Buying a new home is bound to be one of the biggest investments you make in your lifetime. As such, it warrants careful consideration of exactly what type of residence you envision your family using and enjoying for years down the road.

One of the first choices you make as you prepare to purchase a home in the Portland metro area is whether to build a new custom home or buy an existing property. Both options have their advantages for prospective homeowners and it ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences.

Pros of Purchasing Resale Home

If you’re in the market for a new in Portland, or anywhere in Oregon, there are benefits to buying an older home. Here are a few to consider:

1. Exceptional Craftsmanship

Older homes sometimes include exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that can’t be precisely replicated in newer models. Interesting architectural features are also abundant in older homes, giving them more unique character.

2. Mature Vegetation

When you buy a resale home, you also get the adjacent yard. Often these properties include mature trees and other plants that have laid down roots and blossomed for decades. It takes a long time to create that type of environment.

3. Established Neighborhoods

When it comes to resale homes, you can find ones within historic districts or closer to the downtown area and other established neighborhoods. That means they tend to be within walking distance to local restaurants, coffeehouses, mom-and-pop shops, and boutique stores.  

Pros of Buying a New Custom Home

On the flip side, buying a new custom home in the Portland metro area also has its perks. When you build or buy a new home, here is what you can expect:

1. Adheres to Your Preferences

If you actually design your new home, you have the opportunity to make sure it perfectly fits your current lifestyle and future goals. You can select the layout, materials, finishes, and features you’ve always wanted. Even if you aren’t going with an entirely custom home, many home builders offer optional upgrades and features to personalize the property.

2. Low Maintenance

When you purchase a new home, you can be confident it was constructed to current building standards and codes using the most cutting-edge technology and processes. You won’t have to invest additional money right away for maintenance, upgrades and remodels to bring the home into the 21st century.  

3. Modern Convenience

New homes also come equipped with modern technology and appliances, such as built-in refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves. Wiring systems are also up to date and there is an adequate amount of electrical outlets. Energy efficiency is also standard in new custom homes, from energy-efficient appliances and dual-pane windows to insulated walls, floors, and ceilings.

4. Local Amenities

Even if your commute to the downtown area is longer, you can build a new home in a master or planned community that contains its own variety of shared amenities, such as playgrounds and green spaces. You also still have convenient access to local transit, stores, and schools.

Buying a New Home in Oregon

If you decide to go the route of buying a new home, Renaissance Homes can help. We have new construction homes in suburban and urban communities across the Portland metro area, from Northeast Portland and Montavilla to Southeast Portland and Lake Oswego. You also can opt to purchase your own land and design and build a home that’s personalized to your particular tastes and needs.