RGV New Homes Guide Vol. 25 #5 (Aug.-Sept. 2017)

Vol. 25#5 August/September 2017

Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc.

DH Construction

Meet the

LEADERS of

Energy Efficient Homes in the Rio Grande Valley.

Page 22

Divine Custom Homes

Esperanza Homes

Lighting Advice That Saves Page 30

Innovative Construction

Windows Are Walls Too Page 32

Insulate Yourself From High Utility Bills Page 34

Aug/Sept Volume 25 Issue 5 PUBLISHER Across Media Marketing, LLC

Contents

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jose Vielma

August/September 2017 - Volume 25 Issue 5

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30

SENIOR EDITOR Barbara Zapffe SALES MANAGER Jose R. Vielma CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Soria GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeremiah D. Nava

34

HOMEBUYING ADVICE 16

Understanding Closing Costs

SPECIAL SECTIONS 22

Leading Energy Efficient Builders

The cost of a new home is more than the

Meet the small group of local new home

advertised price.

builders who are going above and beyond what is required by code to build homes that

ENERGY EFFICIENCY 19

Energy Saving Tips Discover some simple things you can do around

are more comfortable and energy efficient than those built to code.

44

Find address, contact information, and hours

the house that, when you add them all up, can

of operation. Visit these model homes and

amount to sizeable savings on your utility bill.

20

Peace Of Mind There’s nothing like a written guarantee to ease

“feel” which one is right for you.

46

investment—your home.

30

listings of new home communities in the area.

48

Lighting Advice

know: prices, photos, plats, maps, descriptions, and contact information. Download flyers / lot

based on price—you’re probably paying more

sheets at www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com

than you think.

Window Are Walls Too The size of windows, the number of windows, the

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14

Weslaco Adopts 2015 Codes

windows impact the energy efficiency of a home.

41

SPEER Ambassadors

43

Superior Quality Indoor Air

Insulate Yourself From High Utility Bills insulation and decide what is a perfect fit for your project.

RGVNewHomesGuide.com

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 rgvnewhomesguide.com

BUILDER INDUSTRY NEWS

type of windows, are but a few of the ways that

Learn the pros and cons of the different types of

2

New Home Communities At a glance, look at everything you need to

If you are still buying lighting fixtures or bulbs

32

New Home Communities Map Color coded maps with the most up-to-date

the anguish if anything should go wrong. Imagine having a written guarantee for your single largest

Furnished Model Home Listings

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Ken Sabe

/rgvnewhomesguide @rgvnewhomes @rgvnhg

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

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ES

BEST MODEL

0

$ 20 $ 150 TO

The New North

North McAllen has a new masterplanned community that is making waves. With an island amphitheater, fiber-bundled technology and one of the largest community trail systems in the US, this community is unrivaled anywhere in the country.

Reserve your dream home today, before someone else does.

Info@TresLagosMcAllen. com

Exclusive community by award winning builder, Esperanza Homes.

Homes from the

$180’s

956.205.0605

Single family homes, greenbelt lots available.

Homes from the

$250’s

TresLagosMcAllen.com

Gated community of elegant estate homes.

Estate Lots from the

$100’s TO $190’s

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

BEST CURB APPEAL

ES

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Award-Winning Builder

20

BEST HOME

ES

WHERE LUXURY MEETS DESIGN.

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

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$ 25 $ 2 01 TO

TREVIÑO CONSTRUCTION builds more than just a great home. It’s the overall experience you get when buying a Treviño home--an experience that starts with your first visit and continues long after you move in. We build relationships the old fashioned way. We do what we say, we give you plenty of choices, and, most of all, we keep you involved every step of the way. Your life becomes our “Blueprint” because we build our homes with designs that fit your lifestyle in mind. No matter how much customizing you want to do for your new home, we have the right solution for you. At Treviño Construction, we offer total immersion into an in-depth design and custom Treviño features that result in a one-of-a-kind home...YOUR personal dream home.

(956) 534-6305 Facebook.com/LuxuryByTrevino Instagram.com/TrevinoConstruction 6 NEW MODELS AT JACKSON HEIGHTS In Edinburg, Tx Homes starting from the $230’s + WE BUILD ON YOUR LOT OR OURS!

OFFICE & MODEL HOME: Jackson Heights - 2408 Elbrus St., Edinburg

cAMI NO REA L Let’s Build Your Dream Home

Office: (956) 992-9501 | Michael Pavon: (956) 460-0286 | Hector Franco: (956) 239-1618

www.CaminoRealBuilders.com

PABLO IS HERE TO HELP YOU.

CALL NOW!

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$ 50 $ 4 01 TO

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17 ES

BEST HOME

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PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

ES

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956-429-8662

BEST KITCHEN

VISIT OUR MODEL HOMES McAllen, TX

McAllen, TX

LA PUERTA

HIDDEN COVE

McAllen, TX

THE GARDENS AT TRINITY OAKS

SEE OUR NEWEST SUBDIVISION IN EDINBURG!

THE HILLS AT CHAPIN

New Model & Lots Coming Soon to Canton Village, Edinburg CALL FOR DETAILS.

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

FOR SALE

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

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$ 30 $ 201 TO

YouDeserve

THE FINEST THINGS IN LIFE...

www.WaldoHomesRGV.com /WaldoHomesRGV

PARADE O VBA FH RG OM 17

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$ 50 $ 401 TO

TIMELESS ELEGANCE. FREE ESTIMATES | BUILD ON YOUR LOT | SIMPLE FINANCING www.richheritagetx.com • (956) 460-8035 • (956) 821-8902

THE RIGHT BANK CAN GET YOU THERE FASTER. Call one of our mortgage specialists to ensure a smooth and timely home loan process.

(866) 716-9594

Frank J. Giuoco NMLS# 1376328 (956) 664-8922

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Maribel Carranco NMLS# 555972 (956) 579-8388

Ricardo Lara NMLS# 249091 (956) 533-7515

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

13

Builder Industry NEWS

(L to R): Mardoqueo Hinojosa (Planning and Code Enforcement Director); Rolando Gonzalez (Chief Building Official), Joe Pedraza (Health Official); Feliciano Salazar (Building Inspector), David Sifuentes (Building Inspection/Plan Reviewer).

City of Weslaco Adopts New Energy Codes

T

HE WESLACO (Texas) City Council voted unanimously to adopt the 2015 International Codes, including the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for residential and commercial buildings in its jurisdiction. Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1736 into Texas law on June 16, 2015, officially moving the state’s single-family residential code from 2009 to the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC). The law became effective on September 1, 2016.

Weslaco is the first city in the Rio Grande Valley to adopt these new 2015 International Codes, which will result in a huge improvement to the energy efficiency and quality of new buildings—saving homeowners and businesses money on utility bills. Longterm benefits include improved air quality by reducing emissions produced

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from generating electricity from fossil fuels.

Weslaco’s new building code will require builders to use more efficient lighting, insulation, windows, ductwork, and other components— making the city a leader in energy efficient construction in the Valley.

Additionally, new homes will be required to undergo a blower door test and a duct leakage test to verify that air infiltration and leakage in the home meets or exceeds required standards.

Homes using spray foam insulation will be exempt from a duct leakage test since any air leaking from the ducts would be leaking into conditioned space and not to the outside. Thirdparty inspectors with specialized equipment will be contracted to perform the work.

The South-Central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource

(SPEER) was instrumental in helping the City of Weslaco make its transition to the new code. SPEER, one of six regional energy efficiency organizations in the nation, aims to accelerate and facilitate the adoption of advanced building systems and energy efficient products and services in Texas and Oklahoma—which combined, include nearly 30 million people and some of the fastest growing municipalities in the country. Through training, outreach, and support for code officials, builders, and contractors, SPEER’s goal is to make homes and buildings in its region more energy efficient, more durable, healthier, and more affordable to own and maintain.

