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Typically, it’s more affordable to buy an existing home than it is to build a new one. New construction loan interest rates tend to be higher than interest rates for traditional mortgages. Additionally, the cost of materials is likely higher when building a new home than it was when an existing home was built (unless it’s a very new one). You’re also paying for all new appliances, finishes, permits, inspections, and connections for water, gas, and electricity. 

One starting point to find a local home builder is to collect suggestions from friends and neighbors. However, it’s still wise to do some more research before you hire a builder. Read reviews to supplement any word-of-mouth recommendations. Check sources like Angi that have standards and criteria in place to screen the pros it lists can also help you find more reputable local home builders.

The pros and cons or advantages and disadvantages of building a new house include:

Pros:

• It’s all new, so you should have several years before you need to pay for major repairs like a new roof. 

• It’s under warranty, so many fixes within that warranty period should be covered.

• You get to build the house to your specifications.

Cons:

• You have to make a LOT of decisions.

• You will almost certainly deal with building delays.

• It can take a lot of work to stay within your budget.

• Building can be more expensive than buying an existing house.

The average price per square foot to build a house is about $150 per square foot. Overall, the cost to build a house ranges anywhere from $100 to $500 per square foot, depending on where you build. The primary cost factors include location, size, and style of house you build.

Hiring a contractor to build your home is a big commitment. So be sure to ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective home builder:

• How many years of experience do you have?

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

• Do you have worker’s compensation?

• How long have you worked with your subcontractors?

• How do you handle garbage and waste disposal?

• Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?

• Do you give free estimates?

• Do you offer design services?

• How do you handle change orders?

• Can you provide at least three references?

• Can I see some of the work you’ve done?