RGV New Homes Guide | Feb-March 2021 by New Homes South Texas

W W W. R G V N E W H O M E S G U I D E . C O M /

ISSUE 29.1 — FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION

DIVINE CUSTOM HOMES

GOMEZ 3 CONSTRUCTION

TREASURE BUILDERS

TREVIÑO CONSTRUCTION

WALDO HOMES

MEET THE BUILDERS OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOMES | PG. 22

One-Time Close Construction Loans • One Qualification Process • One Set of Closing Costs

3.5 • One Mortgage Loan

DOWN PAYMENT

MINIMUM FICO SCORE 640

Andrew Riddle 3700 N 10th Suite 301, McAllen TX 78501

CALL TEXT

(956) 279-7320

Branch NMLS# 1900816 | RMLO NMLS# 1469914 *All FHA loans are subject to underwriting or investor approval. Other restrictions may apply. This is not an offer of credit or a commitment to lend.

YouDeserve THE FINEST THINGS IN LIFE...

Photos by: Photograph RGV

Building Award-Winning Homes to Fit Your Budget!

Visit Our New Model Home! 1510 Sandstone Dr. Mission TX

(956) 466-8590 TERE WALDO (956) 466-8227 LUIS WALDO

w w w.WA L D O H O M E S R G V. c o m

E /WaldoHomesRGV

FEB. / MAR.

Volume 29 Issue 1 PUBLISHER Across Media Marketing, LLC

Contents

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jose Vielma SENIOR EDITOR Barbara Zapffe

VOL.29 ISSUE 1 — FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

2021

ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDERS

SPECIAL FEATURE

Shopping for a New Home There’s an item you probably don’t have on your “must have” list. Find out what it is.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

stepped up to a leadership role in the

The Dirty Truth About Clean Indoor Air

the Rio Grande Valley.

Learn some shocking facts that will change your

HOME SHOPPER NEWSLETTER

construction of energy efficient homes in

AEP Texas Congratulates Award Winners

This is one article that may be financially

AEP Honors 3 Rio Grande Valley Builders

rewarding to read.

Villa Homes Wins Free Parade Entry

Are You Leaving Money on the Table?

2021 Energy Efficient Builders Meet an elite group of builders who have

thinking about the air you are breathing.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Soria GRAPHIC DESIGNER Karla Garza ADVERTISING SALES Ken Sabe IT SPECIALIST Nadine Sabe DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Ken Sabe, Jr.

HOMEBUYING ADVICE 4

SALES MANAGER Jose R. Vielma

Did You Know This?

RGV SHOWROOMS

Find out some interesting facts about energy efficiency that will amaze you.

Materiales El Valle, Inc.

BUILT TO SAVE® Members

Unique, stylish products from Materiales El Valle.

What Is BUILT TO SAVE®?

NEW HOME COMMUNITIES

4 Steps to BUILT TO SAVE®

Frequently Asked Questions

New Home Community Map

THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY AREA NEW HOMES GUIDE (NHG) is a bi-monthly publication of Across Media Marketing, LLC. and is provided to its readers free of charge. Unless otherwise noted, all photography, artwork, and editorial content printed in NHG are copyrighted material and may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission. NHG and Across Media Marketing, LLC. are not responsible for typographical or production errors, or for the accuracy of information provided by the advertisers. Opinions expressed by writers and contributors do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher. NHG reserves the right to refuse any advertising which we deem unsuitable for our publication. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this magazine is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and the Amendments Act of 1988 which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” This magazine will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this magazine are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD tollfree at 1-800-669-9777 or contact HUD’s regional office in Ft. Worth, Texas at (817) 885-5521. The telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. The Rio Grande Valley New Homes Guide is published bi-monthly by: Mailing Address: 3000 Melinda Drive, Edinburg, Tx 78539

FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION: (956) 778-3590 www.RgvNewHomesGuide.com

See color-coded areas and listings of new home communities in the Upper and Mid

W W W. R G V N E W H O M E S G U I D E . C O M /

ISSUE 29.1 — FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION

DIVINE CUSTOM HOMES

GOMEZ 3 CONSTRUCTION

TREASURE BUILDERS

COVER FEATURE 2021 ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDERS

See Pages 22-35

Rio Grande Valley.

New Home Communities At a glance, look at everything you need to know about popular new home communities in the area. Downloadable information available.

TREVIÑO CONSTRUCTION

WALDO HOMES

MEET THE BUILDERS OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOMES | PG. 22

/rgvnewhomesguide @rgvnewhomes @rgvnhg

HOMEBUYING ADVICE

Shopping for a New Home? You May Want to Read This. If you’re looking for a new place to live, you likely have a number of “boxes” you’d like to check, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, how much storage space is available, perhaps a yard, possibly the close proximity to public transportation, and certainly the cost of your rent or mortgage, and taxes—all important. But what about the estimated cost of your future energy bills? The annual energy bill for a typical single family home is $2,060, so factoring in energy efficiency aspects as you prepare to move can help you make informed decisions to meet your energy needs. Beyond the standard walk-through and home inspection report, a Home Energy Score and a home energy audit will give you a more complete and credible picture of a home’s energy use. Below are a few important aspects of your future home’s energy use to take into account.

Factoring in energy efficiency aspects can help you make informed decisions to meet your energy needs. APPLIANCES

Appliance use makes up a significant portion of your electric bill. Replacing older appliances with ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances is a choice that could be more expensive at first, but could reduce your annual energy costs. If a refrigerator is from 2000 or earlier, a new ENERGY STAR certified model will cost more upfront but may use just half the electricity. When comparing new refrigerators, ENERGY STAR-certified models are about 9% more energy efficient than non-certified models, though they tend to have a higher sticker price. ENERGY STAR-certified dishwashers are 12% more efficient than non-certified models.

WINDOWS

Windows can be a major draw—Look at that view! They can also be a major energy waster—Feel that draft! Old or inefficient windows can let cold air encroach in winter and conditioned air escape in summer. Windows strongly influence the effectiveness of your home’s most basic energy services – heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation – which together account for about two-fifths of a building’s energy use.[1] When shopping for a living space, look for double-paned windows with “low-e” coatings. And check for weatherstripping, which helps seal in your home’s climate. If it’s much warmer or colder outside when you are inspecting a living space, run your hand around the window edges to feel for air leaks—hot air coming in in summer or cold air in winter may signal higher energy bills ahead. Daylight and views aside, ventilation and heat from the sun can make a significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency. If your windows are letting in too much hot air, your central air conditioner is going to work much harder to cool your home in the summer. If they’re letting in too much cold air in winter, your furnace will be working harder, as well.

INSULATION

Properly installed insulation in walls, floors, and attics helps keep your home or apartment comfortable in any season. Finding out if the insulation meets most recent building codes and whether the building envelope is well sealed can help you compare the comfort of future living spaces you’re considering.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

R-Value is the thermal resistance measurement used for insulation, indicating its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the better the protection against heat and cold. Be sure to check the insulation levels in any home you are considering.

HEATING AND COOLING

The effort to heat or cool the air represents one of the largest energy expenses in any home. Here are ways to save on your energy bills, while staying comfortable year-round: • If you plan to rent, make sure to consider a unit that has a programmable or “smart” thermostat already installed. • If buying, consider making an early investment in a smart thermostat. While they come with a higher upfront cost, they offer dynamic control of your heating and cooling. The result: savings on your energy bill. See pg. 39 to learn about exclusive pricing on NEST Thermostats for Magic Valley Electric Coop customers. • When home shopping, whether you plan to own or rent, ask to see the heating and cooling units. Ask questions about their age and upkeep. • Naturally, you’ve got a lot on your mind when you’re in the market for a new place to live. Fortunately, there are some tools like the Home Energy Score and a home energy audit—as well as the above considerations— that can help you simplify the task of comparing variables like comfort and energy costs before you make the big decision. Source: Department of Energy (DOE) [1] Calculated by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Scout tool, based on data from the EIA 2018 AEO. For more information, see pgs. V and VI of the DRAFT Research and Development Opportunities Report for Windows, published in May 2020. The 2018 AEO was used instead of the 2020 AEO because Scout has yet to be updated to the 2020 AEO.

Phase II

El Pacifico Ave

29th St

38th St

Now Open for Sales! 93 lots

Ware Rd

Coming Soon!

Monte Cristo Rd

FM 107

McAllen, Tx

LOTS FROM THE $46’s

PHASES I & II LD SO LD SO LD SO LD SO LD 19LD SO 20 21LD SO 22LD SO 23 24 25 26 SO

VD RS VD 74 75 76 77 140 139 138 137 136 135 134 71 RS 72 73 RSVD

SVD R133 SVD R141

17LD SO

28LD SO

LD 47 SO

50LD SO

104

107

142

16LD SO

29LD SO

LD 46 SO

51LD SO

103

108

143

15LD SO

LD 30 SO

SVD R81

102

109

144

14LD SO

31LD SO

53LD SO

101

110

145

32LD SO

54LD SO

100

111

146

33LD SO

55LD SO

112

147

11LD SO

LD 34 SO

41LD SO

56LD SO

113

148

10LD SO

LD 35 SO

LD 40 SO

57LD SO

SVD R86

114

SVD R149

SO9LD

LD 36 SO

LD 39 SO

58LD SO

115

SO8LD

LD 37 SO

LD 38 SO

59LD SO

SVD R60

SVD R88

SVD R95

SVD R116

13LD SO 12LD SO

SO7LD

VENDOME DR. SO6LD

5LD SO 4LD SO3LD SO2LD SO1LD SO

SVD 150 R

SVD R153

SVD R131

120 RSVD VD RS VD RS VD RS VD RS VD RS VD 118 RSVD RS 89 RS 90 91 92 93 94 117 119 VD

SVD R129 SVD R128

SVD R127

SVD R126

125 RSVD

SVD R124

SVD R122

121

» Walking park

130

151 RSVD

123

» Gated community

132

SVD R152

SVD R106

SVD R105

ROC

SVD R78

SAI NT

SVD R70

N. 33rd St.

49LD SO

N. 34th St.

LD 48 SO

N. 36th St.

LD 27 SO

N. 37th St.

18LD SO

SAINT PATRICIO DR.

SAINT HONORE DR.

Phase I Phase II

PHASE II

Now Open for PRE-SALE

RESERVE YOUR LOT TODAY

» High-speed internet » Walking distance to Texas A&M University and IDEA Academy » Minutes from the University of Texas — Rio Grande Valley

LOT SALES: (956) 358-3314 | VendomeHomes.com | go@jbctexas.com

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Are You Leaving Money on the Table?

Whether you are a builder or homeowner, we guarantee it will be worth your time to read this article—especially if you are not taking advantage of tax credits or incentives for making your home energy efficient. FOR HOMEOWNERS

If you made your home more energy efficient in 2020 by installing such things as solar panels, solar water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, small wind turbines, and fuel cell property, or energy efficient products like windows, doors, insulation, and HVAC upgrades, you may be entitled to a sweet tax credit for your investment. Currently, there are two energy tax credits available for 2020 Tax Returns: the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit for renewable energy sources and the Non-Business Energy Property Credit for energy efficient products and systems installed in the home. These are nonrefundable tax credits, which means you can’t get more money back in tax credits than you pay in federal income taxes (your tax liability). But here’s what is great: what makes a tax credit better than a tax deduction is that a tax credit reduces your tax liability by one dollar for every dollar of credit you get versus a tax deduction that only reduces the amount of taxable income which is what is used to calculate your tax liability. That’s what makes tax credits awesome. And if you are NOT claiming these on your taxes, you are missing out. The good news is that it’s not too late to include them on your 2020 tax return. And the even better news is that if you missed these credits in prior years, they may be retroactive for up to three years.

HOW TO CLAIM A TAX CREDIT

You will need to file a 1040 tax form to get the energy efficiency tax credit. Note that you can NOT claim the energy efficiency tax credit using the 1040EZ form or the 1040A form. Also, it is important to know that you will need to file Form 5695 with your return and get a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement, which is basically a signed statement from the manufacturer stating that the product or component in question qualifies for the tax credit. The certification can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website, or you can call them and get it. You don’t have to submit the certification, but you must have it for your tax records. (It must be mentioned that the information contained here is not meant to be professional or legal advice. We are not tax professionals, so be sure and consult with your tax advisor about the tax credits.)

HOW MUCH MONEY ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?

