RGV New Homes Guide Vol. 24 #1 (Dec '15 - Jan '16)

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MORRISON SUPPLY

(956) 225-0035 • 546-5300 www.morsco.com

A Wine Enthusiast’s Dream

Sub-Zero, a recognized leading manufacturer of prem

built-in home refrigerators, has introduced an elegan

and innovative 30” wine storage unit with refrigerato

PUBLISHER model preserves drawers.

IW-30R Wine Storage DEC 2015The / JAN 2016 Across Media Marketing, LLC VOLUME 24 ISSUE 1 and protects up to 86 bottles EDITOR-IN-CHIEF of wine using controlle Jose Vielma 06temperature WOW! PRODUCTS zones and UV-resistant glass. Two large SENIOR EDITOR Introducing elite products that pack a WOW! Barbara Zapffe refrigerator drawers add generous room for cheeses punch in your kitchen or bath. These unique ADVERTISING MANAGER items will add distinction and value to limes, beer, and other beverages.

Visit Stevenson’s Jose R. Vielma

06

your home.

Ken Sabe

Appliances showrooms in McAllen & Brownsville.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

10 KNOW BEFORE YOU OWE

GRAPHICS / PHOTOGRAPHY Laura Soria THE NEW FORMS

STEVENSON’S APPLIANCES government.

(956) 664-9222 • 542-3333 Let’s be friends! larger mortgage and conserve cash now. These and many mortgage process. Get the “Your Home

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

other questions are answered for you in the Toolkit.

Loan Toolkit” available free from the federal

Loan Estimate:

A New Website with Loads of Other Resources government has also developed the “Owning a Home”

• Lets you request loan estimates for a specific home • Helps you understand and select your loan options • Allows you to compare options from three lenders

website to help you determine if you’re ready to apply for

Closing Disclosure:

In addition to the “Your Home Loan Toolkit,” the federal

a mortgage and what other factors you’ll need to consider 15www.stevensonsappliances.com FEATURED MVEC BTS™ BUILDER • Helps clarify costs in order /rgvnewhomesguide to avoid surprises when buying a new home. It’s a step-by-step guide that • Is provided as closing time approaches, automatically

with a mortgage lender. It also offers information on how

• Provides a comparison of closing to Loan Estimate form

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

begins with the preparation you’ll need to meeting who DH Construction is featured asprior a builder

/rgvnhg TOOLkIT RESOURCES meetstostandards above what is requiredChoosing by the Best find lenders andway comparison shopping rates.

Mortgage: You’ll also find helpful tips and information to help you

• Define what affordable means to you code to qualify its homes as high performance • Understand your credit /rgvnewhomes budget in order to save for a down payment and pay your

on time. in the mortgage Built topayments Save™ program.

Thanks to these new resources, embarking on the journey to homeownership just got easier. You can download the “Your Home Loan Toolkit” pdf at:

17 FABULOUS KITCHENS http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201503_cfpb_your-

10

• Pick the mortgage type that works for you • Choose the right down payment for you • Understand the trade-off between points & interest rate • Shop with several lenders THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY AREA NEW HOMES • Choose your mortgage • Avoid pitfalls and handle GUIDEproblems (NHG) is a bimonthly publication of Across

Your Closing:

Your ho

me loan too Media Marketing, LLC. and is provided to itslkit

Vote for your favorite kitchen in this Fabulous Visit www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com/homeproducts to view Kitchens Facebook Contest and qualify for a these products and details chance to winon $100where a Gift Card. to buy them. home-loan-toolkit-web.pdf

Shopping for a construction or home loan?

Call for a free qualification:

Community First National Bank: Rene Rodriguez - (956) 631-0081

Inter National Bank: (956) 664-8401

ng to buy a home, there’s good

will automatically allow you three days to review your

ocess just became easier thanks

documents before signing, and they must be sent to

al government’s recent changes,

you automatically. This will give you ample time to ask

available to help you “know

questions, have a lawyer review everything, and ensure

review what’s changed, as well

that the terms you expected are aligned with what is

ome Loan Toolkit.”

included in the actual closing agreement.

to How Mortgages Work

anges to the mortgage process

d have a positive impact on

A Toolkit that Makes the Process Easier and More Understandable The “Your Home Loan Toolkit” is provided when you apply for a mortgage and will aid you at various points

f forms: Four forms that were

in the home-buying process. It includes worksheets and

combined into two new forms:

other beneficial material and provides vital knowledge such as how to determine what you can afford, credit

see sidebar)

n’t have quite as

scores, types of mortgages, and more.

