Choosing between a new and existing home
Morris Digital Works Wire Service

New homes generally come with steeper price tags, but offer more amenities. A home can be built to suit the wants of the buyer. Better lumber, more energy-efficient appliances and improved insulation can be advantages for new home buyers.

New homes also require less maintenance. Homes are becoming increasingly wired for technology, including multiple phone lines and more advanced electrical wiring.

Buyers should expect to pay a minimum of $90,000 for a new home in the Harvey County area.

Some question marks associated with a new-home purchase can be cleared with an existing home.

For a home buyer putting costs over conveniences, purchasing an older home is an option. Existing homes often relieve the buyer of purchasing appliances, such as refrigerators and microwaves, which often are left behind by the previous owner.

Landscaping and established yards are another plus for an existing home. In an established neighborhood, home buyers can also meet their would-be neighbors. The character of an existing neighborhood often differs from that of a new development area.

Inquiring into schools, police presence and other aspects of living in a neighborhood also are possible in an established neighborhood.

Existing homes often come with lower price tags because the buyer is paying past prices for labor and building materials. More negotiation in price also accompanies an older home.

Being the first one to own something is nice, as opposed to knowing that someone has already lived in the house.

The choice is yours...take personal preferences into account and examine the perks associated with both options.