If you qualify for a tax credit, or how much of a tax credit you qualify for, will depend on several factors, such as the following: the type of home; the year the equipment was put in place; the type of improvement made; the amount you invested; and the applicable percent of the cost of qualified property, or if the credit has a limit. The best place to get an accurate answer on how much money you can expect from the available tax credits is to go directly to the IRS website.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

REBATES FOR HOMEOWNERS

Here’s something you may not know. If you are getting ready to buy a new natural gas water heater, you’ll be happy to know you can now save $100. And if you’ve done your homework and are getting ready to buy a new tankless or super high-efficiency natural gas water heater, you can save $650. But that’s not all. Right now, there are additional rebates from Texas Gas Service if you are purchasing some of these appliances as well: natural gas dryers, ranges, or backup power generators. Rebates run from $100 to $500, depending on the appliance. These rebates apply to residential customers living in the city limits of most cities in the Rio Grande Valley and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability of program funds. Go to www.TexasGasService.com/Rebates for more information. And builders—good news—if you sell your homes equipped with these specific appliances, you’ll be happy to know that you are eligible for rebates, too.

FOR BUILDERS

The rewards for those that buy energy-efficient homes are many and huge: lower utility bills, tighter quality construction, a more comfortable home with better indoor air, and peace of mind, to name a few. But what’s in it for the builder? Well, if you mean what else besides the pride, reputation, and competitive advantage of being one of the best builders in the market, it would be the generous rebates from the local utility companies. In addition to the rebates from Texas Gas Service on new qualifying natural gas appliances mentioned above, two other utility companies offer generous incentives for builders who build energy efficient, highperformance homes.

MAGIC VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE (MVEC) REBATES

Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) pays cash incentives to builders who certify homes in the BUILT TO SAVE® program in MVEC communities. Rebates are available on a first-come basis and start at $200 per home. The more energy efficient the home is, the higher the incentive. Visit www.MagicValley.coop/built-to-save for more information. Bonus incentives are provided if the homes are also qualified as ENERGY STAR®. If a home qualifies in the ENERGY STAR® program, it automatically qualifies in the BUILT TO SAVE® program. To qualify in the BUILT TO SAVE® program, a home must meet the strict construction requirements of the program and have an energy rating that is 5% higher or more over that required by minimum code. Inspections and testing are performed by independent RESNET home energy raters and include documentation and photographs as proof of compliance. In addition to the rebates, BUILT TO SAVE® builder members receive

invaluable promotion on the BUILT TO SAVE® website and in the Rio Grande Valley New Homes Guide’s multi-media platforms to help differentiate them from those building only to minimum code. Participation in the program by the builder is voluntary, which makes it more meaningful to the homebuyer. See pages 22-35 for a look at the leading energy efficient builders for 2021—a select group of builders distinguished by their commitment to building homes of superior quality and energy efficiency.

House a Home Helping Make a

AEP TEXAS HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOME PROGRAM

The AEP Texas High-Performance Home program offers a rebate program for builders constructing homes in AEP’s territory and are available on a first-come basis. Their rebate program rewards builders who install 15 SEER or 16 SEER AC units with rebates from $250 to $350 and additional bonus incentives for heat pumps and smart thermostats, which can add up to an additional $325. The incentive structure is designed to measure kWh savings achieved above a Texas Baseline Reference Home and exceed its minimum by 5%. The homes must also meet other elective criteria and be inspected and tested by a certified RESNET HERS Rater. The focus of the program is on reducing energy costs, improving comfort and indoor air, and quality construction. Compliance with the program’s criteria is verified by third-party inspections and testing by RESNET licensed HERS raters. Builder membership in the AEP Texas HighPerformance Home Program is voluntary and free. Visit www.SouthTxSaves.com for more information or to see a list of builders participating in the AEP program.

FEDERAL ENERGY TAX CREDIT (SECTION 45L)

The U.S. Congress has extended the Federal Energy Tax Credit (Section 45L) for 2021. The 45L extension includes the construction tax credit for energy efficient new homes and/or dwelling units leased or sold. Each home or dwelling unit that exceeds the heating and cooling 2006 IECC energy standards by 50% in 2018 through 2021 can receive a $2,000 tax credit per unit. The Tax Credit applies to single family and/or multi-family units up to 3 stories. Note that you can claim the tax credit retroactively to 2018 if you haven’t already used those credits. Contractors must own and then sell, rent, or lease the units to claim the tax credit. Once again, to qualify, the homes must exceed the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) heating and cooling budgets by 50%. Also, proof of compliance must be submitted by an insured 45L Tax Credit Certified HERS Rater (see pg. 16 for a list of HERS Raters). Eligible contractors can use IRS Form 8908 to claim a credit for each qualified energy efficient home sold or leased to another person during the tax year for use as a residence. Even if you just built one home that qualified—that’s still a lot of money that comes off your tax liability dollar for dollar.

Build for families and their future. Our natural gas solutions and energyefficient rebates can help you meet your sustainability goals while reducing expenses, improving quality of life and helping local economies thrive.

A FINAL INCENTIVE—BUT THE BEST OF ALL

The goal of all of the above incentives is to improve the quality of life for homeowners by encouraging reduced energy usage and costs, and by having better-built and more durable homes, healthier living environments, the protection of surely the largest investment we make in our lifetime, and lower carbon emissions for the sake of our planet and for the sake of generations of our children that will follow. When you think about it that way, you’ll understand why it’s fair to say that you may be leaving more than just money on the table if you don’t take advantage of these excellent incentives.

TexasGasService.com/rebates

For advertising call (956) 778-3590 | Vol. 29.1 | Feb / March 2021 | www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com TGS EEP ad.indd 1

2/1/21 9:31 AM

The Dirty Truth About Clean Indoor Air

Home: DIVINE Custom Homes

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

It’s natural for people to think that the air in their home is cleaner than the air outside. After all, outside you have dust, pollution, allergens, and dangerous emissions from cars and factories, to name a few filthy reasons. If you agree with that thought, you would be wrong. Here’s the dirty truth. SOME SHOCKING FACTS According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air pollution in your home can be from two to five times higher than outdoors, and the top five air quality problems are indoor air issues. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that almost 4 million people a year die from indoor air pollution—a shocking figure for sure. How is this possible, you say? Well, there are many factors that account for unhealthy indoor air. One main factor being the fact that we are talking about a confined space—your home. A place in which you spend almost 90% of your time. If you are breathing in the average amount of 2,000 gallons of air per day, and you have unhealthy indoor air in your home, there will undoubtedly be unhealthy consequences over time.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY Make asking about the air quality you should expect in your new home a priority. Be prepared, because no one is going to tell you that the air quality will be bad, or less than good. The best question to ask is if the home is certified in a high-performance home program like the BUILT TO SAVE® program—then ask to see the certificate. Builders who certify their homes in the BUILT TO SAVE® program use independent, third-party home energy raters who inspect the home while under construction, and test the home upon completion to ensure that among many other requirements, it is properly sealed with tight construction and has a proper ventilation system.

WE ARE WHAT WE BREATHE A few of the main causes of air pollution in the home include excess moisture, combustion products, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), tobacco smoke, and the wide range of household products available on the market today. Another major factor is the quality of the home’s construction. According to the EPA, a typical home has about a ½ mile of cracks and gaps throughout. That’s a large area for dust, allergens, and other pollutants to enter a home. And sealing those cracks to make the home’s envelope tighter--while a good thing--can make matters worse if a proper air ventilation system is not installed. Think of a home as having lungs—and it needs to breathe fresh air continuously to stay healthy. How do you know if the indoor air quality in your home is unhealthy? For some, there are immediate health effects that include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, or headaches. Long term effects can be more drastic and include respiratory diseases, heart disease, or cancer. Indoor air quality is not something you can see, so too often it isn’t even on the mind of the homebuyer. But with all the facts you read here, you can see why it should be a top priority when shopping for a new home.

One builder in the Rio Grande Valley who goes above and beyond to ensure homebuyers enjoy the best indoor air quality is Divine Custom Homes. Builder Olga Treviño includes the Indoor airPLUS certification in every home she builds. This companion label to the ENERGY STAR® certification requires builders to comply with a host of construction practices and technologies focused on achieving the highest quality of indoor air. “We value our customers’ health as we do our own,” says Olga. “Knowing we are providing them with a comfortable, healthy home that has been sealed correctly and has a properly sized HVAC system with an effective whole-house ventilation system to remove indoor pollutants gives, not just them, but us too, a satisfying and Divine peace of mind.”

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

Go to www.BuiltToSave.org for more information on the BUILT TO SAVE® program and to find a builder enrolled in the program. For more information on the Indoor airPLUS certification, visit www.epa.gov/indoorairplus.

RIO GRANDE VALLEY SHOWROOMS

SHOPPING

guide

NOVAWOOD Whether in a dark woodlook, medium tone, or gray, “Novawood” ceramic tile is for the traditionalist who likes flooring to appear understated yet thoroughly noteworthy.

THE LATEST TRENDS IN BUILDING MATERIALS

MADERA SAPELI “Madera Sapeli” in either a gentle gray or quiet beige is perfect for achieving a tranquil atmosphere in the home, creating a truly peaceful living environment.

Find trendy tiles at: MATERIALES EL VALLE Ceramic / 7x21.1 in

Ceramic / 8x47 in

Mission, TX (956) 581-1109 Edinburg, TX (956) 994-8550

WOOD FOREST

Donna, TX (956) 464-5152

Bringing the natural wonder and beauty of reclaimed wood into or outside the home is what “Wood Forest” achieves in this magnificent ceramic wood-effect tile.

E Materiales El Valle Inc. Q MaterialesElValleInc

MADERA ANGIBRE A splash of color, a pop of excitement: “Madera Angibre” in a stunning Herringbone pattern is for the trendsetter who wants a floor that is totally eye-catching. Ceramic / 7x22 in

Ceramic / 8x35 in / 8x47 in

HAVE A SHOWROOM IN THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY? We'd love to feature your products! Email us at info@acrossmediamarketing.com

E RGV New Homes Guide

Q RGV New Homes

D RGVnhg

P RGV New Homes Guide

z RGVNewHomesGuide.com/Showrooms

A BUILT TO SAVE® Certificate Is More Than Just A Piece Of Paper... It’s A “PEACE OF MIND.” A home awarded with a BUILT TO SAVE® certificate allows homeowners to relax without worrying about high energy bills, poor construction, and high maintenance issues. A BUILT TO SAVE® certificate gives homeowners (1) the confidence in knowing their home was inspected and tested by an independent RESNET-approved Rater, and (2) the happiness in knowing their home is “above code” and of superior energy efficiency and high-performance construction.

Don’t take anyone’s word that your new home is energy efficient. Ask to see the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate!

HOMEBUYER BENEFITS • • • • • •

Lower Energy Consumption Enhanced Home Comfort Better Indoor Air Quality Tighter Construction Less Maintenance Higher Market Value

• • • • •

Third-Party Inspections & Testing Compliance with 2015 IECC “Above-Code” Compliance More Durability Lasting Peace of Mind

Go to www.BuiltToSave.org to find BUILT TO SAVE® builders and suppliers. www.BuiltToSave.org • (956) 778-3590

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Ways To Find Out If Your Home Is Energy Efficient

In the blazing heat of summer, walking into a nice, cool space is refreshing. Sure, you want to have a comfortable home, but you don’t want to pay a lot in utility bills. So how do you know if your new home is energy efficient? If you bought a home certified as BUILT TO SAVE® or ENERGY STAR®, then you have a written guarantee from an unbiased, third party who inspects and tests the home to verify its performance.

IF YOU INSIST ON BUYING A HOME THAT HASN’T BEEN TESTED AND CERTIFIED, AND WE DON’T RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO, HERE ARE SOME KEY FEATURES YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT PLAY MAJOR ROLES IN DETERMINING THE COMFORT AND THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY PERFORMANCE OF YOUR NEW HOME. ASK YOUR BUILDER ABOUT THESE AND BASE YOUR BUYING DECISION ON HIS OR HER ANSWERS.

WINDOWS

Windows give homes style and beautiful views, but they also let heat and cold in and out of the home. Energy efficient windows are designed to reduce utility bills by helping to control the temperatures in the home by acting as insulation. Unlike the single function of wall insulation, which is to stop the transfer of heat from one location to the other, windows have multiple functions and require multiple ways of rating their thermal insulation performance. Here are 4 measurements you should know about that also apply to doors and skylights.

U-factor is a calculation of the

Did You Know? The U.S. Department of Energy sets efficiency guidelines based on climate zones across the nation. Texas is in Climate Zones 2, 3, and 4, and buildings in these regions have mandatory minimum requirements to comply with building codes. The Rio Grande Valley is located in Climate Zone 2.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

entire window assembly that measures the rate of heat transfer (heat gain or loss through the glass) based on the conduction performance of the various components of the window. The lower the U-factor, the better the window will be at reducing heat transfer. Climate Zone 2 requires a U-factor of 0.40 or less and 0.65 or less for skylights.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the amount of sun that enters through the window and creates heat inside. The lower the SHGC, the better the window is at blocking the sun from warming your home. Climate Zone 2 requires a SHGC of 0.25 or lower. Low-e glazings lower the SHGC ratings of the window. Low-e stands for low emissivity, and these windows feature a microscopically thin transparent coating designed to reflect heat without blocking light. On the outside of the

home, low-e windows reflect the sun’s heat back to the sun and on the inside, the heat from a heater will be reflected back into the home, making these windows superior energy efficient products.