15

For example, if you are unsure as to how long you would like to keep your home loan, there is a table in

mplete.

w closing documents:

which points and percentage rates are discussed. This

ble to see your HUD-1

will help you determine, based on your projected down

only 24 hours before you

payment and intended mortgage payment, whether or

request. The new changes

not you should pay the extra points or to simply pay a

17

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Erika Sanchez

Find out about important changes to the

A step-by-st ep guide

of charge. Unless otherwise noted, all • Shop for mortgagereaders closing free services photography, artwork, and editorial content printed • Review your revised Loan Estimate • Understand and use Disclosurematerial and may not be in your NHGClosing are copyrighted duplicated or reprinted without express written Owning Your Home: • Act fast if you get permission. behind on your payments NHG and Across Media Marketing, • Keep up with ongoing LLC.costs are not responsible for typographical • Determine if you need flood insurance or production errors, or for the accuracy of • Understand Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs & refinancing) 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.

Consumer Protection Financial Bureau

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

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

(956) 971-9700

& KITCHEN

&

BATH

PRODUCTS

Products That Give Your

Kitchen & Bath

Factor aWow!

Featured here are elite products that are sure to give a “WOW” impact to your bath and kitchen spaces.

They will dazzle and impress you with their unique form or function—or both. Add distinction and resale value to your home with these “WOW” items from some of the Rio Grande Valley’s finest vendors.

1

2

Magical Faucets

Morrison Supply pg. 32 Materiales El Valle back cover Stevenson’s Appliances inside back cover

“One-of-a-kind” Exotic Countertops

Moen MotionSense™ faucets respond to simple hand movements to turn water on or off. No more greasy, dirty handles that spread germs, bacteria, and cross-contamination in the kitchen. Enjoy hands-free control and use water more wisely with these convenient, smart, and innovative Moen faucets, available in a variety of styles in Spot Resist™ Stainless finishes. Visit Morrison Supply’s showrooms in the Valley to experience this touchless wonder.

3

See More!

Exotic granite countertops elevate the beauty of any space immediately. Since no two granite slabs are the same, they can literally transform your kitchen or bathroom into one like no other. The rare and unique patterns, colors, and shades of exotic granite add magnificence to any space. Materiales El Valle offers the largest selection in the Valley and provides turnkey services from fabrication to installation customized to a customer’s specifications.

MATERIALES EL VALLE (956) 581-1109 • 994-8550 • 464-5152

MORRISON SUPPLY

(956) 225-0035 • 546-5300 www.morsco.com

A Wine Enthusiast’s Dream Sub-Zero, a recognized leading manufacturer of premium built-in home refrigerators, has introduced an elegant and innovative 30” wine storage unit with refrigerator drawers. The IW-30R Wine Storage model preserves and protects up to 86 bottles of wine using controlled temperature zones and UV-resistant glass. Two large refrigerator drawers add generous room for cheeses, limes, beer, and other beverages. Visit Stevenson’s Appliances showrooms in McAllen & Brownsville.

STEVENSON’S APPLIANCES (956) 664-9222 • 542-3333 www.stevensonsappliances.com

4

Gorgeous

Glass Mosaic Tile This decorative glass tile adds sparkle and a dramatic accent to any kitchen backsplash or bathroom space and is available in an enormous selection of colors, shapes, patterns, and transparencies. The “gemstone jewelry” look of these striking glass tiles can instantly turn an ordinary space into a glamorous one. Visit a Materiales El Valle showroom in Mission, Edinburg, or Donna to see displays that will take all the guesswork out of what will look good in your kitchen or bathroom.

Visit www.RGVNewHomesGuide.com/homeproducts to view these products and details on where to buy them.

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

(956) 971-9700

MATERIALES EL VALLE (956) 581-1109 • 994-8550 • 464-5152

life is bigger AT BENTSEN PALM

Your life, your way. That’s paradise in the South Texas Tropics.

Discover nature’s wonder at South Texas’ largest Master-Planned Conservation Community featuring award-winning homes by Esperanza Homes. Live close to shopping and hospitals nestled in 3,000 acres of protected parkland next to the World Birding Centre and the largest butterfly park in the world!

