New home construction reflects real momentum in Hernando, MS, and across growing communities in the South. Buyers considering a move to this part of the country will find a market shaped by strong schools, reasonable commutes, and a balance between small-town character and modern conveniences. This guide walks you through what the market looks like today, how the buying process works, and what you can expect when making your home at a new construction community. First-time buyers, growing families, and active adults ready for something different will all find relevant guidance here.
What Does the New Home Market Look Like in Hernando, MS Today?
The new home market in Hernando, MS, remains strong, with demand driven by top-rated schools, favorable tax rates, and proximity to major metros. Housing options span traditional homes, townhouses, lofts, and 55+ active adult communities, with most construction concentrated in mixed-use developments and master-planned communities.
Location and New Home Demand
Fast-growing counties continue to attract buyers, and communities that serve as county seats tend to anchor that growth. That’s no accident. Cities like Hernando offer something increasingly rare: proximity to major metro employment without sacrificing the pace and feel of a genuine community. Airport access, logistics corridors, and major employers often sit within a 30-minute drive.
For families researching where to plant roots, school districts drive the conversation. Parents want their children in well-regarded public schools without private school tuition. Strong elementary and high schools anchor the educational picture, and builders position new construction communities with school access in mind. DeSoto County schools, for instance, consistently rank among the state’s strongest, which is a major draw for relocating families.
What Types of New Homes Are Available?
Builders today offer several distinct categories, each serving different buyer needs.
Traditional Homes are what most people picture when they think “new house.” Single-family homes on individual lots, ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 square feet, with three to four bedrooms. Communities like the leflore at Delta Landing in Hernando, MS, offer both traditional and rear-load garage configurations, giving buyers flexibility in how their home sits on the lot. The LeFlore community page]
Townhouses and Loft-Style Living serve buyers on opposite ends of the ownership question. For buyers who want ownership without extensive yard maintenance, townhouses provide a middle ground. onward point at Delta Landing features 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouses within 4-plex buildings, combining the benefits of ownership with reduced exterior upkeep. On the leasing side, the flats at Delta Landing offers modern loft layouts for those who prefer to lease rather than buy, with the convenience of being within a walkable, community-forward living development. Young professionals, empty nesters downsizing, and anyone who values flexibility over a mortgage tend to gravitate toward this option.
55+ Active Adult Communities address the growing demand from active adults aged 55 and older who want to stay engaged without the burden of home maintenance. Picture this: you’ve spent decades mowing lawns and cleaning gutters on weekends. Now you’d rather spend that time traveling or picking up a new hobby. bellewood grove at Delta Landing caters specifically to this demographic, offering single-level living with no-maintenance lawns and community amenities designed for an active lifestyle.
Zero-Lot-Line Homes maximize living space by building to one property line, creating larger usable yards on the opposite side. If you’ve been searching for zero lot homes in Hernando, MS, this option bridges the gap between townhouse convenience and traditional home space. Buyers who want a traditional home footprint but don’t need or want a large lot to maintain find these especially appealing.
Where Does New Construction Concentrate?
Most new builds cluster in planned developments rather than scattered infill lots. This concentration creates several advantages: consistent architectural standards, shared amenities, and the infrastructure planning that comes with master-planned communities.
Delta Landing in Hernando, MS, is a good example. It combines residential options across multiple price points with a town center concept. Rather than isolated subdivisions, the vision is walkable, community-forward living where homes, retail, and gathering spaces coexist. One development, four distinct living options, all built around the idea that where your life lives matters as much as the home itself.
Other construction activity spreads along major corridors and in areas where developers have assembled enough acreage for meaningful community development. Hernando’s position as the DeSoto County seat gives it institutional stability that purely residential suburbs lack, which attracts both builders and buyers.
Why Buyers Choose New Construction Communities
Several factors drive consistent interest.
Schools matter. Families relocating to the area often start their search by identifying school districts. Being located directly across the street from a high school or within easy distance of a top-rated elementary becomes a genuine selling point.
The commute math works. Living in a growing community outside a major metro means crossing county or state lines, but the math often favors the suburban side. Lower property taxes, lower overall cost of living, and reasonable drive times make the trade-off worthwhile for many households. From Hernando, major metro amenities and employment centers sit roughly 25 to 30 minutes away.
