Are you torn between a brand-new home and a classic resale in Washington Township? You’re not alone. Each option comes with trade-offs in cost, timing, and long-term value, especially in a small, built-out community like the Township of Washington. This guide breaks down what you can expect locally, from pricing and taxes to timelines, warranties, and where new homes are most likely to appear next. Let’s dive in.
Washington Township at a glance
Washington Township is a compact suburban community in Bergen County, about 12 to 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan, with bus and rail options nearby for commuters. It’s served by the Westwood Regional School District in partnership with Westwood Borough. Get a quick overview of the township’s location and amenities in this community profile.
Price stats can look very different across websites in a small town because of limited sales, mixed housing types, and whether a site reports list price or sold price. Instead of focusing on one number, expect a broad local range that can span from the mid 400s to 800s depending on property type and timing. Bergen County also carries some of the highest property tax bills in the country, and many Washington Township homes show five-figure annual tax costs, which should be part of your monthly budget. See county context on property taxes.
New construction: what to expect
Limited local supply
Washington Township is largely built out, so large single-family subdivisions are uncommon. The municipal master plan and zoning guide where new homes can go, and changes often appear through targeted redevelopment rather than broad new tracts. Recent planning discussions included potential rezoning along Pascack Road to meet affordable housing obligations, which could add townhomes or multifamily units over time. You can review local planning context in the town code and master plan references and see coverage of proposed rezonings on Pascack Road.
Price, incentives and costs
Historically, new homes carried a premium for modern design and warranties. In 2024 and 2025, some builders nationally offered incentives or price adjustments, which narrowed the gap with existing homes in certain markets. Always compare builder offers to nearby resale comps and include every monthly cost in your analysis, including potential HOA fees and the township’s property taxes. For national context on incentives, see this market trend report.
Timeline to move in
Resale homes usually close in 30 to 60 days, depending on financing and inspections. New construction can take months from contract to closing if you are building from plans, with possible delays for weather, materials, or inspections. If you need to move quickly, resale typically offers more certainty. Learn more about build timelines in this guide to buying vs. building.
Customization and efficiency
New homes often let you select finishes and layouts from a builder’s menu, which can be a big win if you want modern kitchens, primary suites, and energy-efficient systems. Many new builds meet current codes and may deliver lower utility costs at the start. Resales can offer larger lots, mature landscaping, and unique character, and you can always plan renovations over time.
Warranties and inspections
Builders typically provide limited warranties that cover different items for specific periods. Even with a warranty, you should order independent inspections, ideally at key stages such as pre-drywall and final walkthrough. For a helpful overview of warranty basics and why inspections still matter, see this new construction pros and cons explainer.
Resale strengths in this area
Established neighborhoods
Resale homes in Washington Township sit in established neighborhoods with mature yards and convenient access to area parks, schools, and shops. Proximity to commuter options in nearby towns is another value driver for many buyers. For a quick snapshot of commute context, review the township profile.
Faster path to closing
If you’re aiming to be in your new home within 1 to 2 months, resale is the more reliable path. You’ll still negotiate inspection items and appraisal, but the overall timeline is shorter than building.
Updates and upkeep
Older homes may need near-term updates, such as roofs, windows, or HVAC. Use inspection results to estimate future costs and negotiate where appropriate.
Quick buyer checklist
- Timeline: If you need to move soon, consider resale. If you have months and want to personalize, consider new construction.
- Budget: Compare total monthly costs, including mortgage, property taxes, HOA fees, utilities, and expected maintenance.
- Schools and commute: Confirm property-specific attendance and commute options. Start with the Westwood Regional School District overview.
- Builder diligence: Ask for references, warranty terms, and what is included vs. an upgrade. Get independent inspections even on new builds.
- Resale outlook: If you may move again in a few years, weigh lot size, location, and local supply shifts from any planned redevelopment.
Guidance for local sellers
If a new townhouse or condo project is planned near your home, buyers may compare your listing to fresh inventory with builder incentives. Smart cosmetic updates, thoughtful staging, and strategic pricing can keep you competitive. In quieter periods with limited new supply, well-located resales often hold leverage, especially if they offer larger lots and appealing layouts.
How to choose with confidence
In a compact, in-demand suburb, the right choice comes down to your timing, budget, and lifestyle. New construction can deliver convenience, energy efficiency, and warranties, but may involve longer timelines and HOA fees. Resales can offer faster closings and established neighborhoods, with maintenance items to plan for. If schools factor into your decision, review attendance details with the district and verify for each address.
Ready to compare specific options in Washington Township and see what fits your goals? Reach out to Ana Moniz for a tailored plan, local comps, and a clear path from search to closing.
FAQs
Are there many new single-family neighborhoods in Washington Township?
- Not typically. The township is small and mostly built out, so recent planning has focused on targeted redevelopment rather than large single-family tracts. See local planning coverage of Pascack Road sites here.
Where is new housing most likely to appear locally?
- Based on the township’s planning process, potential redevelopment sites along Pascack Road have been considered for townhomes or multifamily. Review master plan references here and recent press coverage here.
Will new homes cost more than resales in this area?
- It depends on the product. Infill single-family new builds often command premium pricing, while townhome or multifamily pricing varies. Nationally, builder incentives narrowed the gap in some markets; see this market trend summary.
How much do property taxes affect my budget in Washington Township?
- A lot. Bergen County’s taxes are among the highest nationally, and many local homes carry five-figure annual bills, which shape your monthly costs. Review county property tax context here.
Should I waive inspections on a new build?
- No. Even with a builder warranty, schedule independent inspections and document punch-list items in writing. Here’s a straightforward overview of why inspections matter on new construction homes.