Visible Transmittance (VT) is a measurement

window label. AL represents the amount of air (heat loss or gain) passing through the whole window assembly. AL ratings are from .01 to .03 and the lower the number, the better the window is at keeping out air.

(from 0 to 1) that represents the amount of visible light coming through the window, taking into account the light that is blocked by the frame and other window components. The higher the VT, the more daylight will enter the home. Be aware that a more energy efficient window may lower the VT, so consider the tradeoff. Generally, a VT of .54 or better is good, but it could be less. It all depends on the direction the window faces, the design, and other factors. A higher VT can reduce usage of interior lights.

Air Leakage (AL) is an optional rating that may not always appear on the

INSULATION

The Rio Grande Valley has one of the hottest temperatures in the nation. Here’s what you need to know about insulation. The purpose of insulation is to slow or prevent the transfer of heat. During winter it keeps the heat in and in the summer it keeps the heat out. The ability of insulation to do this is measured in R-values. R-values rate the effectiveness of insulation materials. The higher the R-value, the more resistance to heat flow. Code laws set minimum standards, but that is not the best for the consumer. We recommend that you

Insulation includes many types of materials (in many forms and applications) like fiberglass, rockwool, cellulose, spray foam, and foam boards like polystyrene and polyisocyanurate, which have the highest R-value of the foam insulations. Proper installation of insulation can reduce average home heating and cooling costs up to 50 percent. When it comes to insulation, if you hire the wrong installer, you will be paying for it every month on your utility bill.

Water heaters are available as storage tank, tankless (on-demand), heat pump (hybrid), solar, and condensing. Each has pros and cons, and their cost will vary depending on what they offer. It is not always wise to “go cheap” where you may end up paying more in the long run to replace a water heater that did not last. For durability, you would be wise to consider Magic Valley Electric Coop’s Marathon water heater with a limited lifetime guarantee. Remember that there is also the natural gas heat pump which is among the most energy efficient options. Since water heating is the second largest energy hog in your home, choosing the right one can mean tremendous savings for you. Make sure your builder has your budget in mind when he or she chooses the water heater for your new home.

To calculate the right size unit for your home, many factors must be taken into account, including the size of the home, the geographical area, the ductwork system, and the ventilation system. More importantly, the installation must be done by a qualified technician—preferably one that is certified by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), the largest contractor organization in the nation. A 16 SEER unit, for example, could be operating as a 10 SEER or lower if other factors are ignored in the installation.

Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for air conditioners and the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating on furnaces indicate how well these units are performing. The higher the rating, the less wasted energy and the more cold or warm air.

+ MOISTURE

Most homebuyers are under the false assumption that bigger is better when it comes to heating and cooling units. That could not be further from the truth. Installing a larger unit than is required will actually cost you more money, as the over-sized unit cools the home quickly and will shut down often, stopping and starting more times than a properly-sized unit would. An oversized unit can also, in time, create moisture and mold issues in the ductwork and the home. Choosing the rightsized unit is actually at the heart of building a home that is both energy efficient and comfortable to live in.

Did You Know?

SEER and AFUE Ratings: Seasonal

Manual J, Manual S, and Manual D Calculations: “Manual J” calculations on your house are used to figure out the cooling load, and “Manual S” calculations are used to select the optimal system. Manual D calculations take into account the duct design and airflow pressures from room to room throughout the home. These calculations take the guesswork out of choosing the right-sized unit for your specific home. Ask your builder if these were performed on your new home. With the BUILT TO SAVE® and ENERGY STAR® programs, an independent home energy rater makes sure the calculations are in compliance, thereby insuring that the home has a properly-sized HVAC system.

Variable Speed Blower Technology and Whole-House Ventilation: When purchasing a new air conditioner, look for one with variable speed blower technology, which uses the fan motor inside the air

+ SEALING / INSULATION

While you want your house to be cool, you want the water in the shower to be hot. But water heating can account for up to 20 percent of a home’s energy costs, so it pays to know what you are buying. Your choice of a water heater will depend on how much hot water you will use. And there are plenty of choices that include gas and electric options.

HEATING, VENTILATION, AND COOLING SYSTEM (HVAC)

+ HVAC

R-Value: R-value measures the effectiveness of insulation. The higher the R-value, the better you keep out the heat. Climate Zone 2 requires an R-value of R-38 for attics, R-13 for wood frame walls, R-13 for floors, R-8 for attic ducts, and R-6 for other ducts. These R-values apply to prescriptive paths. Others may apply.

3 4 WATER HEATING

+ WINDOWS

look for a BUILT TO SAVE® or ENERGY STAR® builder who builds above code requirements. The insulation in their homes are inspected at the framing stage before the walls are added to insure proper installation, and that there are no missing air barriers or gaps between the air barrier and insulation.

The bathroom tends to create and retain moisture for longer periods. A simple way to remove moisture and humidity in your home is to turn your bathroom exhaust fan on when you take a hot shower, or crack a window open to let moisture out and fresh air in.

A typical home has about a ½ mile of cracks and gaps throughout the home that can result in 20-40% extra in heating and cooling costs every year through leakage. You can avoid this by making sure your home is certified as a high-performance home.

The heating and cooling systems in a home account for almost 55% of a home’s energy consumption, and 20% of energy use is due to heating water. Together, these two areas account for almost 75% of your home’s energy consumption.

Bad window installation can result in a tremendous energy loss. A small crack that is as tiny as 1/16 of an inch around a window can be the equivalent of leaving it open up to 3 inches.

+ LIGHTING

+ WINDOWS

Did You Know? Aluminum or steel window frames absorb heat that can cause condensation. Vinyl frames are superior in energy efficiency and insulation, keeping in-home temperatures constant. That may explain why aluminum window frames are less expensive. If you replace a light in a baby’s room with an LED light when that baby is born, you won’t have to replace it again until the baby celebrates his/ her 20th birthday (assuming normal use).

handler located inside the home to move cooled or heated air through the ductwork. Variable speed motors use less energy and allow you to control the comfort of your home from room to room. In addition to saving energy, these blowers also help remove moisture and circulate air slowly, which allows your home’s air filters to remove dust and other contaminants from your indoor air. While an over-sized air conditioning unit is bad, one with a variable speed blower will only run to the load that will keep it from cycling on and off.

PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS Programmable thermostats allow you to automatically adjust the temperature in your home during the day. You can program the thermostat to keep your house warmer while your family is away and cooler when you are sleeping. There are even smart thermostats that work with smartphone apps to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere. As of September 1, 2016, all new homes are required to have programmable thermostats in Texas. When used correctly, this can save up to $180 per year according to EnergyStar.gov.

+ ELECTRICITY + ROOF / ATTIC 14

Using radiant barrier sheathing for your roof blocks up to 97% of the sun’s radiant heat, cutting attic temperatures by as much as 30 degrees and at an insignificant cost compared to the savings over the life of the home.

ROOFING

Your roof keeps rain out, but you also want it to keep heat out and climate-controlled air in. Just as you insulate the walls in your house, you also want to make sure the roof is properly insulated. Radiant heat is what makes a car in the sun so hot inside. When an attic is not well insulated, radiant heat warms the attic, which in turn warms the air ducts traveling through the attic and the cool air within. A radiant barrier works by reducing radiant heat gain. To be effective, the radiant barrier must face the air space it is trying to cool. There are also solar reflecting shingles available in a variety of light colors and are engineered specifically to lower attic temperatures, for cooler interiors and lower utility bills.

inspectors and are designed to predict the energy efficiency of a home. The lower the score, the greater the energy efficiency and savings. In Texas, homes built after September 1, 2016, must have an ERI of 65 or lower to comply with code. If you prefer a better built and more efficient home, the BUILT TO SAVE® and the ENERGY STAR® programs are designed to build homes that are above code requirements.

10 5 7 9 APPLIANCES

In an average home, 75% of the electricity used to power appliances and electronic devices is consumed while the products are turned off. For example, even if you are not charging your phone, your charger is still using electricity. Unplug the cords from wall sockets.

of the lights in new construction consist of energy efficient lighting.

The ENERGY STAR® label on an appliance means that the product has been tested and meets the criteria of performing 10 to 50 percent more efficiently than a similar product on the market. While ENERGY STAR® products are generally more expensive, their upfront costs are more than recovered over time by savings on utility bills. Visit the ENERGY STAR® website at energystar. gov to see a list of all qualified products. Gas appliances offer additional benefits of their own including the benefit of uninterrupted use even when the power goes out.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

LIGHTING

In general, 20 percent of your utility bill goes to lighting your home. Changing from old incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) or LED lights means using less energy to create light—not to mention that most incandescent light bulbs are no longer being manufactured. CFL bulbs use 75 percent less electricity, produce 90 percent less heat, and last 10 times longer than traditional incandescent. LEDs use 80 percent less energy than CFLs, last 10 times longer, and are cool to the touch. Minimum code in the State of Texas requires that 75%

HERS Score / ERI

Whether buying a new home or upgrading your current one, you want to know its Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score or Energy Rating Index (ERI). These scores are calculated using specialized equipment and software implemented by licensed third-party

HOME CERTIFICATIONS

If you are looking at buying a new home, understand that energy certifications such as ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE® indicate that a house is built to a higher standard of energy efficiency and quality. These certifications require third-party home energy inspectors to check and inspect the home during construction, and upon completion to guarantee the home’s certification. When you buy a BUILT TO SAVE® and ENERGY STAR® certified home, you will have peace of mind knowing your home will be comfortable and save you money on utility bills and maintenance, with the added bonus of providing a higher resale value in the future.

DON’T BUY A NEW HOME LIKE YOU BUY BACON. As long as there are customers who believe what they see, low quality products packaged to make them look appealing will continue to sell. It’s no different when shopping for a new home. Don’t just look at the home’s bling: the beautiful flooring, exotic granite countertops, and designer ceilings to name a few. Ask about what’s behind the walls and if the home was inspected, tested, and certified by a third party to get a certificate of high performance from BUILT TO SAVE® or the ENERGY STAR® program. Get the skinny on your new home--not the fat! Ask for proof that your home was built to highperformance, above-code standards. Ask to see the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate.

rgvnewhomes

Go to www.BuiltToSave.org to find a builder.

RGV New Homes Guide Highlighting Beautiful New Homes in the Rio Grande Valley rgvnewhomesguide.com

South Texas

Get your daily inspiration fix! Follow us on Instagram @rgvnewhomes to see the beautiful homes from some of the top builders in the Rio Grande Valley. #rgvnewhomes

For advertising call (956) 778-3590 | Vol. 29.1 | Feb / March 2021 | www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

THIRD-PARTY VERIFIED: Enhanced Home Comfort Lower Utility Bills Better Air Quality Peace of Mind

Insulation

HVAC

Being told that your home is energy efficient is not the same as getting written verification from a home energy Rater licensed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). Home Energy Raters are trained home energy inspectors who use specialized equipment and software to inspect, test, and verify that a home has met the requirements of high-performance home programs like BUILT TO SAVE®.

Lighting

Windows

Water Heating

PROFESSIONAL HOME ENERGY RATERS ASK YOUR BUILDER IF YOUR NEW HOME HAS BEEN CERTIFIED

Chris Carroll (956) 455-7779 chris@carrollsinspectors.com www.carrollsinspectors.com

Luis Barrera (956) 284-6867 Cell (956) 645-1213 lbarrera@esquarehersrating.com

Jorge Maldonado (956) 271-2322 jm-92@outlook.com

Jose L. Garcia (956) 519-9593 prestigiousenergy@sbcglobal.net

Certifications: Home Energy Rater; ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE® Certifications; ICC Energy Code Ambassador; Level 1 Thermographer; TREC Property Inspector; RESNET Member; RESNET Green Rater; LEED Accredited Green Rater; Building America Partner, DOE Zero Ready Verifier, Mold Assessment Consultant, & Insured/ Qualified 45L Tax Credit Certifier.

Certifications: Home Energy Rater; ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE® Certifications; HERS Rating for City Code Testing: Blower Door & Duct Leakage; Certificate of Occupancy (C of O); HVAC Heat Load Calculations for Manual J, D, & F; Valley-wide Service.

Certifications: Home Energy Rater; ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE® New Home Certifications, IECC Energy Code Building Inspections; Blower Door & AC Duct Testing; Weatherization Inspections.

