Factors to Consider Before Buying New Construction Homes
Let’s face it. Most people like new stuff, and that includes homes. I’m asked a lot about buying a new home versus an existing home.
You really could make the case for should I buy a custom-built home versus a new home versus an existing home. Money obviously plays a huge role.
Because there’s definitely a difference in what all three would give you. But in the end that difference is mostly cosmetic. I say mostly because there are some differences — especially as it relates to materials used now versus decades ago. And certainly a truly custom built home can be designed (at a price) to the exact specifications you desire.
So what are the biggest reasons why people want to buy a new construction home?
1. They think that a new home is better
And if that’s the thought in your mind, then that’s a thought in your mind.
Sometimes that’s difficult to get out of your head. Certainly there are differences in the way homes are built now vs. decades ago.
And while many of the materials used, such as insulation, electrical, plumbing, and even the HVAC systems might be better today vs years ago — the attention and details to the actual construction work may not be better. That will truly be a case by case analysis.
And if you like things like real hardwood floors, good luck and getting those in most new homes. You have to jump over to the truly custom home construction to get those.
And if you’re looking for a more established neighborhood with larger trees, that’s often going to be missing in a new home development. It might take 15 to 20 years to begin to get what feels like a real neighborhood that you may be used to growing up.
2. The modern open floor plan in new construction homes
Let’s blame HGTV for this one. What’s the one thing that virtually all the buyers on these TV shows say they’re looking for? “We want an open floor plan.”
And there’s no question about it that older homes often have boxed off rooms that aren’t appealing to most buyers today. Even the new townhomes — like North Quarter in North Bethesda — have modern, open concept floor plans.
You don’t want to rule out an older home though just for that reason. It’s worth investigating whether or not some walls can come down to open things up and create the look and the feel that you desire.
And certainly this is something that I do with my clients. We will do a comparison through my Homebuyer Matrix to see what works best for them. The new home price point might not be as appealing versus renovating an existing home.
3. New Construction Homes let you move in and do nothing
Hey, I get it. This is the ideal scenario. And if this is what you really want — sometimes a new home is the best option.
Yet, it’s always worth digging a little deeper into what is move-in ready, and how that could still be accomplished with an existing home. We want to consider multiple factors and terms. Let’s see how and when a renovation and update could take place so that it works into the schedule and timing of you moving into the home…with all the work having been completed already.
Even if you have a home to sell first, this can be possible. It’s not as easy. Yet, I’ve done it before with clients, and it’s something to consider. Find any home is a major decision and I encourage you to really evaluate multiple factors that will help you make the best decision.
I believe you would greatly benefit sitting down with me and going through my complete Homebuyer Matrix.
This will narrow down the best path for you to take in buying a home. All you have to do is reach out to me on 240-687-2650.
The Parking Garage Difference That Might Annoy You
I’m a believer in knowing before you buy. So, while this little difference in how you come out of the parking garage of The Gallery at White Flint vs. The Sterling at The METRO may not matter to some, it may matter to you. So check it out…
Mark Fitzpatrick RE/MAX Town Center
12505 Park Potomac Avenue
Potomac, Maryland 20854 240-687-2650 call/text
White Flint Station is a garden style condo consisting of two buildings on Old Georgetown Road and divided by Chapman Avenue. It’s just two blocks down from Rockville Pike at Pike & Rose.
White Flint Station was originally built as an apartment building in 1999 but was quickly converted to condos in 2006 to take advantage of a red hot real estate market.The main lobby entrance is at 11800 Old Georgetown Road, and features the Bethesda Club Room, fitness room, pool, and conference room. It features 1-bedroom units from 629 square feet to 3-bedroom condos up to 1,524 square feet. The most common units are 2-bedroom units averaging 1,200 to 1,350 square feet.
The condos are within a few blocks of anything and everything to enjoy this hot area – including the White Flint METRO, Pike & Rose, My Organic Market, Gold’s Gym, and Harris Teeter. And you have quick access to major roads and backroads.
