HOMES
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C O MM U NI TI E S
NEWLY BUILT HOMES OFFER FLEXIBILITY AND COMFORT By Justine Lookenott
Parkside East by Traton Homes
When you’re moving to a new city, you’re faced with many decisions about where to live. What neighborhood should you choose? Will you rent or buy? And if you’re buying, do you opt for a previously owned home or one that’s brand new? BENEFITS OF A NEW HOME If you’re looking to buy a newly constructed house, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 673,000 new homes were sold in 2019—that’s 12.4 percent more than in 2018. And it’s easy to see why. Buying a newly constructed house, condo or townhome is an appealing prospect. Newly built homes often 14 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com
offer the latest designs, like spacious, eat-in kitchens, large master baths and roomy walk-in closets. And because everything is new, new homes require much less maintenance and remodeling than previously owned homes. “In a new home, you have the newest finishes, new materials and appliances, so less maintenance is required,” says Amy Kessler, vice president of sales and marketing for Traton Homes. Addison McClaugherty, account manager with home builder Ashton Woods, added, “While previously owned homes usually come with a one-year warranty that is very limited and only covers minor repairs, new homes
come with a full warranty that gives the homebuyer peace of mind in knowing it will be able to last them well into the future.” Newer homes also come with features that save energy, like better insulated walls and windows, which is good for both your wallet and the environment. “A new home benefits from the latest energy-efficient technology for energy savings, while older homes have higher energy costs and lack today’s newest features,” says McClaugherty. Buying a new home can also provide a “flexibility for customization,” says Kessler with Traton Homes, “and making the home exactly what you want.”