Contact the City of Weslaco Planning & Code Enforcement at 956-447-3401 or email codeenf@weslacotx.gov for more information.

To find out more about SPEER, visit www.eepartnership.org.

RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

You’ll feel right at home with our higher level of standards!

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DHConstructionRGV.com | (956) 778-0212

Homebuying ADVICE

UNDERSTANDING

CLOSING COSTS

B

may be an exciting prospect, but before you sign on the dotted line, you should understand that buying a house usually costs more than the sticker price. Referred to as closing costs, there are several essential service fees you’ll need to cover to finalize the purchase of your home. Let us help you get the best deals by giving you some tips on how to stretch your closing cost dollars.

16

UYING A NEW HOUSE

UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS OF CLOSING COSTS By most estimates, closing costs may add up to 3% to the final purchase price of your home. These necessary service fees are charged by a variety of people involved in the important process of finalizing the purchase of your home, including those that come directly from the mortgage lender as well as several third parties. Refer to the sidebar on the right of this page to see a brief breakdown of the basic closing costs you’re likely to see.

Keep in mind that the particular closing costs for which you will be responsible will depend on where you’re purchasing, the service provider you’ve chosen to work with, and the sales contract terms. And remember: your lender is required to provide a list of estimated closing costs before your closing date.

Generally it’s a good idea to involve a lawyer during the homebuying process in order for you to cover all of your bases, and you’ll need to pay the lawyer for their services, as well.

SUM IT UP CLOSING COSTS INCLUDE DISCOUNT POINTS, LOAN ORIGINATION FEES, APPRAISAL COSTS, RECORDING FEES, NOTARY CHARGES, ATTORNEY FEES, TITLE INSURANCE, AND OTHER ITEMS. STRETCHING YOUR CLOSING COST DOLLARS There are several ways to keep your closing costs to a minimum. Follow these tips to make your money go further during the final stages of buying your new home.

• Compare offers from lenders Before you select a mortgage lender, be sure to do your homework by asking about more than just interest rates. Many lenders provide incentives in the form of lower closing costs, which can save you more than you would shave off with a lower mortgage interest rate. Get

several offers and compare them on every closing cost to get an accurate picture of which one is the most affordable.

• Negotiate for third-party services Don’t be afraid to ask for a reduction in fees from third-party service providers, such as your attorney, property surveyor, appraiser, or inspector, and so on. It doesn’t hurt to ask, and often these providers are willing to lower their rates to get your business.

• Provide a larger down payment Often, when you put down less than 20%, you’re required to pay extra mortgage insurance premiums depending on the size of your down payment. You could save big on insurance fees by putting down more than 20%.Usually calculated as 1% of the amount you’re borrowing, points are a way of buying down the interest you will pay on your mortgage. If you need to save up front on closing costs, lower the number of points you plan to purchase. Conversely, if you want to save more on interest for several years, increase the number you buy.

• Opt for monthly insurance premiums In the past, lenders required you to pay a one-year premium for mortgage interest at the time of closing plus two months towards the next year’s premiums. However, today you can opt to pay monthly instead, which can significantly lower your up-front costs.

Knowing what closing costs you have to pay and comparing offers from several companies is a great way to make your house-buying experience more affordable.

And once you have closed on your new home, breathe a sigh of relief with the money you have saved--welcome home!

Average Closing Costs in Texas 2017 • • • • •

Mortgage: $200,000 Down payment: 20% Origination fees charged by lender: $982 Title and third-party fees: $1,203 Total: $2,186

Source: BANKRATE.COM

Origination Fees Charged By The Lender • • • • • • • • • • •

Loan origination Mortgage application Document preparation Broker, originator, or lender fees Processing Tax service Underwriting Wire transfer Escrow fees Points fees Interest on the loan

Third-Party Fees • • • • • • • • • • • •

Inspections Appraisals Attorney’s fees Credit report Flood certification Title search and title insurance Property survey Employment verification Certificate of occupancy Real estate taxes Private mortgage insurance Homeowner’s insurance premium

For more information on calculating closing costs, visit your local title companies: San Jacinto Title Services of Texas www. sanjacintotitle.com Sierra Title www. sierratitle.com

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

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Energy EFFICIENCY

1

Ask your builder for ENERGY STAR® appliances

The appliances and electronics in your home consume 20% of the electricity you use. Request only ENERGY STAR for your new home’s refrigerator, washing machine, dishwater, and other appliances. Over the lifetime of owning these appliances, you will save $900!

2

Go low-temp with your water heater

Most homes don’t need steaming hot water for everyday use. Lower your water tank’s temperature from 140 degrees F to 120 degrees F without compromising your comfort or the functionality of your appliances. Doing so will reduce your hot water bill by 10% monthly.

Get cold while doing laundry

Your hot water adds 20% to your utility bill every month with a conventional hot water tank. Use cold water instead. This will not reduce the effectiveness of your cleaning routine, especially if you use detergents formulated for cold water. If you do three loads of laundry weekly, you could save between $25 and $100 every year by washing in cold water.

3

4

Take shorter showers with an efficient showerhead

Most new homes today have showerheads that use about 2.5 gallons of water per minute (gpm).

Have your new home builder upgrade to showerheads that consume only 1.85 gpm. Doing so could save you $25 or more every year. Save even more money by installing a shower timer to reduce your time in the shower from 12 minutes to 5 minutes.

This extra step could further reduce your hot water costs by between $10 and $100, depending on how many people are in your house.

6

Have a programmable thermostat installed

If you’re at work or school and away from your home during the day, there’s no need to keep the temperature within a perfect range.

After all, your furniture doesn’t need to be cool on hot days. Turn up the thermostat by 10-15 degrees for 8 hours every day to save 10% on your monthly energy bill. This is easy to do with a programmable thermostat. Ask your builder to install one before you move in. It could save you up to $180 76° every year.

ENERGY SAVING TIPS

BY MAKING SOME BASIC CHANGES AROUND THE HOUSE, YOU CAN SAVE BIG BUCKS ON YOUR MONTHLY BILLS!

5

Hang laundry to dry

Most households spend about $100 a year on electricity to run a clothes dryer. You could save this money instead by hanging your clothes to dry either indoors or outdoors. You’ll also save money by protecting your clothes. The heat of a dryer wears down the fibers of your clothing over time.

Hanging your clothes to air dry prevents this damage to your clothes, which will save you from replacing them over the years.

7

Draw your blinds

Most homeowners spend about $1,800 every year on heating and cooling. Given our hot climate, you’ll likely pay $300 monthly for air conditioning during the peak cooling months. The sun warms your home during this time, which will increase your need to use your fans and air conditioners to stay comfortable.

You can lower your need for air conditioning by drawing your window blinds. Shade your windows – especially those that receive direct sunlight – with drapes and blinds to cut the heat gain by 45% in the summer months.

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

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Energy EFFICIENCY

Peace of Mind

N

GETTING A THIRD PARTY TO VERIFY YOUR HOME ENERGY

that their home is not energy efficient—because, in their opinion, the homes are “energy efficient”—but to what degree? That is the question that begs for a written guarantee. That’s right. Energy efficiency can be basic or minimal, as in a home “built to code” which satisfies the bare minimum standards required by law. Or it can be superior, as in a high-performance home registered as a BUILT TO SAVE™ home. Can a home built to code perform as well as a BUILT TO SAVE™ qualified home in terms of energy efficiency? Maybe—and a builder may make such claims to you; however, how can you, as a homebuyer, be sure that the home you are buying is as energy efficient as the seller claims it is?

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BUILT TO SAVE™ Featured Home Energy Rater

O BUILDER IS GOING TO ADMIT

RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

Chris Carroll

Carroll’s Inspection Services BUILT TO SAVE™ is a program that awards high-performance certification to new homes built to energy-saving standards that are above code.

www.builttosave.org

ASK FOR THE PROOF The only way to know for sure is if the home qualified in a specialized program such as ENERGY STAR® or BUILT TO SAVE™ and has been certified by a thirdparty home energy rater to have met the “above code” requirements of those programs. A buyer can ask for proof—such as the Certificate of Registration, which has the address of the home and is signed by the thirdparty rater certifying that the home was inspected, tested, and found to pass the requirements of a highperformance home program.

