Home builders going 'green'

This is an article I found online at http://www.kvue.com/news/state/stories/032608kvuebuildgreen-cb.bb053c.html#

Please enjoy!

Home builders going 'green'
10:39 AM CDT on Wednesday, March 26, 2008
By JEFF BRADY / WFAA-TV
DALLAS — According to a recent survey by the National Association of Homebuilders, buyers said they would pay an additional $8,900 for a certified "green" home.
But are "green" homes really selling better? We found it depends on the builder, the buyer and the neighborhood.
Better insulation is one factor that makes a "green" house "green." In one house we found, recycled newspaper does the job.
Elizabeth Newman has been building homes in Dallas for 18 years. Just last year, she went all "green."
"Before I started building 'green,' I had people asking about building green," Newman said.
So what does it take to get a "Green Built" label in North Texas? Upgrades in waste reduction (or saving trees), water efficiency, indoor air quality, energy efficiency, using recycled materials, and educating the homeowner are all factors.
The downside? Prices on "green" homes are $10,000 to $28,000 more than similar models.
One we found is priced at about $750,000. Newman sold it the same day we were visiting . But some Dallas Realtors aren't yet seeing homebuyers clamor for energy efficient models.
"I just don't have a customer base that is demanding that they want a 'green' home. Nor will they pay any more for it," said Realtor Tom Rhodes. "They'd much rather have high tech homes with all the wireless, and studies, and that kind of thing."
Still, other agents say certain neighborhoods and buyers expect it. The more custom-built the home, the more likely the buyer is to expect a shade of "green."
"They will reap the benefits from the electric bill, the tankless water heater, xeroscape, that kind of stuff," Realtor Margaret O'Brien said. "So I really think that even though the price point might be a little more, you could definitely sell it — and I think there's a market for it."
The Green Built certification is so new that there are no numbers available to indicate how many are being built. The more familiar Energy Sar rating is the next best thing, and about 40 percent of all new homes in Texas last year earned that rating.
E-mail jbrady@wfaa.com

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The dream of owning a home…

When I was a little girl I was known as a BIG time dreamer. I could make up all kinds of fantasies of princes and princesses in my mind. As I got older my dreams didn’t fade they just became goals. At the age of 13 I set several goals for myself and I was far to strong minded to not get what I wanted out of life….don’t kiss a boy until I was 16 (Check, on my birthday), get good grades in High School (Check), go to college (check), Travel (looking at 10 countries and counting now, Check) and even finding a career I truly loved (finally, check!)…but it was not until I entered the home building industry as a New Home Consultant for a National Builder did I realize the value of owning a home, and let me tell you I HAD to have my own home!

At first people told me it would be impossible because I was only 25 at the time, single, and just started off my career from college. But being the big dreamer that I was I not only convinced everyone I could do it and got them all on board but in May 2006 I signed the papers that would make me the owner of my very own 4 bedroom 3.5 bathroom home!

The reason I tell you this story is that anyone who has the dream of owning a home can own a home all they need is some support and a path to get them to their goal. You might not be able to buy your home the very day you decide you want one, but if you put your mind to it and work hard to build your credit, save a little money, and talk to the right people to help you do these things, you to can own your own home.

Home ownership is part of the American dream. It’s a status symbol of “making it”. But keep in mind that your first home is not always your “dream home”. My first home is not my dream home but it met my needs and because I invested smart and researched the right builder option for me I was able to find a home that not only met my needs but when I go to sell this home I will be able to transfer the equity I made to the next home which will be a little bit better then the one I have now.

Statistics show that in a lifetime the average person will own 4-6 homes and not until their 4th home will it be considered their “dream home”. I might have a few houses to go before I reach dream status but at least I have the goal in mind to reach my “dream home”.

Have you been dreaming of home ownership and don’t know where to start? There are several steps to take before looking into purchasing a home…

First of all check your credit. Borrowers who have a credit score over 700 are usually offered more financing options and a better rate but do not let a lower than 700 credit score detour you. I have seen people with credit scores in the 500s purchase homes. The idea is you need to prove that you have credit, you pay your bills on time, and how long you have had your credit. A mortgage advisor or Realtor can also help to discuss your credit options with you when it comes to buying a home. In fact most mortgage companies will pull your credit for a small fee and also can do a free prequalification.

The next thing you should do is find a Realtor. Realtors are experts in the business of helping people find homes. Just make sure your agent has your best interest in mind. If you happen to be looking for homes in Colorado Springs I have a whole lot of contacts I can give you. Meet with a couple of agents and DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING until you have decided that is the agent for you then you will sign an agreement stating that this person is your representative. Also you should know that as a buyer you do not have to pay for your Realtor but the seller will. So its basically free help for to you find what you are looking for. When I purchased my home I used BJ BURNS who was amazing in meeting my needs. Now you don't NEED a realtor to buy a home but its always helpful to have an expert on your side.

