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If you’re in the market for a new home, you should shop for your builder as carefully as you shop for your home. Whether you are buying a condo, a townhouse, a log cabin, a traditional house in a subdivision or a custom-built house, you want to know that you are buying a good quality home from a reputable builder. Here are some tips to help you choose a builder.

Research Home Builders in Your Area

Once you have thought about the type of house you want, you can create a list of potential builders. There are several ways to start building a list of professionals.

The best place to start is by contacting your local home builders’ association to obtain a list of builders who construct homes in your area.

Review the real estate section of your local newspaper to learn which builders are active in your area, the types of homes they are building, and the prices you can expect to pay.

Ask for Home Builder Recommendations

Local real estate agents can help you find the perfect location or recommend builders. You can also ask friends and relatives about builders they have dealt with directly or ask them for the names of acquaintances who have recently had good experiences with a builder.

Visit and Tour New Homes in Your Community

Look at new homes whenever you can. Home shows and open houses are good opportunities to explore homes constructed by builders in your community. Model homes and houses displayed in home shows are often furnished to provide ideas for using the space.

When examining a home, look at the quality of the main features. Inspect the quality of the construction materials, cabinetry, carpeting, trimwork and paint. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the work’s quality or craftsmanship. What seems like an insignificant question might yield a meaningful answer. A professional builder or their representative should be able to answer your questions thoroughly.

Find out if the Home Builder has a Reputable Business

When you have a list of potential builders, it’s time to start learning more about them. Maintaining a reputable business is a significant component of being a professional home builder. A top-notch professional integrates best practices, writes clear contracts, has insurance, provides warranties, and more. Also, professional builders will explain the construction process and building schedule to the buyer.

Ask about Contracts, Pricing and Payment Schedules

A qualified builder will provide a written estimate and a detailed contract before beginning the work. The contract should spell out what work will and will not be performed and provide a payment schedule. You are not protected when something goes wrong if you don’t have a contract. Don’t hire anyone who tells you a contract “won’t be necessary.”

Inquire About a Home Builders Business Practices

In addition, a professional home builder will be able to provide you with a copy of their business license and show proof of their workers’ compensation and liability insurance. These critical elements will protect you from liability for job site injuries or property damage resulting from the work performed on your home. Better business management means better service for home owners because they can rely on the builder to perform with integrity.

Learn About a Builder’s Level of Customer Service

Home builders strive to construct a new home that will satisfy their customers. They are committed to client satisfaction and emphasize the importance of delivering outstanding service from every member of their team and maintaining a professional approach in every interaction.

Builders will outline how you communicate during the home building process and do their best to accommodate your preferences. It is best to have clear communication expectations and discuss the frequency and method. How you communicate early on with each other will set the tone throughout the building process.

Ask About a Home Builder’s Experience

A builder will usually share how long they have been in business. Longevity suggests financial stability, which is necessary for the home builder to complete the job and still be available if problems arise after the job is finished. You want to make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties. Also, the more homes the company has completed, the more expertise the builder will bring to your project.

Building a home is a complex activity. A professional builder is familiar with the construction standards, proper materials, the process from start to finish, new technologies, and has a deep understanding of the minor details and various tools essential to constructing a quality home.

Learn About the Builder’s Industry Education and Involvement

Also inquire about their involvement with professional organizations, such as your local builders’ association. Groups like these keep their members informed about better equipment, tools depending on construction techniques, construction technologies, business practices and construction standards. Participation can be an indicator of a builder’s commitment to professionalism and the residential construction industry.

Always Ask Home Builders for References and Contact Them

Any high-quality builder should be ready to provide you with the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. If they cannot, consider that a red flag and walk away. When reaching out to those former clients, ask about all the pieces of the project. How well did the Builder follow through on the initial plans? Did the Builder meet their expectations with the main features, build, budget, and timing? Remember the most telling question: Would they hire that Builder again if they could do it all over?

 

“This article was reprinted with permission from NAHB.org”

Previously, we discussed the appeal of the flex room to give homebuyers versatility in their home space. Another similar trend has been gaining traction in the industry thanks to a growing shift that is emerging among today’s buyers: the desire for separation, privacy, and personal retreat. As a result, the away room is making a strong comeback, creating a valuable opportunity for homebuilders to address evolving consumer preferences.