With BUILT TO SAVE™ certification, on completion of home construction, the BUILT TO SAVE™ Certificate of Registration is given to the new homeowner, and this document may be instrumental in improving the home’s resale value further down the road.

LOOK FOR THE PROOF If you are home shopping and touring new homes, another way to spot a qualified BUILT TO SAVE™ home is to look on the panels of the electrical circuit breaker box (typically found in the garage or utility room). A home in the BUILT TO SAVE™ program that has been certified by an independent third party will have a label (approximately 4” X 8”) on the panel of the breaker box listing the certification number along with the rater’s information and important compliance data on the home’s systems.

IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE MONEY YOU SAVE A home qualified as a BUILT TO SAVE™ home by a third-party rater will be more energy efficient than a similar home built to code—and this will save homeowners money on utilities for the life of the home. More importantly, however, is that a BUILT TO SAVE™ home was inspected by a third party during construction, and tested for air tightness after completion to ensure the home met the program’s checklist for better efficiency, comfort, quality, and durability.

A third-party guarantee—it’s more than just saving money…it’s about peace of mind, too!

Being told your new home is energy efficient is a given. Getting a 3rd party written guarantee is a choice.

Choose a BUILT TO SAVE™ certified home.

Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) is committed to reducing the energy consumption of new homes by sponsoring high-performance home programs like BUILT TO SAVE™ and ENERGY STAR ©. These programs are designed to improve a home’s comfort, save money on utilities, and protect the homeowner’s investment.

www.MagicValley.Coop

August / September

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

2017 Leading Energy Efficient Builders In this issue of the New Homes Guide, you will meet the builders who have stepped up to a leadership role in the construction of energy efficient homes in the Valley. They represent a small, select group of professionals leading today’s energy efficient construction by building high-performance homes in the BUILT TO SAVE™ program.

ABOUT THE BUILT TO SAVE™ PROGRAM Much like the “Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval,” a BUILT TO SAVE™ certification means that the home has been inspected and tested by a licensed, independent third party rater who guarantees that the home will perform better than a similar home built only to minimum code requirements.

On-site visual inspections and specialized testing equipment are used to verify and guarantee that the requirements for certification are met.

BUILDERS WHO DO THINGS RIGHT At a time when most companies focus on cutting costs and building to minimum standards to maximize profits, builders constructing high-performance homes certified by the BUILT TO SAVE™ program focus on investing more—not less—to build homes that are superior in every way. A home certified as a high-performance home features the following: Better indoor air quality; tighter construction with enhanced air sealing; correctly-sized HVAC system; consistent room-to-room temperatures; more comfort; more durability; less maintenance; and a better resale value. Most importantly, a BUILT TO SAVE™ certified home will save you money on utilities every month.

TODAY’S HOME SHOPPER Today’s smart home shopper is aware that the cost of a new home is not just the initial price of the home, but rather the total cost of homeownership that includes the home’s performance and its long-term utility costs.

Smart shoppers know to look beyond the “lipstick” of a new home—the designer light fixtures, exotic granite countertops, beautiful wallpaper—and other cosmetic items that many mistake for quality construction. A smart shopper will appreciate that what is behind the walls—what cannot be seen— is more important in determining the quality of construction in a home. With a BUILT TO SAVE™ certificate, buyers can relax with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a third-party rater inspected the home before the walls were installed.

Homes certified in the BUILT TO SAVE™ program are given a Certificate of Registration and a certification label, which can be found on the electrical panel box in a home. If a high-performance home label isn’t there, there’s no guarantee your home is energy efficient.

builttosave.org

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RGVNewHomesGuide.com

Bobby Calvillo Exec. Director

Company Info Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. 500 S. 15th St. McAllen, TX 78501 NMLS# 346848 956.687.6263 | info@ahsti.org www.ahsti.org

Founded: 1976 Price Range: Starting in the $80’s* Areas Served: Valley-wide Construction Type: Residential ENERGY STAR® Partner Since: 2009 BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2014

Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. (AHSTI) builds all of their homes to comply with the requirements of the ENERGY STAR® and BUILT TO SAVE™ programs. AHSTI has been recognized by the EPA with a “Leadership in Housing” award for their commitment to ENERGY STAR®.

Communities Building In Alamo: Crockett Estates, Tierra Encantada | Donna: Donna Meadows Edinburg: Trenton Estates | McAllen: Saddle Creek, Taylor Crossing, Trinity Oaks | Mercedes: Amigo Subdivision, South Forty, Tiger Crossing Pharr: New Properties Coming Soon | San Juan: Lakewood Estates, Las Vistas San Benito: Broadway Place | Weslaco: Northcross, Springwood, Tesoro Estates, Westgate Crossing | Building Soon in Rio Grande City

AFFORDABLE HOMES of SOUTH TEXAS, Inc.

ahsti.org

*Applicants must meet program requirements

August / September

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Company Info DH Construction (956) 778-0212 ahernandez65@rgv.rr.com www.dhconstructionrgv.com

Founded: 2003 Price Range: From the $250’s+ Areas Served: Valley-wide Construction Type: Residential, Commercial ENERGY STAR® Partner Since: 2015 BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2016

DH Construction DH Construction is one of a few builders listed on the ENERGY STAR® website as a partner since 2015. The company’s homes are proof that although sometimes luxury is valued more than energy efficiency by homebuyers, an energy efficient home can indeed have all the luxuries one desires. DH Construction has built a reputation on building custom homes that cater to individual tastes and budgets, and delivers true comfort and high performance homes with excellent energy ratings. This, of course, translates into tremendous savings on energy and value that only increases with time through low maintenance and maximum durability.

Communities Building In Edinburg: Summerfield, Summerset, Los Lagos, Jackson Heights, MGM Grand Ranches | Pharr: Northgate Estates

dhconstructionrgv.com

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RGVNewHomesGuide.com

Olga Treviño President/CEO

Company Info Divine Custom Homes (956) 467-1111 / (956) 212-8273 olga@divinecustomhomes.net www.divinecustomhomes.net

Founded: 2008 Price Range: $150’s - $500’s+ Areas Served: Valley-wide Construction Type: Residential ENERGY STAR® Partner Since: 2009 BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2014

Divine Custom Homes Divine Custom Homes has received special recognition for multiple years in energy efficiency from both Magic Valley Electric Coop and AEP Texas for their high-performance homes. Divine builds all homes with ENERGY STAR® and GreenBuilt RGV, adding BUILT TO SAVE™ in MVEC territory. The company includes the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS label with every home for exceptional air quality.

Communities Building In Alamo: Tierra Encantada | Edinburg: Los Venados, Oak Hill Ranch, Regal Vista | Harlingen: Lauren Estates, The Dell, WestOaks McAllen: Las Palmas | Mission: Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm | Rio Grande City: 755 Country Estates | Laguna Vista: South Padre Island Golf Club Community | Other Cities: Anywhere you own property

divinecustomhomes.net

August / September

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Nick Rhodes President/CEO

Company Info Esperanza Homes (956) 380-6500 info@mlrhodes.com www.esperanzahomes.com

Esperanza Homes Esperanza Homes is an established award-winning builder of energy efficient homes distinguished with worldclass, innovative architectural designs and outstanding construction. Esperanza Homes is committed to building homes that are more energy efficient and more comfortable than similar homes built to code.

From entry-level homes to elegant luxury homes, Esperanza’s company-wide team effort is for excellence in customer satisfaction along with homes backed by an independent third-party guarantee of energy efficiency.

