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When we start looking at homes, you may want to consider purchasing a newer home. Although there are reasons why you may choose an older home, you should also consider the following when it comes to purchasing a newer home.
The “Just New” Feeling
If the home is being built for you, then you are the first one who is going to be living in the home. New construction, new foundation, new flooring, new paint, new kitchen, new...,new...new!
Customization Opportunities
Depending on what phase of construction, you may have the opportunity to customize the home for YOU! You may be able to pick out the floor plan, colors, appliances, fixtures, etc. Check with the builder, ask questions, and ask if the price of the property would change based on your customization requests
Move-In Ready
When the home is finished being constructed, and you have closed and funded on the property, you get to move into the home! No remodeling. No repainting. Just the joys of moving into a new home.
Energy Efficiency
Newer homes are more energy-efficient than older homes, but I highly recommend doing your research on the appliances, insulation, windows, etc. that make the home energy efficient so you can prolong the efficiency.
Safety
Newer homes are built with the most current codes.
Builder Warranties
Read over the builder's warranty to know exactly what is covered, and how long it is covered for, and timelines on when they will repair items.
Community Amenities
Newer communities may have neighborhood amenities like a pool, a park, a community center, a country club, etc. Be prepared because there may be a homeowners association (HOA) fee as well. If there is, I recommend you research the HOA and what all it entails.
Before you submit an offer, I highly recommend you talk to a local lender first to make sure you have an idea about monthly payment and budget.
Kelly Raulston
“Reliable and Ready” REALTOR® since 2016. I was born in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, but was raised in Texas since 1997. When I found out we were moving to Plano, Texas, I remember looking forward to riding a horse to school and a brand-new pair of cowboy boots! Growing up in Plano prepared me to be competitive, quick, and to have a strong work ethic.
I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Axe’em Jacks! That is where my love for East Texas began. The nature, warm smiles, football games, and community values can't be beat! I graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I was a middle school math teacher in Tyler, Texas. I met my husband, Travis, in Sunday school, and we have been married since September 2016.
I love being a REALTOR® in East Texas! Relationships are genuine, the area is beautiful, and the market is rockin’! I am an involved REALTOR® to better the community. Some of the organizations I am involved with are: The Professional Development Committee, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, and Tyler Educational Networking Group. Some awards I have won were “The Hustle Award” in 2016, and “Rookie of the Year” in 2017.
When I am not working with my clients, I like to spend quality time with my friends and family doing the following: running, target practice, read and participate in book club, and playing with my dachshund Greta.