White Flint Station has a completely different feel than its neighbors at The Gallery at White Flint and The Sterling. It feels more like a sprawling beach hotel compared to a city hotel. So it’s a matter of which style you like more. Also, unlike the Gallery and The Sterling, White Flint Station has no pet size restriction. So for owners with larger dogs (over 40 lbs.), who want to be in this area, this is one of the few condo options.
Amenities Recap
Covered garage with secured entrance to building
Front desk (not as full service as The Sterling or Gallery at White Flint)
Secured building access (every where accept the lobby entrance)
Elevator (does not go to the 5th floor)
Club Room available for relaxation daily and for private parties
Fitness room available 24-7
Pool table in the club room
Seasonal pool
Quick walking access to top grocery stores, restaurants, and more
Condo Statistics
Construction completed in 1999 before conversion to condos in 2006
Features 1 to 3 bedroom condos ranging from ground level units with patios to 5th floor units with small balconies
Condo sizes range from 629 square feet to 1,524 square feet
White Flint Station condos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the condo fees?
Condo fees range from about $305 a month for a 1-bedroom condo (629 square feet) to $520 a month for a 3-bedroom condo (1,524 square feet). Since there are more 2-bedroom/2-bathroom condos than any other size, an average condo fee would be about $485 a month.
Also, the condo fees include all of the amenities (fitness room, pool, club room, plus the overall maintenance of the condo building and the Master Insurance Policy. Unlike a single family home, you don’t have the repair or replacement costs of roofs, siding, landscaping, and so on. So your insurance policy will also cost you less.
Are utilities included in the condo fee?
YES — Water is included in condo fee. Owners are responsible for electric and gas.utilities are included in the condo fee.
Is there an elevator?
YES — But please note, if you are looking at a unit on the upper level, the elevator does not go all the way up. You will have to walk up one flight of stairs. Obviously, this does not affect most of the units, but it’s always something I want my clients to be aware of for the 5th floor units. It can be a big shock if you’re unit has one flight of stairs!
How much does the condo fee go up annually?
White Flint Station condos have experienced an approximate average condo increase of 3.5% annually since 2010. As with financial market disclaimers, past average increases do not mean future increases will be the same. But a six year sample gives a reasonable estimate for your budgeting purposes. Most condos really do strive to keep condo fees under control. Remember, the condo association is made up of fellow condo owners.
What are the assigned Schools?
White Flint Station condos feed to a very popular school district:
While it’s rare that the assigned schools change, if you’re making an investment in a condo (or home) based in large part because of the assigned schools, I’d always recommend confirming with Montgomery County Public Schools.
Are pets allowed?
YES — This is a pet friendly condo building. There are no pet size restrictions.
And while there are no massive green spaces, there is plenty of grassy areas on either side of Chapman Avenue just past the condo
Is there Garage Parking?
YES — Most condos do convey with a garage parking space. Some units come with 2 garage parking spaces (bought by original owner at time of purchase). The garage is above ground, and there is a roof top level that is not covered. There may also be a space available for rent at approximately $125 a month. As a Choice Real Estate client, we will definitely verify if the condo you’re interested in has a true garage space, and if not, if it’s possible to secure one. There are also a limited number of private garages available.
For Guest Parking, street parking is available on Nebel Street, Old Georgetown Road, Chapman Avenue and if you want to squeeze out a little free time at Montrose Shopping Center (do this at your own risk). Street parking is metered from 7am to 7pm weekdays.
Washer and Dryers in the units?
YES — Every condo has its own washer and dryer.
What’s involved in renovating a condo unit?
An modifications to the condo unit must meet the condo association guidelines. This is common for nearly all condos. It’s always best, if your considering altering a wall within the unit, to check with the Architectural Review Board before beginning work. For work like painting, replacing kitchen cabinets, countertops, and similar items, you won’t need the same approval.
Is there a fitness room?
YES – A well equipped fitness room is down below the lobby level next to the Bethesda Club Room and the pool.