Communities Building In McAllen: Escondido at Tres Lagos, Ensenada at Tres Lagos Mission: Del Oro at Bentsen Palm, Retama Village at Bentsen Palm, Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm

esperanzahomes.com

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RGVNewHomesGuide.com

Founded: 2007 Price Range: From the $130’s Areas Served: Hidalgo County Construction Type: Residential BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2016

Jonathan Vargas

Dir. of Sales/Marketing

Company Info Innovative Construction (956) 929-6198 j.vargas@jjinnovativeconstruction.com www.jjinnovativeconstruction.com

Founded: 2013 Price Range: $200’s - $1 Mil Areas Served: Valley-wide Construction Type: Residential BUILT TO SAVE™ Member Since: 2017

Innovative Construction Innovative Construction was honored by industry peers with awards of excellence for their model home entered in the local 2017 RGVBA Parade of Homes. This included the coveted “Best of Show Award,” which, out of the 28 homes entered in the Parade, took top honors. As a testament to the superior quality and energy efficiency of Innovative Construction’s home, the company also received the award for the “Most Energy Efficient Home” with an impressive Energy Rating Index score of 53. Innovative Construction’s homes have superior quality and comfort that you can “award-winningly” see—and feel.

Communities Building In Edinburg: Canton Village, Jackson Heights

jjinnovativeconstruction.com

August / September

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Tidbits

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®

®

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™

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 insure 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 resulting in a higher resale value for the home. Visit BuiltToSave.org for more information.

GreenBuilt RGV is a voluntary program for building industry professionals who are committed to using products, technologies, and environmentally friendly building practices in their construction process, resulting in better built homes that provide greater energy efficiency, improved air quality, and protection for the environment. The GreenBuilt RGV program is administered by the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association and is designed to encourage the use of sustainable materials in construction in order to conserve energy and protect our natural resources. Visit rgvba.org for more information.

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Visual Inspections and Testing A home with a BUILT TO SAVE™ label has gone through stricter and more comprehensive inspection and testing than a home built only to code.

— Preliminary Review A builder is required to submit the home’s floor plans and elevation drawings to see if any changes are required to provide more energy efficiency. The home’s Manual J, which determines the proper size of the air conditioning unit for the specified size of the home, must also be submitted for review to ensure that it is correct. The data is then

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.

GREENBUILT RGV

THIRD-PARTY VERIFICATION FOR THE BUILT TO SAVE™ LABEL

entered into a software program that projects the expected energy efficiency for that home—allowing builders to make appropriate changes if required.

— Thermal Bypass (Pre-Drywall Inspection) A visual inspection is performed during the framing phase of a home to ensure that there are no gaps in the thermal barrier that would allow cold air to escape from the inside of the home to the attic. The insulation is also inspected to ensure it has the correct R-value and that it was properly installed.

— Blower Door Test & Duct Leakage Testing The final inspection and testing is performed once the home is complete using special diagnostic equipment to conduct a blower door test, which measures the air leakiness of the home, and a duct leakage test that measures the leakiness of the ducts. Final results must meet the requirements of the program for the home to pass. These tests will predict the home’s future energy efficiency performance.

— RESNET Approved Third-Party Raters While anyone can perform third-party inspections with the proper equipment, it is important to ensure that the rater is a RESNET approved inspector. RESNET is the accrediting agency for Home Energy Raters.

Qualified raters are issued an RTN# by RESNET. Make sure your rater has one and is listed on RESNET’s website (www.resnet.us) as a current member. See page--- for local raters. IMPORTANT CHANGE IN THE 2015 ENERGY CODE REGARDING INSPECTORS Third-party inspectors must not have been affiliated with the design or construction of the building (Section C104.4).

new website COMING SOON

www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com The Rio Grande Valley’s most comprehensive resource for new homes, new home builders, and new home communities.

Energy EFFICIENCY

LIGHTING THE LEAST EXPENSIVE WAY TO SAVE ON ENERGY IN YOUR NEW HOME

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W

the large size of your new home, each little light bulb is pretty small by comparison.

But these little pieces of technology actually have the potential to either cost you a lot of money, or save you a lot of money. Choosing the right light fixtures as you design your space is important if you want to lower the size of your electricity bill every month. Just make sure you don’t focus on the initial cost.

Instead, focus on the long-term savings.

So how much can energy efficient lights actually save you? Let’s look at the cost benefits of using high-efficiency light bulbs such as LEDs and CFLs: •

•

•

HEN YOU CONSIDER

Lower energy bills: Regular incandescent bulbs consume on average 60 Watts of energy to generate 800 lumens of light. By comparison, a CFL bulb will use only 13 Watts of energy to generate the same amount of light. That’s 78% less energy. LEDs are even more efficient because they need only 7 Watts to produce the same amount of light. They save 88% on energy bills compared to old-fashioned bulbs.

Every CFL and LED you install in your new home will lower your electricity bills. See the table for estimated savings.

Lower air conditioning costs: Regular light bulbs turn 54 Watts of energy into heat and use only 6 Watts to create light. In other words, when incandescent bulbs are on, they heat up your home, which increases your air conditioning costs. Change to CFLs or LEDs and you’ll need less air conditioning to stay cool.

Lower replacement costs: The average incandescent light bulb can be used to provide 1,200 hours of light. CFLs last more than six times as long and LEDs last more than 20 times as long as CFLs. So even though CFLs and LEDs may cost a little more up front to buy, you won’t have to replace them very often.

Every year you’ll spend less money on buying new light bulbs.

NEW BUILDING CODES MAKE NEW HOMES MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT Getting energy-saving lighting in your new home is easier than ever, thanks

Central Plumbing and Electric is a local, family-owned company founded in 1964 by Pablo and Eva Peña.

The company is currently owned and operated by Gene Peña (CEO), David Peña (Executive Vice-President), and Pablo Peña, Jr. (Executive Vice-President). With over 53 years in business, Central Plumbing and Electric is a leader in the plumbing, electrical, and lighting industries. By the Fall of 2017, the company will have three generously-stocked lighting showrooms in the Rio Grande Valley (Pharr, Weslaco, and Brownsville). You’ll find beautiful designer fixtures and expert help for one lighting component…or a whole project. Visit www.PlumbingAndElectric.com for more information. (L to R): Gene & Nori Peña; Jeff Peña; David Peña; and Gene Peña. Jr.

to new national building codes.

These rules were established by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) in 2015 and came into effect on September 1, 2016. They require that a minimum of 75% of lamps in permanently installed fixtures must be high efficiency lighting. Every year in the state of Texas, more than 100,000 new homes are built. These new rules will allow Texas residents to save over $2.7 million annually!

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES IN LIGHTING: ASK A LIGHTING PROFESSIONAL Choosing light options can be confusing because of the variety of products and the type of lighting required for specific areas of your home based on the function of those rooms. If you base your decisions on cost, you will miss opportunities to save money in the long term.

There are other lighting technologies in addition to CFLs and LEDs that may be right for you.

Working with a lighting professional from Central Plumbing and Electric (see page 42) is the best way to ensure your needs are met in the most economical and code-compliant manner. This family-owned business has been in the Valley for over 50

years and offers a wide selection of beautiful fixtures for every room and every application. Whether you are looking for a designer lighting fixture or a complete new home lighting package, let them do the research and save you time—and money.

Types Of Bulbs WHAT ARE CFLs? CFL stands for “compact fluorescent light.” CFLs are miniature versions of the fluorescent lights you see in ceiling fixtures in many office buildings and retail stores. CFLs are designed to screw into standard lamps and light sockets. That means you can use them in virtually any light fixture you already own and many that will be installed in your new home.

WHAT ARE LEDs? LED stands for “light-emitting diode.”

These are tiny devices that allow electrical current to flow in one direction to produce light. Any time you use an electronic device with a tiny indicator light, you’re using an LED. When they were first created, they only emitted a small amount of light. Today, they can be grouped together to create larger bulbs that mimic the amount and color of regular light bulbs.