Tanglewood

Gated Community of Single Family Homes from $160’s to the $350’s

Del Oro

Single Family Homes from $93’s

Retama Village

Homes from the 150’s, RV Supersites from the 50’s RV Port Homes and RV Casitas from the 120’s

benstenpalm.com | 956.380.6500

Located off Expressway 83. Exit Conway Avenue. Turn right (west) onto Military Pkwy.

FEATURING RESIDENCES

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 10

If

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

N E W H O M E B U Y E R 4 11

you’re planning to buy a home, there’s good

will automatically allow you three days to review your

news. The process just became easier thanks

documents before signing, and they must be sent to

to the federal government’s recent changes,

you automatically. This will give you ample time to ask

as well as the new tools available to help you “know

questions, have a lawyer review everything, and ensure

before you owe.” Let’s review what’s changed, as well

that the terms you expected are aligned with what is

as discuss the “Your Home Loan Toolkit.”

included in the actual closing agreement.

Important Changes to How Mortgages Work

A Toolkit that Makes the Process Easier and More Understandable

There are two major changes to the mortgage process that will be in effect and have a positive impact on

The “Your Home Loan Toolkit” is provided when you

homeowners.

apply for a mortgage and will aid you at various points

1. Reduced number of forms: Four forms that were

in the home-buying process. It includes worksheets and

overlapping have been combined into two new forms:

other beneficial material and provides vital knowledge

>> Loan Estimate

such as how to determine what you can afford, credit

This means that you won’t have quite as

For example, if you are unsure as to how long you

much paperwork to complete.

would like to keep your home loan, there is a table in

>> Closing Disclosure (see sidebar)

scores, types of mortgages, and more.

2. More time to review closing documents:

which points and percentage rates are discussed. This

In the past, you were able to see your HUD-1

will help you determine, based on your projected down

Settlement Statement only 24 hours before you

payment and intended mortgage payment, whether or

signed, and only upon request. The new changes

not you should pay the extra points or to simply pay a

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

(956) 971-9700

other questions are answered for you in the Toolkit.

THE NEW FORMS

Loan Estimate:

A New Website with Loads of Other Resources government has also developed the “Owning a Home”

• Lets you request loan estimates for a specific home • Helps you understand and select your loan options • Allows you to compare options from three lenders

website to help you determine if you’re ready to apply for

Closing Disclosure:

In addition to the “Your Home Loan Toolkit,” the federal

a mortgage and what other factors you’ll need to consider when buying a new home. It’s a step-by-step guide that

• Is provided as closing time approaches, automatically • Helps clarify costs in order to avoid surprises • Provides a comparison of closing to Loan Estimate form

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

begins with the preparation you’ll need prior to meeting with a mortgage lender. It also offers information on how

TOOLkIT RESOURCES

to find lenders and comparison shopping rates.

Choosing the Best Mortgage:

You’ll also find helpful tips and information to help you budget in order to save for a down payment and pay your mortgage payments on time.

Thanks to these new resources, embarking on the journey to homeownership just got easier. You can download the “Your Home Loan Toolkit” pdf at: http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201503_cfpb_your-

• Define what affordable means to you • Understand your credit • Pick the mortgage type that works for you • Choose the right down payment for you • Understand the trade-off between points & interest rate • Shop with several lenders • Choose your mortgage • Avoid pitfalls and handle problems

Your hom e loan tool kit tep

Your Closing:

home-loan-toolkit-web.pdf

A step-by-s

guide

• Shop for mortgage closing services • Review your revised Loan Estimate • Understand and use your Closing Disclosure

Shopping for a construction or home loan?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

larger mortgage and conserve cash now. These and many

Owning Your Home:

Call for a free qualification:

• Act fast if you get behind on your payments • Keep up with ongoing costs • Determine if you need flood insurance • Understand Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs & refinancing)

Community First National Bank: Rene Rodriguez - (956) 631-0081

Consumer Protection Financial Bureau

Inter National Bank: (956) 664-8401

Bank Owned Properties for Sale Commercial - Raw Land - Residencial

Newly reduced prices!

Please visit us at INBweb.com or call us at (956) 664-8985.

www.INBweb.com 956-644-8985 McAllen | Edinburg | Mission | Weslaco | El Paso MEMBER FDIC

Laredo | Brownsville | The Woodlands (DPO)

(956) 971-9700

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

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BUILDER I n d u s t r y N e w s

VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION HOSTS GRAND OPENING OF VILLANUEVA EVENT CENTER

The owners of Villanueva Construction recently held a Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for their newly constructed Event Center in Mission, Texas. The Villanueva Event Center Grand Opening featured a runway show and beautiful displays of innovative floral and creative tabletop designs.

