Typically it is cheaper to buy a modest home than to build one, specially in this market.
However there are negatives, like not knowing when the roof will need to be services, age of the pipes, etc. Also the house style may not be what you want, you may want a more modern open look.
Also old houses needed to meet one set of construction requirements, newer ones are require to meet more stringent requirements, which typically cost more. Also hard not to buy that fancy door or window, in a previously build house the windows and doors are already there and selected by the previous owner.
It is all up to you, building gives you what you want but it is more expensive
I don't know the area