JUNE /JULY 2016 VOLUME 24 ISSUE 4
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jose Vielma
06 BETTER HOME SHOPPING EXPERIENCES
SENIOR EDITOR Barbara Zapffe
Find out how going through the pre-approval process experience and make it a more enjoyable one.
ADVERTISING MANAGER Jose R. Vielma Ken Sabe
10 BIG ENERGY SAVINGS FOR NEW HOMES
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erika Sanchez
for a home loan can simplify your homebuying
06
HB 1736 will become law on September 1, 2016, and will require builders to follow new code regulations designed to make new homes and commercial buildings more energy efficient.
14 RGVBA PARADE OF HOMES WINNERS See the 2016 winners of the Parade, recognized by their peers for excellence in a variety of categories. Download the RGVBA Parade app for more photos.
29 FURNISHED MODEL HOMES
10
See a listing of models available for touring. Visit with on-site consultants who can answer questions and
are a lot of
to spend the entire amount that you are share valuable information.
mebuyers
approved for. Laura smiled and said,
dably. Some
“We decided what size mortgage was
own payment,
comfortable for us so that we could still eat and pay our other bills.”
ettled on a
be $350. But because the home will cost the homeowner $37 to $72 less on their annual ng disclosure. utility bills, the cost will be recouped within
for a Good
You don’t have to four to 10 years. After that, it will save the spend the entire unter with homeowner money every month for the life of d points,” he amount that you the home. are the cost House Bill 1736 are also includes a approved for.
lists all of the
14
statement that the State of Texas will not
nder, David adopt another edition of the IRC for 6 more orough years. That means the next major changes will
PUBLISHER Across Media Marketing, LLC
29
was morewith the adoption David that result ofadded the IRC ofreading 2021. the fine ified,” she print on the mortgage documents is vital. Volume 24.4 2016 www.rgvnewhomesguide.com 971-9700 psLOOK as they 2 FOR we didn’t understand(956) something, THESE“When PROGRAMS
GRAPHICS / PHOTOGRAPHY Laura Soria Jeremiah D. Nava
Let’s be friends! /rgvnewhomesguide /rgvnhg /rgvnewhomes
THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY AREA NEW HOMES GUIDE (NHG) is a bimonthly 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 bimonthly by: Across Media Marketing, LLC. 1601 N. 8th St. • McAllen, Tx 78501 FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION: (956) 971-9700 • www.rgvnewhomesguide.com
Volume 24.4 2016
5
F
be making payments. There are a lot of
to spend the entire amount that you are
first sight. “I fell in love with the master
or David and Laura, it was love at
opportunities for first time homebuyers
approved for. Laura smiled and said,
bedroom that looked out to the beautiful
to get into homes more affordably. Some
“We decided what size mortgage was
garden,” Laura gushed. “It was as if I had
like FHA only require a 3% down payment,
comfortable for us so that we could still
found my own personal retreat.” David
which makes it even easier.
eat and pay our other bills.”
was more attracted to the expansive open living areas. “I can envision raising our family here, with our children, and some day grandchildren, running around,” he shared.
mortgage lender, they asked for a Good Faith Estimate/Truth in Lending disclosure. “This is important because it lists all of the charges and costs we’ll encounter with
For this young couple, the Rio Grande
our loan, like closing costs and points,” he
Valley Builders Association’s Parade of
added. “We used it to compare the cost
Homes meant that there were plenty of
with other lenders.”
opportunities to find this, their dream home. The next step to securing this home: obtaining the financing needed for the investment.
You don’t have to spend the entire amount that you are approved for.
Once they agreed on a lender, David and Laura went through a thorough pre-approval process. “This was more
David added that reading the fine
stringent than being pre-qualified,” she
print on the mortgage documents is vital.
The good news is that before they
said. “They do the same steps as they
“When we didn’t understand something,
even went to the Parade of Homes, they
would to approve a full mortgage, such
we made sure to ask the lender to explain
met with a mortgage lender. “This was
as credit checks, and employment and
it in terms we could understand,” he said.
a smart move because it allowed us to
income verification, and because we did
“You don’t want to sign something that
know how much we could actually afford,”
this, we were able to identify any issues or
is unclear.”
David explained. Added Laura, “Without
questions lenders might have so that we
this knowledge, we could have been very
could be prepared to address them.”
disappointed if we looked at houses that were out of our price range.”
David explained that it was a lot of
Now, David and Laura are anxiously awaiting word on the closing date for their new home with the luscious oasis
work, but that they are glad they went
bedroom and open living areas. “We have
through pre-approval. “We knew before
been working to get our documents ready
helped the couple understand the types of
we visited the Parade of Homes that we
so that we’re prepared to move in as soon
loans that were available to them, such as
would be able to get a mortgage and can
as possible,” Laura said. “We can’t wait!
FHA, HUD, and Freddie Mae. They used a
now shop confidently for our new house.”