The Villanueva Event Center can accommodate hundreds of guests and provide a venue of elegance, beauty, and professional services for any type of occasion, including banquets, wedding receptions, Quinceañeras, business meetings, etc. The Event Center is a versatile space that can be designed to fit any needs, whether personal or business, for intimate gatherings or for large groups.

As a long-established builder in the Rio Grande Valley, Villanueva Construction recognizes that many of its customers are first-time buyers, often young couples planning to get married. Now, Villanueva Construction will be able to provide incentives to new homebuyers by offering special event packages as an added value.

The Villanueva Event Center is located at 1410 West 2 Mile Road in Mission, Texas. Call 956-800-8999 or email VillanuevaEventCenter@yahoo.com for more information.

BUILDER I n d u s t r y N e w s

RHODES ENTERPRISES ANNOUNCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRES LAGOS -MCALLEN’S FIRST SUSTAINABLE MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITY Community First National Bank Senior VP / McAllen Branch Manager Rene Rodriguez and his mortgage lending staff recently hosted an after-hours business mixer for home builders, Realtors®, and community leaders at the offices of Rhodes Enterprises in McAllen to give a presentation on the new 2,571 acre master-planned community of Tres Lagos. The presentation by Rhodes Enterprises President & CEO Michael Rhodes included beautifully detailed illustrations of the planned development in northern McAllen.

Located at the southwest corner of Ware Road and Monte Cristo, in McAllen, Texas, Tres Lagos will offer easy access to both McAllen and Edinburg.

The community will include single-family homes, multi-family homes, commercial and retail space, health care facilities, schools and churches, and now, the just-announced new Texas A&M McAllen campus.

Tres Lagos will feature the latest technology and will be the most innovative and secure community in the Rio Grande Valley. Phase One homes at Tres Lagos will be priced from the $180,000’s - $1M. The Tres Lagos community features will include fiber-to-home and bundled technology including gigabit speed Internet - 300x faster than average high speed Internet. The development will also host community Wi-Fi, alarm monitoring, video surveillance, and Smart Home Technology.

The master-planned community will provide residents with over 20 miles of hike and bike trails, over 200 acres of public parks including pools, sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing. The development will also feature over 100 acres of lakes, as well as a community water park.

Education has been a focus in all the developments that Rhodes Enterprises has created in the Rio Grande Valley. In the company’s earlier developments in Donna, Texas (Alliance River Crossing), and their master-planned community in Mission, Texas (Bentsen Palm Development), and now at Tres Lagos, high performing schools are centerpieces.

“While the amenities we offer at Tres Lagos, as well as at our other developments, are unmatched, I really believe that providing master-planned communities with high performing schools only serves to finalize the circle of a full and complete community,” Rhodes said. He added, “With the addition of Texas A&M now becoming a part of Tres Lagos, we will be able to additionally boast hosting an outstanding University.”

Visit www.treslagosmcallen.com for more information, or contact Rhodes Enterprises at (956) 287-2800.

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

(956) 971-9700

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FABULOUS KITCHENS | FACEBOOK CONTEST

1. CALTIA CONSTRUCTION www.caltiaconstruction.com

Y

YOUR KITCHEN IS THE HUB OF YOUR HOME, the nerve center of your family’s operations. Whether you’re eating together, entertaining, or simply cooking, this is the heart of your home into which you should put the most thought when designing.

To make it a place where your family loves to gather, you’ll definitely want to tap into today’s trends that continue to reflect cozy feelings.

Think luxurious warmth, like a cashmere blanket scented with baked bread. Nestled within this comfortable setting is the latest in today’s smart and innovative appliances surrounded by vast options of floor-toceiling materials of rich colors, textures, and finishes.

LET PROFESSIONALS HELP WITH APPLIANCES. With so many options for appliances on the market today, it makes sense to have an expert walk you through the buying process. While larger retail outlets may be good if you know what you want, local vendors like Morrison Supply (see p. 32) and Stevenson’s Appliances (see inside back cover) can provide more personal consultations to help you make better buying decisions. These long-established and knowledgeable local vendors have well-stocked showrooms with the latest appliances on the market.

