by Maria Weidich

Building a brand-new home can be exciting with its customizable floor plans, energy-saving measures, and personalized finishes. But there are plenty of advantages to buying an existing home, too. According to experienced Billings Real Estate Agents Stephanie and Erik Krueger, there’s a strong case for buying over building.

“With an established home, you get so much more for your money,” said Stephanie, who’s been in the industry for over 20 years. “You’re not spending more to put in the landscaping, the sprinklers, the trees, and the fence. All that can really add up.”

 New construction can present unforeseen costs, supply chain snags, and low-quality building materials. After a successful 25-year career in the construction industry, Erik knows firsthand there are always surprises with a new build. “But at the end of the day, when you’re buying an existing home, you know what you’re getting.”

As recent empty-nesters, the Krueger’s own 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom Billings home is currently on the market and illustrates and upholds all the benefits of purchasing an existing home.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

 Established homes typically offer established neighborhoods, including the schools, playgrounds, and parkways that come with them. Unfortunately, many new housing developments have yet to add these sought-after amenities. In addition, it’s not uncommon for newly constructed homes to be found in distant neighborhoods simply because that’s where land is available for new development.

Established homes typically offer established neighborhoods, including the schools, playgrounds, and parkways that come with them. Unfortunately, many new housing developments have yet to add these sought-after amenities. In addition, it’s not uncommon for newly constructed homes to be found in distant neighborhoods simply because that’s where land is available for new development.

Nestled in Alkali Creek, the Kruegers were immediately drawn to their home’s location. “It’s a delight to be so close to nature and wildlife, even though we’re still in the city,” Stephanie said. “Both of us were raised on farms and ranches, and we have a little piece of that here. We’re less than 10 minutes to the airport and 10 minutes to downtown; it’s very convenient.”

“It’s like our own little Zimmerman Park,” Erik added. “Once you get to the top and turn the corner, the 500-foot asphalt driveway takes you through the pine trees to a circular driveway. You know you’ve arrived somewhere special. It’s unlike anything in Billings.”

LUSH LANDSCAPING

Some trees can take up to 40 years to fully grow, making the benefits of mature landscaping impossible to overlook. The oversized lot at the Krueger residence is brimming with large trees providing both shade and privacy.

 “We fell in love with the beauty because we know how long it takes for that landscaping to mature, Erik said. “You have towering pines, fields of grass, all the flowers, and years of trial and error to put in perfect landscaping that the deer don’t like to eat,” he laughed. “You just can’t get that with new construction.”

FEEL THE FLOW

Another benefit of buying an existing home is having a visible floor plan where prospective homeowners can experience the home’s flow and functionality firsthand instead of imagining it on paper. Built by longtime Billings builder Helgeson Homes in 1994, Erik believes the home’s floorplan has withstood the test of time.

“It’s remarkable how ahead of the times they were,” he said of the builders. With oversized bedrooms, large living areas for entertaining, and intimate spaces for small groups, the practicality of the home’s layout remains relevant. “Even though it was built some time ago, you find it has amazing flow, and the rooms are scaled so perfectly.”

While the home boasts three levels, its main level offers convenient, single-level living. The kitchen, living room, master bedroom, office, and laundry room are all found throughout the 3,600-square-foot main level. “In new construction, people often outgrow those areas very quickly,” Stephanie said. With easy access, the floorplan functions well for growing families and their guests alike. 

LARGER LOT SIZE

The average land lot size for single-family homes in the United States is roughly 13,000 square feet or 0.3 acres, and this number is steadily shrinking, Erik said. Homes continue to get bigger, but our outdoor space is only getting smaller.

The Krueger’s 8,000-square-foot home sits on 4.39 acres, lending ample space and privacy, something Montanans love. “You’re out in nature; you can breathe and feel at peace,” Stephanie agreed.  

THE DESIGN IS DONE

 For some, customizing and personalizing a home to fit their taste is enjoyable. But for others, choosing colors, textures, features, and styles can quickly become overwhelming and result in decision fatigue. This is a notable benefit of buying a completely finished home.

“The longer we were in this home, the more we appreciated it for what it was,” Erik said. “It’s a solid home with open floor plans, great lighting, windows with great views, and surrounded by nature; it’s just lovely and withstood the test of time. We knew how well it was crafted, and we never felt the need to update. Some things are such a fad, but this home is so timeless.”

Prospective homeowners can request a showing of the Krueger home by calling Stephanie at (406) 861-7657 or visit kruegerandcompany.com.

Originally printed in the September 2024 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Never miss an issue, check out SLM's digital editions here!  

related articles: