It’s a common dilemma when shopping for a home: do you look at older resale homes in long-standing neighbourhoods, or investigate a new community? There’s a lot to be said for a fresh start with a new home, in an up-and-coming area. Here are eight significant benefits to setting down roots in a new home community:

Being selective.

As you search for a new home, you’re also searching for a new community that will be a perfect fit for your family. New communities are artfully designed to incorporate outdoor amenities such as playgrounds, green spaces, walking trails, water features, and environmental reserves. You can also target emerging new communities in the location you need, in relation to major driving routes, schools, health care services, recreation facilities, restaurants and shopping.

Lot choice.

Buying in a new community gives you the advantage of choosing the ideal lot for your home. In the early stages of development, many desirable locations will still be available, including corner lots, pie-shaped lots, and lots backing on to a storm pond or ravine. Other factors may affect your preference, such as the placement on the street, the direction the house will face, the traffic flow, and the proximity to walkways or parks. Our communities have a variety of lot sizes and options to suit your needs.

Cost control.

With a resale home, there may be some negotiation on the price, but the seller has the final word. In contrast, a new build starts at a base price, and the total cost is adjusted as you add features or upgrades. As a result, you have more flexibility and control over the amount you’re paying, based on the choices you make. Enhancing your home with specific upgrades (such as higher-end cabinetry or flooring) will present an additional cost, but you can save money by strategically selecting more budget-friendly features in other areas.

Customizable design.

Your new home should be just that – yours. Before construction begins, you’ll have the opportunity to choose the home style, the model, the colour scheme, and the floor plan. Customization options will vary from builder to builder, and they can advise you on the steps in the process. If your builder is Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes or Streetside Developments, you’ll also have access to designQ, our exclusive interior design service. DesignQ’s expert consultants are eager to assist you in selecting finishes and fixtures that will coordinate well and look beautiful for years to come.

Up to code.

With a newly built home, you can rest assured that everything is brand-new and adheres to the latest building code standards. Your home’s major systems, such as the furnace, water heater, plumbing and electrical are all newly installed and won’t need to be replaced for many years. Today’s modern homes also utilize high-quality materials and environmentally friendly technology. This makes them more sustainable and energy-efficient in the long term, which ultimately saves you money.

Warranty coverage.

Since 2014, Alberta’s New Home Buyer Protection Act requires that home builders provide proof of warranty on all homes they construct, providing peace of mind to you as a homeowner. While the warranty does not cover repairs required due to the misuse of components (or general wear and tear), it does cover errors or deficiencies outside your control. If you’d like to know more, check out our responses to frequently asked warranty questions.

First ones there.

If you’re one of the early buyers in a new community, you have the unique distinction of being there from day one. As one of the original residents of a fast-growing, exciting new area, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the community and develop lasting relationships with your neighbours. Another bonus: you’ll be among the first people to use the shiny new playground and the freshly paved multi-use trails!

Return on investment.

Buying early in a new community can be a valuable financial investment that will pay off in the years ahead, as the community grows and evolves. Once the community and its surrounding amenities are well established, your home will increase in value, giving you a healthy resale price if you choose to sell.

At Qualico Communities, we are continually developing attractive new communities in Edmonton and the surrounding area. For more information about our newest communities, please visit our website.