Small-town feel persists. Despite growth, communities like Hernando maintain the character of a place where people know their neighbors. Historic downtown squares, local restaurants, and community events create texture that purely suburban developments can’t replicate. That matters more than most buyers expect.
The 2025 Market Outlook
In 2025, the Hernando, MS, new home market remains active with steady demand, particularly for entry-level traditional homes and 55+ community options. Inventory across several developments sits in various phases of completion, and demand continues to outpace supply in certain categories.
Builders report steady interest from both local move-up buyers and relocations from nearby metro areas. The remote work shift that picked up speed in recent years continues to benefit markets where buyers can get more space for their money while maintaining access to urban amenities when needed.
Interactive plat maps at communities like Delta Landing show lot availability in real time, letting serious buyers track what’s available without waiting for listing updates. Construction progress videos on YouTube give buyers visibility into building timelines and community development. These tools save time and reduce the guesswork.
How Does Buying a New Home Work? A Step-by-Step Process
Buying a new construction home involves five key steps: researching communities, getting pre-approved, selecting a lot and layout, monitoring construction, and completing a final walkthrough before closing. The rhythm differs from purchasing an existing home. You’re not just choosing a house. You’re often choosing a lot, selecting from layouts, making finish decisions, and then waiting while your home gets built. Here’s how the process unfolds.
Delta Landing’s developer brings years of experience in master-planned community development to the Hernando, MS, market, with construction managed by professionals who understand the specific building requirements and conditions of the region. That kind of local expertise matters when you’re trusting someone to build your home from the ground up.
Researching Communities and Home Types
Before you talk to a single builder or sales representative, spend time understanding what’s available. New construction offers enough variety that your first decision involves what type of home fits your life.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Do you want a traditional home with a yard, or would you prefer reduced maintenance with a townhouse or 55+ community?
- How important is customization? Some buyers want to choose every finish; others prefer move-in ready.
- What’s your timeline? Can you wait for construction, or do you need something available now?
- Are you buying or leasing? Loft communities like the flats at Delta Landing offer lease options for those not ready to purchase.
Visit communities in person when possible. Walk the streets. Check construction progress. Talk to residents if you can. The feel of a place doesn’t come through in photos alone.
Delta Landing’s approach shows the range available in Hernando: the leflore for traditional homes, bellewood grove for active adults, onward point for townhouses, and the flats at Delta Landing for loft leasing. homes for every lifestyle, all in one place.
Getting Pre-Approved Before Choosing a Layout
Financing for new construction works slightly differently than purchasing an existing home, and your state may have specific programs worth exploring.
Start with pre-approval. Before you pick a layout, know your budget ceiling. Lenders will evaluate your income, debts, credit history, and down payment to determine your borrowing capacity. This number becomes your spending limit. Don’t skip this step.
Understand construction loan options. Some buyers use construction-to-permanent loans, which convert to a traditional mortgage once building completes. Others work with builders who have preferred lender relationships that simplify the process. Ask about both options.
Explore state-specific programs. First-time buyers may qualify for programs through organizations like the Mississippi Home Corporation, including down payment assistance. These programs have income limits and property requirements, so verify eligibility early.
Factor in the full picture. Your mortgage payment is just one piece. Property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, HOA fees, and any community assessments all affect your monthly housing cost. County property tax rates and state homestead exemptions can work in your favor, but run the full numbers before committing. Surprises after closing are the wrong kind of surprise.
Lot Selection and Layout Review
Lot selection is where your budget meets your priorities. In most communities, you’re choosing both a layout and a specific lot. Corner lots, cul-de-sac positions, lots backing to green space, and lots with specific orientations all carry different price points and lifestyle implications.
Interactive plat maps, like those available at Delta Landing, show which lots are available, reserved, or sold. You can see exactly where your potential home sits within the community.
Layout considerations:
- How does the design support your daily life? Think about traffic flow, not just room count.
- Where does natural light fall throughout the day?
- Is there flexibility for how you might use the space in five years?
- What comes standard, and what requires upgrades?
Customization windows. Builders allow customization decisions at specific points in construction. Miss the window for selecting countertops or flooring, and you’re stuck with standard options. Understand the decision timeline before you commit. Being organized pays off quickly here.
