The benefits of buying a new home over a used one

Buying a new home is a big decision. As the largest new homebuilder in Charlotte, North Carolina, we know that as well as anybody. One of the first decisions you should consider when selecting a home is whether to buy a new home or a used home. While the decision to buy a new or a used home is largely an issue of personal preference, there are a number of advantages to buying a new home over a used one. To help you understand some of these differences, we’ve put together a list of 5 reasons in favor of buying new.

 

Modern Amenities and Personalization

 

New homes are better designed for the needs of the modern family than older homes. Buying new also allows you to have some input into the design and materials used in the home. Our True Style Process allows you to customize certain aspects of your home before it’s built, allowing you to impart your own personal style and preferences. For example, new homebuyers are able to select from a range of options like paint colors, crown molding, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and more.

 

Energy Efficiency

 

New homes are built with energy efficiency in mind. Not only is an energy efficient home better for the environment, it can also save money on your utility bills. In fact, a True Home is more than 40 percent more efficient than the average existing home. Additionally, high performance toilets and faucets drastically reduce water consumption.  

  

Warranties

One of the biggest advantages to buying a new home over a used one is the warranty that comes with a new home. Not only do you get manufacturers’ warranties on all your new appliances, you also get a builder’s warranty that covers the structure of your home. True Homes offers a 10-year structural warranty that protects you against costly problems that may arise down the road with a used home. 

 

      Lifestyle 

New homes are often built in entirely new developments designed with a certain kind of buyer in mind. This means that the reasons you decided to move into the community are likely the same as your neighbors. New developments give you a unique chance to help create your own neighborhood lifestyle. New developments also tend to attract younger families, which means your children will have more playmates and your neighbors are more likely to become your close friends.

       Safety

New homes adhere to rigorous safety standards that may have not been in place when an older home was built. In addition to meeting the latest building codes, True Homes also partners with industry leading companies to ensure your home is built to last. State-of-the-art fire detection systems, wiring insulation, and plumbing components also help protect your investment and keep your family safe. To learn more about True Homes or to browse our selection of new homes in Charleston, South Carolina, visit our website at www.truehomesusa.com.

True Green: True Homes are 40% more energy efficient than a used home

True Homes is the premier homebuilder in Charlotte, North Carolina. We have built several communities throughout the region, including our most recent new home community in Charleston, South Carolina. True Homes is committed to building new homes with environmentally friendly materials and high energy efficiency rankings. On average, True Homes are 40 percent more energy efficient than existing homes; that’s a fact. It’s easy for home builders to make claims about the energy efficient of their home, but every home built by True Homes is independently tested and certified by a third party. Independent testing means you can be confident about purchasing decision. After the inspection is complete by a Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) certified building inspector, we provide you with the estimated energy savings, in writing, so you know exactly how much you can expect to save with an energy efficient True Home.

How Are True Homes Evaluated?

The standard scoring chart for home energy efficiency is the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, which was established by RESNET. The values of the HERS Index range from 0 to 150, and the lower the score, the more energy efficient the home is. The average score is 100, which is based on the energy efficiency of a model home built to the 2006 International Energy Conversation Code. True Homes score, 76, which means they are more energy efficient than most new homes built today, and over 40 percent more energy efficient than existing homes.

  

How Does True Homes Achieve Such a High Level of Energy Efficiency?

The first step to building an energy efficient home is the design. Next, we utilize tight construction techniques, high performance windows, and superior insulation that all work together to allow your home to perform at its peak efficiency. Next, True Home incorporates high efficiency appliances and fixtures throughout the home.

 

Features like high efficiency heating and air conditioning systems, low flow toilets and faucet fixtures, and energy efficient lighting all help make your home more energy efficient and lower your cost of ownership. Energy efficient homes are not only better for the environment; they are also a better investment. If you’d like to learn more about our new homes in Charlotte or Charleston, please take a minute to visit our website at www.truehomesusa.com. You can also speak with one of our representatives directly at 704-937-2307.

