options, or enhanced outdoor living spaces, you get to decide. You can even add features like covered porches or an attached garage—designing your new home exactly as you wish.

Peace of Mind with Warranties

One major benefit of buying new is knowing that everything—from the roof to the appliances—is newly installed and under warranty. That means fewer unexpected repair bills and greater confidence in your investment. If something does malfunction early on, your warranty typically has you covered.

A Financial Advantage You May Not Expect: Property Taxes

New construction can offer a temporary tax benefit depending on how your county assesses property values. In many areas, property taxes for the current year are based on the assessed value as of January 1 of that same year.

If your home was not yet built on that assessment date—meaning only the land value was recorded—you may pay taxes based on the lot alone for your first tax cycle. Once the new home is added to the tax rolls in the next assessment period, your property tax rate adjusts to reflect the full home value.

This timing can result in lower taxes for a short period after moving in—a benefit resale homes cannot offer, since they are already fully assessed at the time of purchase.

A Built-In Sense of Community

New construction neighborhoods often grow together. Because many residents move in around the same time, shared experiences naturally foster connection—think block parties, community events, or neighborhood watch programs. If you’re looking to make new friends or enjoy an active community, new construction communities often offer that built-in social opportunity.

The Joy of Something Brand New

There’s something special about owning a home no one else has lived in. From the fresh finishes to the untouched spaces, a brand-new home offers a clean slate and a fresh start that many buyers find deeply rewarding.

If you think new construction might be the right path for you, we’d love to help you explore your options. Contact Ernest Homes today—our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions about floor plans, pricing, and new communities in Savannah, GA and beyond. Send us an email or call us at (912) 660-9673 to learn more!

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