Why a New Home?

2008/05/08 Originally published in the Vernon Morning Star.

One would wonder why new homes command the same prices or better as slightly used or very well kept homes do. Especially when you consider that the pre-owned home has the landscaping done, window coverings installed, the basement finished and often extra storage cupboards etc. added. Moving in and getting settled is usually a much easier task for a buyer because there are fewer tasks and expenses to be covered.

But the appeal of a brand spanking new home is hard to deny. There is something exciting about being the first one to live in a home. Maybe the home has even been completed to the buyer's particular specifications. All of this adds to the appeal of new housing and buyers will pay the price it takes to get it. Also, when you buy a new home you get the full warrantee as required under the Home Owner Protection Act. Since 1999 that has been a requirement in our province. It's a very valuable new home buyer benefit.

Of course if you are buying a home less than 10 years old, there will be the balance of a 10 year structural warrantee on that home. Just as a footnote, buyers are well advised to check out if it is an owner built home they are buying as the warrantee on such a home is only as good as the person who built it. I understand there are changes in the works for owner builders. I will make that a subject for a future column.

Jane Field works with RE/MAX Vernon. Jane has over 30 years experience in the Real Estate business. To suggest topics for future articles or to ask Jane questions, email her or call 503-3755.

RE/MAX Vernon | 250.503.3755 | Toll free 1.888.503.3755 | 5603 - 27 ST | Vernon | BC | V1T 8Z5 | Canada

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Why a New Home?