Central Ohio buyers are split: do you grab a brand-new build in Lewis Center or Delaware, or pounce on a turnkey resale in Westerville or Worthington? As the guy people call when they want a straight answer (and an accepted offer), here’s how I help clients decide.

1) Price, incentives, and the true monthly

Builders in Lewis Center/Delaware often dangle rate buydowns, closing credits, and design-center promos. Resales in Westerville/Worthington can trade closer to list with fewer concessions—but you skip construction wait times. I model your real monthly (PITI + HOA + likely utilities) so you’re comparing apples to apples, not just list prices.

2) Timeline: keys now vs. keys later

Resale means you could be grilling on the deck in 30–45 days. New construction (Evans Farm and similar) can run 6–12 months, depending on stage and options. If your current lease or home sale has a hard date, that alone can tilt the board.

3) Customization vs. character

New builds = clean warranties, open plans, energy efficiency, and that “nobody’s lived here” feeling. Resales = established trees, mature streets, finished basements, and often bigger yards—especially in parts of Worthington and Westerville. I’ll surface the real cost of upgrades (lighting, window treatments, landscaping) that new builds rarely include.

4) Inspections, warranties, and risk

Yes—you still inspect new homes. I bring a punch-list mindset to blue-tape walks and builder warranty leverage. On resales, we focus on big-ticket items (roof, HVAC, foundation) and negotiate repairs/credits to keep your cash safe.

5) Future resale math

In fast-growing pockets of Delaware and Lewis Center, early-phase buyers can benefit as later phases bring amenities. In Westerville/Worthington, tight inventory and school demand support values. I stress-test both routes with comps and projected hold periods so you’re not guessing at exit value.

Bottom line: there isn’t a universal “better”—there’s a best fit for your payment, timing, and risk tolerance. My job is to make that obvious before you write the offer.

Thinking about building in Lewis Center/Delaware or buying a resale in Westerville/Worthington (or anywhere in Columbus, Powell, or Dublin)? Let’s run your side-by-side numbers and tour smart.

[Contact Patrick Murphy, REALTOR® — Columbus, Powell & Dublin Expert]