Certifications: Home Energy Rater; RESNET Member; HVAC State License No. TACLB21614E; ACCA Quality Assured V3 (New Homes) Contractor. ENERGY STAR®; City Code Testing (Airflow & Air Balance Testing); Manual J Preparation and Review.

RESNET license #2431025

RESNET license #529893

RESNET license #4046057

TREC license #7061 | RESNET license #0003953 TDRL license #MAC1689 | ICC #8194682

The Blower Door Test and the Duct Blaster Test are used to calculate a home’s Energy Rating Index (ERI—also referred to as the HERS score). Like miles per gallon (MPG) which measure the fuel efficiency of a car, an ERI (or HERS) score is an excellent predictor of a home’s energy efficiency—the lower the score, the higher the efficiency.

BLOWER DOOR TESTS measure the leakiness of the home’s envelope— how much air comes in and goes out through the roof, windows, doors, and other openings in the home. Required by code after Sept. 1, 2016.

DUCT BLASTER TESTS measure leaks in the joints and seams of the ductwork in the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. Required by code after Sept. 1, 2016 unless in conditioned space.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Trained to Verify High-Performance ® BUILT TO SAVE Homes A HERS Rater (Home Energy Rating System Rater) is a third-party inspector certified by an accredited Rating provider and licensed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). HERS Raters inspect a home while it is under construction, and then test the home when completed (1) to visually verify that it complies with construction requirements and, using specialized software and equipment, (2) to determine its energy efficiency performance. Raters play a key role in certifying homes as high performance. They have the ability to predict a home’s expected energy efficiency even before it is built by entering the home’s dimensions and other specifications into energy modeling software. The Rater’s knowledge of building science and their continuing education makes their oversight and technical advice invaluable to the home builder. As well, the Rater’s independent verification of compliance with programs like BUILT TO SAVE® adds confidence and trust to highperformance certifications.

Home by Villanueva Construction

CHRIS CARROLL

JORGE MALDONADO

LUIS BARRERA

CARROLL’S INSPECTION SERVICES (956) 544-3139 chris@carrollsinspectors.com www.carrollsinspectors.com

ENVIRONMENTAL ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS (956) 271-2322 jm-92@outlook.com

E-Square HERS Rating Service, LLC (956) 645-1213 lbarrera@esquarehersrating.com

www.BuiltToSave.org

Look for the home that’s certified

BUILT TO SAVE® This energy efficiency certification program identifies new homes built to outperform similar homes built only to minimum code.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE FEATURES:

RISE ABOVE ALL THE REST If you are building or buying a New Home, don’t settle for minimum standards. Ask your builder if they build homes with any of these high-performance certifications. Ask for the certificate. You’ll be glad you have it if you resell your home. DOE ZERO ENERGY READY HOME

This certification is awarded to homes that meet all of the criteria of the Department of Energy’s Energy Ready Home National Program. These homes are verified to be at least 40%-50% more energy efficient than a typical home. Zero Energy Ready Homes are so efficient that incorporating a renewable system can offset most or all annual energy consumption. Visit energy.gov for more information.

ENERGY STAR®

The ENERGY STAR® is a national program administered by the Department of Energy in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency. To earn the ENERGY STAR® certification, homes must meet strict construction and energy efficiency criteria verified by a third party. An ENERGY STAR® qualified home consumes 15% to 30% less energy than a similar home and provides better durability, more comfort, cleaner indoor air, and reduced maintenance costs. Visit energystar.gov for more information.

INDOOR AIRPLUS

The Indoor airPLUS is a program of the Environmental Protection Agency and is a companion label that can only be awarded to a home that has qualified for the ENERGY STAR® or Zero Energy Ready Home programs. The construction and system requirements of the Indoor airPlus program are designed to reduce contaminants to improve indoor air quality, including mold, moisture, radon, carbon monoxide, toxic chemicals, and other detriments found in poor air quality. Visit epa.gov for more information.

BUILT TO SAVE® —

BUILT TO SAVE® certified homes are inspected and tested by an independent third-party RESNET certified energy Rater.

Best Value!

The BUILT TO SAVE® program is a regional energy efficiency program designed to provide a high-performance home that is “superior to code.” To receive the BUILT TO SAVE® certification, homes must be inspected before drywall is installed to ensure proper insulation, and tested at the completion of construction to verify that the air leakage requirements of the program are met. A BUILT TO SAVE® certification means the following: savings through low energy consumption, a more comfortable home, better indoor air quality, and less maintenance, all demanding a higher resale value for the home. Visit BuiltToSave.org for more information.

Find a BUILT TO SAVE® Builder: www.BuiltToSave.org Blower door & duct leakage testing equipment.

The Top

BUILDERS

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY’S HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOME BUILDERS BUILT TO SAVE® is an energy-efficiency certification program which recognizes new homes that outperform minimum code building requirements. With the help of the BUILT TO SAVE® program and third-party inspectors, builders are guided through a process which leads to certifying their homes as high performance.

BUILDERS WITH BUILT TO SAVE® HIGH-PERFORMANCE CERTIFIED HOMES IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS. (Sorted by Quantity of Certified Homes. Visit www.builttosave.org for full details) HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDERS

PHONE NUMBER

WEBSITE / EMAIL

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION www.VillanuevaHomes.com m (956) 800-8889 ............................................ stephanie@villanuevahomes.com

VILLA DEL SOL www.VillaDelSolConstruction.com m (956) 627-5101 ............................................... villadelsolstatus@gmail.com

TREASURE BUILDERS www.TreasureBuildersllc.com m (956) 874-3686 ............................................. treasurebuilders@att.net

AFFORDABLE HOMES OF SOUTH TEXAS www.AHSTI.org m (956) 687-6263 ............................................. info@ahsti.org

DIVINE CUSTOM HOMES www.DivineCustomHomes.net m (956) 467-1111 ................................................ olga@divinecustomhomes.net

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 27

GOMEZ 3 CONSTRUCTION www.FB.com/Gomez3construction m (956) 342-7826.............................................. gomez3construction@gmail.com

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 29

RANMAR CONSTRUCTION www.RanmarConstruction.com m (956) 472-8624 ............................................. ranmarconstructionrgv@gmail.com

SERSA HOMES

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 24

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 31

www.SersaHomes.com

m (956) 330-1268.............................................. sersahomebuilder@gmail.com

TREVINO CONSTRUCTION www.TrevinoLuxury.com m (956) 539-3636 ............................................. mario@trevinoluxury.com

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 33

WALDO HOMES www.WaldoHomesRGV.com m (956) 466-8590............................................. luiswaldo@yahoo.com

FEATURED PROFILE ON PG. 35

MAGIC VALLEY ELECTRIC COOP IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF THE BUILT TO SAVE® PROGRAM.

bui l tto s ave.org

Not all the homes in the Rio Grande Valley are built the same. A homebuyer’s best option to make sure their new home will be built to above-code standards is by finding a builder that is a member of a High-Performance Home Certification Program like BUILT TO SAVE®. With the help of this Program and third-party inspectors, builders are guided through the process of building homes of superior quality and energy efficiency. As a result of this, YOU, the homebuyer get to enjoy countless benefits!

H OM EBUYER SLower Utility Bills SEnhanced Home Comfort SBetter Indoor Air Quality STighter Home Construction SMore Durability

Benefits

SLess Maintenance S Higher Resale Value SThird-Party Inspected & Tested SKnowledge That Home Is Code-Compliant SLasting Peace of Mind

BUILT TO SAVE® PROGRAM MEMBERS WITH HOMES IN THE PROCESS OF BEING CERTIFIED BUILDER MEMBER

WEBSITE

BERIT CUSTOM HOMES (956) 310-8616 .............................................................. www.FB.com/BeritCustomHomes..................... beritcustomhomes@gmail.com

BRITO CONSTRUCTION (956) 540-5557 ............................................................. www.BritoConstruction.com .............................. info@britoconstruction.com

CASA CORDOVA (956) 472-5946 ............................................................. www.CasaCordova.llc........................................... casacordova.llc@gmail.com

CLASSIC HOMES (956) 454-4102 ............................................................. www.ClassicHomesRGV.com ............................. lord.gonzalez@yahoo.com

MI CASA CONSTRUCTION (956) 532-7823 ............................................................. MiCasaConstructionLLC@gmail.com ............... micasaconstructionllc@gmail.com

RED MOON BUILDERS (661) 474-0909.............................................................. www.FB.com/RedMoonBuildelrs....................... redmoonbuilders@gmail.com

REYNA HOMES (956) 487-8989 ............................................................. www.ReynaHomes.com ....................................... david@reynahomes.com

RILEMAR CUSTOM HOMES (956) 648-4093 ............................................................ www.RilemarCustomHomes.com ..................... richard@rilemarcustomhomes.com

TRUE BUILDERS (956) 391-5952 .............................................................. www.TexasTrueBuilders.com .............................. info@texastruebuilders.com

VILLA HOMES (956) 431-0376 .............................................................. www.VillaHomesRgv.com ................................... info@villahomesrgv.com

H O M E B U Y ER m

Not every builder in the BUILT TO SAVE® Program certifies every single home as BUILT TO SAVE®. It is the homebuyer’s responsibility to request this certification before their home is built.

mA home can only be enrolled

in the BUILT TO SAVE® Program if the walls have not been put in place yet.

Must-Knows m

You can find the addresses of the homes that have completed certification in the program on the www.BuiltToSave.org website. Allow at least 3 weeks for documents to be processed and for homes to be added to the online list.

If a builder says a home is certified as BUILT TO SAVE®, they will be able to show you a certificate proving that the home met all the requirements.

Home Address Builder Name Issue Date

Certified Rater Signature

February/March 2021

Reference #

2021 2021 ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDERS

DIVINE CUSTOM HOMES

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION

GOMEZ 3 CONSTRUCTION

TREASURE BUILDERS

TREVIÑO CONSTRUCTION

WALDO HOMES

This issue of the New Home Guide features an elite group of home builders who have stepped up to a leadership role in the construction of high-performance, energy efficient homes in the Rio Grande Valley. While many builders only comply with the bare minimum building code requirements, the builders presented here go above and beyond those requirements to ensure their homes are superior in quality, comfort, and energy savings. They are not obligated to do this for you, but they do. And it says a lot about them and their company. They are all members of the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

hile most builders are focused on cutting costs to be more competitive, a BUILT TO SAVE® builder member is focused on cutting homeownership cost— what the home will cost you during the time you own it. They know that buying a

home is typically the largest investment anyone will make in their lifetime. It’s an investment that homebuyers make with hope of being able to enjoy the home while they live in it, and with the expectation that their investment will pay off in the future if they decide to sell. It is a well-known fact, from national surveys, that homes certified as energy efficient command a higher market value. And it makes perfect sense that a home would. Because when you compare someone’s word that the home is energy efficient to actual documentation, inspections, and testing from a licensed energy rater and a BUILT TO SAVE® certificate as proof that it is, the reason is obvious. If you are shopping for a home, don’t get blinded by its beauty and the luxurious details.

Ask about its performance, its expected energy usage, and whether or not it was certified in a high-performance home program like BUILT TO SAVE® or ENERGY STAR®. That’s the best way to ensure that you will be comfortable and happy in your new home. Visit BuiltToSave.org for a complete list of builders participating in the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

FEATURED BUILDERS OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOMES IN THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY:

Read the following pages to learn more about these builders.

Across Media Marketing, LLC (publisher), and New Homes Guide, make no representation about the guarantee of quality of products or service from 2021 Energy Efficient Builders (EEB) participants or suitability, reliability, timeliness, or accuracy of the information presented in the 2021 EEB feature. Their officers, directors, employees, contractors, and representatives may not be held liable for any actual, direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, or consequential damages for any loss arising from the publisher’s use of the advertiser’s information or from subsequent editorials or blogs, published in print and online, on behalf of participants including misinformation and copyright infringements. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. The 2021 EEB feature is paid advertising to qualified participants.

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION

ABOUT THE BUILDER

Thirty-two years ago, Martin Villanueva sold his personal home in order to finance his first home-building project for a friend—a very grateful friend. It became the beginning of Villanueva Construction and a long history of building homes that stand out, not just because they feature fine details normally only found in luxury homes, but because they are individualized to every customer—especially to each customer’s budget. More importantly, the homes are certified as energy-saving BUILT TO SAVE® homes. Capitalizing on his early business model’s success, Martin continues to use his own money to speed up his customers’ homeownership dreams while waiting for financing. And to this day, he devotes his time to personally supervising all of the company’s projects to ensure his high standard of quality. A constant stream of homebuyer referrals is his job satisfaction.

