Quick Move-In vs. To-Be-Built: Weighing Your New Home Options
When purchasing a new home from a builder in most new home communities, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to opt for a quick move-in home or a to-be-built home. Both new home options come with advantages and possible challenges, so knowing the differences between them will help you make the best decision for your budget, lifestyle and timeline.
Quick Move-In New Homes
Pros:
- Faster Move-In: The most compelling advantage of a quick move-in home is the short timeline. These homes are already under construction or nearly completed, so you can often close and move in within a few months or less if the home is almost completed. In some cases, a new home may be completely finished and listed as move-in ready. This is ideal for buyers who need to relocate quickly or have sold their previous home and need a new place to live as soon as possible but still want the advantages of buying a new home.
- Less Decision-Making: For some buyers, the idea of making dozens of design and structural decisions can be overwhelming. Buying a quick move-in home reduces this burden since many of the major choices have already been made. This can simplify the buying process and reduce decision fatigue.
- Potential Cost Savings: Builders sometimes offer incentives or discounts on quick move-in homes, especially if they are eager to close out a community or phase. This could result in financial savings compared to a fully personalized to-be-built home.
Cons:
- Limited Customization: The primary downside of a quick move-in home is the lack of personalization options available depending on how far along the home is in the construction process. While there may be a few finish selections left for you to choose from, the structural aspects and overall design are usually set. This means you might have to compromise on certain features or finishes that are important to you.
- Less Flexibility in Location: With a quick move-in home, you typically do not have a choice of homesite. The location is predetermined, so if proximity to certain amenities or specific views are priorities for you, this might be a drawback.
- Floor Plan and Structural Options Already Set: Since a quick move-in home is already under construction, the floor plan and structural options cannot be changed. Even if the exterior finishes and colors haven’t been completed yet, it may not be possible to choose differently if it would not allow enough variety with other homes in the vicinity.
To-Be-Built New Homes
Pros:
- Personalization Options: A to-be-built home allows the home buyer more personalization choices in the construction of their new home. From selecting the homesite to choosing the floor plan, structural options, and finish details, you can create a home that fits your vision. In most cases, you’ll also have choices in the type of flooring, cabinetry, countertops and paint colors so your home will reflect your personal tastes and needs.
- Choice of Homesite: With a to-be-built home, you often get to choose your preferred homesite within the community. This allows you to select a location that best suits your lifestyle, whether it's a homesite with a specific view, proximity to amenities, or privacy considerations. Buying early in a new home community gives you the best options for choosing your homesite and floor plan. Some builders even offer discounts to the first tier of buyers in a new community to get the ball rolling.
- More Time to Schedule Your Move: Another advantage of a to-be-built home is plenty of time to sell your old home and schedule your move. It’s less stressful overall when you have more time to get rid of things you no longer need or use before your move and to prepare and pack. With a new home construction schedule and updates from your builder, you will have the time to sell your home if necessary and schedule your move without causing undue stress.
Cons:
- Longer Time Frame: The most significant drawback of a to-be-built home is the time it takes to complete the process. Depending on the builder, the complexity of the home, and external factors like weather, it can take several months to over a year to finish construction. If you're on a tight timeline to move, this option may not work for you.
- Potential for Delays: Construction schedules can be affected by various factors, including labor shortages, supply chain issues, and unforeseen complications. This unpredictability can extend your move-in date, which might be stressful if you need to coordinate the sale of a current home or a rental lease.
- Possible Higher Costs: Customizing your home with upgrades and premium finishes can add to the base price of your new home. Additionally, market conditions during the construction period could lead to cost increases for materials or labor, and depending on the builder and contract, could impact your final price.
Which Is Right for You?
Deciding between buying a quick move-in or a to-be-built home ultimately comes down to your personal circumstances and priorities. If you have a specific vision for your home and the patience to wait through the construction process, a to-be-built home offers the flexibility to create a space tailored to your needs and lifestyle. However, if time is of the essence or you're looking for a more straightforward buying experience, a quick move-in home might be the better choice.
Consider your timeline, budget, and how much control you want over the design process as you weigh these options. Both paths lead to a brand-new home, but the journey to get there and the timeline will differ based on your choice.
Epcon Communities
Epcon Communities builds luxury single-level homes in lifestyle-rich communities located in desirable areas throughout the country. Our floor plans range from 2-4 bedrooms and 1,300 to over 3,000 square feet with popular structural options to suit your lifestyle and tastes.
We offer quick move-in and to-be-built homes in most communities to help you get the home of your dreams on your timeline and meet your budget and lifestyle needs. Many of our communities feature resort-style amenities and yard maintenance with snow removal through the community HOA, giving you more free time to enjoy life!
Contact us to learn more about our homes and communities and how our low-maintenance lifestyle frees up time for you to enjoy life!