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Energy EFFICIENCY

Windows Are Walls Too—They Just Need Different Insulation

J

UST BECAUSE YOU CAN SEE through

windows doesn’t mean they’re not part of your walls. In fact, because it’s much harder to insulate windows effectively, your home’s windows can have an even bigger impact on your air conditioning costs. The size of the windows in a home, the number of windows, and whether or not they face directly into the sun have a direct impact on your home’s ability to be energy efficient.

Here are some basic but important energy-saving window design facts you should consider.

INSTALL FEWER AND SMALLER WINDOWS One of the biggest features of windows is their ability to allow daylight into your home. They also let you enjoy views of children playing and nature outside. Yet, having more windows may significantly increase how much money you pay for

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Minimum Code Requirements For Windows The 2015 IECC code requirements for windows and doors lowered the maximum limits allowed by the 2009 code. Below are the maximum acceptable levels for compliance with the new code in the Rio Grande Valley (U.S. Climate Zone 2) • U FACTOR FOR FENESTRATION (Windows/ Doors): ≤ .40 • U FACTOR FOR SKYLIGHTS: ≤ .65 • GLAZED FENESTRATION SHGC: ≤ .25 IMPORTANT NOTE: Fenestration U-factors and SHGCs must come from a National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) rating-from an accredited independent laboratory.

Each unit must be labeled and certified by the manufacturer. Labels must not be removed before being inspected and approved by code officials.

traditional metal frames transfer heat really quickly, which is something you don’t want in our climate in the Rio Grande Valley. If you need to choose aluminum for safety reasons, make sure you select a model that has a thermal break – this is a plastic strip that is installed outside and inside the frame and sash to prevent heat transfer.

heating or cooling costs every year. You may therefore want to consider having fewer and/or smaller windows in your new home. For instance, if you reduce the total glazing on your home from 20% to 10%, you could reduce your cooling and heating costs by up to $500 every year.

CHOOSE NORTH-FACING WINDOWS Where your windows are located in your home will also impact how much energy you use to cool your home. Windows on the west side will add the greatest heat gain and thereby the highest cooling costs. North-facing windows receive the least amount of sun, so choose to install more windows on this side of your house.

Carefully planning on which sides you add windows can cut your energy costs by $90 every year.

SHADE YOUR WINDOWS Regular, low-efficiency windows will allow a lot of heat into your home. You can reduce this effect by shading your windows. Options include exterior overhangs, awnings, shutters, grills, roll-down shades, canopies, and shutters.

These can often be motorized and controlled remotely and/or on timers to ensure the maximum benefit during the hottest hours of the day. Planting trees and shrubs outside of your windows can also provide a beautiful way to block sunshine from reaching your windows.

Interior shading can also reduce how much you need to use your air conditioner. Consider installing heavy drapes, shades, curtains, or blinds inside your home. These strategies are especially useful for west-facing windows. Most of these options are manually operated so you will need to remember to draw your blinds and curtains during daylight hours to prevent heat gain.

As you can see, there are many shading options. Depending on which you choose, you may be able to save up to $250 every year with strategic designs for your windows.

COMPARE WINDOW FRAME CONSTRUCTION How well your windows resist heat transfer depends in part on what materials are used to construct the frames. Consider the following choices: •

Aluminum frames: These are very strong and lightweight. Aluminum is also low maintenance. However,

•

•

Vinyl frames: Usually made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl frames are very easy to care for. They require no painting and won’t rot like wood. They also transfer heat less quickly than metal frames. However, if you select this option, choose a model that is filled with insulation to increase their energy efficiency.

Wood frames: This type of window frame is better at insulating against heat transfer. However, wood requires a lot more maintenance. It can expand and contract in response to changes in weather, is susceptible to pests and rotting, and will require painting.

ADD ENERGY-SAVING GLASS FEATURES The types of glass and how the glass is treated will impact how much energy you save, too. The following is a brief list of glazing features to consider and discuss with your builder.

•

•

•

Double panes: At the very least, make sure all of the windows in your new home are double paned. That means they will have two panes of glass separated by an air gap. This will cut your heat gains and losses by 50% and save you a lot on cooling costs.

Gas fills: Add a layer of insulating gas between your panes of glass. This can increase the window’s energy efficiency dramatically.

Tints and low-emissivity coating: Glass can be tinted to prevent certain types of light passing through.

Similarly, a low-emissivity (low-e) coating can be added to windows to reduce heat gain and loss. Both options can lower cooling costs as well because they lower the U-Factor.

When well-designed, these features will not impact your view.

How To Read A Window Label NFRC This is a nationally recognized agency called National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). It is a way of rating windows as a whole, including what kind of glass used, the construction of the frame, and spacers used between each part. Look for the NFRC label to ensure you select windows that are independently rated for energy efficiency.

U-Factor This is a measurement of how quickly heat is lost through a window assembly.

The higher the U-Factor of a particular window, the slower heat will flow through the window. A low U-Factor means the window is better at insulating.

SHGC The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is how much solar radiation is allowed to pass through a window. It is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. A window with a lower SHGC rating allows less heat to pass through. Therefore, windows with low SHGCs are better insulators.

Visible Transmittance The visible transmittance (VT) number lets you know how easily light passes through (or transmits through) a window.

It will give you an indication of how clearly the outdoor world will appear through the glass when viewing it from inside your home. Some window coatings will prevent certain types of light – like infrared and ultraviolet light—from passing through your window and can therefore change how your view will appear.

Air Leakage Look at the air leakage (AL) number to see how easily air will pass through a particular window. It is expressed as the cubic feet of air that can pass through a square foot of window area. The more easily air can infiltrate a window, the more heat will pass in and out of your home. You want to prevent air leakage so look for windows that have lower AL ratings—ideally 0.30 or lower.

Inspection Agency Each window will have been inspected by an independent agency to test for energy efficiency. Their information should be in the label on the top right.

Manufacturer Look for the name of the company that constructed your chosen window just below the NFRC and inspection agency information.

Product Description The window label may contain additional information about the particular model and features.

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Energy EFFICIENCY

INSULATE YOURSELF

FROM HIGH UTILITY BILLS

Y

in a finished home, and what you cannot see may cost you a lot of money and have a tremendous impact on your comfort.

While much standard insulation does an adequate job of keeping your home cool, if it is less efficient, it will increase your need for air conditioning, which will add to your electric bills.

Upgrading from regular insulation to something that is more energy efficient may cost more initially, but will pay for itself over time with savings from cooling and heating costs! Choosing the right insulation is critical in the Rio Grande Valley—located in U.S. climate Zone 2, which has some of the hottest temperatures in the country.

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OU CANNOT SEE INSULATION

RGVNewHomesGuide.com

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT INSULATION TO SAVE THE MOST It’s not easy to select the right insulation. Cost and code-required R-Values are two major factors to consider in choosing insulation for you home. Too often, however, cost becomes the deciding factor without taking into consideration that a more expensive insulation, like spray foam for example, may cost more initially, but its “payback” will increase your cash flow from added savings on utilities every month for years.

Work through this guide with the help of a certified Home Energy Rater to find an affordable and best energy-saving option for your space. Then be sure to select an expert contractor, one, for example, who

is familiar with BUILT TO SAVE™ standards in order to ensure the work is completed professionally.

What Is R-Value?

R-value is a measure of how easily heat can transfer from one side of an object to another.

The greater the R-value measurement of a particular type of insulation, the more it is able to resist the transfer of heat. In other words, insulation with a higher R-value will save you more money on cooling (and heating) costs.

Minimum R-Values Required In The Rio Grande Valley By Building Code (IECC 2015) • Walls: R-13 - R-values for walls represent the sum of cavity insulation plus insulated sheathing, if any.

• Floors: R-13 - Floor insulation must be installed to maintain contact with the underside of the subfloor (e.g., Insulation between the floor separating a garage ceiling from a room over the garage).

