One of the biggest choices you’ll face when buying a home is deciding between a brand-new property and an established one. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the right fit often depends on your lifestyle, goals and budget. 

Recent Housing Industry Association (HIA) data shows sales of new detached homes jumped 18.8% in the three months to June 2025 compared to the previous quarter – the strongest result in three years. 

So, what’s better for you? Let’s weigh up the pros and cons. 

Why buy new? 

✅ Lower maintenance costs 
With a new build, you’ll generally have fewer repair bills in the first few years. Most appliances and structural elements are covered by warranties, giving you peace of mind. 

✅ Energy efficiency 
New homes must meet modern energy standards. That can mean reduced power bills, a more comfortable living environment and a smaller environmental footprint. 

✅ Customisation potential 
Building from scratch gives you more say in the look and feel of your home – from materials and finishes to design features. Renovating an existing property to suit your style can be far more expensive and disruptive. 

✅ Investor tax benefits 
New properties often come with depreciation perks, allowing investors to claim deductions for wear and tear over time and potentially improve cash flow. 

Potential downsides of buying new 

⚠️ Longer wait times and stress 
Unlike an established home, where you can move in soon after settlement, building takes time. Delays with approvals, builders, or budgets can make the process stressful. 

⚠️ Location trade-offs 
New builds are often in newer suburbs, which may lack the established character, infrastructure and amenities of older areas. Large-scale housing releases can also dampen capital growth potential, so careful research is key. 

Other factors to consider 

Government incentives could influence your decision. For instance, the First Home Owner Grant may be available if you buy or build new, while certain stamp duty concessions may apply to both new and established properties. 

Keep in mind that rules differ across states and territories – particularly around what qualifies as “new” or “substantially renovated.” 

Need guidance? 
If you’d like tailored advice on incentives, stamp duty savings, borrowing power, or getting pre-approval, we’re here to help. Reach out today and let’s talk through your options so you can step into your new home with confidence.