Padre Island Corpus Christi
….started developing in the 70’s, and with numerous projects including a new water exchange bridge and a marina, the island is becoming the most valuable real estate in the city. It seems like building your dream home has been on the upward trend. But what are the advantages of an existing home? A buyer has one of two options: Embrace the new or embrace the existing. Here are some variables that outline the pros of each!
Character and Uniqueness
New: Build the character that you want! Do you like the bay windows of a Victorian, the half-timbering of a Tudor, and a central chimney of a Colonial home? You have the liberty to mix and match!
Existing: You get true history, vintage hardware, and maybe a hidden crawl space! Personality shines through, as this house is less likely to look like your neighbors.
Bang for your buck
New: If you’re building, you can choose which materials to splurge on, and where to cut costs. Go for brick on the exterior, but laminate floors on the interior. If a huge crystal chandelier in your entry reigns supreme, consider offsetting your must-haves with less expensive detailing in other areas.
Existing: You can often get a larger, older home for less per square foot than you might pay in a new home. Looking to gain a little profit? Flip it!
Quality Craftsmanship
New: Builders have fine-tuned their skills and in a timely manner! The average 3-bedroom house can go up in about 4-5 months. Here, you can get efficiency, and have it done quickly.
Existing: In years past, craftsmanship was an art and materials are more likely to be the real deal: Brick, hardwood floors, custom molding.
Desirable Location
New: You have options! Keep in mind, acting fast is important as there are fewer and fewer lots to buy, or houses to renovate or demolish. With the right vision and plan, you can have the location of your dreams.
Existing: More times than not, the fabulous locations were snatched up a long time ago. Location, location, location. You’ve heard it a thousand times. But that’s because it’s important! Here on Padre Island, the first homes built probably have the best views and the biggest lots.
Test of Time
New: You don’t have to wonder how previous owners treated the property. If you maintain your home and property, it is probably going to last you a very long time. The ball is in your courtyard!
Existing: If the home is still standing, something was done right! This goes hand in hand with the craftsmanship. If properly built, that house will last to see many generations play capture the flag and to host decades of turkey dinners.
Landscaping
New: You have a blank canvas! Plant the trees, bushes, and flowers that you want to see grow over the years. Prefer the maintenance-free kind of yard? Rock out with a rock garden.
Existing: Mature landscaping can be a huge advantage to buyers and sellers. It takes many years for trees to grow big! The older the home, the bigger the trees. They provide privacy, shade, curb appeal, and heck, they can even increase the value of the home!
Grandfather Clauses
New: Your home will be up-to-date with all the most recent requirements.
Existing: When a new zoning ordinance or code comes into effect, these older homes will likely be granted a grandfather clause, meaning they are not in violation of the law. For instance, you may be given a grandfathered rate of flood insurance in a place where the risk of flood has since increased. Always ask about grandfather clauses on an older property – you may be pleasantly surprised by what advantages you have over your neighbors!
There is so much to consider, and lots of options awaiting you on Padre Island. Best of luck in your adventures!
