New homes typically have a higher sales price than comparable existing homes, and buyers are usually willing to spend more on a new home because of lower maintenance costs. Builders' warranties on new homes, when combined with a new roof, appliances, and major systems, usually make major repairs unnecessary and help to counter a slower initial rate of appreciation.

Census Bureau Housing Surveys suggests that operating costs are lowest for brand new homes and slightly higher for relatively new existing homes. Operating costs per square foot of living space are consistently higher for progressively older existing homes. Utility costs represent the largest factor in operating costs. Energy consumption per square foot depends on the size of the home, the insulation and quality of the windows, air leakage and the efficiency of the furnace.

New homes require fewer expenditures for routine maintenance. The cost of maintenance first increases with age, then declines, so you will generally spend less maintaining a home built before 1960 than for a home built between 1970 and 1975.

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Sandy and Ray DiTirro
RE/MAX Southern Realty
34894 Emerald Coast Parkway
Destin, FL 32541
4400 Hwy 20 E, #306; Niceville FL 32578
Toll free: 866-211-1662
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Ray Direct: 850-502-0005
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Email: SandyandRay@TheSeaShores.com

Sandy and Ray have over 30 years combined successful real estate experience. We hold multiple licenses in various states. As well, we have real estate designations including Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and CCIM Commercial Candidate. We have extensive home construction experience which is a valuable service during the buying and selling process We invest time and effort in continuing education to give our clients the most knowledgeable service for your real estate needs. Sandy and Ray are hardworking, knowledgeable, informed and concerned. With Sandy and Ray you get two agents for the price of one. We live and work in Bluewater Bay and Niceville.

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