Construction Timelines: What to Expect
Building a new home runs four to eight months from contract to completion in most cases, though this varies based on the builder, home size, and current demand on construction crews.
What affects your timeline:
- Weather delays. Southern summers are hot and humid; winter can bring unexpected cold snaps. Both affect construction schedules.
- Material availability. Supply chain issues have eased from recent peaks but haven’t disappeared entirely.
- Inspection schedules. Municipal inspections at various construction phases can create brief delays.
- Your decision speed. Slow responses on finish selections can push your completion date. Don’t be the bottleneck.
Stay engaged but realistic. Good builders provide regular updates. Some offer construction update newsletters and YouTube progress videos. Ask how you’ll receive communication and how often.
Expect the unexpected. Even smooth builds run into minor issues. A professional builder addresses problems directly. The question is how quickly and transparently they communicate when something comes up.
The Final Walkthrough and Closing
As construction nears completion, several important steps remain.
The pre-drywall walkthrough. Some builders offer this opportunity to see your home’s bones before walls close up. You can verify electrical outlet placement, plumbing locations, and structural elements. Take photos. Lots of them.
The final walkthrough. Before closing, you’ll walk through your completed home with a builder representative. Bring a checklist. Test every switch, faucet, and appliance. Open every door and drawer. Note any scratches, dings, or items needing attention on a punch list.
Closing specifics. Closing costs generally fall in the range you’d expect for the region, a few percent of the purchase price, though your lender can give you exact figures. You’ll pay for title insurance, recording fees, prorated property taxes, and various lender fees. Reputable builders provide thorough documentation even when state law doesn’t require extensive seller disclosures.
Understand your warranty. New homes come with builder warranties covering different systems for different periods. Know what’s covered, for how long, and how to file claims if issues arise. This documentation matters more than most buyers realize in their first year.
7 Benefits of Buying a New Home
Communities like Delta Landing in Hernando, MS, highlight the advantages that new construction offers over existing homes. Here’s what draws buyers to the new home market.
Energy Efficiency Saves Real Money
Current building codes require insulation, windows, and HVAC systems that outperform what was standard even ten years ago. High-efficiency HVAC systems, properly sealed building envelopes, and Energy Star appliances come standard in most builds. That adds up. Over a 30-year mortgage, these savings compound significantly. Your new home works harder to keep you comfortable while using less energy to do it.
Customization Before Move-In Day
Buying new means choosing finishes that match your taste rather than inheriting someone else’s decisions. Depending on when you enter the construction process, you might select countertop materials, flooring, cabinet styles, paint colors, lighting fixtures, and smart home features.
All of this happens before you move in. No living through a renovation. No dust on everything you own for three months. No contractor scheduling headaches. You walk in and it’s yours, exactly as you chose it.
Warranties and Low Maintenance Protect Your Investment
Everything in a new home starts at zero miles. The roof, HVAC, water heater, appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems are all brand new. You’re not inheriting deferred maintenance or wondering when the air conditioner will finally give out.
Most builders offer warranties along these lines:
- One-year coverage on workmanship and materials
- Two-year coverage on mechanical systems
- Ten-year structural warranties
Unexpected major repairs in your first years of ownership? Unlikely. That peace of mind is hard to put a price on.
Schools Drive Location Decisions
For families with children, school quality often determines where they look. DeSoto County schools consistently rank among the state’s best , and communities positioned near strong schools reflect deliberate planning around access.
Delta Landing’s location near top-rated schools means your children’s education doesn’t require private school tuition or lengthy bus rides. That proximity was designed, not accidental. It’s one of the first things families notice when they visit.
Metro Access with Lower Taxes
Yes, you can have both. Living in a growing community like Hernando, MS, means major metro employment, entertainment, and amenities remain accessible while your tax bill reflects more favorable rates.
Property tax rates here fall below those in neighboring states , and the homestead exemption provides relief for primary residences. Income tax structures differ as well. Many households find that the combination of lower housing costs and favorable taxes more than compensates for the commute.
The math works particularly well for remote workers who need occasional office access but don’t commute daily.
Options for Every Life Stage
Not every buyer needs or wants the same thing. The market has matured enough to offer genuine variety:
New Construction vs. Existing Homes: Which Is Right for You?