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

KITCHEN FEATURES

This Caltia kitchen is a stunning design with the contrast of modern stainless steel finishes and the elegance of quartz countertops with natural wood cabinets and drawers, crafted from a single piece of walnut so the wood grain matches and flows from floor to ceiling.

An innovative use of pull-out drawers instead of cabinet doors allows smart functionality and easy access to kitchen needs. Undercabinet lighting accentuates a handy “Work Triangle Design”—a layout that creates efficiency in movement between refrigerator, range, and sink. An awning window over the sinks provides bright natural light and a pleasant view of the outdoors.

Fabulous

KITCHENS The creative combinations of an array of building materials on the market today inspire trends in kitchen designs. From color to décor, the availability of these stylish products plays a major role. Here in Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, beautiful natural stone such as exotic granites, marble, Cantera, and travertine flows into our market abundantly and easily from neighboring Mexico. An almost endless line of ceramic and glass tiles of every color, shape, and design is available in the Valley. Everything you need to create a fabulous kitchen is right here.

We invite you to view our Fabulous Kitchens from some of the area’s finest builders featured in this issue of the New Homes Guide. Go online to www.rgvNewHomesGuide.com for up close and personal videos of their amazing kitchens. To vote for your favorite kitchen, visit our facebook page (facebook.com/RGVNewHomesGuide) or our website listed above. One lucky voter will be chosen randomly and rewarded with a $100 gift card!*

2. CAMINO REAL BUILDERS www.caminorealbuilders.com

KITCHEN FEATURES

This kitchen features a contemporary look with polished stainless steel appliances and elegant finishes throughout. Smooth maplestained custom wood cabinets with frosted glass and sleek modern handles offer ample storage and elegance to the kitchen. An island of artistically-crafted cabinets with a natural stone countertop curves in seamless elegance across the large kitchen space.In addition to the generous square footage of workspace, the curved island is innovatively designed to separate the kitchen from the rest of the home.

A unique Hershey chocolate-colored ceiling design with recessed lights adds flair to an already exceptional kitchen plan. The Rio Grande Valley Builders Association recognized this Camino Real kitchen with a Best Kitchen Award in the 2015 Parade of Homes.

cAMI NO REA L

Vote for your “Favorite” at /RGVNewHomesGuide

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

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Fabulous

KITCHENS

MORE STORAGE FOR GREATER FUNCTIONALITY If there is one thing every kitchen either needs now or some time in the future, it’s storage. You can’t have enough places to stash items to avoid piles of stuff tumbling out of drawers and cupboards.

The key word here is efficiency. Don’t leave any nook or cranny

3. LIONGATE BUILDERS

vacant if a storage area can be added. For example, narrow areas between appliances and cabinets can be places to insert storage. Bins that fold out and Lazy Susans in corner areas provide accessible deep storage spaces from which items can be accessed without having to dig deep.

Kick drawers in lieu of baseboards provide additional space under

N AT U R A L S T O N E H E AV E N .

You will be amazed at the wide selection of granite, marble, and other natural stone products available at Materiales El Valle.

Choose from exotic patterns and rich colors to match your

Vote for your “Favorite” at /RGVNewHomesGuide

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

personal style. (see back cover).

www.liongatebuilders.com KITCHEN FEATURES

The contrast of old English country manor with flashes of contemporary stainless and glass is what this handsome Liongate kitchen is all about. From the dark wood cabinetry with carved pilasters, separate pantry, and black and white mosaic tile backsplash so reminiscent of an English country kitchen to the shining porcelain tile flooring, granite countertops, designer-inspired lighting, sunny yellow walls, and ultra-modern stainless appliances—all come together to create a stunning kitchen that exudes both stateliness and warmth.

FABULOUS KITCHENS | FACEBOOK CONTEST

cabinets for thinner items, like cutting boards, plastic lids, and potholders.

The possibilities are endless – leave no space opportunity unexplored!

EXCITING FLOORING OPTIONS From appliances to lighting to cabinets, there’s a lot going on in today’s fabulous kitchens—especially with flooring. Today’s flooring options feature over-sized ceramic tile in striking patterns, colors, and textures.

