My choice was an established area for a resale home. We saw exactly what we got. No surprises of what will be built next to you. Landscaping is mature. Lots of great extras were built in the house that we would have to added on later at extra cost. Even things like gutters are an add-on that you think of as normally being on a house.
No construction noise or dirt or rubbish or nails.
The new neighborhood does have a closer knit feeling since all move in at the same time - but sometimes that goes too far and everyone knows exactly what is happening within a couple of hours.
I almost forgot - you can negotiate price with a resale but NOT with a new home. That can save lots of money!
Don't forget one big thing about resales vs new builds. The Bond. The older the home, the lower the bond. My bond 4 years ago on my resale was only $1500. Friends of mine who bought new in St. Charles at that time had bonds of $20,000. Now, bonds are higher at around $25,000 and up to $50,000. That makes a pretty significant difference at tax time. Some posters have said, "Only about and extra $1500." Personally, I will take that extra $1500 per year and use it on some outstanding fun for myself.
My advice - get a sales agent from BOTH Villages Properties and an MLS agent - since neither can show each other's listings - and concentrate on resales. Look for your dream home be it with a golf view, water view, or whatever you want.
|