Don’t Buy a New Home without Knowing What to Look for in a Planned Community

Searching for a new home can be daunting, especially in the current seller’s market where offers are increasingly competitive. In many areas, however, resales may not be worth the asking price when a brand new home is available instead. Modern homes have updates to everything from the windows and roof to the appliances and open concept layouts. Because they tend to offer green space and a park-like atmosphere for families, master planned communities are becoming all the rage in some parts of the country.

The secret to buying a new home is all about knowing what to look for in a planned community. This involves buyers taking their attention away from resale homes and looking to the future of modern home design. If you’re not sure what to look for in a planned community, look over these three criteria so you can be prepared when you go to make an offer.

1. Planned communities offer ready-made and custom built homes. When you choose a newly designed neighborhood to live in, you typically have two choices. You can buy a brand new home with completely modern updates, or you can choose to build your own and decide exactly what you want in that home. Choosing a master-planned community means working with a home builder to decide what’s right for your lifestyle, including everything from the number of bedrooms and bathrooms to the types of appliances you want in your kitchen.

2. Location is everything when it comes to planned communities. According to one survey by Realtor.com, 91% of home buyers consider the location of the home within particular school boundaries to be very important in their search. However, school district isn’t the only thing that families often consider. They also should think about the amenities that are close by the neighborhood, such as grocery stores, recreation centers, shopping plazas and malls, and more. Even more important may be the amenities within the planned community, such as parks, hiking trails, swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, and other great attractions.

3. Home maintenance is hassle-free in a planned community. With a new home, you won’t have to worry about updating right away like you would a resale. This means that you don’t have to fear replacing a furnace or getting a new tear-off roof shortly after you move in. Many of these neighborhoods also provide maintenance, including landscaping, so the community always looks beautiful.

Still wondering what to look for in a planned community? Research neighborhoods in your area to find one that’s right for you and your family. Leave suggestions in the space below if you have experience living in a master-planned community.