The third thing would be for you to BE REALISTIC. Again your first home is not your dream home; it’s just the home that meets your needs. It takes time to get to the “dream home" status, but that does not mean you don’t have to like where you will be living just know you can’t have it all on the first run…

There are several steps to home ownership but the important thing is you have the goal and the dream in mind. If you happen to be looking for a home in Colorado Springs, CO or if you have some general questions about home ownership please feel free to contact me and I would be more than happy to help you make your dream a reality!

And as always Campbell Homes has been making the dream of homeownership since 1965 so I always encourage you check us out at http://www.campbellhomes.com/

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Campbell Homes Blog: The Importance of Testimonials

Campbell Homes Blog: The Importance of Testimonials

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The Importance of Testimonials

Testimonials are an important part of any good business. When a company says they have a highly developed customer service program they will be able to prove it with a plethora of strong testimonials. A sales person can tell you all day long that their company is the best and offers the best product but unless they can back that up what’s the point in even listening? The best way to know if a company is going to take care of you is to see how they have treated their current and past customers.

Below are some of the testimonials Campbell Homes’ customers have been sending us over the years. We are proud to have the kind of reputation that can be backed by our homeowners and Realtor partners.

Testimonials:

As I write this note the October blizzard of 2006 is raging outside my home. Unlike most testimonies you receive my home was one of the very first you built in Briargate, back in 1982. I want you to know, after 24 years my home is as tight and strong as the day it was built. The wind outside is 50 mph but I can’t tell because the walls and windows of my home are so strong. I still have the original windows and they give me much lower power bills then most folks know. I live at the top of Briargate hill and have a two story home. I can’t hear the wind today. Thank you SO much for building a home so sound and secure.
-Pam S.

“When you grow up the son of contractor, like I did, you inherit an eye for craftsmanship. So when I saw the building materials that went into Campbell Homes, I knew this is where we wanted to be. Campbell Homes uses all the right name brands, and backs up their work with old fashioned attention to detail. What more could you ask for?”
–Scott Farrell
US Army - 21 years

“Sometimes you have to brave the cold to find a home that warms your heart. I know. I spent weeks looking at houses this winter, but I didn’t fall in love until I found Campbell Homes. Campbell Homes did so many things right, I was ready to move in while my home was still under construction! That’s how comfortable they made me feel.”
–Cavalene Regan

“A while back, we downsized to a townhome. But when room started getting scarce, we thought, ‘Hey, time to look into something a little more livable.’ Campbell Homes impressed us not only with their floorplans and craftsmanship, but their ethics. They showed us the kind of commitment they’re known for in this community, and we appreciated it.”
–Scott Vaughn
Realtor and Entertainer with
The Colorado Wranglers

“This is the first home I ever bought. So it was scary, as well as exciting.
Looking back, all I can say is, I not only picked a dream home, but a dream builder. Campbell Homes treated me like royalty—answering my questions, and walking me through ever step of the process—from start to finish.”
–Amy Tran

For more testimonials or more information about Campbell Homes please contact our Internet Concierge, Kelly Noble, at knoble@campbellhomes.com.

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Energy Star Rated Homes are Better

What is Energy Star? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set up the Energy Star guidelines to make new homes at least 15% more efficient than homes built to the specific Energy Conservation Code (ECC) for the corresponding year the home is built. Within the program Energy Star identifies over 40 products that meet and exceed these qualifications in areas such as climate appropriate insulation, high performance windows, efficient heating and cooling systems, plumbing and lighting fixtures and appliances.

More than 7,000 organizations and manufacturers, including over 2,500 homebuilders across the nation, have formed a partnership committed to the efficient use of resources to create a more comfortable and healthier living environment inside and outside the home.

Campbell Homes in Colorado Springs takes great pride in being not only an Energy Star certified builder but being one of only 4 builders in Colorado Springs that is 100% Energy Star tested. EVERY new Campbell Home is tested by an independent inspector.

Did you know that Energy Star only required builders to test 15% of their homes to become an Energy Star builder? This basically means when you buy from a builder that is not 100% Energy Star tested you are playing the Energy Star lottery because you never know if your new home is actually Energy Star rated. So, as you are shopping around for a new home please make sure to ask not only is the builder an Energy Star builder but also is your particular home Energy Star tested. They should be able to show you the sticker or certificate that will usually be located in your power box.

Below I have highlighted some of the reasons Campbell Homes makes your home better with Energy Star…

6 Ways Energy Star Makes Your Campbell Home Even Better...
1. Effective Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort.

2. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer.

3. Tight Construction and Ducts
Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance.

4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home.

5. Efficient Products
Your Campbell Home will be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as rnage, dishwashers, and microwaves.

6. Third-Party Verification
Third-party raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details. A homebuilder has to have 15% of their homes tested by an independent inspector in order to qualify as an ENERGY STAR builder. This however does not guarantee that your home will be ENERGY STAR rated. But Campbell Homes has 100% of their homes tested so you can rest assured that your home, no matter which home you choose, will be an ENERGY STAR home.