Is there a pool?
YES – A seasonal pool just outside of the fitness room and Bethesda Club Room.
Is grilling allowed?
YES — Grills are available for use in the courtyards. Owners are not allowed to set up grills by their units.
Is there a party room?
YES — And it’s an amazing value if you have kids and need a spot for annual birthday parties, or whatever the occasion. You can rent the Bethesda Club Room for only $75 for 4-hours. It’s an amazing space. I actually had my father’s 80th birthday party there.
Is there a business conference room?
YES – There’s a separate space you can use for meetings. Also, people will often use the Bethesda Club Room for less formal meetings, or just to hang out and do work.
Is White Flint Station a secured building?
YES — You can only gain access to the building via your FOB card or key from all of the outside entry doors (multiple around the entire condo building). The only door that doesn’t require a key is the lobby entrance where the front desk is located. With multiple entry points, and no secured entry at the main lobby entrance, it’s certainly easier for someone to access this condo. From all indications that I’ve had though, this entire general area is safe.
Is there extra storage available?
YES — But we would want to confirm based on the unit you were interested in buying. There’s also a bike storage area.
Who are the internet and cable providers?
Both Verizon Fios and Comcast are available for internet and cable service.
What is the move in fee?
Currently it’s $150 be it for a new owner or renter. Be sure to check with the front desk in advance of your move in date. We will certainly help you with this.
The Parking Garage Difference That Might Annoy You
I’m a believer in knowing before you buy. So, while this little difference in how you come out of the parking garage of The Gallery at White Flint vs. The Sterling at The METRO may not matter to some, it may matter to you. So check it out…
Mark Fitzpatrick RE/MAX Town Center
12505 Park Potomac Avenue
Potomac, Maryland 20854 240-687-2650 call/text
White Flint Station is a garden style condo consisting of two buildings on Old Georgetown Road and divided by Chapman Avenue. It’s just two blocks down from Rockville Pike at Pike & Rose.
White Flint Station was originally built as an apartment building in 1999 but was quickly converted to condos in 2006 to take advantage of a red hot real estate market.The main lobby entrance is at 11800 Old Georgetown Road, and features the Bethesda Club Room, fitness room, pool, and conference room. It features 1-bedroom units from 629 square feet to 3-bedroom condos up to 1,524 square feet. The most common units are 2-bedroom units averaging 1,200 to 1,350 square feet.
The condos are within a few blocks of anything and everything to enjoy this hot area – including the White Flint METRO, Pike & Rose, My Organic Market, Gold’s Gym, and Harris Teeter. And you have quick access to major roads and backroads.
White Flint Station has a completely different feel than its neighbors at The Gallery at White Flint and The Sterling. It feels more like a sprawling beach hotel compared to a city hotel. So it’s a matter of which style you like more. Also, unlike the Gallery and The Sterling, White Flint Station has no pet size restriction. So for owners with larger dogs (over 40 lbs.), who want to be in this area, this is one of the few condo options.
Amenities Recap
Covered garage with secured entrance to building
Front desk (not as full service as The Sterling or Gallery at White Flint)
Secured building access (every where accept the lobby entrance)
Elevator (does not go to the 5th floor)
Club Room available for relaxation daily and for private parties
Fitness room available 24-7
Pool table in the club room
Seasonal pool
Quick walking access to top grocery stores, restaurants, and more
Condo Statistics
Construction completed in 1999 before conversion to condos in 2006
Features 1 to 3 bedroom condos ranging from ground level units with patios to 5th floor units with small balconies
Condo sizes range from 629 square feet to 1,524 square feet
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the condo fees?
Condo fees range from about $305 a month for a 1-bedroom condo (629 square feet) to $520 a month for a 3-bedroom condo (1,524 square feet). Since there are more 2-bedroom/2-bathroom condos than any other size, an average condo fee would be about $485 a month.
