Should I buy new construction or a resale home in West Orlando?

It’s one of the biggest choices buyers face in Central Florida: shiny new construction or character-filled resale?

New construction advantages:

• Builder incentives: As of late 2025, many builders in Clermont and Winter Garden are offering closing cost credits or rate buydowns to attract buyers.

• Energy efficiency: Newer builds often cut monthly utility bills 20–30%.

• Customization: You can still pick finishes, layouts, and even lot views.

Resale advantages:

• Established neighborhoods: Mature trees, finished amenities, and fewer construction trucks at sunrise.

• Bigger lots: Especially in Windermere and older Clermont communities.

• Negotiation flexibility: Sellers are more open to creative terms in a slightly slower market.

2026 outlook:
New construction will continue expanding along Hancock Road, Hwy 27, and Horizon West, but price gaps between new and resale homes will narrow. Resales may offer better value for buyers seeking space or no HOA restrictions.

Pro tip:
If you want the “new home” experience but hate builder markups, look at homes just 1–3 years old—still modern, already landscaped, and move-in ready.

Bottom line:
Both paths can be smart. The key is aligning your purchase with your lifestyle, commute, and long-term goals—not just that smell of new paint.

Want a side-by-side comparison of new vs. resale homes in your target community? I’ll map it out based on your price range and preferred amenities.