The concept of an away room is simple yet powerful. Unlike a flex room that is designed to serve multiple purposes, an away room is intentionally created as a place of escape. It offers homeowners a dedicated space to relax, recharge, focus, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude away from the activity of the main living areas. In an increasingly connected and often hectic world, that sense of personal refuge has become more important than ever.

Several factors are driving the resurgence of away rooms. First, households are busier and more diverse in how they use their homes. Family members may be working remotely, attending virtual classes, gaming, streaming entertainment, or pursuing hobbies simultaneously. While open-concept layouts encourage interaction, they can also create noise, distractions, and a lack of privacy. Homeowners are recognizing the value of having a separate space where they can disconnect from household activity without leaving home entirely.

Mental wellness has also become a significant influence on residential design. Buyers increasingly view their homes as sanctuaries rather than simply places to live. An away room provides an environment that supports relaxation, mindfulness, reading, creative pursuits, or quiet reflection. Whether used for meditation, conversation, music, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in peace, these spaces contribute to a home's overall livability and emotional appeal.

Successful away rooms are distinguished by their location and atmosphere. Builders should consider placing them away from primary traffic patterns and active gathering areas. Proximity to a private courtyard, covered porch, or scenic outdoor view can further enhance the room's retreat-like character. Design elements such as larger windows, comfortable proportions, sound insulation, and softer lighting can help establish a calm and welcoming environment.

It’s important to note, the away room is not limited to luxury homes. Buyers across a variety of price points appreciate spaces that provide privacy and separation. Even a modestly sized room can become a highly valued feature when thoughtfully designed. In many cases, homeowners perceive greater value from a dedicated retreat space than from simply expanding common living areas.

From a marketing perspective, the away room offers builders a compelling differentiator. While many homes may feature similar square footage and amenities, few provide intentional spaces designed specifically for personal well-being. Showcasing an away room allows prospective buyers to envision a lifestyle that balances connection with privacy—a combination that speaks strongly in today's market.

As home design continues to evolve, builders who recognize the growing demand for personal retreat spaces will be well positioned to meet the needs of modern buyers. The resurgence of the away room reflects a broader shift in how people want to live: connected when they choose to be, but with the ability to step away when they need to. By incorporating thoughtfully designed away rooms into future floorplans, homebuilders can deliver homes that feel more functional, more comfortable, and ultimately more desirable.

Homebuyers today expect more from their homes than ever before. As lifestyles continue to evolve, dedicated single-purpose rooms are giving way to spaces that can adapt alongside changing family needs. This shift has elevated the flex room from a desirable upgrade to one of the most valuable design features builders can offer. For homebuilders, creating the perfect flex room is an opportunity to increase a home's appeal, functionality, and long-term value.

The most successful flex rooms begin with strategic placement. Location within the floorplan often determines how buyers will ultimately use the space. A flex room near the front entry may serve as a home office, library, or client meeting space, while a room adjacent to living areas can easily transition into a playroom, media room, or hobby area. Main-level flex rooms are particularly attractive because they provide accessibility and versatility for households at every stage of life.

Designing for adaptability should be the primary objective. Rather than building around a single intended use, the room should be conceived as a blank canvas. Open floorplans, generous wall space, and simple room geometry allow homeowners to furnish and customize the space according to their needs. Avoiding highly specialized built-ins can preserve flexibility and broaden the room's potential applications.

Natural light plays a critical role in the success of any flex space. Large windows create an inviting atmosphere while supporting common uses such as home offices, study areas, fitness rooms, and creative workspaces. At the same time, builders should incorporate layered lighting solutions that allow the room to function effectively during evenings or for activities requiring focused illumination.

Technology integration is another essential consideration. Today's buyers increasingly use flex rooms as remote work environments, learning centers, or entertainment spaces. Ample electrical outlets, strategically placed data connections, and provisions for future smart-home technologies can significantly enhance the room's functionality and future-proof its design.

Storage should never be overlooked. A flex room that can easily transition between uses requires thoughtful storage solutions that help homeowners keep the space organized. Closets, built-in cabinetry, or adjacent storage areas allow the room to evolve without becoming cluttered. Even modest storage additions can dramatically increase the room's practical value.

