If you’re house hunting in the Triad, you’ve probably asked the question: Do we build, or do we buy something that’s already done? Both paths can be smart. They just come with different trade-offs, and the best choice usually depends on your timeline, budget, and comfort zone.

Below is a simple breakdown to help you decide which option may be the best fit for you.

Building a Home

Why it can be a great move

Building can be a great fit if you want more control over the end result. Even when you’re selecting from a builder’s existing plans, you may still have options for layout adjustments, finishes, and upgrades that help the home feel more like you from day one. Another perk is that everything is new, which often means fewer immediate repairs early on. Depending on the builder and the home, there may also be warranty coverage on certain items, which can add peace of mind. Plus, new construction typically includes updated materials and modern systems that can improve comfort, efficiency, and maintenance in those first few years of homeownership.

What to watch for

Building also comes with a few things to plan for on the front end. Timelines can shift due to weather, permitting, supply chain delays, or inspection scheduling, so if you have a firm move date, that uncertainty matters. Costs can move around too. Model homes are designed to impress, and it’s easy for “upgrade creep” to kick in once you start adding finishes, selections, and possible lot premiums. And depending on the type of build, financing may involve more steps than a standard purchase, with additional timing considerations along the way.

Buying a Completed Home (Move-In Ready)

Why buyers love it

Buying a completed home appeals to a lot of buyers because it’s usually simpler and more predictable. You can tour the home, schedule an inspection, and move forward with a more predictable closing timeline. What you see is what you get too. The neighborhood feel, commute, yard size, storage, and natural light are all right in front of you, rather than based on plans or a model. And depending on the home and the market, there may also be room to negotiate on price, repairs, or closing costs.

What to watch for

The trade-off with a completed home is that it can come with a little more history. Even well-cared-for homes may have older systems or maintenance needs, and some repair costs can pop up sooner than you’d like. You may also need to compromise — maybe you love the location, but the layout isn’t perfect, or the home checks most boxes but the kitchen isn’t your style. It often comes down to prioritizing what matters most and deciding what you’re willing to update over time.

A Simple Way to Choose

If you’re stuck between the two, ask yourself:

• How flexible is our move timeline?
• Do we want customization, or simplicity?
• How comfortable are we with variable costs?
• Are we set on a specific neighborhood or school zone?

When those answers are clear, the decision usually gets easier.

We're Here to Help

Whether you’re leaning toward new construction or trying to win a move-in ready home, the Sharpe Mortgage Team can help you compare scenarios and understand how each path impacts your budget, timing, and monthly payment.

Want to talk it through? Call (336) 575-9448. We’ll help you map out your next step.