So you and your man finally have enough financial resources to invest in your own home, but what if you find yourself arguing over your options before you even begin? You might have visions of building your house from scratch with your own brilliant design ideas. Meanwhile, your hubby might be more inclined to buy a house so that you can move in immediately and save yourself the trouble of dealing with construction decisions.

But which is the better option: building a house or buying one? If you're having trouble deciding, sit down with your man and consider these five factors.


Need more home ownership advice? Check these out on FN:

• 5 Things Every Person Should Know before Buying a Home
• Not Just a Pipe Dream: 12 Tips for Buying Your Dream Home
• Pros and Cons of Living in a House
• 5 Things to Remember When Selling Your Home

(First published in Real Living Magazine, Real Estate Smarts section as "He Says, 'Buy!' She Says, 'Build!' in July 2008; flashbox photo by netan via Flickr Creative Commons; adapted for use in Female Network)