Authentic-looking ceramic wood planks available in a variety of textures and colors mimic luxurious wood flooring without high maintenance and expense. Colorful ceramic glass tiles are often used as accents in flooring to separate spaces or to create interest. Marble, granite, and other natural stone tiles in a variety of sizes create majestic floors and set the stage for a

KITCHEN FEATURES

You don’t have to travel to Italy in order to cook—this Tuscan-inspired kitchen has it all: dark espresso stained birch cabinetry with carved pilasters and moldings, exotic granite countertops, travertine and mosaic glass backsplash, a framed basketweave adornment over the cooktop, wrought iron pantry door, and an Italianate chandelier.

Yet for all its Tuscan charm, the kitchen has all the modern amenities: stainless steel appliances, 6-burner gas stovetop with pot filler, and a dramatic eat-at island.

remarkable space.

4. RICH HERITAGE CONSTRUCTION www.richheritagetx.com

CHO OSE YOUR OWN TILES. Are you looking to create an amazing backsplash or install the perfect flooring, but have yet to find a design that grabs your attention or reflects your personal style? Visit any of Materiales El Valle showrooms (see back cover) for expert help in selecting the right backsplash tile for your kitchen. You’ll see beautiful displays in coordinated colors and textures that will take the guesswork out of choosing what will look fabulous in your kitchen.

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

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FABULOUS KITCHENS | FACEBOOK CONTEST

5. VERTURO CONSTRUCTION www.verturointerests.com KITCHEN FEATURES INNOVATIVE KITCHEN AMENITIES Today’s new chefs have access to appliances, faucets, and other kitchen amenities that their parents may have only dreamed of.

A good example is the hands-free faucet, a great innovation that can help conserve water, but also help avoid surface contamination from dirty hands that have touched raw meat and other potential bacteria sources. Just run your hands over the sensors in the faucet and voilà!

You have running water. New features in ranges, ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators can boggle the mind. Unbelievably, there is an internet-enabled refrigerator on the market that homeowners can communicate with via a mobile messaging app to find out if they are out of milk, beer, or other items. Stay tuned: the next-generation of kitchens will Vote for your “Favorite” at /RGVNewHomesGuide

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Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

definitely be high-tech and “wired-in.”

The traditional design of this kitchen is blended with contemporary finishes to create a visually appealing space. A ceramic wood plank floor flows into the kitchen from the adjoining family room, and the colors are reflected in the maple wood cabinets throughout the kitchen. Matching wood planks in a staggered design with large timber trusses adorn the ceiling, adding a warm, rustic ambiance. A large natural granite countertop on a handsomely wood-crafted, sage-colored island with sink and dishwasher adds a striking centerpiece to the kitchen. Multicolored brick columns separate the kitchen space, bringing an outdoor look inside.

Fabulous

KITCHENS

TURN ON THE STYLE: DYNAMIC SINK OPTIONS While stainless steel continues to shine in the kitchen sink category, new contenders are emerging. Composite granite sinks are the latest home

KITCHEN FEATURES

improvement. These are made primarily from quartz and combined with an acrylic binder, thus giving them levels of unsurpassed durability.

The complementary colors and textures in this kitchen create a space that exudes elegance and beauty, blending contemporary and traditional for an impressive interior design.

Rich, exotic granite countertops provide an abundance of table space for multiple cooks in the kitchen. The oversized ceramic floor tiles add to the open-kitchen feel and provide easy maintenance. Custom-crafted red oak cabinets stained in rich plum mahogany offer abundant storage and are complemented nicely by a tongue and groove wood ceiling with recessed lights. Eye-catching elements in the kitchen include a multi-colored, multi-layered back splash, which is actually four designs in one, and an innovatively designed island with stainless steel rivets laced into the wood.

Their smooth, soft finishes are heat, bacteria, stain, and scratch resistant.

In addition, they’re easy to match with other materials such as quartz countertops for a seamless appearance.

We hope you’re feeling inspired by these opulent, cozy, and high tech features that every dream kitchen needs. With many exciting opportunities to add touches of style and functionality, there’s no reason why your kitchen shouldn’t become your absolute favorite place to be!

6. VILLANUEVA CONSTRUCTION www.villanuevahomes.com

VISIT RGVNEWHOMESG UIDE.COM TO VIEW VIDEOS O F T H E S E FA B U LO U S K I TC H E N S .

Stay tuned to our social media channels to discover the BUILDER WINNER of this Fabulous Kitchen Facebook Competition.

v/rgvNewHomesGuide

t/rgvNHG

/rgvNewHomes Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

23

Because Your List is Long Enough Juggling work, after school activities, and family means that you are constantly on the go.

Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. is a one-stop-shop that provides the resources and information for home buying right at your fingertips.

As a community-building nonprofit, we keep your best interest at heart and streamline the process - allowing you to cross more items off your list and get back to your family.

Powered by NeighborWorks 24

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

®

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

Start looking at neighborhoods

www.ahsti.org (956) 971-9700

(956) 687-6263

NMLS# 346848

EASEMENT WOES Perhaps you share a driveway or access road with your neighbor, or you have a section of land that you share with others, or you have heard the words “utility easement.” Do you know your rights when an easement issue on your property rears its ugly head and, for example, the cable company wants to dig on what you thought was your private property? Let’s explore what easements are, the situations that could result in conflict, and how to deal with them.

WHAT IS AN EASEMENT? An easement is a part of a property in which there is shared access. An easement dictates what rights you have and what entity owns the right of way. Easements are generally created when a subdivision is developed and its plat is recorded with the County Clerk’s office. The easements provide access for gas, power lines, telephone lines, water and sewer pipes, cable TV, and other public utility needs. There are three primary kinds of easements: • Right-of-Way Through Property: In this case, you would either grant or be granted permission to cross through someone’s property to gain access to your own property (or allow someone to cross through yours to get to theirs). This could include long private roads through which someone might have to drive to access a property at the back.

• Right-of-Way Grant: This would refer to shared properties such as driveways or walkways. The issues in this case could include who is responsible for maintaining it (i.e. shoveling debris or fixing cracked concrete).

• Utility Easements: Here’s one that trips up many homeowners. In this case, the actual utility (gas, electric, telephone, cable) access for one property is on another property. It could be wires, poles, boxes, etc. This is where the situation can get thorny in two ways.

First, fences and barricades must allow access for maintenance or repair crews to enter the area. Homeowners often fail to understand this before they install barriers such as fences, or, worst-case scenarios: outbuildings or a swimming pool. This can lead to fines or the costly need to tear down those fences or buildings, or remove the pool. Second, if digging is required on one property to access a line connected to a neighboring property, there is often the question of who pays to fix the mess created. Do you as the homeowner or does the city or utility company? Understanding your rights in these cases is important.

HOW TO HANDLE EASEMENT ISSUES? So what do you do when you’re faced with a conflict arising from an easement issue?

1 When you purchase your home, ask if there are any easement-related issues about which you should know and rights and obligations you have. Check the survey to see if there are easement lines on your property. If you are building your home, the builder should have the survey and building plans with any easement restrictions attached. Make sure to ask your builder to give you a copy, and then keep it in a safe place for as long as you own the home.

2 If you already own your home, you may still wish to check with the County Clerk’s office to confirm what is required of you, especially before beginning any new construction projects, or even building a fence if your property line is on an easement. Your local Planning and Zoning office should have the information you need.

the biggest lesson 26

Don’t get caught with an easement barrier that ends up costing you big! Always consult with the County Clerk’s office before building or remodeling if you don’t know what your easement requirements are.

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BUILDER I n d u s t r y N e w s

SAN JACINTO TITLE SERVICES HOSTS 2015 ANNUAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION NIGHT San Jacinto Title Services – Rio Grande Valley hosted its annual Customer Appreciation Night on Wednesday, October 14, at House Wine & Bistro in McAllen, Texas. Customers and associates of San Jacinto Title Services in the Rio Grande Valley attended the event. Guests were treated to a delicious menu that included such items as Smoked Salmon Bruschetta, Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms, Porchetta Sliders, McAllen Ranch Sliders with Pomme Frites, and a whole array of mini desserts—delicious comfort food for the soul!

Since its beginning in Corpus Christi in 1955, San Jacinto Title has expanded to 10 offices and licensed title plants in 14 counties across Texas. The company’s offices in the Rio Grande Valley are located in McAllen, Harlingen, and Brownsville.

Visit www.sanjacintotitle.com for more information.

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Hosts Its 36th Annual

Tamalada

On Wednesday, November 11th, a familiar giant white circus tent appeared in the parking lot of Sierra Title Company’s office in McAllen, the setting for the company’s annual Tamalada—now in its 36th year. This festive event allows Sierra Title Company’s owners, managers, and staff the opportunity to show their appreciation for the community’s support throughout the year. Hundreds of people annually are served a delicious meal of Mexican tamales with all the trimmings, along with refreshments and entertainment.

