Expert: Dick Dennis - 7/14/2006

Question
I am female and divorcing, moving into my own place.  I have been a homeowner for 28 yrs, not sure if I should buy a new home or a pre-owned home.  Any suggestions?  I am not a fixer-upper type, so any issues would be brining in the repair man.   I thought a new home would be good because all of it is new.

thanks

Answer
Looks like you're still a young'un, Lori, even after 28 years having been married and owning a home. Young'uns usually would rather have new homes in which to live. Very typical.

However, Lori, you forget one thing. It doesn't matter how old your house is, you still have to wield the hammer and paint brush. Only with a new home you also have to wield the shovel, rake and sod, too. So you have lots of work with a new home, as well. If you can handle that, then fine. Get yourself and new home, but please remember that the builders these days are saddled with building fees and extra taxes the county governments throw at them. And who do you think is going to pay it? --- you.

So, you got a job either way you go, Lori. If you buy a pre-lived-in house, just make sure it is in extra good shape. You must trust your real estate agent not to be more concerned with his/her commission rather than the amount of work you have to do or pay for.

I do wish you well.

Dick Dennis              dixiedee13@aol.com

www/OldProblemSolver.com