Acoustic performance is equally important. As remote work and virtual meetings remain common, homeowners appreciate spaces that offer privacy and sound control. Solid-core doors, quality insulation, and careful attention to room placement can help create a quieter environment suitable for work, study, or relaxation.

Perhaps most importantly, builders should market the flex room as a solution rather than a specific room type. Buyers are often inspired when they can envision multiple possibilities for a space. A room that can function as an office today, a nursery tomorrow, and a guest room years later delivers lasting value that resonates with modern homeowners.

The perfect flex room is not defined by what it is, but by what it can become. By prioritizing flexibility, functionality, and future adaptability, homebuilders can create spaces that meet the diverse needs of today's buyers while helping homes remain relevant and sought after for years to come.

A home is more than the building itself—it is also part of a neighborhood. Whether you have lived on your street for years or just moved in, a little consideration around shared property lines can prevent awkward conversations, costly disputes, and unnecessary stress. From fences and trees to drainage and landscaping, property-line issues are common. The good news: most can be handled with clear communication, reasonable expectations, and a willingness to work together.

Start With the Facts
Before making changes near a property line, confirm where that line actually is. A fence, hedge, or row of shrubs may look like a boundary, but it is not always placed precisely on the legal property line. If there is uncertainty — especially before installing a fence, shed, driveway extension, or major landscaping feature — it may be worth consulting a licensed surveyor. Knowing the facts upfront can save both neighbors from having to undo expensive work later.

Talk Before You Build
A new fence can add privacy, help contain pets, and improve curb appeal. It can also become a point of tension if it appears without warning. Before installing or replacing a fence along a shared boundary, let your neighbor know what you are planning. Discuss practical details such as height, materials, style, placement, timeline, and access needed during construction. If both households will benefit from the fence, you may also want to discuss sharing the cost. Even when there is no legal obligation to split expenses, a cooperative conversation can make the project feel like a neighborhood improvement rather than a surprise next door.
A thoughtful rule of thumb: install the finished side of the fence facing your neighbor whenever possible. It is a small gesture that tends to go a long way.

Handle Shared Fences as Shared Responsibilities
If a fence sits directly on the property line, it may be considered a shared fence, depending on local laws and prior agreements. That can make repairs, replacement, and maintenance a joint conversation. If the fence is leaning, damaged in a storm, or simply reaching the end of its life, avoid assuming the other neighbor will pay — or that they will agree to your preferred replacement. Share photos, explain the issue, and suggest a few options. When you reach an agreement, putting the basics in writing can help.

Be Mindful of Trees That Cross Property Lines
Trees are beautiful, valuable additions to a yard, but they can create tricky situations when branches, roots, leaves, or fruit extend into a neighboring property. In many places, a homeowner may be allowed to trim branches or roots that cross onto their property, as long as the work does not damage or kill the tree. However, tree laws vary by location, and large or unhealthy trees can involve safety concerns and liability questions.
The neighborly approach is to communicate before taking action. If branches are hanging over a roof, blocking a walkway, dropping debris into a pool, or creating a safety concern, mention it early and calmly. The tree owner may be willing to arrange trimming or share the cost of professional work. For major pruning, trees near power lines, or concerns about a tree’s health, bring in a qualified arborist. Cutting corners around a mature tree can lead to damage that is much more expensive than routine maintenance.

Keep Landscaping From Becoming a Boundary Battle
Hedges, vines, garden beds, retaining walls, and decorative borders can all blur the line between two properties. Before planting something that will spread, grow tall, or require regular trimming from the other side, consider how it may affect your neighbor over time.
Fast-growing bamboo, invasive vines, and large shrubs can become a major headache when they cross into another yard. Choose plants suited to the space, maintain them regularly, and keep them from blocking paths, windows, drainage areas, or views where possible. If you share a hedge or landscaping feature, coordinate on upkeep. One neighbor trimming aggressively while the other prefers a fuller look is a recipe for frustration.