And, we are so happy we went through
lending calculator to figure out how much
Another lesson they learned during
The initial visit to the mortgage lender
they could afford and for how long they’d
6
Before David and Laura settled on a
Volume 24.4 2016
www.rgvnewhomesguide.com
their approval process: You don’t have
(956) 971-9700
the prequalification process first. Peace of mind is worth everything.”
Volume 24.4 2016
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BIG ENERGY SAVINGS FOR NEW HOMES U N D E R S TA N D I N G T E X A S H O U S E B I L L 1 7 3 6
T
exas is a state renowned for doing things big. When it comes to energy efficiency in new homes, you could say that Bill 1736 is certainly a Texassized effort to conserve energy. Texas House Bill 1736 goes into effect statewide as of September 2016. The purpose of this bill is to require energy efficient designs in all new single-family dwellings and multi-family homes. The bill means Texas will adopt the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC), which is identical to the requirements of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The new Texas law sets minimum energy requirements for new homes in the State and will have a tremendous positive effect on the energy efficiency of new homes.
each home uses. The higher the score, the more energy the home uses; the lower the score, the better. A typical older home might rate 100. A few years back, new home programs like ENERGY STAR started offering certifications for homes that were 15 to 30% more energy efficient than code. A home with a HERS score of 70, for example, was said to be 30% more energy efficient than homes built to code. With Texas House Bill 1736, new homes built beginning September 2016 must score 65 or lower. Over time, new homes will be required to meet even lower scores: 63 or lower by 2019, and 59 or lower by 2022.
WHAT BILL 1736 MEANS FOR YOU
How is HERs determined? There are a number of zones that are measured. To start, blower door and duct blaster tests are used to check for drafts and heat loss or gain. In addition, insulation levels for framed walls, attics and roofs, and floors will be checked to ensure that the required R-value is met in the various spaces of the home. HERS points are added or subtracted in many other ways. For instance, windows and skylights with good Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings lower the score (which is GOOD). Likewise, energy efficient hot water heaters, furnaces, and air conditioners that operate at peak performance help to improve scores. A HER score can also be lowered by using hightech features like energy efficient lights and appliances, or thermostats that automatically adjust temperatures based on occupancy and weather conditions. What will the bill cost the average person building a new home? Let’s take the example of a 1200 square foot property with three bedrooms. The additional construction cost to make the home energy efficient might
What does this mean to the average Texas new home buyer? The upshot is that you will be able to move into a new home that will be more energy efficient than one built to code prior to the Bill coming into force– and that means savings on electricity, heating, and cooling costs. How? Every new home must follow new minimum energy efficiency requirements. To verify this, new homes must undergo various tests that measure how much air and heat leaks into and out of a home. Building codes have also been updated to ensure that all components, materials, and systems are safe, energy efficient, and conserve natural resources. The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) is the nationally accepted method used to verify if a home meets energy efficiency standards. This is a national standard used to assess each home’s energy efficiency performance. Homes are rated based on a scale of 0 to 250 to determine how much energy 10
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HOW A NEW HOME’S EFFICIENCY IS MEASURED
(956) 971-9700
be $350. But because the home will cost the homeowner $37 to $72 less on their annual utility bills, the cost will be recouped within four to 10 years. After that, it will save the homeowner money every month for the life of the home. House Bill 1736 also includes a statement that the State of Texas will not adopt another edition of the IRC for 6 more years. That means the next major changes will result with the adoption of the IRC of 2021.
LOOK FOR THESE PROGRAMS Programs like ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE™ are two “above code” programs in the Rio Grande Valley that have differentiated those builders who make the extra effort to ensure their homebuyers are getting the most energy efficient home possible—one that will provide more comfort, have tighter construction along with cleaner indoor air, and provide valuable savings on utility bills every month. What is Solar As code requirements Heat Gain become stricter, so do Coefficient the requirements of (SHGC)? ENERGY STAR® and Windows impact BUILT TO SAVE™ to the temperature remain “above code.” inside a building. When builders certify If the windows are homes as ENERGY not treated properly STAR® or BUILT TO to block solar heat, SAVE™, they hire thirdthey may put an party inspectors to extra strain on your verify claims of energy home’s cooling efficiency and above system. SHGC average construction, measures how thus providing a efficiently windows guarantee of high and glass insulate performance to the home from solar their homebuyers. heat and loss.
i
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High-Performance Homes Offer More Than Meets the Eye High-Performance and ENERGY STAR® certified new homes have a hidden super power. It’s called energy efficiency. And it can save you money. Each one is built to use 20% to 30% less energy than typical new homes. That means you get all the amenities you want, plus energy-saving features that increase comfort, improve performance and reduce costs. Benefits of High-Performance and ENERGY STAR homes: • Lower energy costs • Greater comfort • Improved safety and indoor air quality • Energy-efficient products and appliances • High-efficiency heating and cooling equipment • Independent testing and inspection • Better for the environment
Find a participating homebuilder at SouthTXSaves.com
(956) 971-9700
www.rgvnewhomesguide.com
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Your “All Wall” Specialists. Since 1979, Galan Brothers has offered superior insulation and drywall services to the South Texas area. We are proud to be one of a select few Owens Corning™ Certified Energy Experts® — so you can have assurance of a job well done. • Highly trained and experienced installers • Dependable, innovative products • Qualification to offer a limited lifetime warranty on product & exclusive 10-year limited warranty* on workmanship • Blown Insulation • Fiberglass Insulation • Insulation Finishing • Drywall (Hang & Finish)
Contact us today to receive a free estimate.