• Ceilings/Attics: R-38 - Access doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics and crawl spaces) must be weather-stripped and insulated to the R-value required for the surrounding area.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSULATION CONTRACTOR Even more important than choosing the right insulation is choosing the right contractor. Insulation performs the way it is supposed to perform only if it is installed properly. That includes superior insulation like spray foam.

Proper installation is especially critical if you are installing the less expensive batt and roll insulation because these products lose their insulation effectiveness if not installed properly.

For example if the installer forces the batt insulation behind or in front of electrical wiring along the wall cavities, this will flatten the insulation, which diminishes its R-value considerably because it loses its thickness.

So what is the best way to make sure your insulation contractor did the job right? It’s easy—look for a home that is certified as a BUILT TO SAVE™ home. A home with the BUILT TO SAVE™ certification was inspected by a third-party home energy rater and verified during the insulation stage to guarantee that the insulation, regardless of the type, was installed correctly. Without this certification of high performance, you won’t know for sure unless you tear down walls and see for yourself.

It is important to know that just because a home passed its city inspection, this does not guarantee that the insulation was properly installed—only that the R-values are correct. If you insist on buying a home that does not have a BUILT TO SAVE™ certification, inspect less accessible areas—especially in the attic—to make sure they weren’t overlooked. Don’t rely on anyone’s word for it.

If you have concerns about insulation after your home is built, it is possible to hire a home energy rater licensed to do infrared photography.

Chris Carroll of Carroll’s Inspectors is a Level 1 Thermographer offering that service in the Rio Grande Valley (see page 41).

INSULATION OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME The following is a “quick guide” for the variety of insulation products available today. Rely on professional vendors

to offer recommendation for what is best for you. Contact these reputable vendors for expert advice: Matt’s Building Materials (page 39); Zarsky Lumber Co. (page 42); Valley Energy Specialists (page 40).

•

Fiberglass: This is the most common type of insulation used in new homes today. It comes in two forms: batt or fill. Large batts look like thick blankets which are cut to size and then fitted between framing. Loose fill insulation is usually blown into place and looks similar to cotton candy.

Pros: It’s easy to install and very affordable. It also resists fire and water damage.

Cons: The fibers can irritate skin and lungs during installation.

Though it is cheapest to install, it will cost you the most in electricity expenses.

Use for: walls, ceilings, floors.

•

Rock Wool (mineral wool): This is fiber insulation that is made of recycled textiles. It looks similar to dryer lint. Like fiberglass, rock wool insulation comes in both batt and blow-in loose-fill form.

Pros: It is more fire resistant than fiberglass and is slightly easier to install, as well. It does not irritate skin like fiberglass insulation.

Cons: It is more expensive than fiberglass insulation and somewhat less available. This type of insulation can be dusty and may irritate lungs during installation. It is also prone to cake (and potentially mold) when wet and will settle over time.

These problems will lower rock wool’s ability to insulate your home.

Use for: walls, ceilings, floors.

•

Cellulose: This is a paper-based insulation and is usually made from recycled materials. It is treated with chemicals to resist moisture and pests. Cellulose insulation comes in a loose-fill form which is fluffy and is blown in during installation.

Pros: This insulation works for all temperatures, though is ideal for colder climates. It does not irritate skin nor does it cause lung problems related to dust.

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35

insulation options with expertise in spray foam insulation.

Pros: By far, the most energy efficient insulation to easily achieve a high performance home certification like BUILT TO SAVE™. Forms a tight seal to completely prevent the movement of air. Its high R-Values offer superior insulation. It can also reduce the need for other weatherizing such as caulking.

Cons: It is more expensive than loose-fill or batt insulation types.

Requires proper ventilation system to avoid moisture or mold problems.

Use for: walls, ceilings, floors, roofs.

Cons: It is very heavy, which means it is not a good choice for most attics and requires additional reinforcement if used in ceilings.

Like rock wool, it will settle over time, which will reduce its insulation capabilities.

Use for: enclosed walls, cavities, ceilings, unfinished attic floors.

•

Structured Insulated Panels: This rigid foam insulation, known as SIP, comes most commonly in the form of 4’ X 8’ sheets. While more expensive, this type of insulation offers advantages in exterior wall sheathing and attic hatches. The R-values per inch of thickness are more than two times higher than other types.

Pros: These are lightweight and very easy to install. They offer high R-Values, with polyisocyanurate SIPs providing the best insulation of any type by thickness.

Cons: These are generally more expensive. They must be cut to size to fit around pipes and framing. This can result in insulation gaps, though the gaps can be filled with other types of insulation.

Use for: walls, ceilings, floors, roofs.

“INSULATION PERFORMS THE WAY IT IS SUPPOSED TO PERFORM ONLY IF IT IS INSTALLED PROPERLY.” •

36

Spray Foam: This is a type of plastic insulation (either opencell polyurethane or closed-cell polyurethane) that is applied in liquid form. It is sprayed into spaces where it expands and sticks to surfaces. This forms a tight air seal, preventing heat transfer through gaps, cracks, and other building structures. Any excess can be cut away once it has dried.

Spray foam insulation must be installed by qualified contractors such as VES Insulation. This family-owned Valley business offers the most energy-efficient RGVNewHomesGuide.com

•

Radiant Barrier Insulation/ Radiant Barrier OSB: This is a type of reflective insulation that reflects heat (radiant heat), preventing transfer from one side to the other. Radiant Barrier Insulation is available in rolls and can be applied to the rafters in the attic. A more popular product is Radiant Barrier OSB (decking). Radiant Barrier OSB is also known as flake board. This roof decking, which has a shiny (reflective) side, reduces attic temperatures from 20% to 30% and is only about $2 more per sheet than regular decking.

Pros: One of the least expensive ways to reduce your monthly utility bill and pays for itself in a few months. Reflects up to 97% of the sun’s heat. Does not require additional labor for installation.

Cons: Costs $2 more per 4’ X 8’ sheet than regular OSB Use for: Roof decking.

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE: CHOOSE BUILT TO SAVE™ Every BUILT TO SAVE™ home undergoes an “onsite” visual inspection after the insulation is installed and before the walls are put in. A thirdparty inspector completes a Thermal Bypass Checklist and either passes or requires corrections in the insulation installation before the builder can proceed with putting the walls up. Final testing after the home is completed guarantees that the home meets the “above code” requirements of

a BUILT TO SAVE™ program.

The BUILT TO SAVE™ Leading Energy Efficient Builders featured on pages 22-27 are a select few who go above and beyond what is required by code to make sure you—the homebuyer—are getting a home guaranteed to outperform a similar home built to minimum code standards—a home that will not only save you money on utilities, but will also provide the comfort you expect from a new home.

Robert Salinas, Jr. established VES Insulation in the Rio Grande Valley over 10 years ago. Today, this family-owned business, operated by Robert and his two sons, Rob and Andrew, has earned a reputation as the “go-to” place for effective and affordable insulation. VES Insulation offers both standard fiberglass insulation as well as the superior spray foam insulation utilized for maximum R-value and performance. The company also offers sales and installation of insulated garage doors featuring effective R-values, bottom weather seals, and pinch-resistant panels. VES Insulation can help you decide what your best option is for insulating your home or office. Visit www.valleyenergyspecialist.com. (L to R): Rob Salinas (Sales Manager), Robert Salinas, Jr. (Owner), Andrew Salinas (Operations Manager).

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Classic Lifestyles Are Born Here J.C. NORIEGA (956) 975-6300 / 454-4102 | CLASSICHOMESRGV.COM B U I L D O N YO U R LOT O R O U R S • CO N S T R U C T I O N F I N A N C I N G AVA I L A B L E

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Builder Industry NEWS

SPEER Ambassadors

CHRIS CARROLL AND JOSEPH IZAGUIRRE RECEIVE ADVANCED TRAINING AS SPEER AMBASSADORS

C

HRIS CARROLL , owner of Carroll’s Inspection Services—the first Home Energy Rater in the Rio Grande Valley—and Joseph Izaguirre, Code Official for the City of Alton, Texas, are the Valley’s ambassadors for the South-Central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource program (SPEER). SPEER is an International Code Council (ICC) program implemented in collaboration with the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) and the Building Codes Assistance Project (BCAP).

