Should you build from the ground up or buy a resale home in Hollister? It is a big decision with real dollars and months of time on the line. If you want lake access, views, or a quiet lot near Branson, your choice affects budget, timeline, and how much stress you carry. In this guide, you’ll learn realistic timelines, cost drivers, key inspections, and local checks that matter in Taney County so you can pick the right path for your move. Let’s dive in.

Hollister market context

Hollister sits just south of Branson with easy access to Table Rock Lake and the Ozarks outdoors. Local demand often comes from tourism jobs, retirees, and buyers who want a small-town feel with nearby amenities. Housing choices include older single-family homes and cabins, plus newer subdivisions and custom homes on hilltop or lake-adjacent lots. Utilities vary by area, so some properties are on city water and sewer while others rely on private wells and septic systems.

Property taxes are assessed by the county and city. For tax rates, assessments, and exemptions, check with the Taney County Assessor before you set your budget. Insurance costs can be higher near water or on steep terrain, and floodplain status can require flood insurance for some loans.

Build vs buy timelines

Buying resale

Most resale purchases close in about 30 to 60 days after your offer is accepted. You typically schedule inspections within the first week to 10 days. Cash can move faster if title, appraisal, and inspections cooperate.

Buying a builder spec home

If a builder has a home in progress, you could move in within 2 to 6 months depending on stage and finish choices still open to you. This is often a good middle ground when you want new systems without the full custom build timeline.

Building a custom home

A true custom build usually runs 8 to 18 months or more. In Hollister and the surrounding hills, septic design, well drilling, rock excavation, and sloped sites can add weeks or months. Builder backlogs and permit timing also influence your calendar.

Cost comparison: what to expect

Upfront and closing costs for resale

You will pay for standard due diligence, like a general home inspection, termite/pest inspection, and often radon testing. If the home is on septic or a private well, budget for septic and well inspections. You will also have customary closing costs and loan fees, and you may negotiate repairs or credits based on inspection results.

Carrying costs while building

New construction adds carrying costs during the build. Plan for construction-loan interest on draws, builder risk insurance during construction, and HOA or lot fees if applicable. Site work like septic, well, grading, and temporary utilities can add notable line items. If you need to sell your current home, you may carry two payments or use bridge financing.

Long-term costs and efficiency

New homes often come with lower immediate maintenance, modern mechanicals, and energy-efficient construction, plus warranties that reduce surprise repairs. Resale homes can be more affordable upfront but may need roof, HVAC, or plumbing updates sooner. New construction commonly carries a premium over comparable resale, often in the mid-single digits up to the low-20 percent range depending on lot, upgrades, and local supply.

Financing: how it differs

Resale financing basics

Conventional, FHA, and VA loans are common for resale purchases. Your lender will order an appraisal and review inspections as part of standard underwriting. Closing is straightforward when title is clear and the home appraises at or above the contract price.

Construction financing overview

New construction typically uses a construction-to-permanent loan or a separate construction loan followed by a permanent mortgage. Lenders want a detailed budget, builder contract, draws tied to milestones, and an appraisal based on completed value. Some construction loans use an interest reserve, but you should still plan for interest-only payments during the build.

Coordinating a sale and a build

If you need the proceeds from your current home, talk with a local lender early about bridge loans or contingency options. The right strategy depends on your risk tolerance, timing needs, and the strength of your current home’s market.

Inspections that protect you

Resale inspections in Taney County

• General home inspection covering structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
• Pest/termite inspection, which is common in Missouri.
• Septic inspection and pumping if applicable. Verify system age and permits through the Taney County Health Department.
• Well inspection with water quality testing for bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals if on a private well.
• Radon testing. Many Missouri counties have elevated radon potential; see the EPA’s guidance on radon testing and mitigation.
• Sewer scope for homes on city sewer, especially with mature trees.
• Moisture checks in crawlspaces and attics since humidity can affect insulation and framing.

New construction checkpoints

• Permit and site verification for septic and well or sewer hookup before work begins.
• Foundation inspection for footings, reinforcement, and waterproofing before backfill.
• Framing inspection to confirm structural connections and proper sheathing.
• Rough-in inspections for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC before insulation.
• Insulation and air sealing checks, and blower door testing if offered.
• Final systems inspection, plus a thorough walk-through and punch list before closing.
• Collect all manuals, appliance documentation, and written builder warranties.

Consider third-party inspections

You can hire an independent inspector for key stages like foundation, pre-drywall, and final. Use local pros who understand Ozark soils, water conditions, and regional codes.