“Like” RGV New Homes Guide on Facebook to view more photos from this event.

Sierra Title Company of Willacy County hosted its 16th annual Barbeque on Friday, November 13, 2015, in SIERRA TITLE COMPANY Raymondville, Texas. The event is a special time set aside annually to show the company’s appreciation the support it receives throughout the year from TEXAS-STYLE BARBEQUE forcustomers, vendors, and friends. Invited guests enjoyed a delicious and authentic Texas-style barbeque, and a chance to visit with friends and peers in the real estate industry.

of Willacy County Hosts

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S Sierra Title Company’s Tamalada is a tradition in the Rio Grande Valley and officially marks the beginning of the holiday season.

The large gathering of professionals in the real estate and home building industries enjoyed an informal meal of tamales while networking among peers and friends. In addition to the free meal, guests were treated to many giveaways and door prizes. At the end of the day, the annual Tamalada is a reminder to all of the many blessings to be thankful for in our lives.

ierra Title of Hidalgo County honored Estella G. Lopez for 70 years of dedication, loyalty and achievements within the Title Industry. On September 18th, a celebration of her numerous accomplishments was held at the McAllen Country Club. Guests were invited for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and dinner. The guest list included family and friends of the honoree plus other title industry leaders, underwriters, attorneys, and courthouse officials. Sierra Title applauds and congratulates Mrs. Lopez for her 70 years of title professionalism and dedication to her career.

Sierra Title Company of Willacy, Cameron, and Kenedy Counties is one of six separate companies that comprise The Sierra Group of Independent Title Agents operating in Texas and New Mexico and originally founded in Edinburg, Texas, in September, 1969.

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locally owned. proud of it.

paint Doors fixtures Flooring windows & More

PHarr • san benito • palmview

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Since 1969, matt’s building materials has provided the valley with Quality products; everything you need for your next remodel or diy project. stop by and see why matt’s building materials is the longest running building materials supplier in the rgv.

(956) 971-9700

(956) 971-9700

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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.

WWW.RGVNEWHOMESGUIDE.COM 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

cAMI NO REA L

ADDRESS:

ADDRESS:

HOURS:

HOURS:

Hidden Cove 3600 N. 42nd St. McAllen, TX

La Puerta 2909 La Puerta McAllen, TX

Monday - Friday 9:00am to 6:30pm

www.caminorealbuilders.com \\

See ad on page 16.

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 16.

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 1920 Seagull Lane Mission, TX

Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm

www.westwindhomes.com \\

See ad on page 8.

SALES: Sam Rangel: (956) 688-8321 srangel@westwindhomes.com

Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Sunday

www.divinecustomhomes.net \\

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 9.

SALES: Eddie Sligh: (956) 874-8676 eddie@mlrhodes.com

Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm

OFFICE:

www.bentsenpalm.com \\

See ad on page 9.

OFFICE:

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

(956) 380-6500 *See habla Español

HOMES

ADDRESS:

ADDRESS:

Tanglewood at Bentsen Palm 3701 Oriole Dr. Mission, TX

Summerset Estates 5112 Nevis Edinburg, TX

HOURS:

HOURS:

Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm

www.westwindhomes.com \\

See ad on page 8.

SALES: Eddie Sligh: (956) 874-8676 eddie@mlrhodes.com

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Sunday & Monday Closed

Volume 24.1 2015 / 2016

Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Sunday Closed

www.rgvnewhomesguide.com

(956) 971-9700

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

See ad on page 24.

Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm

OFFICE: (956) 460-3290

Edinburg

Mission

(956) 380-6500

Mission

Mission

Closed

Call for a personal tour.

ADDRESS:

www.westwindhomes.com \\

Saturday 10:00am to 3:00pm

Mission

McAllen

(956) 992-9501

McAllen

cAMI NO REA L

Edinburg

Midpoint Manor 1408 Mulberry Weslaco, TX

Summerset Estates 1412 Maravilla Dr. Edinburg, TX

HOURS:

Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm

HOURS: www.dhconstructionrgv.com \\

See ad on page 7.

McAllen

SALES: Daniel Hernandez - (956) 778-0212

wa n t t o l i s t

your home?

Call (956) 971-9700.

Daily Monday - Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

www.westwindhomes.com \\ SALES: Pete Lopez: (956) 969-2500 plopez@westwindhomes.com

See ad on page 8.

Saturday 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Sunday Closed

Weslaco

ADDRESS: ADDRESS: