THE SMART MOVE IS TO BUY NEW

By Theresa Swanson

It’s summer in Florida, and there’s something hotter than the weather. Alas, it isn’t any of our local professional sports teams. But we won’t go there.

Once again Florida, and specifically Central Florida, is leading the nation in home sales. The Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA) reports a continued inventory drop. In June of 2017, for example, there was a whopping 14 percent drop in listings compared to June of 2016. 

The decrease of homes on the market, combined with the increase in demand, has left the region with less than a three-month supply of homes in the Multiple Listing Service. Many listings are attracting multiple offers. Yes, we're back to bidding wars. 

What’s a homebuyer to do? There’s a simple answer: Buy new. With a resale home, you often inherit someone else's problems. And you pretty much always have to change the decor. I mean, who doesn’t just love pink paisley wallpaper? But it's about more than aesthetics. 

Central Florida’s new-home builders are incorporating the latest technology and energy-saving features into their homes. And many new-home communities have lavish amenities — such as pools, splash pads, fitness centers and community parks.

And remember that pink paisley wallpaper? Today’s new-home builders have amazing design centers offering the latest in cabinets, fixtures and flooring. You can pick what you want.

Best of all, there are plenty of new homes to choose from — no waiting, no bidding wars. But if you really love pink paisley wallpaper, popcorn ceilings and laminate — well, don’t say we didn’t warn you.