Also, the condo fees include all of the amenities (fitness room, pool, club room, plus the overall maintenance of the condo building and the Master Insurance Policy. Unlike a single family home, you don’t have the repair or replacement costs of roofs, siding, landscaping, and so on. So your insurance policy will also cost you less.
Are utilities included in the condo fee?
YES — Water is included in condo fee. Owners are responsible for electric and gas.utilities are included in the condo fee.
Is there an elevator?
YES — But please note, if you are looking at a unit on the upper level, the elevator does not go all the way up. You will have to walk up one flight of stairs. Obviously, this does not affect most of the units, but it’s always something I want my clients to be aware of for the 5th floor units. It can be a big shock if you’re unit has one flight of stairs!
How much does the condo fee go up annually?
White Flint Station condos have experienced an approximate average condo increase of 3.5% annually since 2010. As with financial market disclaimers, past average increases do not mean future increases will be the same. But a six year sample gives a reasonable estimate for your budgeting purposes. Most condos really do strive to keep condo fees under control. Remember, the condo association is made up of fellow condo owners.
What are the assigned Schools?
White Flint Station condos feed to a very popular school district:
While it’s rare that the assigned schools change, if you’re making an investment in a condo (or home) based in large part because of the assigned schools, I’d always recommend confirming with Montgomery County Public Schools.
Are pets allowed?
YES — This is a pet friendly condo building. There are no pet size restrictions.
And while there are no massive green spaces, there is plenty of grassy areas on either side of Chapman Avenue just past the condo
Is there Garage Parking?
YES — Most condos do convey with a garage parking space. Some units come with 2 garage parking spaces (bought by original owner at time of purchase). The garage is above ground, and there is a roof top level that is not covered. There may also be a space available for rent at approximately $125 a month. As a Choice Real Estate client, we will definitely verify if the condo you’re interested in has a true garage space, and if not, if it’s possible to secure one. There are also a limited number of private garages available.
For Guest Parking, street parking is available on Nebel Street, Old Georgetown Road, Chapman Avenue and if you want to squeeze out a little free time at Montrose Shopping Center (do this at your own risk). Street parking is metered from 7am to 7pm weekdays.
Washer and Dryers in the units?
YES — Every condo has its own washer and dryer.
What’s involved in renovating a condo unit?
An modifications to the condo unit must meet the condo association guidelines. This is common for nearly all condos. It’s always best, if your considering altering a wall within the unit, to check with the Architectural Review Board before beginning work. For work like painting, replacing kitchen cabinets, countertops, and similar items, you won’t need the same approval.
Is there a fitness room?
YES – A well equipped fitness room is down below the lobby level next to the Bethesda Club Room and the pool.
Is there a pool?
YES – A seasonal pool just outside of the fitness room and Bethesda Club Room.
Is grilling allowed?
YES — Grills are available for use in the courtyards. Owners are not allowed to set up grills by their units.
Is there a party room?
YES — And it’s an amazing value if you have kids and need a spot for annual birthday parties, or whatever the occasion. You can rent the Bethesda Club Room for only $75 for 4-hours. It’s an amazing space. I actually had my father’s 80th birthday party there.
Is there a business conference room?
YES – There’s a separate space you can use for meetings. Also, people will often use the Bethesda Club Room for less formal meetings, or just to hang out and do work.
Is White Flint Station a secured building?
YES — You can only gain access to the building via your FOB card or key from all of the outside entry doors (multiple around the entire condo building). The only door that doesn’t require a key is the lobby entrance where the front desk is located. With multiple entry points, and no secured entry at the main lobby entrance, it’s certainly easier for someone to access this condo. From all indications that I’ve had though, this entire general area is safe.
Is there extra storage available?
YES — But we would want to confirm based on the unit you were interested in buying. There’s also a bike storage area.
Who are the internet and cable providers?
Both Verizon Fios and Comcast are available for internet and cable service.
What is the move in fee?
Currently it’s $150 be it for a new owner or renter. Be sure to check with the front desk in advance of your move in date. We will certainly help you with this.