Plus, mention this ad and receive 20% off the installation cost of your first job with us! Give us a call at (956) 797-2419.
25648 N KANSAS CITY RD LA FERIA, TX 78559 GALANBROTHERS.COM (956) 797-2419 *See actual warranty for complete details, limitations and requirements. Ten (10) years from date of installation by an Owens Corning Certified Energy Expert. THE PINK PANTHER™ & ©1964–2016 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved. The color PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning. Owens Corning Insulating Systems, LLC is a manufacturer of durable, high-quality fiberglass products and does not sell or endorse other insulation industry products.
(956) 971-9700
www.rgvnewhomesguide.com
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+
FURNISHED
MODEL HOMES
There is nothing like actually walking through a home. These builders have their homes furnished and ready for you to tour. Stop by and see which one FEELS like home. RGVNEWHOMESGUIDE.COM BUILT TO SAVE™ & ENERGY STAR® Certifications represent homes with lower ownership costs, & require less energy for heating and cooling.
GreenBuilt RGV Certifications represent homes that are built using products, technologies, & environmentally-friendly building practices.
McAllen
cAMI NO REA L ADDRESS:
HOURS:
HOURS:
Hidden Coves 3605 N. 42nd St. McAllen, TX
La Puerta 13813 N. 33rd McAllen, TX
Monday - Friday 9:00am to 6:30pm
www.caminorealbuilders.com \\
See ad on page 8.
SALES: Carlos Andreu: (956) 992-9501 caminorealbuilders@yahoo.com
Saturday 11:00am to 3:00pm
OFFICE:
Monday - Friday 8:30am to 6:00pm
www.caminorealbuilders.com \\
See ad on page 8.
SALES: Hector Franco: (956) 239-1618 hectorfranco@gmail.com
OFFICE: (956) 992-9501
ADDRESS:
ADDRESS:
HOURS:
HOURS:
Plantation Gap 7018 N. 44th Lane McAllen, TX
Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm 3611 Oriole Dr. Mission, TX
Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm
www.westwindhomes.com \\
See ad on page 4.
SALES: Sam Rangel: (956) 688-8321 srangel@westwindhomes.com
Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm
Sunday
See ad on page 27.
SALES: Olga Treviño: (956) 467-1111 olga@divinecustomhomes.net
ADDRESS:
Retama Village at Bentsen Palm 2204 Seagull Lane Mission, TX
Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm 1920 Seagull Lane Mission, TX
Active Adult Community 55+
HOURS:
HOURS:
Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm
Monday - Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm
See ad on page 5.
SALES: Eddie Sligh: (956) 874-8676 eddie@mlrhodes.com
Sunday Closed
OFFICE:
www.bentsenpalm.com \\
See ad on page 5.
Sunday & Monday Closed
OFFICE:
SALES: Juan Pacheco: (956) 369-2456 juan@mlrhodes.com
(956) 380-6500 *Se habla Español
HOMES
ADDRESS:
Summerfield Manor 4912 Juno Dr. Edinburg, TX
ADDRESS:
Summerset Estates 1412 Maravilla Dr. Edinburg, TX
HOURS:
HOURS: www.dhconstructionrgv.com \\
See ad on page 1.
www.infinityhomesrgv.com \\ SALES: Eddie Garza: (956) 460-3290 Mario Peña: (956) 534-2353 info@infinityhomesrgv.com
See ad on page 18.
Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm
OFFICE: (956) 460-3290
ADDRESS:
Midpoint Manor 1408 Mulberry Weslaco, TX
ADDRESS:
Summerfield Manor 4917 Nevis Edinburg, TX
HOURS:
Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm
HOURS: www.waldohomesrgv.com \\
See ad on page 11.
SALES: Luis Waldo - (956) 466-8590 • 907-8876 luiswaldo@yahoo.com
Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 1:00pm to 6:00pm
www.westwindhomes.com \\ SALES: Pete Lopez: (956) 969-2500 plopez@westwindhomes.com
See ad on page 4.
Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm
Sunday Closed
Weslaco
Edinburg
SALES: Daniel Hernandez - (956) 778-0212 ahernandez65@rgv.rr.com
Daily Monday - Sunday 10:00am to 6:00pm
Edinburg
Edinburg
(956) 380-6500
Mission
Mission
Closed
Call for a personal tour.
www.divinecustomhomes.net \\
ADDRESS:
www.bentsenpalm.com \\
Saturday 10:00am to 3:00pm
Mission
McAllen
(956) 992-9501
McAllen
cAMI NO REA L ADDRESS: