New Construction vs Existing Home in Spokane: Pros, Cons & Costs

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—especially in a unique and fast-growing market like Spokane. One of the first questions I get from clients is this: “Should I buy a new construction home or go with an existing one?” Each option has its perks and pitfalls, and your choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, timeline, and budget. As a Spokane real estate agent, I’m writing this guide to help you confidently decide which path is right for your next home.

A Look at Spokane’s Real Estate Landscape

Spokane continues to attract homebuyers from across the state and beyond due to its natural beauty, vibrant neighborhoods, and relative affordability. The city offers a mix of new subdivisions expanding on the outskirts and charming, established neighborhoods closer to downtown.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• New Construction Homes: Typically found in areas like Liberty Lake, North Spokane, and South Hill expansions. Offer modern designs but may cost more upfront.

• Existing Homes: Often located in Spokane’s historic core, with more character and matured landscapes—but they may require updates or repairs.

“Is New Construction or an Existing Home a Better Investment in Spokane?”

This is the first question I help buyers walk through. Consider:

• How soon do you want to move?

• Do you prefer customizing your home or moving into a space with character?

• How important is location within Spokane (e.g., proximity to parks, hospitals, downtown)?

• What’s your tolerance for future maintenance?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to guide your choice.

Why Spokane Buyers Choose Brand-New Homes

Buying a new construction home in Spokane has become increasingly popular—and here’s why:

• Modern Features: Open-concept floor plans, energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart thermostats, and more.

• Customization: Depending on the stage of construction, you may be able to select finishes, colors, appliances, and layouts.

• Lower Maintenance: Everything is brand new, reducing repair costs in the first few years.

• Home Builder Warranties: Peace of mind with coverage on structure, systems, and materials.

• Up-and-Coming Areas: New builds are common in Liberty Lake, West Plains, and other fast-growing neighborhoods.

Challenges of Buying a New Build Home

While new construction homes in Spokane offer many benefits, here are some things to watch for:

• Longer Wait Times: Depending on the builder, you might wait 6–9 months or more to move in.

• Location Limitations: Often further from Spokane’s core and transit lines.

• Upgrade Costs: Builder base prices don’t always include must-have features—upgrades can add up quickly.

• Construction Zones: Your street or neighborhood may still be under development.

Why Spokane Buyers Love Resale Homes

Many buyers are drawn to existing homes—and it’s easy to see why:

🏡 Established Neighborhoods: Homes in areas like Garland District, South Hill, and Audubon Park are full of charm and history.

🌳 Mature Landscaping: You’ll benefit from tall trees, fenced yards, and lush gardens.

🚶 Prime Locations: Resale homes are often closer to schools, shops, and hospitals.

💰 Potential Cost Savings: Negotiation is typically more flexible than with builders.

What to Watch Out for in Resale Homes

Here are a few cons to consider when buying an existing home:

🔧 Outdated Systems: HVAC, plumbing, or roofs may be nearing the end of their lifespan.

🛠️ Hidden Maintenance Costs: Repairs and renovations may be needed, especially if the home was built 20+ years ago.

🚫 Limited Warranties: Resale homes are typically sold "as-is."

📈 Higher Competition: In certain Spokane zip codes, existing homes get snapped up fast.

What Does It Really Cost to Buy in Spokane?

Cost is often the deciding factor in the new construction vs existing home Spokane debate. Here's how they generally compare:

Cost Category	New Construction	Existing Home
Purchase Price	Higher	More flexible
Upgrades/Improvements	Optional (but costly)	Often needed
Maintenance (First 5 yrs)	Low	Medium to High
Energy Efficiency	High	Varies by age
Property Taxes	Higher assessed value	May be lower

Deciding What’s Right for You in Spokane

Follow these five steps to make the right choice:

1. List Your Priorities: Think about lifestyle, features, location, and how long you’ll stay in the home.

2. Get Pre-Approved: Understand how much you can borrow and whether it’s enough for a new build or resale.

3. Explore Neighborhoods: Consider commute time, local amenities, and vibe.

4. Tour Both Types: Get a feel for what's available in new vs established areas.

5. Talk to a Local Expert: An experienced Spokane real estate agent can help you weigh the trade-offs and negotiate the best deal.

📌 How to Negotiate an Offer on a House in Spokane

Your Advocate in the Spokane Market

Whether you're leaning toward a turnkey new construction or the charm of a historic home, having a trusted Spokane real estate agent on your side makes all the difference. I can help you:

• Evaluate builder offers vs resale comps

• Negotiate favorable terms and pricing

• Identify hidden costs or inspection red flags

📣 Let’s talk today! I’d love to help you compare your options and guide you toward a smart Spokane home purchase.

Making the Smart Move in Spokane’s Real Estate Market

Both new construction and existing homes in Spokane come with unique advantages. New builds offer sleek, low-maintenance living—perfect if you’re after something modern and customizable. Existing homes, on the other hand, deliver character, location, and possible savings. It all comes down to what fits your lifestyle and goals best.

Need help navigating your decision? Reach out—I’m here to be your Spokane real estate expert and advocate.

Spokane Buyer FAQs – New Construction vs Existing Home

• Is it cheaper to buy a new construction or existing home in Spokane? Generally, existing homes tend to be more affordable upfront, but new construction homes can offer long-term savings on maintenance and utilities.

• What’s the resale value of a new construction vs existing home Spokane property? It depends on location and market trends. New construction may appreciate quickly in growing areas, while existing homes in established neighborhoods hold steady value over time.

• How long does it take to close on a new build in Spokane? Typically, 6–9 months from contract to keys, depending on the builder and weather conditions.

• What are common hidden costs with new construction in Spokane? Upgrades, landscaping, appliance packages, HOA fees, and closing costs not covered by builders.

• Can I negotiate price with Spokane home builders like I can with a resale? Builders have less flexibility on base price but may offer incentives like closing cost credits or upgrades—ask your Realtor to negotiate on your behalf.

📌 Related Blog: How to Buy a House in Spokane

About Me

My name is Nick Briggs

Being born and raised in Spokane I grew up knowing what a special place this city is, and it was my dream to help others create a life in this wonderful community by guiding them in real estate. I spent many years in the customer service industry, the experience of listening and communication showed me how much I truly loved helping people. I attended Gonzaga University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration to add to my knowledge of guiding, managing, negotiating, and listening to individuals, helping them achieve their real estate goals.

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