Today’s new homes offer more than ever. When you are ready to buy a home, one of your first decisions should be to visit the new home builders in your area and explore what’s available. Consider:

You know what you are getting. When you buy new, you take the guesswork out of homeownership. You know how the home is built and what’s behind the walls. The builder will explain what to expect, how to operate and maintain the systems, and how to take care of various components in your home. That’s very reassuring, whether it’s your first home or your fifth.

Get what YOU want. When you buy a brand new home, you can tailor it to suit your own taste and preferences, right from the beginning. You don’t have to “settle for less” or live with someone else’s decisions, or spend extra time and money setting things right.

Better construction. It is a fact that “they don’t build them like they used to”. Today’s new homes are better than ever—built to the latest codes and standards, using state-of-the-art construction techniques and materials. A brand new home is an investment in comfort and quality living.

No repairs and replacements for a long time. When everything in your home is new, you can plan ahead financially for a number of years, with the confidence that your budget will not be strained by sudden and unexpected expenses due to items in your home that break down or wear out.

A third-party warranty. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your new home is protected by a warranty. Be sure to ask your builder for detailed information, and never buy a home without third-party warranty. Many of the products used in your home are also covered by the manufacturers’ warranties for an extended time.

Energy performance. Thanks to better construction and better products like windows and heating and cooling systems, a new home will reduce your energy costs, year after year— a comforting thought in a world of uncertain energy prices. Talk with your builder about opportunities to cut energy use throughout the house.

Other “green” features. Materials with recycled content, or made from renewable resources. Non-toxic products. “Clean air” features. Reduced water consumption. Buying a brand new home makes it easy to incorporate green choices upfront to reduce the environmental impact of your home and enhance your lifestyle.

Designs for the way you live. Bright open spaces with lots of windows and natural light make “home” a warm and wonderful place to be. Well-designed kitchens, work and storage areas give busy families a break. Entertainment rooms gather the household for relaxation. New home builders understand and build for the needs of the modern family.

Convenience and low maintenance. Expect to spend less time “keeping house” and more time enjoying the things in your life that really matter. Your builder will show you how to look after your home to maintain its beauty and ensure that everything stays in great operating condition, with minimum effort and cost.

New Homes Month is sponsored by TD Canada Trust, Genworth Financial Canada and the Canadian Home Warranty Council.