By Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz, The Lewkowicz Group
One of the most common questions we hear from buyers and investors moving to or within Tampa is: “Should I buy new construction, or is a resale home the better option?” The honest answer? It depends on your goals, timeline, and lifestyle.
With more than 40 years of combined real estate experience in the Tampa Bay market, we’ve helped clients successfully navigate both options—often right down the same street. Let’s break it down the way we do with our own buyers.
The Case for New Construction in Tampa
Tampa has seen a surge in new construction communities over the past several years, especially in areas like Wesley Chapel, Riverview, Apollo Beach, and parts of South Tampa.
Why buyers love new construction:
-
Modern layouts & features: Open floor plans, higher ceilings, energy-efficient systems, and smart home technology come standard.
-
Lower maintenance upfront: New roof, new HVAC, new plumbing—fewer surprises in the first several years.
-
Builder incentives: Many builders offer closing cost credits, rate buydowns, or design upgrades, which can be especially attractive in today’s market.
-
Community amenities: Think resort-style pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, and walking trails.
That said, new construction isn’t perfect for everyone. Buyers often overlook HOA fees, CDD fees, and longer commute times when communities are farther from Tampa’s core. We always walk our clients through the true monthly cost, not just the base price.
The Value of Resale Homes
Resale homes remain incredibly strong options across Tampa neighborhoods like Hyde Park, Seminole Heights, Carrollwood, Westchase, and Palma Ceia.
Why resale still wins for many buyers:
-
Established neighborhoods: Mature landscaping, larger lots, and a sense of community you can’t replicate overnight.
-
Prime locations: Many resale homes are closer to downtown Tampa, major employers, beaches, and cultural hubs.
-
More room to negotiate: Unlike builders with fixed pricing, resale sellers may be flexible on price, repairs, or closing timelines.
-
Character & variety: From historic bungalows to mid-century homes, resale properties offer personality you don’t always find in new builds.
Of course, resale homes may come with older systems or renovation needs, which is why we guide buyers carefully through inspections and realistic budgeting.
What About Investors?
This is where strategy really matters.
-
New construction can be appealing for investors seeking low maintenance and long-term appreciation, especially in growing suburbs.
-
Resale properties, particularly value-add opportunities, often provide stronger cash flow potential, especially in rental-heavy areas.
We help investors compare rent projections, renovation costs, insurance considerations, and long-term exit strategies—because the “best” deal is the one that aligns with your financial plan.
So… Which Is Better?
After decades in Tampa real estate, here’s our professional take:
-
Choose new construction if you value modern design, predictability, and minimal short-term maintenance.
-
Choose resale if location, charm, and flexibility matter most to you.
Neither option is universally better—it’s about choosing the right option for you.
At The Lewkowicz Group, we don’t push listings or builders. We focus on education, transparency, and long-term success. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating to Tampa, upgrading, or investing, our role is to help you make a confident, informed decision.
If you’re weighing new construction versus resale and want honest, local insight—that’s where we come in. We’d love to help you explore your options and find the home (or investment) that truly fits your goals.
— Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz
Tampa Real Estate Experts | The Lewkowicz Group
