Pros & Cons: Older Home vs. Newer Home

Do you find yourself trying to weigh the pros and cons of whether to purchase an older home or a newer home or a new construction home? You may talk with friends and try to get their viewpoints only to end up more confused over which type of home to choose.

Let’s try to cut through things and learn what each type of home offers. This allows you to set the criteria to determine for yourself if something is a pro or a con based on your preferences and needs.

3 Types of Homes

New Construction Homes

New Construction Homes are defined as those currently under construction or built to your specifications so that you and your family will be the first family to live in this dwelling.

Are you drawn to a home built to your custom specifications?

Perhaps you like thought being the first family to live in a home and have everything being brand new?

If this describes you to a tee, you’re a great match for a new construction home. In some instances, depending on where things are in the build process, you may be able to coordinate with the builder to choose your own colors, finishes, and appliances. You can decide if you want to have specific upgrades and amenities incorporated into the design plans.

With new construction everything from the roof to the flooring is new. Having a new roof and a new HVAC system means you have many years ahead before you should have any concerns about major repairs or replacements.

These homes are commonly constructed with energy efficiency in mind from the windows to the choices in appliances, lighting, and even smart technology features. These cost-saving features can be very attractive in open-concept homes where fewer walls and efficiency are what owners enjoy.

Some Common Drawbacks: When you choose a new construction home, the landscaping will take some time to showcase mature plants and trees. Depending on the neighborhood, there may be other homes being built when you move-in, leading to noisy surroundings during the construction period. Property taxes are typically a bit higher for a newly built home compared to other established homes. The cost of a newly-built home is often higher than a newer home or older home.   

Newer Homes

Newer Homes are defined as homes built after 1990.

Depending on the architectural style of the home, these homes can range from some having open spaces, while others will include rooms that are sectioned off. Among some of the most popular choices are homes with 2-4 bedrooms, 2-3 baths, and a 2-car garage. While the home has existed several years, don’t think the home’s best years have passed. There is still plenty to appreciate about homes built after 1990. Well-maintained homes of this time period continue to be desirable.  

Landscaping around the home and around the community shows trees and plants that are established and growing. Neighborhoods are established—often with shops, restaurants, and schools nearby.

Property taxes are a bit lower than for a newly-constructed home. Newer homes are often situated in quiet communities with minimal to moderate traffic. The cost of a newer home often balances in the middle of an older home purchase and a new construction home.

Some Common Drawbacks: Fewer homes have many energy efficiency features. Depending on when the HVAC, windows, roof, or appliances were installed, a new buyer may have many years of usage or may be looking to make repairs or replacements within the coming years.

Older Homes

Older Homes are defined as those built between 1920 through 1990 with homes built before 1920 being considered “antique.”

If you have a fondness for smaller homes, closed rooms, and a cozy feel than an older home could check all the boxes on your wish list. The size and features of this type of home might be appealing to those downsizing or just starting out.  

The mature trees, shrubs, and landscaping can offer a lot of shade.

Property taxes for an older home are often lower compared to newer homes and new construction. Living in an established community means there is less likelihood for going through zoning changes.

Some Common Drawbacks: Most older homes don’t have many, if any, energy efficiency features. With the age of home, may come the need to replace the roof, windows, appliances or there may be signs of some structural wear that needs attention. If the home hasn’t been well-cared for there may be need for some maintenance and repairs you wouldn’t experience with a newer home.

In Summary

The Houston area is surrounded with homes of all types and sizes. I’d be happy to show you some listings. Reach out to schedule an appointment. And yes, I do work with clients wanting a new build construction. I’m happy to introduce you to some fantastic builders and newly emerging communities.   

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers, and citywide was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020, #3 in 2021, and #2 in 2022. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.