Buying a new construction home is a very different process than buying an existing home, and it’s important that you work with an agent who knows the difference and can help you navigate BOTH! Most home-buyers would like to experience new construction communities and understand the advantages and disadvantages to both new construction and existing homes before ultimately deciding on which kind of home to purchase. This information is nearly impossible to find on your own, and very few real estate agents work consistently with new construction home builders to provide you with a knowledgeable and seamless experience.
That’s where I come in! I am Amanda Fallon, your New Home Specialist! Part of my role as your new construction Realtor in Corona is to show you available new construction communities in your desired areas, as well as existing homes, and to discuss with you the advantages and disadvantages to both.
There are many factors I will help you weigh as your new construction Realtor in Corona, including, but not limited to:
-Tax Rate/Mello Roos
-HOA Fees at Build Out
-HOA Rules/CCRs
-Future Lease Restrictions
-Pet Restrictions
-California-Mandated Solar Options
-Exit Strategy/Ease of Selling in the Future
As a cautionary tale, do not visit any new construction communities without your real estate agent! All builders will deny you agency representation upon visiting the community without your real estate agent. This will inhibit your ability to negotiate and get the best deal and terms on your new purchase! Also, keep in mind that the builder’s agents work for the builder and owe fiduciary duties only to the builder (not the buyer). That means without your Realtor representation, no one is truly looking out for your best interests.
As your new construction Realtor in Corona, I help you identify and compare every new home builder and new construction community in the area so you can make the best decision for your lifestyle and budget. My job isn’t to convince you to buy new construction—it’s to help you determine whether a new home or an existing home is the better fit for your needs.
One of the biggest advantages of working with an experienced new construction Realtor in Corona is having someone who can objectively compare new construction homes with resale properties. I’ll help you evaluate the pros and cons of each option, including purchase price, property taxes, HOA fees, builder incentives, financing options, long-term maintenance costs, warranties, lot sizes, neighborhoods, and overall value.
For example, a new construction home in Corona priced at $850,000 may have a property tax rate of 1.8%, which is common in many newer communities. An existing home with the same $850,000 purchase price may have a tax rate closer to 1.2%. While the lower tax rate on a resale home can reduce your monthly payment, it’s only one piece of the equation.
New construction homes often come with brand-new roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical components, appliances, and builder warranties. That can translate into fewer maintenance expenses and repair costs during the first several years of ownership. On the other hand, an existing home may offer a lower tax rate, mature landscaping, larger lots, established neighborhoods, or more room for negotiation. Every buyer’s priorities are different, which is why it’s important to compare the total cost of ownership—not just the purchase price.
In this example, the difference between a 1.8% and 1.2% property tax rate on an $850,000 home is approximately $425 per month in additional property taxes. While that’s an important expense to consider, it should be weighed alongside the potential savings that come with owning a newer home requiring less maintenance and fewer unexpected repairs.
My goal is to provide you with clear, honest information so you can confidently compare both new construction and existing homes. I’ll help you understand the financial trade-offs, evaluate every available option, negotiate on your behalf, and make sure you choose the home that offers the best value for your situation.
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up to a larger property, or relocating to Corona, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process and help you make a smart, informed investment.
Let me help make your home search an amazing experience! Call me, your new construction Realtor in Corona, at 714-328-0233 or fill out this form and I’ll call you.
Looking for more information regarding the home-buying process? Read my Guide to Buying a Home.