Martin Villanueva, Owner/Builder

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 1985 Price Range: $150’s - $400’s + Areas Served: Hidalgo and Cameron County Construction Type: Residential BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2016 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty: Available

(956) 800-8889 | rosendo@villanuevahomes.com www.VillanuevaHomes.com

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

Martin Villanueva, owner/builder of Villanueva Construction, holding the BUILT TO SAVE® Award of Recognition. Villanueva Construction is a family-owned business that has been building custom homes in the Rio Grande Valley since 1985.

Outstanding Achievement Villanueva Construction was recognized for certifying the most homes in the BUILT TO SAVE® High-Performance Home Program for the fourth year in a row. While many builders opt to build homes to the bare minimum standards required by code, Villanueva Construction has embraced the energy saving and highquality construction standards of the BUILT TO SAVE® program. The company’s leadership role as an energy efficient builder is a reflection of the company’s founder, Martin Villanueva, and his passion and desire to do what is right for the customer and to build the best home they can possibly build for them. Their homes are inspected during construction and tested using specialized equipment and software by a Resnet-licensed home energy rater to verify compliance with the strict BUILT TO SAVE® requirements for energy efficiency and above-code performance. Villanueva Construction was also recognized by the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association during last year’s Parade of Homes, receiving an award for the Most Energy Efficient Home certified in the BUILT TO SAVE® program. The BUILT TO SAVE® program is sponsored by Magic Valley Electric Cooperative, who, as a steward of energy conservation, provides incentives to builders in the program who construct homes in MVEC territory. Magic Valley Electric Cooperative is committed to promoting high-performance home construction and improving the quality of life for Rio Grande Valley residents with new homes that are more comfortable, more durable, and wonderfully energy efficient.

PREVIOUS ENERGY EFFICIENT OUTSTANDING AWARDS 2017

Most Homes Certified BUILT TO SAVE®

2018

RGVBA Parade of Homes Most Energy Efficient

2018

Most Homes Certified BUILT TO SAVE®

2019

RGVBA Parade of Homes Most Energy Efficient

2019

Most Homes Certified BUILT TO SAVE®

2020

RGVBA Parade of Homes Most Energy Efficient

2020

Most Homes Certified BUILT TO SAVE®

Magic Valley Electric Coop is a proud sponsor of the BUILT TO SAVE® Program.

February/March 2021

What is the BUILT TO SAVE® PROGRAM? BUILT TO SAVE® is a voluntary high-performance home program for builders that certifies new homes using independent thirdparty home energy Raters who inspect and test homes in the program and predict their energy efficiency. These Raters provide verification that the home will perform better than similar homes built to minimum code standards. You no longer have to take anyone’s word about a home’s energy efficiency. You only need to ask for proof—ask to see the BUILT TO SAVE® Certificate or go to www.BuiltToSave.org to find out if the home was certified in the BUILT TO SAVE® program. If you had a choice of buying a home built to minimum code standards with no clear knowledge of its energy usage and how it was constructed OR a BUILT TO SAVE® certified home with documented proof of its high performance from third-party Raters doing inspections during construction and conducting tests after completion, your decision should be a no-brainer. Aside from obvious savings on utilities during the life of the home, there are other more important benefits from a BUILT TO SAVE® certified home—and critical because they can directly affect your quality of life and comfort in your new home. Here’s what you should know.

The TOP Benefits of Buying a BUILT TO SAVE® Home

areas that would allow cool air to escape to the attic or to the outside. Sealing these areas not only saves on cooling costs, it also prevents drafts, dust, and other pollutants from coming into the home. A tight, properly sealed envelope along with the proper ventilation system will ensure clean indoor air throughout the home.

PROPER INSULATION INSTALLATION

Here in the Rio Grande Valley, home insulation is vital. And more important than the type of insulation used is whether or not it was installed properly. For example, to function properly as insulation, batt insulation must retain its shape after it is installed. If the insulation is stuffed behind electrical wires along the walls, it no longer retains its insulation value. Spray foam, even with its superior insulation qualities, can have voids after it is applied, may not be of the correct consistency, or may have been applied while there was moisture present. The BUILT TO SAVE® thermal inspection done by the Rater is performed before drywall is installed, and is focused on ensuring that the insulation, regardless of the type, was properly installed—something that most homeowners would not be aware of.

HIGHER RESALE VALUE

Who doesn’t want more money when they sell their home? Research conducted across the country has found that homes that have been certified as energy efficient command a higher resale value than non-rated homes. Additionally, the research points out that rated homes generally sell faster than non-rated homes. It makes sense that providing a certificate of high performance when trying to sell your home would be more valuable than trying to convince your buyer that you were told by the builder that the home was a highperformance home.

COMPLIANCE WITH TEXAS’ ENERGY BUILDING CODE

Savings on heating and cooling costs through the BUILT TO SAVE® program are the result of a whole-house approach to lowering utility bills. This includes everything from using a properly designed heating, ventilation, and cooling system to ensuring the home is properly sealed to create a tight envelope. Energy efficient appliances and light fixtures are also key components in a comprehensive plan for energy efficiency.

The law’s the law! On August 1, 2016, the State of Texas adopted the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code for residential and commercial construction. While local jurisdictions across the state may issue permits and pass inspections under an older energy code than the state mandated 2015 IECC, builders should be aware that they may be exposing their businesses to potential liability in the future. Homes in the BUILT TO SAVE® program comply with the state’s 2015 IECC, regardless of what code local municipalities are enforcing. Visit www.EEPartnership.org and search for “Code Adoption” to see a listing of Texas cities that have/have not adopted the 2015 IECC.

ENHANCED HOME COMFORT

THIRD-PARTY INSPECTIONS AND TESTING

LOWER UTILITY BILLS

Indoor comfort is all about controlling temperature and airflow inside the home. A major component of the BUILT TO SAVE® program is requesting builders to submit the home’s Manual J for review to make sure that the air-conditioning unit is properly sized to the space. If a unit is larger than it should be, it will cool the space too quickly and turn off before it has had a chance to remove humidity from the home, thus making it uncomfortable. As it cycles on and off, the unit will consume more electricity and will have more mechanical problems over time.

TIGHT CONSTRUCTION AND BETTER INDOOR AIR QUALITY

If you notice dust, bugs, and smells coming in from outside your home, then it has not been sealed properly. Homes in the BUILT TO SAVE® program are inspected during construction, before the walls are put in, to look for cracks, openings, and other

Home energy raters contracted by the BUILT TO SAVE® program are certified by RESNET. These independent home energy raters provide the modeling of a home’s blueprints to forecast its energy efficiency before it is built, a thermal inspection before drywall, and final testing of the home’s performance when it is completed to ensure compliance with the requirements of the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

PEACE OF MIND

We can’t predict that other aspects in your life won’t give you a headache, but knowing that your new home has been certified as a high-performance home by an independent third-party home energy Rater, one not affiliated with anyone connected with the construction of the home, will give you, as a BUILT TO SAVE® homebuyer, the ultimate in satisfaction. And don’t we all want the peace of mind that comes with knowing our home has a formal certificate of energy efficiency and high performance?

Visit www.BuiltToSave.org to find out more about why you should not settle for a minimum code-built home when you can enjoy the savings and comfort of a high-performance home. You can also find builders enrolled in the BUILT TO SAVE® program offering high-performance homes.

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

DIVINE CUSTOM HOMES

ABOUT THE BUILDER

Divine Custom Homes has a distinguished history of being committed to energy efficient construction. The company’s founder, Olga Treviño, is truly a rare breed of builder. Not just because, as a woman builder, she has had tremendous success in an industry dominated by men, but because she embraced the building science of energy efficient construction from the start and has never wavered. Olga is one of a few “hands-on” builders who not only personally supervises the work on the job site, but who has the knowledge and skills to actually work alongside her contractors. Divine Custom Homes certifies 100% of their homes as ENERGY STAR® and double certifies them as BUILT TO SAVE® in Magic Valley Electric Cooperative communities.

Olga Trevino, Owner/Builder

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 2008 Price Range: $175’s - $600’s + Areas Served: Valleywide Construction Type: Residential ENERGY STAR® Member Since: 2009 BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2014 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty: Available

(956) 467-1111 | olga@divinecustomhomes.net www.DivineCustomHomes.net

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

STEPS TO ACHIEVE A 4 BUILT TO SAVE CERTIFICATION ®

The benefits of the BUILT TO SAVE® program for homebuyers that include savings on utilities, better indoor air, and enhanced home comfort are rooted in the whole-house systematic approach to good building science. Ideally, the approach should begin before the home is built to predict the home’s energy efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step approach to how a high-performance home is born.

INITIAL INSPECTION

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

PROJECTED ENERGY EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS

The first step in the BUILT TO SAVE® process is the uploading of the home’s plans, including: elevation and floorplan blueprints; Manual J; energy-saving items in the home like ENERGY STAR™ appliances; and heating and cooling equipment information. The data from these documents is entered into a licensed home energy Rater’s specialized software that produces a projected Energy Rating Index (ERI) score. The ERI is a good predictor of a home’s energy performance once it is built. NOTE: A projected analysis done before the home is built makes it easy and much less costly to make adjustments to achieve the targeted ERI instead of waiting to do this once construction is underway.

THE MANUAL J

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) contractors prepare a Manual J by entering the home’s blueprint information into a program that calculates the heating and cooling loads of a home and recommends the proper size unit required for the home’s specifications. The software is adapted to the particular climate that the home is located in. The Manual J also calculates the amount of heat and humidity that each occupant of the home will add to the interior of the home.

NOTE: A properly sized heating and cooling system is critical to energy savings and, more importantly, to a home’s comfort. A system that is oversized will waste more energy, have more maintenance issues, reduce comfort by cycling on and off before it has a chance to remove the humidity in the home, and cause moisture and mold issues over time.

THERMAL INSPECTION

The thermal inspection is performed after insulation is installed and before the walls are put in place. A home energy Rater visually inspects all areas of the home to check that the insulation used is of the proper R-values and, more importantly, that it was installed correctly. Insulation that has been compressed by force between the studs or into crevices lose their R-value and will not perform as insulation. Even spray form insulation can be poorly installed with voids inside that are formed by bubbles during application. Special attention is given to areas that will allow cold air to escape to the attic or to the outside. NOTE: According to the Department of Energy, a typical home has about a half-mile of cracks and gaps throughout. This results in a 20% to 40% increase in heating and cooling costs every year through air leakage. A thermal inspection performed by a third-party Rater will give the peace of mind that your home was sealed properly.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

GOMEZ 3 CONSTRUCTION

ABOUT THE BUILDER

Gomez 3 Construction, LLC was founded in 2016 by Efrain Gomez Jr. He brings to the market 19 years of experience in the industry, including many years as a draftsman with proven expertise in home design, materials, and building functionality. Efrain’s training and experience give him a unique competitive advantage as a custom home builder because of his background creating floorplans and designs that are precise and construction-ready for the builder. Now, he is the builder, so completing the circle gives him total control—especially when it comes to energy efficiency and building science. To ensure that the company’s homes exceed minimum code requirements and are certified as highperformance homes, Gomez 3 Construction has joined the ranks of elite builders in the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

Efrain Gomez Jr., Owner/Builder

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 2016 Price Range: $150’s to $450’s Areas Served: Hidalgo County Construction Type: Residential & Light Commercial BUILT TO SAVE® Member Since: 2020 Photograph by: Photograph RGV

(956) 342-7826 | gomez3construction@gmail.com www.FB.com/Gomez3construction

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

MOISTURE CONTROL

The Rater will look for areas that could potentially create moisture problems in the future by inspecting the home’s envelope, which includes the outer walls, ceiling, and windows. Since the window manufacturer’s labels are in place at this point, the Rater makes notes to ensure that their values are as required by code and that they relate to what was specified in the Manual J. Areas behind bathtubs located near an exterior wall are noted to make sure that a waterproof backing will be used to avoid moisture issues caused by changes in temperature.

INITIAL INSPECTION

NOTE: Although moisture management is not a factor in energy efficiency, ensuring against moisture problems is included in BUILT TO SAVE® inspections as part of its “whole-house” approach to providing a healthy home environment.

VENTILATION

Tight construction is required for superior energy efficiency, and as the home becomes tighter, it is very important that a proper fresh air system is installed to allow the home to breathe. A visual inspection looks for properly placed ventilation systems, which is especially important if the insulation being used is spray foam due to its maximum sealing characteristics. A variety of humidity controlling devices are available on the market today that can greatly enhance the comfort levels of a home. NOTE: Proper mechanical ventilation is key to ensuring the quality of indoor air. Ventilation is nothing more than replacing stale air with fresh air and is critical for tightly constructed homes that can trap dust, pollen, and unhealthy air that results from day-to-day activities like cooking, bathing, and even the occupants’ breathing.

