New Construction Homes PA: The Guide to Building

What is New Construction Homes PA?

“New Construction Homes PA” refers to a brand-new structure that has never been lived in before. These new homes are built on empty land or vacant lots. Additionally, new construction homes in PA can be custom-built to fit the homebuyer’s wants or pre-built by a developer. The cost of a new construction can vary depending on many factors. Factors such as location, design, materials, and the home builder. 

Types of New Construction Homes

• Custom-Built Homes: These new construction homes, built to satisfy one particular buyer. The buyer selects every aspect from materials to designs. At times, custom-built homes can take more time to complete due to the additional details. Furthermore, custom homes might be difficult to resell, considering they are tailored to one buyer. 
• Modular Homes: A modular home is assembled piece by piece at an off-site location. Furthermore, these homes are moved to the property after completion. Usually, cheaper materials are used for modular homes and are made at a quick rate. 
• Spec Homes: Refers to a new construction home that’s built before involving a buyer. Spec properties usually use basic designs and colors. The builders typically complete multiple homes on one piece of land in a housing development. These new constructions are sold as-is; the first buyer gets to select from the options. 

Benefits of Owning a New Construction House

• Brand new property. Never lived in, and no aspect of the home has ever been used. 
• Custom-designed. The buyer can select the architectural design, materials, and floor plan. 
• Multiple location options. Find the ideal piece of land to build on.
• Potential ten-year tax abatement. Some areas, such as Philly, offer a 10-year tax abatement on new construction. 
• Energy efficiency. New homes are in perfect condition with energy-efficient features. New homes tend to save homeowners on utility bills. 
• Less property maintenance. Since the home is brand-new, fewer issues may arise. 
• Advanced features that make life easier.

Cons of New Construction Homes

• New construction homes sell for higher values than pre-existing structures. Furthermore, it equals a higher down payment. 
• Higher yearly property taxes. Due to higher property assessments. 
• Building a new home can have unforeseen issues. Problems such as construction delays and unexpected expenses.
• As for any real estate market, there can be an increase in buyer competition.

Steps to Buying New Construction Homes PA

When purchasing a new construction house in PA, it’s vital to use proper guidance. Hire a real estate pro, such as an agent, to walk you through the process. Follow these steps below if the time comes to buy a new construction home in PA: 

1. Determine your budget. The first step in buying a new construction home, determine your buying power. Contact a mortgage lender to determine your price range, down payment, closing costs, and fees. 
2. Once the lender or bank determines the buying power. Next step: It’s time to find an agent. Choose a real estate agent with experience representing buyers on new construction homes in PA. 
3. Next, decide if you want a custom home or a spec home. If you’re looking for a custom home, determine the ideal location. 
4. Hire a contractor or home builder. Discuss the floor plan and designs with the builder and architect. Pull building permits. 
5. Patiently wait. Building a new construction home is time-consuming. Ensure you have a long-term housing plan in case of unexpected delays. 
6. Lastly, done the long, complicated building process. It’ll be time to choose appliances and finishes. Enjoy your beautiful new house! 

How to Estimate New Construction Costs

When building a new home, consider many factors and expenses. As for purchasing an existing property, clear cost for the purchase price outside of renovations. When estimating new construction costs, consider land price, material price, permits, labor cost, location, and size.

On average, the cost per square foot to build a new construction property is $100 to $500. Also, another expense is hiring an architect to draw up the plans. Furthermore, the architect’s expense is around 5%-20% of the overall construction costs. Lastly, it’s vital to budget for unforeseen expenses or the chance of running out of funding. 

How to Get New Construction Home Loans?

Receiving a loan for a new construction home is more challenging than a conventional loan. Furthermore, these loans can come with contingencies and higher down payments. A custom new construction home might be more difficult for the lender to resell if the individual defaults on the loan.

Additionally, start preparing yourself by improving your credit score and saving money for the down payment. On average, the lender requires a credit score of at least 680 with a 20% down payment. Shop lenders to determine the best terms and interest rates. Speak with your bank or ask an agent to refer a mortgage lender. 

New Construction Property Taxes in PA

In Pennsylvania, real estate taxes are determined by the property’s assessment. Furthermore, an individual won’t pay extra taxes for residing in a new home. However, they pay more since the property has a higher value than an older property.

On average, PA has a property tax of 1.41%, although some new constructions qualify for a ten-year tax abatement. Cities like Philadelphia offer a ten-year abatement to encourage development. New construction properties tend to bring in more revenue for the area, so providing tax incentives is worth it.

Worth Buying New Construction Homes PA?

If approached correctly, it’s certainly worth buying new construction homes PA. Thus, having the ability to customize a new home to fit your preferences is unmatched. Who wouldn’t want to live in a new residence with eye-catching features? Although it’s not that simple, building a new home is pricey, and hard to find reputable builders.

Finding the ideal location and a trustworthy builder are two substantial aspects of new construction homes. Understand your budget and prepare for unforeseen expenses. There are endless benefits to purchasing a new construction home, such as tax abatements.

Utilize a knowledgeable agent and shop around lender rates for the best results. Owning a new construction property is very rewarding. However, it comes with serious risks. Ensure you’re able to afford the project from start to finish.

Lastly, use proper home-buying guidance to ensure a smooth purchase and build. Building a new construction home in Pennsylvania is not for everyone. Additionally, there are other housing options to consider. If you need help with new construction homes PA, call Ryan at 215-509-9510.