Homebuyers today are increasingly asking: Should I buy a brand-new home or go with an existing resale? The March 2025 market has some clear pros and cons to consider.
1. New Construction: Modern and Spacious
New homes offer energy efficiency, modern layouts, and fewer immediate maintenance concerns. They’re especially appealing to younger buyers and those moving into the suburbs.
2. Resale Homes: Established and Available Sooner
Existing homes often come with mature landscaping, established neighborhoods, and faster move-in timelines. In competitive markets, they may also offer better price flexibility.
3. The Cost Factor
- New builds are selling at a 10–20% premium, depending on location.
- Resale homes often come with more room for negotiation and seller concessions.
4. Financing Considerations
Builders may offer incentives like interest rate buy-downs or closing cost assistance, making their homes more financially appealing despite the higher sticker price.
5. What the Data Shows
- 64% of new builds are selling within 30 days of listing.
- Resale inventory is 25% lower than usual, keeping competition high.
- Average resale home age: 18 years.
Final Thoughts
Choose new construction if you value modern features and can wait. Opt for resale if you need to move quickly or want a better deal on location and price.