In markets like Hernando, MS, both options have their place. New construction costs more upfront but delivers lower maintenance, modern energy efficiency, and builder warranties. Existing homes offer lower entry prices, mature trees and established character, and faster move-in timelines. The right choice depends on your priorities, timeline, and budget.
Upfront Cost Comparison
| Factor | New Construction | Existing Homes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | Often higher initial price point | Generally lower entry price |
| Negotiation Room | Limited; builders set prices | More flexibility possible |
| What’s Included | Modern finishes, appliances, warranties | Varies widely by property |
| Hidden Costs | Upgrades can add significantly | Inspection may reveal needed repairs |
Starting prices at communities like Delta Landing currently begin around $319,900 for townhouses at onward point, with traditional homes at the leflore beginning at $324,900 and bellewood grove’s 55+ homes starting at $329,900. These prices reflect current market positioning and include modern finishes.
Existing homes span a wider range, with some older properties available below new construction entry points. The condition varies dramatically, though. A lower purchase price might mask needed updates to kitchens, bathrooms, or major systems.
Maintenance Expectations: Years 1 Through 5
| Timeframe | New Construction | Existing Home (10+ years old) |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Minimal; warranty covers issues | Potential surprises as you learn the home |
| Years 2-3 | Still under warranty for most systems | HVAC, water heater, roof age becomes factor |
| Years 4-5 | Beginning normal maintenance cycle | May face major system replacements |
Buyers of new homes enjoy a “maintenance honeymoon” where everything works and warranty coverage handles the rare issue. Existing home buyers inherit whatever condition the previous owner left, plus the accumulated wear on systems approaching end-of-life. That difference alone sways many buyers.
Customization vs. Established Character
Advantages of building new:
- Choose your finishes before move-in
- Modern layouts with open concepts and flexible spaces
- Current electrical capacity for today’s device demands
- Designs built for how people actually live now
Advantages of buying existing:
- Mature trees and established plantings
- Known community character and neighbors
- Often larger lots than current new construction
- Architectural variety reflecting different eras
Some buyers value the blank slate. Others prefer the character and established feel of existing communities. Neither preference is wrong, and understanding which camp you fall into saves time during your search.
Timeline Differences
| Scenario | New Construction | Existing Home |
|---|---|---|
| Move-in Ready | 4-8 months build time | 30-45 days to close |
| Inventory Homes | Available immediately | Depends on market |
| Flexibility | Must wait for construction | Can time to your needs |
If you need to move quickly, new construction requires either finding an inventory home (already built or nearly complete) or waiting for construction. Existing homes offer more timeline flexibility, though competitive markets can still create pressure.
Zero-Lot-Line Homes, Townhouses, or Resale?
Buyers considering smaller-footprint options face a choice between new construction townhouses and existing single-family resale. Zero lot homes in Hernando, MS, offer a third path worth exploring.
New townhouses (like onward point):
- Modern layouts and finishes
- Lower maintenance responsibility
- HOA handles exterior upkeep
- Community amenities included
Existing single-family resale:
- Potentially larger lot
- No shared walls
- More privacy
- May require updates
Zero-lot-line new construction:
- Traditional home feel with reduced lot maintenance
- No shared walls like townhouses
- Larger usable yard on one side
- Modern finishes and builder warranty included
The choice often comes down to whether you prioritize space and privacy (existing single-family), convenience and modern features (new townhouse), or a blend of both (zero-lot-line).
How Much Do New Homes in Hernando, MS Cost? Key Pricing Factors
New homes in the Hernando, MS, market currently start from $319,900 for townhouses to $329,900 for 55+ community homes, with final costs depending on lot, layout, and upgrades. Understanding what drives pricing helps you budget realistically and identify where your money goes.
Current Price Ranges by Home Type
| Home Type | Starting Price | Size Range |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Homes (the leflore) | $324,900 | 1,800-2,500 sq ft |
| 55+ Community (bellewood grove) | $329,900 | 1,600-2,200 sq ft |
| Townhouses (onward point) | $319,900 | 1,400-1,800 sq ft |
| Loft Leasing (the flats at Delta Landing) | $1,575/month | Varies by layout |
These prices reflect starting points at Delta Landing. Actual costs vary based on lot selection, layout choice, and upgrades selected. The developer’s experience building in this market means pricing reflects local construction costs and land values accurately.