Visit http://www.energystar.gov/ for more information on the Energy Star Program or you can always visit Campbell Homes' online community at http://www.campbellhomes.com/

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It Is Easy Being Green with Campbell Homes

Built Green Colorado:
Built Green™ is an industry program that promotes an environmentally friendly approach to construction by setting standards for better energy efficiency, healthier indoor air quality and minimum use of resources to lower the overall environmental impact and increase the comfort within your home. Campbell Homes has set minimum construction specifications that actually exceed Built Green™ requirements. Here’s what you can expect in your new Campbell Home.

• Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sensitivity
  
• Moisture Control – Campbell’s exterior house wrap, 3/8” OSB sheathing, drainage plane and 5’ downspout extensions minimize the effects of moisture damage.
  
• Air Infiltration – a foam sealant around windows, doors, top and bottom plates and all wall penetrations such as electrical outlets helps maintain the thermal insulation R-values and keeps pollutants out.
  
• Low maintenance vinyl windows with Low-E glass not only save energy but protect the interior from UV damage.
  
• External sealed combustion gas-log fireplaces prevent heat loss typically associated with flue and damper systems; and keeps contaminants from entering indoor living spaces.
  
• Sealed combustion 92 percent efficient direct vent gas furnace uses 100 percent of outdoor air for combustion. This increases the life of the furnace, promotes cleaner air and minimizes heat loss associated by re-circulation.
  
• Energy Star programmable thermostat with dual setback can be programmed to save 10 to 12 percent in energy usage and costs.
  
• Low flush toilets and water saving faucets and showerheads
  
• Because of the variety of soils conditions in the area, every Campbell Home foundation is engineered for specific site conditions.
  
• Low VOC content (Volatile Organic Compound) in interior paint results in better indoor air quality and an easy-to-clean surface.
  

How does this benefit you?
-Cost savings

-Improved resale

-Greater comfort

-Quieter

-Improved Indoor Air Quality

-Less maintenance

For more information on the Built Green Colorado Program go to www.builtgreen.org

For more information about Campbell Homes in Colorado Springs, CO please visit us at www.campbellhomes.com

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Why Buy New

There are so many reason why buying a new home rivals that of a used home. For instance new houses are more energy efficient they outperform used homes by a landslide! New Homes are also healthier to live in since fewer pollutants and allergens can leak into the home because of superior insulation and building methods.

Campbell Homes, a local homebuilder in Colorado Springs since 1965, is one of the best examples of a homebuilder that builds a healthy and more eco friendly home. For example

One of Campbell Homes’ homeowners found that when they moved from a 1,400 square foot town-home to a 3,966 square foot Campbell Home he was only paying $15 more per month in utilities.

Actually according to Mountain View Electric, who supplies electricity to Falcon Colorado, Meridian Ranch, and surrounding areas, the average home spends $3.50 per day on electricity where Campbell Homes’ homeowners only spend $1.78 per day.

A new home has so many advantages over used homes, which is why I have included the following list to help explain the top 10 reasons to buy a new home over a used home...

10 Reasons to Buy a New Home

1) Warranties - New homes come with a builder warranty that covers workmanship, materials, structure and mechanical systems as well as manufacturer's warranties on carpeting, heating and cooling systems, roofing materials and appliances. If something needs repair or replacement in the first few years it's probably covered.

2) Energy Efficiency - New homes are built in compliance with new energy conscious building codes. Advanced heating and cooling systems, improved windows and insulation techniques reduce energy costs. New homes consume about half as much energy as a home built prior to 1980.

3) Safety Features - New homes are built in compliance with the latest mandated safety codes. Emergency egress, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, safety glass and superior wiring greatly reduce the chances of serious injury.

4) Low Maintenance Costs - Everything is new and probably under warranty! Up to date technology in construction using today's building materials require little maintenance and virtually no care for many years.

5) Simplified Financing - Most home builders have very experienced "preferred lenders" who make financing a breeze. Many times upgrades such as landscaping or even swimming pools can be wrapped up and packaged into a single mortgage making qualifying for a loan and home appraisal a simple matter.

6) Floor Plans - New homes have improved room and "flow" designs to accommodate the way we live today. More windows, open space, closets and storage areas, numerous bathrooms and larger kitchens and garages help to create a sanctuary for everyone in the family to enjoy.

7) Appreciation - Most real estate professionals tend to agree that the first seven to eight years in the life of a home are the years with the greatest appreciation. It is during this time that a home has the most appeal to those looking for a used home. The demand for a "newer" home drives demand and results in higher values.

8) Modern Amenities - New homes offer the latest technologies that will pamper you, save you time and even make you a better cook! All are designed to make life a little simpler and more enjoyable.

9) Availability - New homes are ready when you are; there's no need to wait months for completion or vacancy. Whether you need your new home today or months from know, builders in your area will have unsold inventory homes at various stages of completion to meet your needs.

10) Location - Developers and home builders choose up and coming areas. Community schools, infrastructure and services are more likely to be modern and convenient. Neighborhood amenities such as parks, open space, walking trails, community rec centers and swimming pools are more likely to be found in new home developments.

For Further information on Campbell Homes or Energy Efficient building please visit me at my Online Community at www.campbellhomes.com.

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