Pay Attention to Water and Drainage
Water has a way of finding the path of least resistance—and sometimes that path is straight into a neighbor’s yard. Changes such as new patios, grading, gutters, downspouts, pools, landscaping, or driveway work can alter how water flows around a property. Before starting a project, think about where runoff will go during heavy rain.
Directing water toward a neighboring property can cause erosion, standing water, foundation concerns, or damaged landscaping. If drainage is already a problem, speak with your neighbor and consider solutions such as gutter extensions, French drains, grading adjustments, or professional drainage evaluation.

Give Notice Before Work Begins
Property-line projects often require contractors, equipment, or temporary access near a neighbor’s yard. A quick heads-up is courteous and practical. Let your neighbor know when work will begin, how long it is expected to last, whether noise or dust is likely, and whether workers may need access close to the boundary. If pets, children, parking, or gates are involved, advance notice is especially helpful. You do not need permission for every project on your own property, but communication can make the process smoother for everyone.

Keep Conversations Calm and Specific
Disagreements can happen, even between friendly neighbors. When they do, focus on the issue rather than making it personal. Instead of saying, “Your tree is ruining my yard,” try, “Several branches are hanging over the roof, and I am worried about damage during the next storm. Could we talk about trimming options?” Use photos, measurements, and specific examples when helpful. Listen to the other person’s perspective, and look for solutions that address the concern without escalating the situation. If a conversation becomes difficult, consider involving a neutral professional, such as a surveyor, arborist, contractor, mediator, homeowners association representative, or local code office.

Know When to Check Local Rules
Fence height, setbacks, tree removal, drainage, and property-line structures can all be regulated by local ordinances, homeowners association rules, and state laws. Requirements can vary widely, so it is wise to check before starting work. This is especially important for projects involving permits, retaining walls, pools, large sheds, major grading, or trees near utility lines.

A Little Courtesy Protects More Than Your Property
Good property-line etiquette is not just about avoiding disputes. It is about protecting the comfort, value, and long-term enjoyment of everyone’s home. A quick conversation before a fence goes up, a cooperative plan for an overhanging tree, or a thoughtful approach to drainage can preserve a positive relationship for years. When homeowners communicate early and maintain shared spaces responsibly, they help create the kind of neighborhood people are happy to call home.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Property laws and local regulations vary, so homeowners should consult qualified local professionals when questions involve legal boundaries, permits, liability, or significant property damage.

Homebuyers continue to place a premium on outdoor living spaces that extend the comfort and functionality of the home beyond its walls. From expansive composite decks and custom patios to fully equipped outdoor kitchens, these features have become key selling points in today’s new construction market. For builders, outdoor living spaces offer an opportunity to differentiate projects, increase home value, and meet evolving buyer expectations. As these spaces become more sophisticated, however, builders must also consider quality construction practices, material performance, and long-term durability to ensure homeowner satisfaction.

Outdoor Living Continues to Drive Buyer Demand
The demand for functional outdoor living areas shows no signs of slowing down. Homeowners increasingly view decks, patios, and outdoor kitchens as essential extensions of their indoor living space rather than optional upgrades. Builders who incorporate outdoor living features into their designs early in the planning process can create more cohesive layouts, improve traffic flow, and maximize the overall appeal of the home.

Custom Decks: Combining Style and Performance

Today’s deck designs are larger, more customized, and built to serve multiple purposes. Popular trends include:

As deck designs become more complex, proper installation, drainage considerations, and structural integrity remain critical to long-term performance.

Patios Designed for Year-Round Enjoyment

Builders who prioritize proper grading, drainage, and material selection can help minimize future maintenance concerns while enhancing homeowner satisfaction.
Outdoor Kitchens Continue to Gain Popularity
Outdoor kitchens have become one of the most requested outdoor living upgrades in new homes. Many homeowners are looking for features such as:

Because outdoor kitchens incorporate multiple building components, including plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances, careful planning and coordination among trades are essential to ensure quality installation and long-term reliability.

Creating a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Experience

One of the most influential trends in residential construction is the desire for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. There are a variety of methods used to accomplish this. You can install expansive sliding and folding glass door systems, and pair that with open-concept floor plans that flow naturally to outdoor living areas. Consistent design elements can be utilized to connect interior and exterior spaces. And a modern touch would be to include integrated smart-home technology that extends into outdoor environments. These design choices not only enhance the homeowner experience but can also increase perceived living space and overall home value.