Lot Position and Price
Not all lots are created equal, and pricing reflects these differences.
Premium lot characteristics:
- Corner positions with additional windows and privacy
- Cul-de-sac locations with reduced traffic
- Backing to green space, ponds, or community amenities
- Larger-than-standard dimensions
- Preferred orientation for natural light
Standard lot characteristics:
- Interior positions on straight streets
- Standard dimensions for the community
- Neighboring homes on both sides
Lot premiums can add several thousand dollars to your base price. Whether the premium is worth it depends on how you’ll use your outdoor space and how much you value the specific feature. Some buyers agonize over this decision. Others know immediately.
Upgrade Costs to Anticipate
Builders present base prices assuming standard finishes. Upgrades, and there are always upgrades, add to your final cost.
Common upgrade categories:
- Countertops: Moving from laminate to granite or quartz can add a few thousand dollars depending on kitchen size and material choice
- Flooring: Upgrading from carpet to hardwood or luxury vinyl throughout adds meaningfully to your total, with costs varying by square footage and material grade
- Cabinets: Premium cabinet styles, soft-close features, and upgraded hardware run in the low thousands for most layouts
- Smart home features: Built-in smart thermostats, security systems, and wiring represent a modest but worthwhile investment for most buyers
- Appliance packages: Moving to premium appliance brands can add noticeably to your bottom line depending on the tier you select
Budget recommendation: Plan for a meaningful cushion above base price for upgrades, or be disciplined about accepting standard finishes. Talk to your builder’s design center early to understand what standard includes and where upgrades make the biggest difference in daily living. The buyers who feel best about their final number are the ones who set an upgrade budget before walking into the design center.
Property Taxes in This Market
Property taxes work in your favor here compared to many neighboring states. Homeowners in DeSoto County benefit from favorable millage rates combined with the state’s homestead exemption for primary residences.
The homestead exemption reduces assessed value for owner-occupied homes, directly lowering your annual tax bill. This exemption applies automatically to your primary residence.
Actual tax amounts depend on your home’s assessed value and the specific taxing districts where you’re located. Request estimates from your builder or real estate professional for specific properties you’re considering.
Closing Costs and Hidden Expenses
Beyond the purchase price, budget for these costs.
At closing:
- Title insurance
- Recording fees
- Lender fees (origination, appraisal, credit report)
- Prorated property taxes
- Homeowner’s insurance (first year, often)
- Any HOA transfer fees
Ongoing:
- HOA fees (varies by community; some include lawn care, others don’t)
- Homeowner’s insurance
- Property taxes (escrowed with mortgage in most cases)
- Utilities (new homes are efficient, but you’re still paying)
Often overlooked:
- Window treatments (new homes come with bare windows)
- Plantings beyond builder-provided basics
- Furniture for rooms you didn’t have before
- Garage organization and storage
A realistic budget accounts for these expenses rather than treating the purchase price as your total cost. The buyers who feel most comfortable after closing are the ones who planned for these line items in advance. Bare windows on move-in day are a rite of passage, but they don’t have to be a surprise.
Is a New Home Right for You? Ideal Buyer Profiles
New construction in growing markets like Hernando, MS, serves certain buyers better than others. Here’s who tends to benefit most.
First-Time Buyers
If you’ve never owned a home before, new construction offers a gentler introduction to homeownership. Everything works. Warranties protect against surprise repairs. You’re not inheriting someone else’s deferred maintenance or questionable DIY projects.
The learning curve of homeownership is steep enough without adding “diagnose why the electrical panel keeps tripping” to your first year. Building new lets you focus on building equity and settling in rather than dealing with emergency repairs.
First-time buyer programs through state housing organizations can help with down payment assistance, making new construction accessible even without substantial savings. Ask your lender about these early in the process.
Growing Families
Modern layouts reflect how families actually live. Open kitchens connect to living spaces so parents can cook while watching children. Flexible bonus rooms adapt as kids grow. Mudrooms contain the chaos of backpacks and sports equipment.
School quality makes communities near top-rated districts particularly attractive. Being located near strong schools means your children’s commute is genuinely short, not technically-in-the-district short.
Communities built around new construction also tend to attract other families at similar life stages. Your kids will have neighbor children to play with. You’ll have other parents to commiserate with. That social fabric forms faster in a community where everyone moved in around the same time. It’s one of the underrated benefits of buying new.