Moving soon? Make sure you’re prepared with the right supplies

Moving can be a real headache. In addition to having to pack your life into boxes and live in a state of limbo until the move is complete, moving can also be expensive—even if you decide to do it yourself. To help make sure you’re prepared for your next move, True Homes, a leading new home builder based in Charlotte, North Caroline, has put together a list of supplies you’ll need as well as some helpful tips to save you money and ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Recommended Moving Supplies

Moving Boxes. Whether you’re planning to move yourself or hire professionals, you’ll need plenty of moving boxes to pack your belongings into. It’s always better to have more boxes than you think you’ll need as certain items will inevitably take up a lot more space than you planned for. Buying new boxes can get expensive, but you can save a lot of money getting creative here. Supermarkets and liquor stores have more boxes than they know what to do with, and are usually happy to give you a few extras. 

Bubble Wrap/Packing Paper. You’ll want to make sure your items arrive at your new home undamaged, so be sure to wrap everything up in bubble wrap or packing paper. Packaging peanuts are also good at protecting your valuables, but they can be messy to deal with. To save money on these packing supplies, start saving old newspapers before your move. You can also ask friends and family to save their old newspapers for you too. Unless you know someone who moved recently, you’ll probably have to spend some money on bubble wrap to protect your fragile items like glassware and china, but you save a lot of money by repurposing old materials.

Packaging Tape. Packaging tape is essential for keeping your boxes closed, and securing items with multiple pieces. Clear box tape is strong enough to make sure the bottom of your boxes don’t fall out, but isn’t ideal for taping things together. If you need to keep things together during the move, masking tape is your best bet since it won’t leave a sticky mess for you to clean while unpacking. 

Carpet Film. Carpet film is a great way to protect your floors during the move. Different than saran wrap, which can be good for protecting sofas and other upholstered furniture, carpet film is stick on one side. Before your move, plan out which areas of your home will be used as moving corridors, and put some film in place. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure here, and picking up carpet film is a lot easier than having to shampoo your carpet or deal with unsightly scuffmarks on your hard floors.  

Moving Tips

Moving is going to take a lot longer than you think, so it’s a good idea to start preparing for your move at least two months before your scheduled move-out date. 

Get Moving Estimates

If you’re going to hire a professional mover, you can start getting estimates before hand to get a better idea of the cost of moving. Also, booking a mover early will ensure that one is available when you need them. And if you’re going to move yourself, you should also shop around for a moving truck before the move. Locking in rates early will help you better budget for your move.

Pack Early

Whether you’re hiring a professional or are going to move yourself, you should start packing well in advance of your move-out date. Packing early takes a lot of the stress out of moving as you can do it at your leisure, instead of being rushed all at the last minute. For example, you can pack up all your out of season clothes without sacrificing any creature comforts in the mean time. Books, and decorative items are also good candidates to pack early.

Do Some Spring Cleaning

Moving provides you with an excellent chance to get rid of some unwanted clutter. When going through your belongings, decide if it’s something you really want to take with you. You can also have a garage sale before the move to help offset the costs. Craigslist and eBay are also great places to sell your unwanted items. You can also donate all the items that you’re unable to sell.  

While every move is a little different, the above list of supplies and tips are applicable to almost every type of move. Before you move-out, you’ll also need to update your address at the post office and let friends and family your new address. Likewise, be sure to transfer your utility accounts to your new address so you don’t move into a house without electricity or water.

If you’re planning to move into a new home in Charlotte, North Caroline or Charleston, South Carolina, why not consider a True Home? Our newest community in Charleston, South Carolina offers a range of affordable, environmentally friendly new home designs. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Fun for the Family in Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina is a great place to work and live. And with plenty of activities to do year round, Charlotte has enough to fulfill even the most demanding family entertainment needs. Whether you’re already a resident of Charlotte, or are planning to buy a new home in Charlotte, True Homes has put together a list of some of the top family activities that Charlotte has to offer.