Quality Construction Matters Beyond the Closing Date

As outdoor living spaces become more elaborate, homeowners expect these investments to perform as beautifully as they look. Proper installation practices, quality materials, and attention to detail play an important role in reducing callbacks and supporting homeowner confidence. Builders who focus on craftsmanship and long-term durability help protect both their reputation and the homeowner’s investment.

Supporting Builders Through Every Stage of Homeownership

Outdoor living spaces are helping shape the future of residential construction, offering homeowners more ways to enjoy their homes while creating new opportunities for builders to stand out in the marketplace.

As buyer expectations continue to evolve, builders benefit from partners who understand the importance of quality construction and homeowner satisfaction. A comprehensive home warranty program, like the many options offered by RWC and affiliates, can provide added peace of mind by helping protect homeowners after closing while reinforcing a builder’s commitment to delivering lasting value.

The result is more than a beautiful outdoor oasis—it’s a home built to inspire confidence for years to come.

Home buyers are no longer looking only for square footage and finishes — they want homes that are comfortable, energy-efficient, durable, and built for the future. For builders, that shift creates a major opportunity. Advances in insulation, HVAC technology, and sustainable materials are making it easier than ever to construct high-performance homes that reduce operating costs while increasing long-term value.

High-Performance Insulation Raises the Standard

Modern insulation systems are doing far more than meeting code minimums. High-performance options such as spray foam, rigid exterior insulation, insulated concrete forms (ICFs), and advanced mineral wool products help create tighter building envelopes that minimize heat loss and air leakage. The result is improved indoor comfort, lower utility bills, better moisture control, and reduced strain on HVAC systems. Builders investing in superior insulation strategies are also finding it easier to meet stricter energy codes and green certification requirements.

Heat Pumps Are Becoming the Preferred HVAC Solution

Heat pump technology has evolved rapidly in recent years, making all-electric heating and cooling practical even in colder climates. Today’s air-source and ground-source heat pumps offer impressive efficiency, quieter operation, and lower emissions compared to traditional furnaces and air conditioners. For builders, heat pumps provide several advantages:

- Reduced energy consumption
- Simplified mechanical systems
- Compatibility with solar energy
- Increased appeal to energy-conscious buyers

As electrification trends continue and utility incentives expand, heat pumps are expected to become a standard feature in many new residential developments.

Net-Zero Homes Are Moving Into the Mainstream

Net-zero homes — properties designed to produce as much energy as they consume annually — are no longer niche projects. Improvements in building science, renewable energy systems, and smart home technology are making net-zero construction increasingly attainable. A typical net-zero strategy combines:

- Airtight construction
- High-performance windows and insulation
- Efficient HVAC and water heating systems
- Solar photovoltaic systems
- Smart energy monitoring

Builders who adopt net-zero principles now position themselves ahead of future code changes while appealing to buyers seeking long-term energy savings and environmental responsibility.

Sustainable Materials Are Reshaping Construction

Innovation in eco-friendly building materials is accelerating across the industry. Today’s sustainable products are not only environmentally responsible; many also outperform conventional materials in durability and maintenance. Popular options include:

- Engineered wood products that reduce waste
- Recycled steel framing
- Low-carbon concrete alternatives
- Bamboo flooring and paneling
- Reclaimed wood finishes
- Composite decking made from recycled plastics

These materials help reduce environmental impact while offering strength, longevity, and modern design flexibility.

Durability Is the New Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer measured solely by recycled content. Long-lasting, low-maintenance materials contribute significantly to environmental performance by reducing repair cycles, replacement waste, and lifecycle costs. Builders who prioritize durability alongside efficiency can deliver homes that maintain value, perform better over time, and require fewer resources throughout their lifespan.

Building for the Next Generation

Energy efficiency and sustainable construction are rapidly becoming expectations rather than upgrades. Home builders who embrace high-performance insulation, heat pump technology, net-zero strategies, and innovative materials will be better positioned to meet changing buyer demands and evolving regulations. The future of residential construction belongs to homes that are smarter, healthier, more resilient, and built with long-term performance in mind.