Active Adults Aged 55 and Older
If you’re at a stage of life where stairs feel less appealing and yard work feels like a chore rather than a pleasure, 55+ communities offer a practical option that makes real sense.
bellewood grove at Delta Landing serves active adults aged 55 and older with single-level living, no-maintenance lawns (HOA handles exterior upkeep), and community amenities designed for engagement rather than isolation. You’re not moving to a quiet corner. You’re moving to a community of peers who share your life stage and want to stay active.
The key word is “active.” These communities attract people who want to travel, pursue hobbies, stay social, and enjoy life without spending weekends on lawn maintenance. That’s a trade most people are happy to make.
The Remote Worker Advantage
The shift toward remote work has rewritten the math for many professionals. If you only need to be in an office occasionally, living outside the metro core offers more space at lower cost while keeping the city accessible. A 25-to-30-minute drive a few times a week is a different calculation than a daily commute.
Building new provides the home office space remote work demands. Dedicated rooms, upgraded internet infrastructure, and quiet communities support productivity in ways that cramped urban lofts can’t match.
You get the city when you want it. And you leave it behind when you don’t.
Investors Watching Market Growth
Growing communities with strong fundamentals suggest continued appreciation. Counties experiencing consistent population growth, anchored by county seats with institutional stability, provide a foundation that purely residential suburbs lack. Hernando’s position as the DeSoto County seat gives it exactly this kind of anchor.
Building new can serve investment strategies in several ways:
- Long-term hold: Purchase in an appreciating market and benefit from value growth
- Rental income: Strong rental demand supports investment properties, particularly near schools
- Lease options: the flats at Delta Landing offers loft leasing for those who want real estate exposure without property management
Investors should note that new construction communities often have HOA restrictions on rentals. Verify rules before purchasing with investment intent. This is a detail that catches people off guard if they don’t ask early. Read the covenants and restrictions document before you sign anything.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Homes in Hernando, MS
What is the average price of a new home in this market?
New homes in Hernando, MS, currently start at $319,900 for townhouses at onward point, $324,900 for traditional homes at the leflore, and $329,900 for 55+ homes at bellewood grove at Delta Landing. Final prices depend on lot selection, layout, and upgrades chosen. Loft leasing at the flats at Delta Landing starts at $1,575 per month for those who prefer to lease rather than buy.
Are there zero lot homes available in Hernando, MS?
Yes. Zero lot homes in Hernando, MS, are available in the new construction market and are popular with buyers who want traditional home features without extensive lot maintenance. These homes build to one property line, creating a larger usable yard on the opposite side. Several communities offer zero-lot configurations, so ask builders about availability in specific developments when you visit. They offer a middle ground that many buyers don’t realize exists until they see one in person.
How long does it take to build a new home?
Most new homes take four to eight months from contract to completion. Larger homes with extensive customization take longer. Some communities offer inventory homes that are already complete or nearly finished for buyers who need faster timelines. Weather, material availability, and inspection schedules all play a role in the final timeline, so build in some flexibility when planning your move.
What are the best communities for new construction?
Delta Landing in Hernando, MS, represents one of the most complete options available, offering traditional homes, townhouses, 55+ community living, and loft leasing within a single mixed-use development. The town center concept and proximity to strong schools distinguish it from purely residential developments. living redefined is more than a tagline here; it describes the actual approach to how the community is built.
Does the market include 55+ active adult communities?
bellewood grove at Delta Landing specifically serves active adults aged 55 and older, featuring single-level living, no-maintenance lawns with HOA-included exterior care, and community amenities designed for engaged living. It’s built for people who want to stay active and social without the upkeep that comes with a traditional home and yard.
What financing options are available for new construction?
Several options exist:
- Construction-to-permanent loans that convert to traditional mortgages at completion
- Preferred lender relationships through builders
- Down payment assistance programs through state housing organizations (income and property restrictions apply)
- VA and FHA loans for qualifying buyers and properties
Consult with lenders early to understand which options fit your situation. Getting pre-approved before you start shopping saves time and prevents disappointment later. Your lender can also help you understand the specific closing costs and tax benefits available in this market, which often surprise buyers coming from higher-cost areas.