Realtor View: What is right for you — a new or existing home?

There are pros and cons to a new-construction home or existing home, so the decision may not be that easy as you consider a home purchase. No matter which way you go, you’ll probably end up making trade-offs. In the end, choose the type of home that makes the most sense for you, your lifestyle and upcoming plans.

From an investment standpoint, it is wise to think about the future when buying. After all, you will be the seller one day and will no doubt want to get the largest possible return on your investment.

What if, for example, a home is one of the first in a new subdivision? As other houses are still being built, short-term resale of a two-year-old house can be difficult. Given two similar choices in the same neighborhood, most buyers opt for a brand new house as opposed to one that’s been lived in. Additionally, builder incentives can make the new home down the street more attractive to buyers. This typically changes as the neighborhood matures and the builders clear out.

It’s not all about the investment, though. You must live in this home. Central air, large pantries, walk-in closets, multiple-car garages, more and bigger bathrooms and other contemporary amenities are more common in newer homes. Not many 40-year-old homes feature a master suite with a spa and two walk-in closets.

New homes are also built with infrastructure tailored to modern life — like having more electrical outlets or being prewired for security or Internet. Additionally, there are stricter building codes and significant advances in construction materials and techniques. These improvements result in safer and more energy-efficient homes.

Also, the builder may offer customization options, like color schemes, flooring, kitchen cabinets or appliances, that allow...