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.

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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?

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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.