Townhomes Emerge from Old Montrose Christian School
Brand NEW townhomes in the North Quarter development. These new North Bethesda Townhomes are built on what used to be the Montrose Christian School and church.
If you know your basketball, this was the place where Kevin Durant played his high school basketball. These are modern style Townhomes that with some of the models incorporate the rooftop terraces that have become very popular.
There are four models to choose from: Langston, Boyd, Chase, and the Montrose. Prices start in the low $600,000 range, but you can expect to pay closer to $700,000 and higher for the larger models. And then of course it always depends on the upgrades you go with in your selection. This is something we can discuss from a value and quality standpoint. Meaning, the builder options for upgrades may not be your best value.
I would walk through all the upgrade options with you, and first determine if you even like those. If you’re buying a new townhome, condo, or home the unfortunate reality is you really are accepting what the builder decides on. So it may be better from a value proposition, and your personal taste preferences to go with the standard items and upgrade yourself. Again, nothing to fear here. I can assist you in selecting great craftsman for any project. I have a team of go to people from countertops (quartz, quartzite, marble, granite, and natural stone, cabinets, hardwood floors, tile floors, painting, and so on.
This new townhouse community in North Bethesda, or Rockville as some would still call this location, is just on the outskirts of the growing Rockville Pike area. It’s certainly walkable all be at just over a mile to the new Pike & Rose development, the White Flint Metro, my Organic Market, Harris Teeter, and multiple restaurants. Though for some this might be a little far.
And it’s right next door to the Badlands (massive indoor kid’s play space with a variety of activities) at Loehmann’s Plaza.
So if you’re looking for a brand new townhome that’s in a very hot area but at a price point that’s a little bit lower than the other newer townhomes, because it’s on the fringes, this North Quarter development might be a good option.
You can always reach me via call or text at 240-687-2650. And we can arrange a time to get in and see any place that you want.
I have access to every property available. Even if it’s just a question about the area, I’m always happy to help you.
Mark Fitzpatrick RE/MAX Town Center
THE CHOICE GROUP
12505 Park Potomac Ave
Potomac, Maryland 20854
301-637-9762 office
Beautiful sunsets every night from a condo at The Sterling.
Act now and you can enjoy the stunning sunset views from your new 1-bedroom condo at The Sterling. Convenience is everything.
The new Pike & Rose development is directly across the street. And so is the White Flint METRO. Harris Teeter, My Organic Market, Whole Foods, and Trader Joes are all within blocks walking distance.
Walk directly across the street for restaurants, bowling, movies and more.
Look over from the Pike & Rose restaurants, and you can actually see your condo.
This 1-bedroom condo at The Sterling has everything you want to live a luxury lifestyle in a secure building with quick access to all the hot spots. The unit has stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, in unit washer and dryer, and it comes with a reserved garage parking space plus a storage unit.
The condo has a beautiful entrance and grounds to enjoy, but you’re always just a block away from all the action.
Outdoor pool, patio, grills and more at The Sterling.
Call or text Mark Fitzpatrick today to see this or any of the area condos: 240-687-2650.
Mark Fitzpatrick RE/MAX Town Center
THE CHOICE GROUP
12505 Park Potomac Ave
Potomac, Maryland 20854
301-637-9762 office
Ask any lender or real estate agent and they can explain some of the difficulties when buying a condo.
There are over 150,000 condo projects, and “…only 6.5% are approved to participate in FHA’s mortgage insurance programs.” FHA can be a great way for many first time buyers to purchase their first home. A condo most likely will be at the price most can afford. Thus, something needed to be done with the condominium approval process.
Starting October 15 there could be between 20,000 to 60,000 additional units eligible through FHA.
Here’s a look at condos for sale under $400,000;
BJ Matson, Realtor®
Home Buying Advisor • RE/MAX
301-881-8900 text
★★★★★ Client Reviews
Let’s face it. Most people like new stuff, and that includes homes. I’m asked a lot about buying a new home versus an existing home.
60,000 additional units eligible through FHA.