Buying vs building: Which property strategy builds more wealth over time?

Old vs new: Which property strategy builds more wealth?When you're deciding whether to buy a house or build one, you're not just choosing a home, you're making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.In this Ask the Experts episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Kirsty Healey from EnableMe to unpack the pros and cons of buying an existing home vs building new. And importantly, which option could help you build more long-term wealth.Whether you're a first-home buyer or property investor, the choice between old and new has serious financial implications. New builds often come with lower maintenance costs, better mortgage deals, and the potential for higher-quality construction. But they also carry risks like construction delays, budget blowouts, and developer red tape.On the flip side, buying an existing home is faster and feels more straightforward. But it can come with hidden costs, future-proofing challenges, and unexpected renovation bills.In this episode, we cover:How new builds can affect your mortgage rate and deposit requirementsThe most common building pitfalls, including budget and council issuesWhy existing homes aren't always the “safe” choiceWhich option could offer better long-term value growthHow to decide based on your personal timeline, risk tolerance, and financial goalsIf you're stuck between buying or building, this episode will help you weigh the real costs, risks, and rewards.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.