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Here’s Why
If you are new to the area, outgrowing your current home, or you just can’t stand your space anymore, and you’re in the market to buy – think new. Here are 8 good reasons:
1. Updated floorplans of new homes reflect the way people today live.
Living rooms are out. Great rooms are in and they have soaring ceilings. Kitchens are open and integrated with other living spaces so families can multi-task and still be together. And kitchen surfaces like granite and stainless steel are making a fashion statement. Master suites are more conveniently located on the first floor or up just a half a flight, and they are significantly larger with sitting areas, walk-in closets, and private bathrooms that have spa showers and soaking tubs.
And new homes have specialty rooms like home offices on the level of your choice, bonus rooms that can be used for exercise, play, media, or crafts, and in-law suites that give guests the space and privacy they need. Some homes are even designed with special built-in features like kids’ computer desks, kitchen planning stations, convenience centers for cell phones and keys, and mudroom benches for coats, mittens, and boots.
Learn more about Dominion's new home designs >
2. Energy Efficiency lowers your utility bills.
Construction techniques, new products, wood windows, the latest HVAC systems and appliances all work together to save homeowners money on heating and cooling costs – now and for years to come. Check out insulation values, furnace efficiency, window coatings like Low-E glass, and Energy Star® ratings on appliances before you buy.
Also be sure to ask about construction practices like stick-building, insulated corners, basement waterproofing, and basement finishing – all things that add up to lower utilities.
3. Safety Standards today far surpass the “old codes”.
New homes are built with materials that have been tested to meet strict safety standards. The latest paints, gas lines, wiring, plumbing, and even drainage are all up-to-the-minute technologies that have improved dramatically over the past 20 years.
In addition, homes built today are required to have other safety features like more smoke detectors (one outside of each bedroom), large egress windows in a finished basement, and proper ventilation for cleaner air. Some even have “safer stairs” that are easier to climb and have a longer tread for a surer step.
Learn more about Dominion's quality construction techniques >
4. Electronic Technology is easier to install in a new home.
Today everyone is on-line. So it makes sense to buy a home that is computer, fax, and phone friendly because it’s built with category-5 wiring. And, you want to be able to customize the wiring and lighting in your home by room to fit the needs of the people living there. This can be done at a modest cost when buying new, while retrofitting an older home can be costly.
Media centers with features like surround sound are also becoming more and more popular even in first homes. Newer homes have perfect spaces like great rooms, bonus rooms, and lofts that can easily become family gathering places to watch movies.
Learn more about Dominion's new home building innovations >
5. Personalized Space allows you to live with your taste; not someone else’s.
New home purchasers love to visit a well-appointed decorating studio to choose the features that will make their home their own – like fireplace finishes, cabinet style and finish, countertops, faucets, lighting fixtures, railing systems, and carpeting. Decorating consultants are available to help guide you through the process, and make sure it’s painless.
The opportunity to make all of the selections and have the work finished before you move in is one of the biggest factors cited for building new. Those who have lived through repainting, refinishing, redecorating, and recarpeting know that it can take months or years and lots of money to convert an older home to your style.
Learn more about the name brands that Dominion Homes uses >
6. High-performance exterior finishes require little  maintenance
If you want more time for yourself on the weekends, new is for you. New homes don’t require as much upkeep as older homes, and many are built with low-maintenance materials that will last. Look for natural materials that require little or no maintenance like brick, stone, and stucco, as well as vinyl, aluminum, and composite materials that don’t need to be tended to quite as often if ever.
Brand-name wood windows will also hold up for years to come. And heavy, dimensional roof shingles not only look better, but should have a manufacturer’s warranty of 35 years or more.
Learn more about Dominion's High Performance Exteriors™ >
 7. Communities are designed with the way you live in mind
New homeowners appreciate that they have something in common with their neighbors: they are all new to the community. And when there are added amenities like parks, bike paths, playgrounds, pools, clubhouses, and activities, neighbors become friends.
Also look for neighborhoods with sidewalks for safety, and street trees so the neighborhood matures beautifully.
Learn more about Dominion Homes communities >
8. Customer service and warranties protect you now and in the future
Most people appreciate the added sense of security that your builder will take care of you. Look for a builder with a strong customer care department, a proven track record for building great homes, and a 30-year structural warranty to protect your investment. With most used homes, you have the option of buying short-term protection against major systems and appliances breaking. New homes come with a more complete warranty against defects and breakage. Your builder should stand behind what he builds.
Learn more about Dominion's Customer Care program >
Whether you are a first–time buyer, a move-up buyer, or a down-sizing buyer, real estate experts suggest that you consider the benefits of buying a new home.
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