If you’re shopping for a home in the coveted 76226 ZIP code, covering areas like Lantana, Argyle, and parts of Flower Mound and Northlake, you’re likely weighing whether to buy a brand-new build or an existing home. Each option offers advantages and trade-offs in terms of cost, customization, and timeline. As realtors serving this market, it’s our job to make sure you understand which offers better value given your goals.
Cost - Upfront Price and Ongoing Value
Let’s start with pricing. According to data for 76226, the average home value is approximately $592,966, down slightly 2.7% over the past year. Median sale price was about $597,000 in July 2025. These numbers give a baseline for existing homes in the area.
New construction cost:
In the 76226 area, new home listings range from the $400,000s to well over $700,000+, depending on lot size, builder, and finishes. Because new builds incorporate modern materials, energy efficiency, and builder overhead, the price tends to be higher per square foot, though sometimes you’re paying for fewer years of wear and tear. Experts note that nationally, “new construction homes are typically more expensive than existing ones,” though some regions are seeing shifts.
Existing home cost:
Existing homes often offer a lower entry price (relative) and are move-in ready. That said, older homes may need updates, a roof, HVAC, windows, and landscaping that should be factored into the total cost. With a median home value of $590-600K, this is the benchmark.
Value discussion:
The “better value” depends on how you define value: if you want the lowest upfront cost, an existing home may be the winner. If you value modern features, less maintenance, and energy efficiency, new construction may offer superior long-term value. Research shows that new builds often come with builder warranties and energy-efficiency upgrades that reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Read more about cost here!
Customization - Tailoring Your Home
One of the significant differentiators between new and existing homes is the degree of control you have over the design and finishes.
New construction advantages:
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You can often select finishes (flooring, countertops, lighting), layout upgrades, and, sometimes, exterior options when buying early in construction.
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The home is built to current code, with energy-efficient HVAC systems, improved insulation, and smart home capabilities, reducing the need for later retrofits.
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The “blank canvas” effect means you aren’t inheriting someone else’s design and have fewer hidden surprises.
Existing home trade-offs:
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With an existing home, you’re purchasing something already built. The layout, finishes, and maybe even utility systems are set. If you love the house as is, this is fine. If you want to change, you’ll factor in remodel cost/time.
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Mature landscaping and established neighborhood character can be an advantage, something new build communities may take years to develop.
For buyers in Lantana, Argyle, or Flower Mound who want personalization, new construction may be more attractive. Still, if you’re more interested in location, established feel, or faster move-in, existing homes may win.
Curious about how much you can customize a new build compared to a pre-owned home?
Explore Redfin’s guide to new construction vs existing homes.
Timeline: When You Can Move In & What to Expect
New construction timeline:
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One significant “cost” of new builds is time. Even if you are buying a spec home ready to go, building or finishing construction can take months. Nationally, new homes can take 6–12 months (or more) depending on builder schedules and supply chains.
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Delays in permitting, materials, and inspections may affect the timeline.
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If you’re flexible with your move-in date, new construction is workable. If you need to move quickly (for a job transfer or a school year), existing homes may be a better option.
Existing home timeline:
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Existing homes are typically faster to close; you buy, move in when the sale completes, and no waiting for construction.
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Because of this speed, if you’re looking to relocate quickly within Frisco, Southlake, or the surrounding areas, existing homes often offer less risk of delay.
Want to learn what each stage of the new-construction timeline looks like? Read more here.
Which Offers Better Value in 76226?
Putting it all together for the specific 76226 market:
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If your budget is tight and speed is essential, an existing home in 76226 may offer better immediate value; you’re buying into the average market (~$590K) and moving in relatively soon.
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If you’re willing to pay a bit more, wait a bit longer, and want modern finishes and customization with a lower maintenance risk, new construction may deliver better long-term value.
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Because the 76226 area is desirable (schools, community amenities, growth), any home, new or existing, holds value. But value is enhanced when you match your priorities (cost, customization, timeline) with the right type.
Realtor tip
As realtors serving North Texas, we guide clients by asking:
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How soon do you need to move?
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How important are energy efficiency and modern layout vs. “move-in now” convenience?
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What’s your budget for upfront cost + potential ongoing maintenance?
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Would you like to pick the finishes or accept what's there?
When we answer those questions, we can show you existing listings and new-construction opportunities in Lantana, Argyle, Flower Mound, and other areas, and compare them side-by-side.
In 76226, the debate between new construction and existing homes really hinges on your timeline, budget, and desire for customization. If you value speed and often lower upfront cost, existing homes may be the best fit. If you’re looking for tailored design, energy efficiency, and are comfortable with a longer timeline, new construction can pay off.
Our role as your realtors in North Texas is to help you weigh these trade-offs, show you real examples in Lantana, Argyle, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Frisco, Celina, Southlake, and Colleyville, and find the property that aligns with your needs.
Let’s talk more, and I’ll show you recent comparables and new-build options in the 76226 area so you can see which type of value fits your goals. When you’re ready, we’ll dive into specific homes and build a plan together.
