New vs. Existing: Why a Newly Built Home Could Be the Better Deal

Learn why newly built homes might be your most budget-friendly option.
Jul 24, 2024

If you're looking for a new home, you might want to give newly built homes a closer look. Contrary to popular belief, new homes aren't always pricier than existing ones. In fact, they can often be more budget-friendly, especially in today's market. Sounds surprising, right? But let's dive into why this is happening.

New Homes: Surprisingly Affordable

Believe it or not, the median sales price for newly built homes is currently lower than that of existing homes. This might seem counterintuitive, but it's backed by the latest data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

So, why are new homes more affordable? Builders are responding to what buyers want and need. Right now, there's a high demand for smaller, more affordable homes, so that's exactly what builders are putting on the market. Plus, more new homes are available now than in the past few years, and builders are eager to sell them off before starting new projects. This means they're pricing them competitively to attract buyers.

Builder Incentives: Sweetening the Deal

Another reason to consider a newly built home is the array of incentives builders offer. Since they need to move their current inventory, they're pulling out all the stops to make a deal. In fact, sales incentives have been on the rise, with 61% of builders offering deals in June, up from 59% in May.

These incentives can be pretty enticing. Builders might offer competitive mortgage rates, cover closing costs, or throw in free upgrades and features. All of these can add up to significant savings, making a brand-new home an even more attractive option.

The Advantages of Going New

Thinking about newly built homes could open up opportunities you hadn't considered before. With competitive prices and tempting incentives, a brand-new home might be the best option. Plus, new homes come with modern designs, updated technology, and better energy efficiency, saving you money on utilities and maintenance down the line.

Another big plus? Everything is new and under warranty, so you won't have to worry about the usual wear and tear of older homes. This peace of mind can be invaluable, reducing the risk of unexpected repair costs shortly after moving in.

Make the Smart Move

Buying a home is a major decision, and exploring all your options is important. By considering newly built homes, you might find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. With lower median prices and attractive incentives, now is a great time to look into the benefits of a brand-new home.

So, why not give newly built homes a chance? Reach out to your local mortgage pro and see what home financing options are available. You might be pleasantly surprised at how affordable your dream home can be.

✅ Benefits of Contract Loan Processing for VA Loans

  1. Specialized VA Knowledge

    • VA loans have unique requirements (COE, residual income, funding fee calculations, appraisal requirements).

    • A contract processor experienced in VA loans can spot potential issues early and streamline the process.

  2. Cost Savings for Lenders

    • No need to hire full-time staff; processors are paid per file.

    • Helps smaller brokerages or lenders manage fluctuating loan volumes without carrying extra payroll.

  3. Faster Turn Times

    • Contract processors often work remotely and are paid per closed file, so they’re incentivized to move loans quickly.

    • They can push COE requests, follow up on VA appraisals, and ensure VA-specific forms (26-1880, 26-8923) are completed on time.

  4. Compliance & Accuracy

    • VA has strict guidelines (e.g., allowable fees, seller concessions, and veteran protections).

    • A skilled processor reduces risk of compliance errors that could lead to loan buybacks or funding delays.

  5. Scalability

    • During high volume seasons (e.g., rate drops, PCS military moves), lenders can bring on extra processors quickly without long-term HR commitments.

  6. Reduced Loan Officer Burden

    • Lets LOs focus on originating, networking, and serving clients while the processor handles gathering DD-214s, income docs, pest inspection reports (if required), and underwriting conditions.

  7. Improved Borrower Experience

    • Veterans and active-duty borrowers often value clear communication and speed.

    • A processor who knows the VA process can anticipate documentation needs and prevent last-minute surprises.


👉 In short: Contract processors help lenders stay lean, compliant, and efficient, while ensuring veterans have a smoother experience.