Biltmore Estate

Located just outside Charlotte, in Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is the perfect getaway for you and your family. Originally built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, the Biltmore estate remains the largest private estate in the United States. The entire estate consists of over 10 square miles, and offers activities for every type of visitor. While the main house is the primary attraction at the estate, there are also lots of other activities you can do, including: horseback riding, bicycling, fly fishing, get lost in the garden maze, visit the farmyard animals, and more. Best of all, children under 9 years old get to visit the estate free. 

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Located just 13 miles outside of Charlotte, in Concord North Carolina, the Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of the top motorsport complexes in the country. In addition to NASCAR events held year round, the Speedway is also home to the semi-annual Food Lion Auto Fair —one of the nation’s largest car shows. Even if car races aren’t your thing, the Charlotte Motor Speedway attracts thousands visitors every year for Speedway Christmas, which is heralded as “the area’s premier holiday lights extravaganza.”

Dan Nicholas Park

Dan Nichols Park is an amusement park geared for families with younger children. With a number of attractions including a carousel, water plaza, petting zoo, nature center, train station, aquarium, gem mine, mini golf, and paddle boat rentals, Dan Nicholas Park has enough to keep you and your family busy all day. And if you get too tired to make the drive home, you can even stay overnight at the park campgrounds.

Schiele Museum

The Schiele Museum of Natural History is located in Gastonia, NC, about 20 miles outside of Charlotte. The museum features the largest collection of mammal specimens in the Southeast. With five permanent galleries, and a number of special exhibits throughout the year, the Schiele Museum is both a fun and education way to spend the day with your family. 

Reed Gold Mine

Reed Gold Mine is home to the first documented gold discovery in the United States. Today, the site serves as one of North Carolina’s most valuable historical assets. Portions of the mine have been restored, and the center offers guided tours of some of the old gold shafts. You can even try your hand at panning for gold, and hope to strike it rich!

North Carolina Zoo

The NC Zoo has over 500 acres of exhibits that are home to 1,600 animals and 52,000 plants, making it one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the United States. Some of the standout animals at the zoo include Elephants, Rhinoceros, Chimpanzees, and exotic birds from around the world. The zoo experience involves a walk along a five mile shaded pathway, so be prepared for a little bit of exercise. The official website expects tours to last between 4 and 6 hours. The list of family activities listed above doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of the variety of entertainment Charlotte has to offer. If you’re looking to purchase a new home in Charlotte, we hope you’ll consider True Homes. True Homes offers a number of environmentally friendly new home communities that are perfect for you and your family. For more information, visit our website at www.truehomesusa.com or call us directly at 704-937-2307.

Green Homes Construction on the Rise

There is a definite shift taking place in the market as green practices spring to the forefront. According to a recent Smart Market Report on home construction, green and sustainable homes developments are expected to skyrocket over the next several years to a staggering 29 to 38 percent by 2016.

Those interested in purchasing new homes in Charlotte are looking for green homes as they area a long-term saver and also known to be more high quality construction. Visit True Green Homes

Other factors are also driving green home construction growth. Nearly two-thirds of builders and remodelers said more and more new home buyers in Charlotte are requesting green homes and green, sustainable projects, many of them seeking out lower energy costs.

The higher costs of building green are less of a factor now than they were several years ago. With ample supply of green home products, prices have become more competitive with traditional green home projects.

 

The report also found that more than 80percent report that energy efficiency is making today's homes far more green compared to two years ago. Use of energy-efficient features is commonplace in the market and has become the top practice by nearly all builders and remodelers.

 

Also tops in consideration are indoor air quality, with 95 percent of high volume home builders including these features, and durable materials being emphasized by remodelers.

 

“These findings confirm the shift we've seen in the market,” says Jim Halter, Vice President, Construction Solutions for Waste Management. “Builders and remodelers are placing more emphasis on energy efficiency, increases in sustainability focused waste management practices and more products made from post-consumer materials. These important factors are pushing our industry forward.”

 

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Charlotte, North Carolina in Top 3 Percent of US Metros for Energy Jobs

It’s no small secret that Charlotte, North Carolina has been a strong contender for energy jobs. However, that momentum has increased significantly over the last few years. The 16-county Charlotte region counts more than 200 organizations and more than 20,000 employees performing the important daily work of the energy industry.  So much so, that it is now considered America’s new energy capital.

