Are you deciding between a brand-new build or a move-in-ready resale near Fort Cavazos? If you are PCSing or relocating to Bell County, the right choice comes down to your timeline, budget, and comfort with the building process. In this guide, you will learn the key trade-offs that matter here: costs and incentives, timing, VA loan details, warranties, appraisals, taxes, HOAs, and risk checks. Let’s dive in.
Fort Cavazos area snapshot
The installation historically known as Fort Hood was officially redesignated Fort Cavazos in 2023, a change you will still see referenced across the community and online. You will find the closest civilian markets in Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Nolanville, Belton and Temple, with Killeen and Harker Heights offering the shortest commutes. For the latest on the redesignation, see the Army’s announcement on the name change at Fort Cavazos public affairs.
New construction: what to expect
Pros you will like
- Lower near-term maintenance and modern building codes that can help with efficiency.
- Builder warranties, often structured as 1-2-10, provide workmanship, systems, and structural coverage. Learn the basics of new-home warranties from the FTC’s consumer guide.
- The chance to select finishes or upgrades if you contract early in the build.
- Active builders in the Temple–Killeen area are delivering new communities, which can expand options for different budgets. See recent builder activity in the region in Lennar’s expansion announcement.
Watchouts to plan for
- Build timelines can stretch from weeks to months depending on stage and supply. If you have a tight PCS window, confirm completion dates in writing.
- Landscaping, blinds, refrigerators, or backyard features may not be included. Budget for extras.
- Many new neighborhoods have HOAs with design rules and fees. Review the CC&Rs and budget before you sign.
- Texas law changed in 2023 and can affect long-term legal remedies tied to construction defects when a builder provides specific warranties. Review the details of HB 2024 on BillTrack50 and get warranty terms in writing.
Resale homes: what to expect
Pros you will like
- Faster path to closing, often within 30 to 60 days, which can fit tight reporting dates.
- Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping and nearby services.
- Inspection-driven negotiations that may cover repairs or credits before closing.
Watchouts to plan for
- Systems or roofs may be older, so plan for maintenance or replacement over time.
- Less customization upfront unless the seller agrees to updates before closing.
- Some homes may have older energy systems or code standards compared with new builds.
Costs, incentives and appraisals
Builders often offer incentives such as rate buydowns or help with closing costs. These can lower your monthly payment or cash due at closing, but they may also be treated as concessions by your lender and appraiser. Program rules cap how much a seller can contribute and require proper documentation. For how concessions are analyzed, review Fannie Mae’s guidance on interested party contributions.
If an appraisal comes in below the contract price, your options usually include renegotiating, bringing cash to close, or using contingencies to cancel. Ask your lender early how they will treat incentives on your loan type.
VA loans and new builds near Fort Cavazos
You can use your VA benefit for new construction in certain situations. One-time-close construction-to-permanent options exist, but they require a lender and builder who are experienced with VA requirements. Start these conversations early to align timelines and documents. For an overview, see the VA’s article on building a home with a VA loan.
90-day PCS decision guide
- If you must be in the home in 60 to 90 days: prioritize resale or a move-in-ready spec from a builder.
- If you have 90 to 150 days and flexibility: consider an in-progress new build with a confirmed completion date.
- If you have 6 months or more: a to-be-built home could work if your lender and builder can support VA construction requirements and your timeline.
- In all cases: lock in a lender early, confirm appraisal and concession rules, and build in a buffer for delays.
Taxes, HOAs and risk checks
Property taxes in Bell County vary by city and school district. Before you commit, review the local tax rates and how they apply to your specific address using the Texas Comptroller’s Bell County directory. For HOA neighborhoods, read the covenants, budget, and rental policies so there are no surprises.
Central Texas weather brings hail and severe thunderstorms, and flood risk varies by property. Confirm a home’s flood zone status using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Your insurance agent can help you price homeowner’s and flood coverage before you finalize an offer.
Which one is right for you?
Choose new construction if you want low maintenance, modern systems, and warranty coverage, and you have time to wait for completion. Choose resale if you need to move quickly, prefer established neighborhoods, or want room to renovate over time. If you are on the fence, look for a completed or near-complete new build that offers the best of both: modern systems plus a faster closing.
When you are ready to compare specific neighborhoods, incentives, and timelines, connect with a local guide who knows PCSs and Bell County inside and out. Reach out to Raye Krustchinsky for calm, responsive help from first tour to final walk-through.
FAQs
How long does a new construction purchase take near Fort Cavazos?
- It varies by stage: a completed spec can close in weeks, an in-progress home may need a few months, and a to-be-built plan can take several months or more depending on builder schedules.
Can I use a VA loan to build a home near the base?
- Yes in some cases, through construction-to-permanent products with VA-compliant lenders and builders; start early since documentation and timelines are more complex than a standard resale.
Do builder concessions affect my appraisal or loan approval?
- They can; lenders and appraisers may treat concessions as adjustments to value, and programs cap contributions, so disclose incentives early and confirm how your lender will underwrite them.
What warranties come with a new home in Texas?
- Many builders provide a 1-2-10 style warranty covering workmanship, systems and structure; request the warranty booklet and understand how Texas law affects timelines for claims.
How do property taxes differ across Bell County?
- Tax rates vary by city, school district and special districts, so verify the rates for your specific address and budget for the full annual amount before you write an offer.