DUCTS & AIR REGISTERS

The Rater inspects the HVAC duct system, looking for areas that are poorly sealed and connected. Mastic is an inexpensive sealant that should be used generously over taping at all the seams for maximum protection. Simply using foil tape is not acceptable since heat will cause the tape to fall off and allow air to escape into the attic. The ducts, where they connect to vents and registers in the ceiling, are inspected to make sure they will connect properly.

FINAL INSPECTION

NOTE: A properly designed duct system, a function of the HVAC contractor, is key to making sure every room of the home gets equal air with equal pressure. Failure to equalize air flow will mean some rooms will be colder or hotter than others.

VERIFICATION OF FINAL RESULTS

A final review of the home’s specifications is made to verify that the home was built as was specified during the pre-construction stage, making note of items that can add or detract from the home’s projected ERI score. Additionally, the Final Inspection includes a Blower Door Test and a Duct Leakage Test to calculate the home’s ERI score.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

TREASURE BUILDERS

ABOUT THE BUILDER

In 2003, Felix Hernandez established Treasure Builders. The company is a family-owned business that has a reliable reputation for quality homes built by people who are deeply rooted in the traditional family values of honesty, truth, and faith. Alex Hernandez, Felix’s son, grew up in construction, working alongside his dad. So, it was no surprise when on his return from college, he joined his father to manage the company. With a degree in Urban & Regional Planning from Texas A&M, Alex brought with him a keen understanding and passion for sustainability and making things better for the future—especially homes. The company is focused on building energy efficient homes built to last, so it is no wonder they joined the BUILT TO SAVE® family!

Felix and Alexis Hernandez, Owners/Builders

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 2003 Price Range: $130’s to $750’s Areas Served: Hidalgo and Cameron County Construction Type: Residential, Commercial, & Professional Offices BUILT TO SAVE® Member Since: 2020 Photograph by: Photograph RGV

(956) 874-3686 | treasurebuilders@att.net www.TreasureBuildersllc.com

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

THE BLOWER DOOR TEST

A Blower Door Test is performed once the home is completed to measure the leakiness of the home’s envelope—how much air goes out or comes in through the roof, windows, doors, and other openings. To do this, a Rater closes all the doors and windows and other openings, such as vents to the outside, and uses a specialized fan on a doorway of the home to blow air in and then out. The home’s leakage to the outside must fall within the acceptable range to qualify for the BUILT TO SAVE® certification.

FINAL INSPECTION

NOTE: The Blower Door Test is usually performed after the home is complete, but a Rough-in Blower Door Test can be performed at the Thermal Inspection stage if all of the home’s openings can be covered, even if plywood and tape are used to cover them. The advantage of doing the test at this stage is that problem areas can be easily identified and fixed. And if the home passes the test at this stage, you will be assured it will pass at Final Inspection.

THE DUCT LEAKAGE TEST

The Duct Leakage test identifies leaks in the joints and seams of the ductwork in the HVAC system using diagnostic hardware to measure the airtightness of the ducts. The procedure uses a calibrated fan that measures the air flow rate and a pressure sensing device that measures the pressure created by the fan’s air. The amount of leakage must fall within an acceptable range to meet the requirements of the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

PROOF OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE

NOTE: An acceptable Duct Leakage test in Climate Zone 2 requires air leakage rates of less than four percent of conditioned floor area (living space). Anything more means too much air is escaping from the ducts and costing you money.

THE BUILT TO SAVE® CERTIFICATE

The BUILT TO SAVE® certificate is critical proof that the home qualified as a high-performance home. The supporting documentation provided by the Rater is kept on file by BUILT TO SAVE® as proof of the home’s compliance and includes all of the documents submitted by the builder, photos taken during inspections, any issues that were found and corrected, and photos of the readings on the manometers used during final testing. NOTE: Aside from the peace of mind the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate will give you, it will be invaluable if you decide to sell your home. It trumps telling your prospective buyer that you were told the home is a high-performance home.

THE BUILT TO SAVE® LABEL

Building codes require that every home has a label that lists information on critical components of the home, such as insulation, windows and doors, and heating and cooling equipment that all show types and ratings. NOTE: While this label is required by law, unfortunately few homes have it. This mandatory label is included with the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate.

At a time when every builder says they build energy efficient homes, it is a good policy to ask for proof. If you have any question about whether your home received a BUILT TO SAVE® certificate, you can search for your address at www.BuiltToSave.org where you can also find a list of builders enrolled in the BUILT TO SAVE® program.

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

TREVIÑO CONSTRUCTION

ABOUT THE BUILDER

Founded by Mario Treviño and Marisol Villanueva de Treviño, Treviño Construction has been building homes in the Rio Grande Valley for over 17 years. The company has earned a reputation as an outstanding custom builder of luxury homes, and deservedly so. Mario and Marisol, throughout their company’s history, have been recognized by their peers with Parade of Homes awards for excellence in construction from the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association. Treviño Construction homes are examples of one-of-a-kind creations that are custom designed to reflect luxury, beauty, and master-crafted construction tailored to the individual homebuyer’s wishes. And when you envision that kind of home along with an energy efficient, high-performance BUILT TO SAVE® certificate, you can definitely call it a dream home.

Mario Treviño & Marisol Villanueva de Treviño, Owners/Builders

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 2015 Price Range: $160's to $800's Areas Served: Starr, Hidalgo, and Cameron County Construction Type: Residential & Commercial BUILT TO SAVE® Member Since: 2019

(956) 539-3636 | info@trevinoluxury.com www.TrevinoLuxury.com

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BUILT TO SAVE®

Q & A If you have a question about the BUILT TO SAVE® program, chances are you will find the answer here. If not, no worries. Please email us at info@BuiltToSave.org if you have other questions.

What is a BUILT TO SAVE® certified home? A BUILT TO SAVE® certified home is a new home that has been inspected and tested by a third-party RESNET home energy Rater during construction and after completion to verify that the highperformance BUILT TO SAVE® program requirements were met. A BUILT TO SAVE® home means homeowners will save more money on utilities compared to a similar home built only to minimum code and will provide more comfort, tighter construction, and better indoor air. Is a BUILT TO SAVE® home the same as an ENERGY STAR® home? No. An ENERGY STAR® certification requires more extensive compliance with energy efficiency requirements than the BUILT TO SAVE® certification. If a home qualifies as an ENERGY STAR® home, it automatically qualifies for the BUILT TO SAVE® certification.

How do I know if the home I am buying is a BUILT TO SAVE® certified home? Ask to see the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate, which is issued to the builder for the homebuyer. You can also go to www.BuiltToSave.org and search for the home’s address under “Explore – Database of Certified Homes.” Email info@BuiltToSave.org if your address does not appear.

Can my builder certify a home as BUILT TO SAVE® at any time? No. A home can only be certified as BUILT TO SAVE® if the walls have not been put in place so that a pre-drywall inspection can be performed. Ideally, a home in the BUILT TO SAVE® certification process should be started at the planning stage before construction begins. A thorough review of the floorplans, elevations, and Manual J in the planning stage is critical to ensure that the home will meet the requirements of the program once it is completed. When is the BUILT TO SAVE® certificate issued? The BUILT TO SAVE® certificate is only issued after the Rater submits the successfully completed checklists and photos of inspections and testing to the BUILT TO SAVE® program. How much does a BUILT TO SAVE® certified home cost the builder? The certificate includes a decal with whole-house systems information for the utility box panel as required by code. The fee for both the certificate and the decal is $205. The pre-drywall inspection and the final inspection fees are typically about $450 and are paid directly to the Rater. Builders must be BUILT TO SAVE® members, which requires a one-time annual fee of $175.

How does a home qualify for BUILT TO SAVE® certification? To qualify for BUILT TO SAVE® certification, a home must have tight construction, energy efficient windows, properly installed insulation, and properly-sized heating, cooling, and ventilation (HVAC) systems, and achieve an Energy Rating Index score of 63 or less, or be at least 5-10% more energy efficient than code. The builder and the home must be registered with BUILT TO SAVE®. What is an Energy Rating Index score? An Energy Rating Index score (ERI) is the nationally recognized standard of measuring the energy efficiency performance of a home. The ERI has become the industry standard used to calculate and predict the home’s energy use. While energy consumption of a home will vary depending upon personal factors associated with the occupants and their habits, an ERI score is still a good indicator of energy consumption. The lower the ERI score, the more energy efficient the home.

How is the ERI score calculated? To calculate a home’s ERI score, a certified RESNET Energy Rater does an energy rating on your home using specially designed software and equipment to test the home upon completion. The Rater works with the builder before construction to identify problem areas or improvements needed to ensure the house will achieve the lowest ERI score possible and meet the BUILT TO SAVE® requirements. What tests or inspections are performed by the Rater? The Rater does an onsite inspection after the insulation is installed and before the drywall is applied to ensure proper installation and that there are no areas where air can escape between the attic and the interior spaces of the home. Upon completion of the home, the Rater will measure the air tightness of the home using a blower door test and a duct test to test the leakiness of the ducts. Results of these tests, along with data from software analysis, are used to generate a final Energy Rating Index score for the home and ensure that the home is in compliance with the BUILT TO SAVE® requirements. How do I know if my new home is energy efficient? While most builders claim to build energy efficient homes, and while many do, the only way to be sure is to have verification by an independent third-party home energy Rater. If your home is certified as a BUILT TO SAVE® home, there is no question that it is energy efficient, and you will have the Energy Rating Index score to know its projected energy efficiency performance.

How do I find a builder who builds BUILT TO SAVE® certified homes? Go to www.BuiltToSave.org/find-a-builder

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

2021 ENERGY EFFICIENCY BUILDER

Paid Advertisement

WALDO HOMES

ABOUT THE BUILDER

To say that Waldo Homes is an award-winning builder is an understatement. This family-owned company enjoys the distinction of being the only builder in the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association’s annual Parade of Homes competition to win the majority of awards in the last two Parades. This past year, the company was recognized with seven awards—including “Best of Show” and, just as impressive, the “People’s Choice Award.” The latter is no surprise. Waldo Homes with its talented staff of family members has earned a reputation of building homes that impress the soul. The company’s attention to small details is complemented by their attention to larger details—the things that matter most in your new home: comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and durable, quality construction.

Luis & Danny Waldo, Owners/Builders

COMPANY FACTS Founded: 2004 Price Range: $150’s - $1 Mil Areas Served: Valleywide Construction Type: Residential BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2017 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty: Available Photograph by: Photograph RGV

(956) 466-8590 | luiswaldo@yahoo.com www.WaldoHomesRGV.com

SEE FULL BLOG & PHOTO GALLERY HERE:

rgvNewHomesGuide.com/EEB-2021

HOME SHOPPER NEWSLETTER

REAL ESTATE NEWS AEP Texas Congratulates the Winners of the 2020 RGVBA Parade of Homes “Most Energy Efficient Home” Awards. AEP Texas congratulates Villanueva Construction and Divine Custom Homes on their accomplishment of each earning the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association’s Parade of Homes Award for the Most Energy Efficient Home with matching qualifying scores. The awards underscore the commitments these companies have made to building homes of superior energy efficiency performance. Both Villanueva Construction and Divine Custom Homes have been long-time participants in the AEP Texas High-Performance Home Program. Visit www.SouthTXSaves.com for more information on the Program.

Martin Villanueva; owner of Villanueva Construction showing the company’s Award for 2020 RGVBA Parade of Homes Most Energy Efficient Home with a 52 HERS Score.

Olga Treviño; owner of Divine Custom Homes showing the company’s Award for 2020 RGVBA Parade of Homes Most Energy Efficient Home with a 52 HERS Score.

AEP Texas Congratulates Villanueva Construction and Divine Custom Homes on their “Most Energy Efficient Home” Awards and their commitment to building homes of superior energy efficiency.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

New Gated Community in Weslaco Open for Lot Sales!

BLOCK 1 Lot 1

34 33 32 31 30 29

N 28 27

7 8 9 10 11

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

56 55 54 53 52 51 50 49

BLOCK 3

24 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

LOTS FROM

$42,500

• Private Gated Community • Quiet Countryside Environment • Lot Sizes from 6,000 to over 12,000 Sq. Ft. • Home Requirements Include a Minimum of 1,200 Sq. Ft. (Living) • 1 or 2 Car Garage Minimum • Brick or Stucco Exteriors • 30-year Composition Shingles (selected colors) • Reserve Your Lot with $1,000 (non-refundable) • Architectural Controls and Homeowners Association • Close to Weslaco ISD Schools, Hospital, and Medical Offices • Minutes from the Progreso International Bridge

RESERVE YOUR LOT TODAY!

$1,000 Deposit

Bus. 83 S International Blvd.

