QUALITY

When examining a new home, inspect the quality of the cabinetry, paint, trimwork, appliances, carpet etc.  Be sure to ask the homebuilder lots of questions about all phases of residential construction.  Most home builders will welcome the opportunity to answer all your questions.

Ask your builder if he does the following to assure you will get a quality built new home:

	Is each new home foundation designed by an engineer?
	Does your new home builder employ a mechanical engineer to properly design the mechanical system of each and every home?
	Does the home builder employ a structural engineer to design the proper size and type floor joist?
	Does your builder have a good supply of quality sub contractors that can do the work properly and on schedule?
	How long have the sub contractors worked for the home builder?
	What is the overall level of experience of the builder?

VALUE

Just because a new home is less expensive than another home does not mean it is a better value.  There is not a product made that cannot be built cheaper and sold for less.  Likewise a more expensive new home does not automatically assure higher quality.  Keep in mind the following as you attempt to determine if your new home will increase in value equal to or greater than the typical new home for the DFW metroplex:

	Does your new home builder build in proven master planned communities?  New homes built in proven master planned communities typically escalate in value equal to or greater than homes built outside master planned communities?
	Do realtors like to re-sell homes built by your builder?
	Is the home located in a highly sought out area which generally causes high demand as the home is placed back on the market?
	Does your homebuilder offer extended warranties. (is the warranty backed by a major insurance companies for up to ten years and is it transferable?)  This is helpful when the home is placed on the market for sale?