A Lean, Green Workforce

This continued spawning of green, clean Charlotte companies and the vocations they offer is one of the main attractions for buyers of new homes in Charlotte. Combined with fantastic schools and universities offering learning opportunities and degrees in energy efficiency and sustainability, Charlotte’s work force has been identified as a major competitive advantage, and the influx of young energy leaders with diverse experiences has emerged as a significant resource for energy and engineering firms.

The plan to foster an energy hub in the Charlotte region is kicking into high gear, with a number of organizations playing key roles in the initiative. Major energy players in Charlotte include AREVA, Babcock and Wilcox, Duke Energy, Electric Power Research Institute, Fluor, Metso Power, Piedmont Natural Gas, Siemens Energy, Shaw Group, Toshiba, URS Corp., and Westinghouse. Leaders representing businesses of every size, local and state government, educational institutions and civic organizations have put Charlotte on the energy map.

Green City, Green Homes

The Charlotte energy hub also brings with it the demand for green homes. For True Homes, being green isn’t just the latest trend or buzz word; green building is at the core of our business philosophy. It is a commitment to green home design and green construction. Our True Green building program flows directly out of that desire.

At True, we believe we have a responsibility to our customers and communities, as well as the environment. We achieve this through GREEN BUILDING and CONSERVATION. These two areas allow us and True Home green living home owners to reduce the impact on our environment, create healthier green living environments, conserve energy, as well as save money.  

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Charlotte Home Sale Closings Up 22 Percent from Last Year

According to a recent report by the Charlotte Regional Realtor® Association, residential real estate activity for August 2012 continues the good news from the previous month of July: home sales closings have gone up again in Charlotte. Along with that, home sale prices have also increased to an average of $207,380.

Strong Gains Seven Months Straight

Strong gains in new home sales and new home prices last month were preceded by steady gains over the last several months. Although average list prices have taken a slight dip, sellers are now receiving more of their asking price, which is up a staggering 89.7 percent from last July. With six months ahead of it, August makes the seventh straight month of gainful real estate activity in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

August also saw homes spending fewer days on the market from listing to close, decreasing two weeks compared to 2011. Distressed foreclosure properties, which tend to sell fastest, actually decreased, with the number of active foreclosures at its lowest level since January 2008. However, they also saw the largest year-over-year median price gain of 6.7 percent. The number of active short sales was also at its lowest level since April 2009.

A Popular Destination for Relocation

Charlotte is fast rising in relocations, welcoming transplants by the hundreds. Baby boomers, retirees, young tech-savvy hipsters and green energy professionals are moving into the southern city for work, creating an increased demand to buy new homes in Charlotte. That fact, combined with historically low interest rates, affordable home prices, and being a great overall place to live, Charlotte becomes pretty irresistible to new home buyers looking for a home in the Carolinas.

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Bathtub Ideas for Your New Home

Just not a standard rectangular dwelling anymore, bathrooms have become a place of escape - a world of their own that offers a tranquil space to unwind, relax and rinse away the cares of the day. It’s no small wonder, then, that the bathtub rates high on the home-owner list of important features.

Style

Just like houses, bathtubs come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. From round to square, jets and jetless, antique and contemporary, choosing the style of bathtub you long to sink into is all about personal pampering preference. Here are a few of the most popular bathtub styles to consider:
       
* Garden Tubs

Considered the spa treatment of bathtubs, garden tubs provide the ultimate in luxury relaxation. Deep and roomy, these popular tubs often come equipped with jets and are typically situated in view of the outdoors for a true get-away feeling. 

* Antique (Free-standing)

The nostalgic shape of the free-standing tub is reminiscent of the deep metal tubs they bathed in long before bathrooms were even heard of. Elegant, with their exposed piping and beautifully clawed feet, free-standing bathtubs offer the old world, colonial feel with its traditional beauty and warmth.

* Walk-in
Widely popular among the handicapped and the elderly, these tubs offer safety and simplicity with easy access and customizable options such as seating, handrails and Whirpool jets.