When you buy a home—especially a newly built one—you’re not just investing in a place to live, but in long-term peace of mind. Two key protections often come into play: new home warranties and homeowners insurance. While they’re sometimes used interchangeably in conversation, they actually serve very different but complementary roles.

Educating your buyers on how each works can help them feel more confident in the coverage you are providing vs what they get with their insurance company, and therefore, be better prepared for the unexpected.

Two Types of Protection, Two Different Purposes
It helps to think of homeowners insurance and new home warranties as addressing different kinds of “what if” scenarios. Homeowners insurance focuses on sudden, accidental events—things like storms, fires, or theft. New home warranties focus on how the home was built, covering certain defects in materials or workmanship that may surface over time. Both are valuable, and together they provide a more complete safety net for homeowners.

What Homeowners Insurance Typically Covers
A standard homeowners insurance policy is designed to protect your home and belongings from unexpected damage or loss. Common coverage includes:
- Fire and smoke damage
- Weather-related events like wind, hail, or lightning
- Theft or vandalism
- Certain types of water damage (such as a burst pipe)
- Personal liability protection

Example: If a strong storm causes a tree to fall and damage your roof, your homeowners insurance would typically cover the repairs (subject to your deductible and policy terms). However, insurance is not intended to cover everything. It generally doesn’t apply to gradual issues, routine wear and tear, or concerns related to how the home was originally constructed.

What a New Home Warranty Covers
A new home warranty, provided by you, the builder, offers coverage for specific aspects of a home’s construction. Coverage and terms may vary depending which variety you choose, but using a standard 1-2-10 warranty as an example, they are usually structured in phases:
- Year 1: Coverage for workmanship and materials (e.g., drywall, trim, finishes)
- Years 1–2: Coverage for major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC
- Up to 10 years: Structural coverage for key load-bearing components

Example: If you notice that a door isn’t closing properly due to settling or that tile was not installed as expected, those types of concerns may fall under your warranty coverage rather than insurance.

Why Structural Warranty Coverage Matters
One of the most important components of a new home warranty is the structural coverage. This portion focuses on the core elements that support the home, such as: foundation, framing, load-bearing walls, and roof structure, just to name a few. These elements are essential to the home’s stability and long-term performance.

A Closer Look
While modern construction follows strict standards and inspections, homes are complex structures built from many materials and systems working together. Occasionally, underlying issues can emerge over time. Structural repairs, when needed, can be significant in scope and cost. Addressing foundation movement or framing concerns, for example, may involve specialized work that goes well beyond typical home maintenance.

It’s also important to note that homeowners insurance is not designed to cover structural concerns related to construction or long-term settling. That’s why structural warranty coverage plays such a valuable role—it helps bridge that gap.

How Warranties and Insurance Work Together
Rather than overlapping, these protections complement each other. Insurance helps with sudden, external events while a warranty helps with certain construction-related concerns.

Side-by-Side Example:
A pipe bursts due to freezing temperatures → Insurance may cover the damage. If a pipe develops a leak due to an installation issue → Warranty may address the repair
Having both in place means you’re better protected across a wider range of situations.

Tips for Home Buyers and Homeowners
If you’re purchasing a newly built home, consider these tips:
- Review the details of your builder’s warranty, including what’s covered, what's not, and the warranty term.
- Understand how to submit a claim if an issue arises.
- Ask whether the warranty is transferable if you sell your home.
- Maintain a comprehensive homeowners insurance policy and review it annually.

What It All Comes Down To
A new home is an exciting milestone, and today’s homes are built with care, expertise, and evolving standards. Even so, having the right protections in place adds an extra layer of reassurance.
And since homeowners insurance and new home warranties each play a distinct role, understanding how each works isn’t just helpful—it’s a smart step toward protecting your home for years to come.

 

By Victoria Sontheimer, RWC

If you’re like some of us at RWC, you may be a reader who enjoys a lifelong relationship with books. We can remember the ones that got us started on that path. One was that Dr. Suess Alphabet book that captured our imagination and made reading fun. Then there was a book about Babe Ruth that recounted his childhood in an orphanage, his mastery of hitting a baseball, and his larger-than-life off field adventures. That one was the subject of our first book report. It was quickly followed by a book about the great quarterbacks of the NFL, which revealed, in its Y. A. Tittle chapter, that a person could be both bald and an NFL quarterback at the same time, a revelation that amazed us at the time.

