New Construction Myths Debunked!
If you’re looking to purchase a home, you’re certain to have heard a lot about buying new construction. Some of it is completely true, and some of it…well, not so much. There’s a lot of information out there about new construction and the home buying process that comes with it, and it’s often hard to tell where the truth ends and the myths begin.
At Ernest Homes, we pride ourselves on transparency and a positive customer experience from start to finish. Below are a few common new construction myths—along with the facts based on how we build and serve our homeowners.
Myth #1: It takes much too long to build a new home from the ground up.
One of the most common concerns buyers hear about new construction is the wait time. You’ll often hear that it can take six months or longer for a home to be ready.
Our timeline is different. We target a 12-week build time from the date the start package hits the field. Of course, factors like weather, labor availability, and material supply can influence schedules, but in the vast majority of cases, we stay on track. And if an issue does arise, we communicate potential delays as early as possible.
Also, many builders keep a limited inventory of homes that are already under construction or move-in ready. View our quick move-in homes here.
Myth #2: Every newly constructed house in a community looks exactly the same.
Most builders today offer some level of personalization. We specialize in options and modifications that help your home feel like yours. We offer a wide variety of floor plans and features that can be tailored to your needs.
Explore Ernest Homes floor plans here.
From exterior selections to optional patios, porches, extra rooms, and upgraded kitchens and baths, our plans include meaningful choices. We’re also happy to discuss reasonable structural modifications when possible. In today’s market, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t fit most families.
Myth #3: It’s much more expensive to buy new construction.
In many markets—including the Savannah, GA area—there isn’t always a huge price gap between a new home and a previously owned home of similar size in a similar type of neighborhood. There will always be exceptions, but overall, the difference is often smaller than many buyers expect.
It’s also important to consider energy efficiency. New homes often include improved technologies and materials that can help reduce operating costs, from modern windows and insulation to efficient HVAC systems and water-saving fixtures.
And the true cost of owning a home is more than the purchase price. When you factor in warranties, operating costs, and the fact that everything is brand new, the long-term value of new construction can be very compelling.
Many buyers also underestimate the cost (and disruption) of updating an existing home—flooring, cabinets, fixtures, permits, contractor timelines, and the inconvenience of living through renovations. For many families, building new means getting what you want from the beginning.
Myth #4: You’ll always pay the listed price for new construction.
Homebuilding is a business like any other. In some situations, you can approach a builder to discuss pricing or incentives—especially on homes already under construction. If it makes sense for both sides, it’s absolutely a conversation worth having.
Myth #5: Realtors and homebuilders don’t work together to help you find a house.
Real estate is built on relationships. As part of the Savannah-area real estate community, we work with agents and partners regularly. We’re committed to helping each buyer find the right home—and that often includes working alongside trusted Realtors.
Myth #6: When you’re buying new construction, a national builder is always your best option.
Bigger isn’t always better. Local builders with a smaller customer base can often provide more personalized service and flexibility. They may be able to offer more custom options because they aren’t bound by the same nationwide policies and processes.
National builders may have the same name everywhere, but staffing, materials, and execution can vary by region. That means the experience and quality can differ from market to market.
If you have questions we didn’t answer here, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 912-660-9673 or contact us online. New construction may be the right answer for your next home—and we’d love to help you explore your options.