Material and Colors

Bathtubs are available in a wide range are available in materials that range from porcelain on to ceramic. Since different materials have different installation requirements, be sure to inquire about any costs your may incur.
Choosing the colors for your bathroom can be invigorating and exciting. There is nothing more thrilling than placing your own personal stamp on your dream bathroom. Tub colors are of particular importance. Since the majority of your time will be spent relaxing in your dream tub, picking a color that provides the right atmosphere when bathing is important.

Showrooms can offer enormous help in getting a feel for a bathroom based on style, material and color. The key is to sample different styles to personally experience and see what best fits your idea of bathroom paradise.

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307

Popular Baby Boomer Home Designs

Born between 1946 and 1964, there are 77 million Baby Boomers that represent 26 percent of the population. Boomers make up 45 percent of the work force and control the largest amount of discretionary income in history. Home builders and architects are continuously adapting their floorplans and home designs to accommodate the ever-changing needs and demands of this generation that plans on being around for a long time to come.

“Right-size” Me

Sophisticated, savvy, and active, when it comes to home design, baby boomers are looking for comfort and convenience, multi-functionality, and a place they can live out their golden years. They are far are less interested in scaling back than they are in having a home that is the right fit.

Considered “rightsizing”, it simply means that their homes fit their needs and their budgets without interfering with their lifestyles. Gone are the super-size days of bigger is better. When it comes to home design, boomers want a home that custom-caters to their lifestyle, both present and future.

Flex Spaces

Whether large or small, rooms need to have a purpose; a logical functionality. Flex spaces that can be used for multiple activities is one prime example. These living areas are flexible in that they can easily adapt to the homeowner’s needs, from guest rooms to offices and studies. Multi-purpose flex rooms are high on the list for active boomers who love entertainment and the room to enjoy it.

Large Masters +

Another home design hot button is the master bedroom suites. Boomers won’t tolerate shy on anything that makes for the most comfortable sleeping arrangements, including a master bath with dual sinks and separate stalls. Garden tubs are nearly a must, with whirlpool jets and separate showers for the grandest bathroom escapes.

Easy Access, Open Feel

Most baby boomers desire single-story homes over split-levels. As they age, this choice becomes even more important, with easy, low-risk access to the entire home all on one floor. Boomers also like an open feel to their homes. They opt for fewer walls where rooms merge together to create a feeling of expanse and openness.

Designer Kitchens

And we don’t just mean looks, either. Baby boomers are very particular about their kitchens, as entertaining is often high on these active adults’ list. Pull out all of the stops when it comes to stainless and steel and granite, and don’t forget the amenities. Oh, and did we mention, amenities? Boomers like them, and they like a lot of them. From built-in wine racks, to custom cabinetry, entertainment media and jumbo dishwashers, kitchens should come stocked with every appliance necessary for convenience and ease of living.

Indoor/Outdoor Entertainment Areas

Fun, vibrant, safe and convenient is how baby boomers see their entertainment areas. As prolific hosts of social events and activities, boomers love space indoor/outdoor spaces that accommodate both formal and informal gatherings and affairs, from hosting an elegant dinner party to throwing a blazing backyard BBQ.

All Baby Boomers have their own ideas about the homes they wish to live in after retirement. Although these are the top home design requests for the boomer generation, creating the right home environment is your own personal journey. Enjoy!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Green Lingo 101 : Echo-savvy Definitions for Dummies

With energy conservation and environmental awareness common topics of everyday conversation, green lingo is everywhere. Practically a language of its own, echo-savvy talk requires a bit of education and explanation when it comes to understanding those green terms. Here is a list of the most popular green lingo out there.

Adaptive Reuse - Renovation of a building or site to include elements that allows a particular use or uses to occupy a space that originally was intended for a different use.

Alternative Energy - Energy from a source other than the conventional fossil-fuel sources of oil, natural gas and coal (i.e., wind, running water, the sun). Also referred to as "alternative fuel."

Biodegradable - Waste material composed primarily of constituent parts that occur naturally, are able to be decomposed by bacteria or fungi, and are absorbed into the ecosystem. Wood, for example, is biodegradable, while plastics are not.

