Is an older home as good a value as a new home?

It's a matter of personal preference. Both new and older homes offer distinct advantages.  Newer homes generally have more space in the rooms where today's families do their living, like a family room or activity area.  They're usally easier to maintain, too.  However, many homes built years ago offer more total space for the money, as well as larger yards.  Taxes on some of the older homes may also be lower.  Some people are charmed by the elegance of an older home but shy away because they're concerned about potential maintenance costs.