SPEER Ambassadors are a special group of building industry professionals that include municipal code officials, home energy raters, and builders. SPEER Ambassadors have been trained in the 2015 energy codes and charged with providing training, advice, and resources for their local area building industry professionals as Texas moves from the 2009 to the 2015 IECC/IRC energy codes, which went into effect on September 1, 2016. The new law raises the bar in building efficiency and means buildings and homes will be more comfortable and have lower monthly utility bills.

(L to R) Joseph Izaguirre, Chris Carroll

Contact the Valley’s SPEER Ambassadors for more information and assistance with compliance on the new 2015 energy codes: Chris Carroll (956) 544-3139 or email chris@carrollsinspectors.com | Joseph Izaguirre (956) 432-0760 or email joseph.izaguirre@alton-tx.gov

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

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VALLEY-WIDE LOCATIONS McAllen, Tx 700 N. 23rd. St. • (956) 631-1124 Pharr, Tx 706 W. Ferguson Ave. • (956) 782-0080 Weslaco, Tx 625 S. Airport Dr. • (956) 968-8525 Harlingen, Tx 315 S. West St. • (956) 423-6387 Brownsville, Tx 3805 International Blvd. • (956) 544-4103

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Weslaco Showroom Coming Soon!

42

RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

Builder Industry NEWS

Superior Air Quality From Divine Custom Homes HELPING HOMEBUYERS BREATHE BETTER, CLEANER INDOOR AIR WITH AIRPLUS

S

HOULD HOMEOWNERS BE CONCERNED about breathing in dust, mold, radon, carbon

monoxide, and other potentially toxic pollutants inside their homes? Of course they should. Having a healthy indoor air quality when moving into a new home is something we all assume we will get, but that may not always be the case. Studies performed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reveal that many indoor air pollutants can be two to four times higher than outdoor levels. And since we spend most of our time indoors, insuring good indoor air quality should be of utmost importance. For individuals with a history of respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies, and chronic sinusitis, there is one sure way reduce the risk of poor indoor air when you are shopping for a new home—look for the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS label.

The good news for the Rio Grande Valley is that the Indoor airPLUS certification is now available–introduced in our market by Divine Custom Homes, who incorporates the Indoor airPlus program into every home they build. To earn the Indoor airPlus label, a home is required to comply with strict construction practices and product specifications which reduce exposure to indoor pollutants and harmful contaminants, and this can only be awarded to an ENERGY STAR® qualified home. Olga Treviño, founder of Divine Custom Homes, has been an ENERGY STAR® partner for many years. “We build all of our homes 100% ENERGY STAR®, or we won’t build it,” she said. “If we build your home, you are guaranteed a home of unparalleled quality, energy efficiency, and comfort. And that’s not just me saying that—it’s our inspectors. With a Divine home, you can rest assured that you and your family will breathe easier with your homebuying decision—literally.”

With so many new homes on the market today, it makes sense to narrow your search by only looking for homes that have earned the ENERGY STAR® and Indoor airPLUS labels. You will be guaranteed “above code” energy efficiency, comfort, durability, good indoor air quality, and, more importantly, peace of mind that you made an excellent choice. Visit www.epa.gov/indoorairplus for more information.

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

43

+

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.

BUILT TO SAVE™ & ENERGY STAR® Certifications represent homes with lower ownership costs, & require less energy for heating and cooling.

GreenBuilt RGV Certification represents homes that are built using products, technologies, and environmentally-friendly building practices.

McAllen www.caminorealbuilders.com \\ See page 9

www.WestWindHomes.com \\ See page 1

OFFICE: (956) 704-2344

www.WestWindHomes.com \\ See page 1 OFFICE: (956) 688-9787

ADDRESS: Retama Village at Bentsen Palm 2204 Seagull Lane Mission, TX

ADDRESS: Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm 3611 Oriole Dr. Mission, TX HOURS: Call for a personal tour.

Mission SALES: Juan Pacheco: (956) 369-2456 juan@mlrhodes.com

44

SALES: Kim “Tassie” Williquette: (956) 530-3252 kim@mlrhodes.com

ADDRESS: Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm 1920 Seagull Lane Mission, TX HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday & Monday Closed OFFICE: (956) 380-6500 *Se habla Español

www.bentsenpalm.com \\ See page 3 SALES: Juan Pacheco: (956) 369-2456 juan@mlrhodes.com

RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm Sunday Closed OFFICE: (956) 380-6500

ADDRESS: Del Oro at Bentsen Palm 613 S. Paseo Del Rey Mission, TX HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 12:00pm to 6:00pm OFFICE: (956) 380-6500 *Se habla Español

Mission

www.bentsenpalm.com \\ See page 3

Active Adult Community 55+

www.bentsenpalm.com \\ See page 3

www.divinecustomhomes.net \\ See page 41 SALES: Olga Treviño: (956) 467-1111 olga@divinecustomhomes.net

ADDRESS: Plantation Gap 7018 N. 44th McAllen, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday Closed

Mission

Mission

OFFICE: (956) 546-8983

ADDRESS: La Floresta 2112 Queens McAllen, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday Closed

www.WestWindHomes.com \\ See page 1

ADDRESS: Hibiscus Hill 2901 Northgate Ln. McAllen, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday Closed

McAllen

McAllen

SALES: Pablo Rodriguez: (956) 429-8662 salescaminoreal@gmail.com

ADDRESS: Hidden Cove 3605 N. 42nd St. McAllen, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 9:00am to 6:30pm Saturday 11:00am to 3:00pm OFFICE: (956) 992-9501

McAllen

cAMI NO REA L

Edinburg

Edinburg

HOMES

www.dhconstructionrgv.com \\ See page 15

ADDRESS: Summerset Estates 1412 Maravilla Dr. Edinburg, TX HOURS: Open Daily

By Appointment

www.infinityhomesrgv.com \\ See page 38

SALES: Daniel Hernandez - (956) 778-0212 ahernandez65@rgv.rr.com

SALES: Eddie Garza: (956) 460-3290 | Mario Peña: (956) 534-2353 info@infinityhomesrgv.com

Edinburg

Edinburg

W

ADDRESS: Jackson Heights 2301 Holland Ave. Edinburg, TX HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm OFFICE: (956) 460-3290

A L D O

H O M

www.waldohomesrgv.com \\ See page 11 SALES: Luis Waldo - (956) 466-8590 • 907-8876 luiswaldo@yahoo.com

E

ADDRESS: Summerfield Manor 4917 Nevis Edinburg, TX HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 1:00pm to 6:00pm

S

www.WestWindHomes.com \\ See page 1 OFFICE: (956) 587-9500

Weslaco

ADDRESS: Rock Springs 109 Stone Ridge Dr Weslaco, TX

www.caminorealbuilders.com \\ See page 9 SALES: Pablo Rodriguez: (956) 429-8662 salescaminoreal@gmail.com

HOURS: Open Daily

By Appointment OFFICE: (956) 992-9501

www.WestWindHomes.com \\ See page 1 OFFICE: (956) 520-4888

Weslaco

cAMI NO REA L

ADDRESS: Fairhaven Heights 1908 Webster Edinburg, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday Closed

ADDRESS: Midpoint Estates 1408 Mulberry Weslaco, TX HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday Closed

Real Quality is behind the walls.

BUILD A HOME THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOU DO High-Performance homes put in long hours saving energy. Each ENERGY STAR® certified home is built to use 20% to 30% less energy than typical new homes—so you get all the amenities you want, plus reduced energy costs.

Find a builder at SouthTXSaves.com.

Homes certified “Built to Save™” are more energy efficient without walls than similar homes with walls.