By finding books at the library or from a suggestion by a caring teacher or family member, we then discovered stories like Sheila Burnford’s The Incredible Journey. We can remember lying in bed trying to read by flashlight (when our parents wanted us to go to sleep) because we were deeply invested in the welfare of that cat and those two dogs we had come to know so well. And then Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird sealed the deal, as we learned important lessons, not from a textbook’s endless stream of facts and assignments, but from a work of fiction that touched our minds, hearts, and souls.

Since then, we’ve read hundreds of books that entertained, educated, or captivated us all the way to their thrilling, meaningful, or startling endings. Over time, we also began many other books that we simply couldn’t finish. There are a few reasons why we keep reading books to the end and remember some books all our lives and why we forget the many that we toss aside without finishing.

First, a good author keeps us turning the pages so that the end of each chapter leaves us thirsting for the story to continue. Another is the skill of the author in creating interesting characters who we care about and thought-provoking circumstances in which we can imagine ourselves—in other words a product of such good quality that we simply must have it. Then there is the hook that captures our imagination and makes us want to know whether that cat and those dogs make it home or whether Atticus Finch can get Tom Robinson the justice he deserves.

As builders, we can learn a lot from the books we’ve loved. For example, when a customer sees your billboard or online ad, does he want to turn the page and visit your office or model home, or does he throw that experience on the pile of ads that were easy to ignore or never really grabbed his attention in the first place? Once in your office or model home, what does he think about the quality of the product you want to sell him? Can he picture the happy ending that comes from living out the thousands of pages and hundreds of chapters of his life in the home you will build him, or does he lose interest because nothing you have to offer stands out from the crowd? When he drives into your development, does he think, “Wow, this must be a great place to live,” or does he turn around after a block or two to look for a place that gets his juices flowing?

And don’t forget that hook that draws a reader into a world he wants to experience or, in our case, captivates a potential home buyer. What is your hook? Is it quality of craftsmanship or value? Is it affordability or design? Is it small low maintenance lots or big yards where the kids can play? Or is it some combination of these qualities? If you find the right hook, you’ll be better able to reel those customers in and grow the kind of company you have always dreamed of having.

What’s your story? Is it a well-crafted one whose hook keeps bringing you customers? We hope it’s a page turner that tells your customers and prospective customers that time spent with you will be something they will always remember and give them an experience that positively changes their lives forever.

Speaking of books, there is no better book you can give your customers at contract time than a warranty from Residential Warranty Company. Over more than four decades, RWC has provided warranty protection on over four million homes. We offer a wide variety of warranty options like our standard ten-year warranty, our Day 1 coverage warranty, our extended appliance and systems warranties, and our specialty warranties for remodeling projects, detached garages, and commercial construction. Only RWC has developed and offers its members a customized state warranty that mirrors each state’s statute of repose and accommodates other state specific issues. All RWC warranties provide clear performance standards that help create realistic homeowner expectations and provide a road map to resolve even the stickiest customer complaints.

At RWC, every guarantee our warranties make is backed by Western Pacific Mutual Insurance Company, RRG. Western Pacific has an A- rating from A. M. Best and only insures home warranty and similar new home construction risks, like builders’ general liability, which can be offered through the RWC Insurance Advantage program to RWC members. No other warranty company has an insurer with this kind of strength solely dedicated to covering builders and their homes.

Each person or company is the author of their own destiny. Here’s hoping that yours is a bright and successful one and that, with RWC at your side, your homes are best sellers!

Have a great summer!

Here are a few key warranty highlights we find our builders appreciate*.

Notable Exclusions from Coverage:

Should you have any questions regarding coverage please reach out to our Warranty Resolution Department at 800-247-1812.

*Some items not applicable in New Jersey (#317 warranty booklet).

 

By Sandra Sweigert, RWC

Add a polished touch to your office or model home with our high quality, sturdy brochure holder. Ready to use right out of the box.
No assembly required and no cost to you!

Naturally, you'll also need pamphlets to fill it. We offer several choices of literature which explains to the buyer how the warranty works and its benefits. Click here to browse our brochures, flyers, signage and other marketing items.