[redwitch]

Since he bought a new home, no "fluff." There probably was a premium on the lot that they discounted to close out that area. TV does not negotiate price on new homes. They may offer discounts or other goodies at times but don't hold your breath waiting to get one.

Advantages to new: All your neighbors are new, too, and, thus, more likely to do things together in the beginning; no one has lived in your home; you can put upgrades into your mortgage. Disadvantages: you have to pay for a full bond; you have to pay for all upgrades one way or another; your neighborhood will look pretty barren until all the landscaping grows up.

Advantages to preowned: Some or all of your bond will be prepaid; the house may have all or many of the upgrades you want; the neighborhood will look prettier since trees and landscaping have had time to grow. Disadvantages: neighborhood is established, possibly making it a little more difficult to make friends; you'll pay about the same as you would for a new home; repairs will probably come a little quicker than they would in a new home.

Either way, you really can't lose. TV is a great place to live, as you've already discovered.