Lower Utility Bills + Better Indoor Air + Tighter Construction Less Maintenance + More Comfort + Certified by a Third Party

B U I LT T O S AV E . O R G

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

45

46

M

ilit

ar

RGVNewHomesGuide.com

yR

2 Mile 2

495

83

Mission

300

Trinity St

Daffodil

Pecan Ave

E Business Hwy 83 Rd

Lark Ave

Buddy Owens Blvd

2

BUS

83

83

2

Hobbs Dr

McAllen

336

115

McColl Rd

Sprague Rd

McColl Rd

Col Rowe Blvd

10th St

336

McColl Rd

ton

2nd St

103

10th St

105

Col Rowe Blvd

Tre n

Main St

Oxford

10th St

th

36

St Jude Ave (Mile 6)

Main St

29th St

23rd St

Auburn (Mile 5)

Bicentennial Blvd

29th St

106 Ware Rd

Bentsen Rd

Mile 7

McColl Rd

Mile 2

23rd St

29th St

107

10th St

Mile 4 Bentsen Rd

Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

Los Ebanos Rd

Ware Rd

McColl Rd

23rd St

29th St

Mile 9

23rd St

Buddy Owens Blvd

Taylor Rd

Shary Rd

Glasscock Rd

8 1/2 Mile

Ware Rd

Mile 4 Taylor Rd

Shary Rd

Mile 7

Taylor Rd

Shary Rd

Glasscock Rd

Mile 8

100

Bicentennial Blvd

29th St

302 Glasscock Rd

Stewart Rd

Bryan Blvd

Mayberry Blvd

Los Ebanos Rd

Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

La Homa Rd

101

2nd St

1 Mile S. Rd

500

Ware Rd

BUS Stewart Rd

Alton

Stewart Rd

107

Bentsen Rd

495 Griffin Pkwy Bryan Blvd

Mile 5

Bryan Blvd

St Jude Ave

Mayberry Blvd

Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

Los Ebanos Rd

Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

La Homa Rd

Bentsen Palm Dr

Mile 9

23rd St

Shary Rd

83 Conway Rd

Trosper Rd

Los Ebanos Rd

Inspiration Rd

354

Conway Rd

Inspiration Rd

Moorfield Rd

Schuerbach Rd

Bentsen Palm Dr

Ware Rd

Depot Rd

Monte Cristo Rd

McColl Rd

301 Schuerbach Rd

La Homa Rd

Bentsen Palm Dr

N

102

Ware Rd

303

Schuerbach Rd

Bentsen Palm Dr

New Home Communities MAP Monte Cri

El Pacifico

107

Mile 8

107

Freddy Gonzalez Dr

Northgate Ln

205

336

107 Nolana Ave

104

495

Jackson Ave

83

336

d

Military Rd

69C

BUS

281

isto Rd Jackson Rd

Sugar Rd

Monte Cristo Rd

Monte Cristo Rd

Rogers Rd

206

Russell Rd

Mile 17 1/2 Rd

new home

communities

BUS

204

Mile 17 Rd

Closner Blvd

69C

107

E Richardson Rd

Raul Longoria Rd

Closner Blvd

203

Canton Rd

Wisconsin

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

BUS

Dove Ave

nR 105 ..... La Floresta See pgs. &d50 Can1,to44

Canton Rd

106 ..... Plantation Gap See pgs. 1 & 50 in Rd 107 ..... Vendome See pg. 50 Wiscons

EDINBURG, TX Rd 201 ..... Telfair See pgs. 7 & 50Trenton

Trenton Rd

203 .... The Reserve at Canton See pg. 51 erta Rd

Alb 204 .... The Hills at Chapin See pg. 51

Alberta Rd

Owassa Rd

Minnesota Rd

Minnesota Rd

206 .... Russell Park See pgs. 1 & 51 207 .... Sugar Oaks See pg. 51

Raul Longoria Rd

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

Sugar Rd

Pecan Ave

495

E

301 ..... Retama Village at Bentsen Palm See pgs. 3, 44 & 52 302 .... Stewart Oaks See pg.

52 d Eldora R

303 .... Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm See pgs. 3, 44 & 52 ALTON, TX 500 .... Imperial Oaks See pg. 52

Sioux Rd

Ferguson Ave

495

Denotes furnished model home

2

See pgs. 44 & 45

281 83

BUS

2

BUS

83

ta Rd

Minneso

MISSION, TX 300 .... Del Oro at Bentsen Palm See pgs. 3, 44 & 52 arling Rd

Eldora Rd

69C

lt Rd

Rooseve

205 .... Camden Village See pg. 51

Earling Rd

Nolana Ave

Jackson Rd

104 ..... Hidden Cove See pgs. 9, 44 & 49

Alamo Rd

69C

281

Alberta Rd

102 ..... Estancia at Tres Lagos See pgs. 3 & 49 103 ..... Hibiscus Hill See Apgs.

1, 44 &Rd49 nderson

Wisconsin Rd

201

Trenton Rd

101 ..... Escondido at Tres Lagos See pgs. 3 & 49

Curve Rd Texas Rd

Iowa Rd

Raul Longoria Rd

207

MCALLEN, TX 100 ..... Ensenada at Tres Lagos See pgs. 3 & 49

107

Cesar Chavez Rd

Sugar Rd

Edinburg

Sugar Rd

Jackson Rd

Jackson Rd

University Dr

107

Alamo Rd

Schunior St

Cesar Chavez Rd

281 Chapin Rd

To add a New Community on this map, call (956) 971-9700.

83

Ridge Rd

281 Moore Rd

Hall Acres Rd

Cesar Chavez Rd

2

Stewart Rd

Veterans Blvd (I Rd)

BUS

Sam Houston Blvd

new home

Ridge Rd

Moore Rd

Hall Acres Rd

Alamo Rd

El Rancho Blanco Rd

83

communitiesonline SEE MAP ONLINE

Get turn-by-turn directions to a new home community at: www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/Map

DOWNLOAD LOT SHEETS

See layouts of neighborhoods and available lots: www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/Communities August / September

281

47

New Home COMMUNITIES

new home

communities How to use this comprehensive new home communities guide

NEARBY POINTS OF INTEREST

*Within 5 Mi

Shopping

Running Trails

Fitness Facility

Dining

Bike Trails

Children’s Park

Entertainment

Golf

Schools

Hospital

Expressway

Gated

CITY COLOR CODE McAllen

Edinburg

Mission

Alton

MAP LISTING NUMBER

This number identifies the community on the locater maps.

CITY COLOR CODE

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

ICON LEGEND

The icons on the top right of the community ad indicate amenities or nearby points of interest. See complete legend at the top of this page.

SCHOOL INFORMATION

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

QUICK LOCATER MAP

See road directions to the community showing minor and major roadways.

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.

new home

communitiesonline

GET TURN-BY-TURN DIRECTIONS www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/Map

DOWNLOAD BROCHURES

www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/Communities

FIND A MORTGAGE LENDER www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com/Loans

VIEW OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE www.issuu.com/rgvNewHomesGuide

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RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

New Home COMMUNITIES

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

49

New Home COMMUNITIES

SHOWCASE YOUR NEW COMMUNITY HERE! Only $355 or less for 2 months*

Go to www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com to see online benefits: interactive maps & downloadable lot sheets. *Must be in MVEC territory to qualify. Rebates available for a limited time and subject to

change. One time set-up fee of $150 plus tax not included. Restrictions apply.

50

Special rates for display advertisers available Communities qualify for $75 discount!* Rebates available from:

Call (956) 971-9700 or e-mail info@rgvnewhomesguide.com

RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

New Home COMMUNITIES

For advertising call (956) 971-9700 | Vol. 25.5 | August/September 2017 | RGVNewHomesGuide.com

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New Home COMMUNITIES

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RGVNewHomesGuide.com | August/September 2017 | Vol. 25.5 | For advertising call (956) 971-9700

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