CAMINO REAL VIEJO ROAD

BLOCK 2

S. INTERNATIONAL BLVD. (FM 1015)

Builders Welcomed!

Manuel Cantu

Camino Real Viejo Rd.

(956) 821-8180

riocantu@yahoo.com

NOW SELLING homesites:

THE MONTECITO

Call to reserve yours today!

A private, gated residential community in North Edinburg.

40’S

BLOCK 1 $ lots from the

Maximum Privacy & Security Minimum of 1,500 Sq. Ft. Liv. (Block 1)

BLOCK 1 6

Homeowners Association

Edinburg School District

Architectural Controls Brick, Stucco, & Stone Exteriors 30-Year Composition Shingle Roofs Landscaped with Sprinkler System

Homes from Fine Builders:

Average Size Lot 63’ x 128’

Minutes from UT-RGV Easy Access to Expressway 281 (I-69)

4 3 2 1

53 52 51 50 49 48

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

47 54

55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62

72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65

75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86

98 97 96 95 94 93 92 91 90 89 88 87

Block 1: Homes from the $190’s 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

46 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34

40 39 38 37 36

2 3

35 34

10 11

4 5 6

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Manuel Cantu • (956) 821-8180 • riocantu@yahoo.com

Builders Welcomed! For advertising call (956) 778-3590 | Vol. 29.1 | Feb / March 2021 | www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

HOME SHOPPER NEWSLETTER

AEP Texas Honors Three Rio Grande Valley Builders AEP Texas recently recognized three Rio Grande Valley builders participating in the 2020 AEP Texas High-Performance Home Program. The program promotes the construction of energy efficient homes that use less energy than typical new homes built only to minimum code. Esperanza Homes received the Highest Cumulative kWh Savings Award, an award given to the builder who enrolled and successfully completed the highest quantity of energy efficient homes in the AEP Texas program in the Rio Grande Valley during the program year. Chris Ryan Homes was honored with the Highest Single kWh Savings for a Single-Family Home Award for the home’s energy efficiency which scored above all the other homes enrolled in the AEP Texas High-Performance Homes Program in the Valley. A third award was presented to Villa Del Sol Construction, a new member of the program who

CHRIS RYAN HOMES Garrett Dorsey III, Account Manager / Texas AEP HighPerformance Home Program and Mary Ramirez, Chris Ryan Homes’ Owner/Builder.

has rapidly embraced the goals of energy efficient construction by committing to build 100% of its homes as certified energy efficient homes. The AEP Texas High-Performance Home Program is a voluntary program that provides incentives to builders who construct verified highperformance homes and homes certified in the ENERGY STAR® program. Both types of homes are built to above-code standards and incorporate building processes and products designed to increase a home’s energy-saving performance and comfort, plus provide a healthier environment for its occupants—all while saving money on utilities. To qualify for the program’s incentives, a builder’s home must exceed the kWh* savings above an established Texas Baseline Reference Home by a minimum of 5% or more. Additionally, the home must also meet other elective criteria

ESPERANZA HOMES REPRESENTATIVES (L to R:) Enrique De La Rosa, Purchasing Manager; and Joe Castillo, Pre-Construction Supervisor.

and be inspected and tested by a certified RESNET HERS Rater. For more information on the AEP Texas High-Performance Home Program, visit www.SouthTXSaves.com or call Garrett Dorsey III at (361) 688-2211. *Kilowatt-hours are the measure of how much electricity a home uses. Abbreviated as “kWh,” this is used in the program as the indicator of a home’s energy efficiency performance. Most utility providers bill customers based on the number of kilowatt hours used each month multiplied by a rate, which is most often shown as cents per kWh, to determine the utility bill for the month.

VILLA DEL SOL CONSTRUCTION Martin Villanueva Jr., Owner/Builder.

Lending Operation FINALLY HOME a Hand There is no greater way to honor those that put their lives on the line for our country than to support them in their time of need. That’s what one local real estate company did when they volunteered to help Operation FINALLY HOME, a non-profit organization, sell a lot they owned to help build homes for wounded veterans. Aline Property Group / eXp Realty generously donated its professional services to Operation FINALLY HOME, and with their excellent and efficient efforts, the lot sold quickly and helped the organization continue its mission of providing mortgage-free homes to wounded service men and women and their families. Visit www.operationfinallyhome.org for more information on how you can help.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

ALINE PROPERTY GROUP / EXP REALTY, LLC.

www.DivineCustomHomes.net VA GOVERNMENT REGISTERED & CERTIFIED BUILDER

DUE TO ALL COVID CONCERNS PLEASE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

Setting the New Valley Standards for GreenBuilt, Energy Efficient & Award-Winning Homes

2816 Thompson Dr., Mission, Tx

1/2 block south of Nolana on Taylor City Code HERS Rating

® GreenBuilt RGV BUILT TO SAVE

ENERGY STAR® V3.1

(Mission Valley Subdivision) Call For Your Personal Appointment

(956) 467-1111

SAVE BIG

MVEC

MEMB

SIVE EXCLU

S SAVING

PURCHASE YOUR FAVORITE NEST THERMOSTAT

SAVE $100

SAVE $70

149

Retail price is $169 (Available online only)

Retail price $249

GOOGLE NEST LEARNING THERMOSTAT

GOOGLE NEST THERMOSTAT E

TO PURCHASE, VISIT: magicvalley.coop

Any MVEC Office

For advertising call (956) 778-3590 | Vol. 29.1 | Feb / March 2021 | www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

HOME SHOPPER NEWSLETTER

Villa Homes Wins Free Entry into 2021 RGVBA Parade of Homes The Rio Grande Valley Builders Association (RGVBA) officially opened registration for the 2021 Parade of Homes. The opening was kicked off in December 2020 with the annual raffle for a “Free Entry” into the Parade that was available to builders who registered early. The lucky first-place winner of the Free Parade Entry prize was Villa Homes. Sorrento Fine Homes won the second-place prize, a reduced entry fee for the 2021 Parade. The RGVBA’s 2021 Parade of Homes is scheduled to take place during the weekends of June 12-13 & June 19-20, 2021, subject to changes based on the policy for gatherings issued by local health officials. For now, plans include having a Parade of Homes that includes both in-person visits and a virtual Parade using online virtual tours of the homes as was done successfully in 2020. For builders, the late sign-up entry date is March 1, 2021. Go to www.RGVBA.org for more information, or call (956) 686-2932.

Jason Vandever, SPEER Program Manager for the Energy Compliance Program. His years of previous experience as a Code official and knowledge of building science make him an excellent trainer.

SPEER joins BUILT TO SAVE®

Villa Homes (L-R): Emigdio Villanueva III, Co-Founder COO; Erica Villanueva, Operations & Service Manager COO; Brianna Villanueva, Director of Design; David Villanueva, Co-Founder CFO; Vanessa Villanueva, Accountant for Receivables; Emigdio Villanueva Jr., Co-Founder CEO; Cynthia Villanueva, Accountant for Payables.

www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

The BUILT TO SAVE® High-Performance Home Program is proud to welcome the South-Central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource (SPEER) as one of its newest members. SPEER is a regional energy efficiency organization with the mission of promoting and developing the understanding and adoption of advanced building systems and energy efficient products and services in the Texas / Oklahoma region. The organization’s goals of increasing energy efficiency align perfectly with the goals of the BUILT TO SAVE® program. SPEER offers valuable education, training, and assistance to code officials, builders, contractors, and others in the construction industry. The organization’s contributions and success have made it the industry resource for policy makers, professionals, and consumers in the region. SPEER’s collaboration with the BUILT TO SAVE® program will provide excellent opportunities for continuing up-to-date education and training for home builders in the Rio Grande Valley— and ultimately a better quality of life for our residents. Members of SPEER include utility providers, builders, developers, product and services businesses, organizations, and public sector officials. Visit www.eepartnership.org/membership for information on how to join SPEER.

ONE TYPE OF INSULATION IS SUPERIOR TO ALL OTHERS—

...An Investment With A Huge Return!

Lower, remarkable HERS scores Energy efficient and airtight home envelope Protection from moisture infiltration Cleaner and healthier indoor air quality Quieter interiors with protection from outside noise Less pollutants, insects, rodents, and other pests Enhanced interior comfort--all year long

Call / Text / Email us for a FREE ESTIMATE or CONSULTATION. (956) 638-3594 | rob@valleyenergyspecialist.com | www.InsulateRGV.com

3500 N. Birch St., Pharr, Tx 78577

For advertising call (956) 778-3590 | Vol. 29.1 | Feb / March 2021 | www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com

ilit

315

Military Rd

Trinity St

319

313 Daffodil

321

303

Yuma Ave

121

Jor da

Pecan Ave

108

BUS

Northgate Ln Frontera Rd

210

114 109 126

Trenton Rd

115 102

336

311

Nolana Ave

106

McAllen

336

BUS

Jackson Ave

Uvalde Ave

115

336 Sugar Rd

Sugar Rd

Jackson Rd

McColl Rd

Sugar Rd

221

200 201 Sugar Rd

107 Jackson Rd

McColl Rd

23rd St

29th St

105

Jackson Rd

Frontera Rd

McColl Rd

123 Col Rowe Blvd

10th St

23rd St

29th St

Tres Lagos

Jackson Rd

129

Hobbs Dr

McColl Rd

2nd St

Auburn Ave

10th St

119

6th St

Main St

Bicentennial Blvd

Lark Ave

Depot Rd

Ware Rd

Jackson Rd

E Business Hwy 83

128

100

125

McColl Rd

495

120

117

336

Col Rowe Blvd

Buddy Owens Blvd Oxford

10th St

301

23rd St

St Jude Ave (Mile 6)

Main St

310 118

2nd St

Mile 2 Auburn (Mile 5)

29th St

Mile 7

110 112

10th St

304 302 306 314 320

107

Bicentennial Blvd

Buddy Owens Blvd

Ware Rd

Mile 9

23rd St

312

29th St

124

Ware Rd

Bentsen Rd

Mile 8

29th St

Palmhurst Taylor Rd

Shary Rd 8 1/2 Mile

Ware Rd

Mile 4

Bentsen Rd

107

Bentsen Rd

800

Taylor Rd

Mile 7

Taylor Rd

Shary Rd

Glasscock Rd

Mile 8

103

23rd St

309 Glasscock Rd

Mile 9

29th St

307 Glasscock Rd

Monte Cristo Rd

McColl Rd

1 Mile S. Rd

Stewart Rd

104

2nd St

Mission Stewart Rd

Get directions to a new home community at: www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/All-Communities

Ware Rd

BUS

Bryan Blvd

Bentsen Rd

Griffin Pkwy

Stewart Rd

Mile 4

23rd St

N Bryan Blvd

Mayberry Blvd

Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

Los Ebanos Rd

Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

La Homa Rd

To add a New Community on this map, call (956) 778-3590

Taylor Rd

Mile 2

Bentsen Rd

Alton

Shary Rd

107 Bryan Blvd

Mile 5

Shary Rd

495

Shary Rd

K Mayberry Blvd

Los Ebanos Rd St Jude Ave

Mayberry Blvd

501

Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

354

Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

Los Ebanos Rd

Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

La Homa Rd

Stewart Rd

316 Los Ebanos Rd

Glasscock Rd

300 Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

Schuerbach Rd

e Rd War

P La Homa Rd

Bryan Blvd

O Bentsen Palm Dr

Conway Rd

M Schuerbach Rd

Inspiration Rd

Schuerbach Rd

G Bentsen Palm Dr

Bentsen Palm Dr

1 10

SEE MAPS ONLINE

Monte Cristo Rd

215

107 R

El Pacifico

225 127 S

116 Sprague Rd

Freddy Gonzalez Dr

213 222 206

Trenton Rd

Alberta Rd

Dove Ave

Minnesota Rd

Nolana Ave

113 La Vista Ave

495 Pecan Ave

Hackberry Ave

Sam Hou

Rid

400

El Rancho

Davis Rd

E Mile 19 Rd

224 Monte Cristo Rd

204

214

Iowa Rd

203 Los Lagos

Canton Rd

202

Canton Rd

281

208 403

218

Wisconsin Rd

Trenton Rd

Alberta Rd

Owassa Rd

401

Minnesota Rd

Tower Rd

BUS

402 Earling Rd

69C

Raul Longoria Rd

495

281 Moore Rd

Hall Acres Rd

o Blanco Rd

Crockett St

600

700

Alamo Rd

uston Blvd

E F G H I J K L M N

Alamo Cesar Chavez Rd

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

San Juan

BUS

See pg. 45 for more info on communities shown in red.

