Builder rate buy-downs
A preferred-lender buy-down can be worth more than a $20K price cut — but it usually requires using their lender.
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New construction vs. resale — what does it really cost per month?
Builder rate buy-downs, lower maintenance and higher HOA all move the number. Run your own scenario below.
New construction
$2,339/mo
Resale home
$2,705/mo
The difference
$366/mo cheaper to build new
Estimates only — actual taxes, insurance and incentives vary by builder, county and program. We'll run exact numbers for any home you're considering.
Have us run your real numbersWhat buyers miss
Three costs that flip this comparison
Most calculators only compare sticker price. These are the line items that actually decide which home is cheaper to own.
Maintenance reserve
A 20-year-old roof, HVAC and water heater average $200–$350/mo in real reserve. New builds carry warranties.
Tax reassessment
New construction is often taxed on land value the first year, then jumps. Budget for year two, not year one.