The premium price often pays for itself.
What you’re paying for
New construction homes come with more than a clean slate. Here’s what buyers typically get:
Choice of finishes, fixtures, and floor plans
Brand-new systems and appliances under warranty
Modern layouts with efficient use of space
Built-in smart home tech
Energy-efficient HVAC and appliances
Current architecture and design
It’s a turnkey experience with a honeymoon period of newness.
Smart tech, built in
Pre-installed automation systems are a big draw. Retrofitting older homes with smart hubs, security, or wiring is expensive and often clunky. New homes come ready to connect.
Space that lives better
Today’s floor plans are designed around how people actually live: open layouts, flexible rooms, and efficient square footage.
Is the premium worth it?
Historically, new homes cost more than resales. But that gap can shrink depending on the market. According to the National Association of Home Builders the gap is narrowing. The median sales price of a new home was $14,600 more than a resale in the first quarter of 2025.
It depends on where you buy
You’ll find hot markets in Texas including Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. Florida has Orlando and Tampa seeing strong sales. The Carolinas are definitely showing a presence with Charlotte and Raleigh in the lead. New homes in the suburbs command higher premiums as buyers seek modern amenities.
Old homes come with old problems
The average resale home is 40 years old. That can mean costly repairs or updates to:
Roofing and HVAC
Plumbing and electrical
Kitchens and bathrooms
Neighborhood infrastructure
All those costs land on the buyer’s shoulders.
Bottom line
New construction homes cost more, but that premium buys quality, customization, and fewer surprises. For many buyers, that trade-off is worth it. Let NewHomeSource help you find the perfect fit and location for your family.
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.