Local checks for Hollister and Taney County

• Permits and approvals. Confirm whether the City of Hollister or Taney County Building Department is the authority for your property. Permit turnaround influences your schedule.
• Septic and wells. The Taney County Health Department issues septic permits with specific siting and soil rules. For private wells, plan for permitting and water testing.
• Floodplain status. Review flood maps for properties near streams or lake tributaries. Lenders can require flood insurance for mapped zones.
• HOA rules. Covenants may govern materials, colors, setbacks, and use. Review these before you design.
• Access and utilities. Verify hookup or extension costs for water, sewer, electric, gas or propane, and broadband.
• Environmental. Missouri has radon potential in many counties; plan to test, and consider a mitigation system if needed.
• Contractor vetting. Check builder reputation, references, warranty terms, and whether there are any liens or claims.
• Taxes and reassessment. New construction can trigger a reassessment that changes your property tax bill after completion. Verify with the Taney County Assessor.

When to build vs buy in Hollister

Choose new construction when

• You want a specific layout, finishes, or energy performance you cannot find in resale.
• You are comfortable with a longer timeline, or a near-complete spec is available for faster move-in.
• You have a suitable lot or are willing to buy one with feasible septic or utility access.
• You have construction financing lined up and are not dependent on a tight sale timeline.
• Resale inventory is thin or overpriced compared with cost to build similar quality.

Buy resale when

• You need to move within 30 to 60 days or want to avoid build delays and change orders.
• You find a home that matches your location, lot, and essentials at a fair price.
• You prefer negotiating price and repairs rather than paying builder upgrade premiums.
• Site or septic costs on your preferred land are unusually high.

Consider a near-complete spec home

Spec homes can strike a balance. You get a faster move-in, some limited choices, and builder warranties without managing a full custom build.

Three local scenarios to compare

1) First-time buyer purchases a resale

• Timeline: 30 to 60 days from contract to close.
• Key costs: Inspections, standard closing costs, and possible immediate repairs.
• Inspections: General, termite, radon, plus septic and well if applicable.
• Financing: Conventional, FHA, or VA with appraisal and standard underwriting.

2) Move-up buyer chooses a spec home

• Timeline: 2 to 6 months depending on build stage and finish options.
• Key costs: Earnest money, potential upgrade selections, and final closing costs.
• Inspections: Pre-close inspection and a detailed punch list; consider a third-party inspector.
• Financing: Conventional or construction-to-perm depending on builder and lender.

3) Lakeview lot custom build

• Timeline: 8 to 18+ months with added time for septic design, well, site work, and weather.
• Key costs: Lot purchase, site prep, construction draws and interest, builder risk insurance, and contingency for change orders.
• Inspections: Foundation, framing, rough-ins, insulation, and final; collect all warranties.
• Financing: Construction-to-perm or two-close structure with detailed budget and draw schedule.

Copy-and-save checklists

If you are leaning new construction

• Budget 10 to 20 percent for upgrades beyond base price.
• Validate lot costs: septic design and install, well drilling, grading, and rock excavation.
• Confirm permit path and estimated timelines with the city or county.
• Get insurance quotes, including builder risk and flood if needed.
• Line up construction-to-perm terms early and ask about interest reserves.
• Plan for temporary housing or overlapping payments if your current home must sell.

If you are leaning resale

• Schedule a general home inspection and a termite inspection.
• Add radon testing and a sewer scope if on city sewer.
• For septic and well properties, order septic and well inspections with water quality tests.
• Request repair quotes for any big-ticket items and negotiate accordingly.
• Verify taxes, HOA rules, and floodplain status before you waive contingencies.

Timing your move in Taney County

Construction schedules can stretch with wet weather and site conditions. If you plan to build, start design and permitting well before your desired move date. If you plan to buy resale, watch local listing activity and prepare your loan pre-approval so you can act when the right home hits the market.

Ready to decide with confidence?

Whether you build or buy, the right local guide helps you avoid costly surprises. Our team understands Hollister neighborhoods, septic and well considerations, builder timelines, and the fine print that can slow a closing. If you want clear next steps, market perspective, and end-to-end support, reach out to Step Above Realty LLC. We will help you compare options, line up inspections, and move from blueprint to doorstep with less stress.

FAQs

How long does it take to build a home in Hollister?

• Production or spec builds often take 2 to 6 months, while custom builds commonly run 8 to 18 months or more depending on permits, site work, and builder backlog.

How much more does new construction cost than resale in Taney County?

• New construction often carries a premium over comparable resale, frequently ranging from mid-single digits up to the low-20 percent range depending on the lot and upgrades.

What inspections should I order on a resale home in Hollister?

• Plan for a general inspection, termite/pest, radon testing, and septic and well inspections if applicable; add a sewer scope for homes on city sewer.

What inspections should I request during construction?

• Ask for foundation, framing, rough-in, and insulation checks, plus a final inspection and punch list; consider independent third-party inspections.

Can I finance a new build and keep my current home?

• Yes, but it is complex; options may include a construction-to-perm loan, a separate construction loan followed by a mortgage, or a bridge loan paired with a planned sale.

How do I know if my lot can support a septic system near Hollister?

• Request septic permits or a soils/percolation test and consult the Taney County Health Department to confirm siting and design requirements.

Do I need to test for radon in Hollister, MO?

• Radon occurs across Missouri; the EPA recommends testing and mitigation if levels are elevated, even in newer homes.