Existing homes answer important questions

One of the great benefits of buying an existing home is really knowing what you are getting.

• Established neighborhood with good neighbors? Check
• Mature landscaping? Check
• Close to schools and shopping? Check
• Knowing that a manufacturing plant isn't being built behind you? Triple check

Via Flickr: Ann Rossley

Those are some of the immediate advantages you get when you move into your new, existing home. New home buyers don't always have that security. It takes years for those questions to be answered.

But there's more to be gained from buying an existing home than tall trees and neighbors who you know mow their lawn every Saturday.

In fact, while new home buyers are often paying premium for upgraded features in their home, you are getting premium features at a great discount as an existing home buyer.

Existing homes are older homes, and over the years standards have changed in Visalia and throughout Tulare County. Lot sizes were larger years ago, so you are more likely to get more space with an existing home.

Most established neighborhoods have fully developed parks and recreational areas, and better access to shops and services in the center of town.

If you are in the market for a home with a pool, you can easily find one already completed. With an existing home, you won't have to put up with the mess and inconvenience of the pool construction. Also, you can easily determine the cost of maintaining the pool by asking the current owner.


Speaking of expenses, you will have a better handle on what your expenses will be with an existing home because the property is already established. No waiting for the tax assessor to make the adjustment from bare dirt to improved property. Your place will already be set on the tax roll (not that it makes any of us happy).

Most homes that are put on the market include a number of upgrades the current owner has already paid for, so you get more bang for your buck when you buy an existing home.

If you are in the market for a home, don't overlook the great properties that are ready for immediate move-in.