Ridge Rd

Moore Rd

Pike B

BUS

83 Tower Rd

Pharr

405

Ferguson Ave

Polk Ave

281

dge Rd

Sioux Rd

Stewart Rd

Sioux Rd

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

Eldora Rd

Westgate Dr

207

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

69C

Alamo Rd

220

Alamo Rd

Wisconsin

Cesar Chavez Rd

Raul Longoria Rd

216

Hall Acres Rd

18th St

BUS

Weslaco

901

Camino Real Viejo

902

Mile 2 W

217

S International Blvd

Freddy Gonzalez Dr

Curve Rd Texas Rd

Pleasantview Dr.

Closner Blvd

Edinburg

Cesar Chavez Rd

Raul Longoria Rd

107

Tower Rd

University Dr

Alamo Rd

E Richardson Rd

Taylor Ridge.............................217 ....G-11 The Coves at La Sienna ................211 ....B-12 The Heights on Wisconsin ............220...H-12 The Hills at Chapin .................. 212 .. D-12 The Montecito 215 .. C-10 Monte Cristo..................... Rd Villas de Santa Cruz II..............209...A-13 Villas las Fuentes.....................213....H-10 Windsor Estates.......................221....C-10 MISSION Crystal Estates III .....................316....L-2 Davila Estates ..........................318....L-2 Del Oro at Bentsen Palm ................300...O-1 El Legado.................................320 ...M-5 107 Glasscock Hills ........................302 ...L-5 Glenwood Oaks .......................321....N-5 Inspiration Heights ..................317 ....L-2 Las Villas Del Rio Groves/Shary ....312....I-5 Martha’s Vineyard ...................311 ....K-5 Mirabelle .................................303 ...P-6 Mission Valley..........................301....K-6 Shary Oaks ..............................310....K-5 Sommerset Court Estates........304 ...L-5 Spring Valley ...........................307 ...L-4 Stewart Gardens......................314 ....M-5 Stewart Oaks ...........................306 ...L-5 Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm ........315....P-1 Villa Centenario .......................319....P-5 Villas de San Gabriel ...............313....O-6 PHARR Brentwood Estates ..................405 ...O-11 Country Gardens .....................400 ...P-10 Maria Elise Estates ..................403 ...J-11 lt RdManor ......................401....J-11 Oak ooseve RWest West Ridge Estates..................402 ...K-11 ALTON Alton Pointe .............................501 ...I-2 SAN JUAN Garden Ridge ..........................600...O-13 ALAMO Cartagena Estates ...................700 ...O-14 PALMHURST Hidden Pond............................800...J-5 WESLACO Citrus 674 ................................900...P-18 King Estates.............................901 ...O-18 Mira Vista ............................ 902.. P-19

Mile 4 Rd.

69C

Closner Blvd

Schunior St

Chapin St

Bridge Ave.

212

Texas Blvd

281 Chapin St

M Rd

BUS

Doolittle Rd

205 223

Russell Rd

Alamo Rd

Cesar Chavez Rd

Rogers Rd

Border Ave

281

MCALLEN Auburn Estates ........................129....H-7 Auburn Hills .............................100 ...H-8 Bentley Estates........................102 ...I-10 Coronado Estates ....................121 ....P-6 Ensenada at Tres Lagos ................103....C-6 Escondido at Tres Lagos ...............104....C-6 Estancia at Tres Lagos ..................105 ...C-6 Hibiscus ...................................117.....H-7 Mile 17 1/2 Rd Hidden Cove............................106 ...K-6 La Floresta Phase I & II ............125....G-8 Marbella Mile 17 Rd ..................................108 Mile 17 Rd ...M-6 Orangewood North .................109 ...H-9 Quail Crossing .........................116 ....F-8 Silver Creek107 .............................120 ...J-7 Silverado Trail on Auburn Hill ..124....H-6 Spanish Oaks...........................114 ....H-9 Stone Ridge Estates ................123....H-8 The Embers .............................126....H9 The Gardens at Trinity Oaks ..........110 ....F-7 The Vineyards .........................127 ....E-7 Trinity Oaks..............................112 n Rd ....F-7 Anderso Vendome ............................. 107 .. D-7 Villagio.....................................119 ....G-8 Rd Canton Villanueva Estates at Trinity Oaks ...118 ....F-7 Villas at La Vista ..........................113 ....L-10 in Rd....I-8 Villas De Santiago ...................115 Wiscons Westwood One ........................128....H-7 EDINBURG Rd Trenton Alberta Village .........................218....I-12 Camden Village .......................200...G-9 Rd Alberta Canton Village .........................216....H-11 Hacienda San Roman ..............214....E-15 Jackson Heights ......................201 ...G-10 James Court ............................210 ...G-10 Las Villas..................................225 ...D-7 ta Rd Minneso Los Lagos Golf Club.................202...H-13 Lumen at Los Lagos Golf Club ..........203 ...G-13 d Earling R Madison Park...........................222 ...H-10 Monte Cristo Golf Club ............219....B-13 d ...E-14 Rio Vega Ranches ...................204 Eldora R Russell Park .............................205...D-11 Santa Cruz at La Sienna ...............224 ...B-12 Sonador Trails..........................223 ...D-12 Sugar Oaks ..............................206...H-10 Summerfield Manor.................207 ...I-11 495 Summerset Estates .................208 ...J-11

Border Rd

Gwin Rd

211 69C

BUS

Doolittle Rd

209

900 February/March 2021

BUS

NEW HOME COMMUNITIES

new home

communities

CITY COLOR CODE McAllen Edinburg

Alton

Weslaco

HOW TO USE THIS COMPREHENSIVE NEW HOME COMMUNITIES GUIDE MAP LISTING NUMBER

This number identifies the community on the locater maps.

PRICES & PROPERTIES FOR SALE

Prices or price ranges are shown for lots, homes, or a combination of both. Prices subject to change without notice. Call advertiser for more information.

CITY COLOR CODE

Cities are coded by color. Each color represents a different city.

QUICK LOCATER MAP

See a simplified map with directions to the community showing minor and major roadways.

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Find Independent School District telephone numbers and names of related schools.

new home

communitiesonline

GET DIRECTIONS

www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/All-Communities

DOWNLOAD BROCHURES

www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/All-Communities

VIEW OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE www.issuu.com/NewHomesSouthTX

NEW HOME COMMUNITIES

VENDOME (PHASES I & II) 104

107

142

103

108

143

15LD SO

LD 30 SO

VD 81 RS

102

109

144

14LD SO

31LD SO

53LD SO

101

110

145

32LD SO

54LD SO

100

111

146

33LD SO

55LD SO

112

147

11LD SO

LD 34 SO

41LD SO

56LD SO

113

148

10LD SO

LD 35 SO

LD 40 SO

57LD SO

VD 86 RS

114

149 VD RS

SO9LD

LD 36 SO

LD 39 SO

58LD SO

115

SO8LD

LD 37 SO

LD 38 SO

59LD SO

VD 60 RS

VD 88 RS

VD 95 RS

VD 116 RS

12LD SO

SO7LD

VD 150 RS

152 VD RS

130

151 RSVD

VD 129 RS VD 128 RS VD RS 127

126 VD RS

125 RSVD

123

RESERVE YOUR LOT TODAY

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Chapin Rd

20 78

77 76 75 74 73 72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65 64 63 62

46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61

21 22 23 24 25

43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29

28 27

BLOCK 2 5

4 3 2 1

BLOCK 2

O SOLD

55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62

72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65

75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86

98 97 96 95 94 93 92 91 90 89 88 87

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

27 28 29 30 31

35 34

46 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34

O SOLD

40 39 38 37 36

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

4 5

10 11

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

29 30

Lot 1

BLOCK 1

S. INTERNATIONAL BLVD. (FM 1015)

31 32 33 34

35 36 37 38 39 40

48 47

46 45 44

51 52 53

43 42 41

54 55 56

23 22

16 15 14

3 4

6 7

9 10 11 12

BLOCK 2

Lot Prices from $42,500

A gated neighborhood just minutes from UT-RGV. This newly developed community offers residential lots in a privately gated community in quiet North Edinburg. It is located minutes from the University of Texas RGV, shopping, dining, and entertainment, with quick access to Expressway I-69. Lots are available from $48,000. Architectural restrictions and a Homeowners Association will ensure the beauty of the neighborhood and the value of your property. A minimum of 1,500 square feet of living area is required. Download our lots sheet and choose your favorite lot today.

281

Chapin Rd

69C

EDINBURG

The Montecito, Red Rock Development’s latest new home community, is now available for lot sales in North Edinburg off Monte Cristo Road. This private gated community features affordable lots in Block 1 from the $40’s with homes from 1,500 sq. ft. A Homeowners Association and architectural controls ensure that the beauty of the neighborhood is maintained. Located minutes from UT-RGV with easy access to Expressway 281 (I-69). Edinburg Schools and all city utilities apply.

Monte Cristo

ISD: Edinburg - (956) 289-2300 | Elem: Truman | Mid: B.L. Garza | High School: Edinburg North

CAMINO REAL VIEJO ROAD 28

EDINBURG

Call or text: Manuel Cantu (956) 821-8180 | riocantu@yahoo.com

Lot Prices: Block 1 from the $40’s

902

THE HILLS at Chapin

THE MONTECITO

BLOCK 1 1

53 52 51 50 49 48

Contact: (956) 358-3314 | vendomehomes.com | go@jbctexas.com

ISD: Edinburg - (956) 289-2300 | Elem: Lincoln | Mid: B.L. Garza | High School: Edinburg North

215 6

FM 107

Call or text: Manuel Cantu (956) 821-8180 | riocantu@yahoo.com

Lot Prices from the $48’s

BLOCK 3

El Pacifico Ave

ISD: Edinburg - (956) 289-2300 | Elem: Anne Magee | Mid: Elias Longoria | High School: Vela | Charter: IDEA

ONLY A FEW LOTS LEFT!

Now Open for PRE-SALE

Lot Prices from $46,900

212

Monte Cristo Rd

PHASE II

VD 122 RS

120 RSVD VD RS VD RS VD RS VD RS VD RS VD 118 RSVD RS 89 RS 90 91 92 93 94 117 119 VD

5LD SO 4LD SO3LD SO2LD SO1LD SO

Phase I Phase II

VD 124 RS

121

VENDOME DR. SO6LD

VD 131 RS

Gated community. Call to reserve your lot today. Take advantage of discounted pre-construction prices on lots in Vendome, a planned gated community on North Ware Road in McAllen. Vendome is located within walking distance to IDEA Academy and to Texas A&M University and is minutes from the University of Texas RGV. This privately gated and fenced neighborhood features a walking park and high-speed internet. Pre-construction pricing starts at $46,900. PHASE II now open for sales!

Sugar Rd.

N. 33rd St.

51LD SO

N. 34th St.

50LD SO

LD 46 SO

N. 36th St.

LD 47 SO

29LD SO

N. 37th St.

28LD SO

16LD SO

132

VD 153 RS

(Bus. 281) Closner Rd

VD 141 RS

McColl Rd.

VD 106 RS

MIRA VISTA

WESLACO

Weslaco’s latest new home community is now open for lot sales and features 56 homesites in a variety of lot sizes—from 6,000 sq. ft. to over 12,000 sq. ft. Enjoy a quiet countryside area of town, near schools, medical offices and hospital, and a short, straight drive to the Progreso International Bridge. Home requirements include a minimum of 1,200 sq. ft. (living) and brick or stucco exteriors with a 30-year warranty on composition shingles in selected colors. A $1,000 non-refundable deposit will hold your lot until you are ready to build. Reserve yours now!

Bus. 83 S International Blvd.

VD 105 RS

SAINT PATRICIO DR.

VD 78 RS

VD 70 RS

T RO CH D

49LD SO

SAIN

LD 48 SO

17LD SO

13LD SO

LD 27 SO

29th St

133 VD RS

SAINT HONORE DR. 18LD SO

MCALLEN

38th St

VD RS VD 74 75 76 77 140 139 138 137 136 135 134 71 RS 72 73 RSVD

LD SO LD SO LD SO LD SO LD 19LD SO 20 21LD SO 22LD SO 23 24 25 26 SO

Ware Rd

107

Camino Real Viejo Rd.

10 BLOCK 3

Call or text: Manuel Cantu (956) 821-8180 | riocantu@yahoo.com

ISD: Weslaco - (956) 969-6500 | Elem: Margo | Mid: Cuera | High School: Weslaco East February/March 2021

NO T U S 24 X 24

WWW.MATERIALESELVALLEINC.COM

LARGEST SELECTION. BEST PRICES.

VISIT OUR FULLY-STOCKED SHOWROOMS: PALMVIEW, TX / 1020 W. Palma Vista Dr. / (956) 581-1109 EDINBURG, TX / 3910 S. Jackson Rd. / (956) 994-8550 DONNA, TX / 931 West Expwy. 83 / (956) 464-5152