Biosphere - The part of the earth and its atmosphere in which living organisms exist or that is capable of supporting life. The ecosystem composed of the earth and the living organisms inhabiting it.

Carbon Footprint - A measure of impact on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide.

Climate Change - The term "climate change" is sometimes used to refer to all forms of climatic inconsistency, but because the earth's climate is never static, the term is more properly used to imply a significant change from one climatic condition to another. In some cases, "climate change" has been used synonymously with the term "global warming"; scientists, however, tend to use the term in the wider sense to also include natural changes in climate. Also referred to as "global climate change." Also see "Global Warming."

Compost - Process whereby organic wastes, including food wastes, paper and yard wastes, decompose naturally, resulting in a product rich in minerals and ideal for gardening and farming as a soil conditioner, mulch, resurfacing material or landfill cover.

Conservation - Preserving and renewing, when possible, human and natural resources. The use, protection and improvement of natural resources according to principles that will ensure their highest economic or social benefits.

Energy Efficiency - Principles and technology that reduce electricity or fuel usage while doing the same work, such as keeping a house warm using less energy.

Energy Vampires - This term refers to electric appliances such as televisions, chargers, and clock radios that use energy even when turned off. The energy they use is also called a “phantom load.”

Environmental Impact - Any change to the environment, whether positive or negative, resulting from human activity, industry or natural disasters.

Global Warming - A process that raises the air temperature in the lower atmosphere due to heat trapped by greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, CFCs and ozone. It can occur as the result of natural influences, but most often is a direct result of human activities (i.e., car and factory emissions, cigarette smoke)

Green Design – Design that adheres and conforms to environmentally sound principles of building, material and energy use. A green building, for example, might make use of solar panels, skylights and recycled building materials. View True Homes Green Homes

LEED™ Rating System - LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a self-assessing system designed to rate commercial and residential buildings. The system evaluates environmental performance over a building's life cycle, determining the true “green” of the building and what is required to bring it up to energy and environmental standards.

Renewable Energy – Energy that comes from natural resources such as sunlight, wind, rain, and geothermal heat and is naturally replenished.

Recycling - The process by which waste materials are collected, processed and returned to the economic mainstream to be reused in the form of raw materials or finished goods.

Sustainability - Practices that ensure the continued viability of a product or practice well into the future.

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307

Hot Home Design Tips

Multi-generational living spaces and unique color combinations top the list in home design.

It’s All in the Family

While it has been a long, rough real estate road in the last few years, home design remains hotter than ever. However, things are not what they used to be when it comes to floorplans and design. A tight economy has forced people to adjust their living arrangements and lifestyles as more and more families living together are multi-generational. With grandma and teenager under the same roof comes the need for individual living spaces that provide conveniences and “space” for each member of the family.

One of the most popular developments multi-generational living has brought back to life is the in-law suite. Often detached or semi-detached from the main house, this suite is just like its own little home, commonly equipped with a kitchen, bathroom and private living quarters.

Vertical Gardens

With the growth of urban sprawl, smaller homes and less acreage, vertical gardens have become all the rage these days. These living walls, as they are often called, help reduce air toxins, regulate moisture, reflect light and heat, and provide a peaceful, warming effect on cooler city dwellings.

Lean and Green

We can’t mention garden without going green. Today’s hottest home designs take energy efficiency and conversation into consideration on nearly every level, from light bulbs to solar panels. As home owners consider remaining in their homes for longer periods of time, green investments offer both long- and short-term benefits for home buyers and owners.

Color Me “Greige”?

It’s no home design secret that “greige” is all the rage when it comes to color. A warm tone gray that looks either taupe or beige, it mimics a winning combination of gray and beige, and looks delightful when accented with the still-loved golden tones of yesteryear.

Dramatic Floors

When it comes to wood floors, light is out, dark is in. Dark wood is far more dramatic and accented with golden browns or lighter colors, makes for a floor worth stepping on. If carpet is your style, lighter is most definitely the top pick.

Furniture and Flatscreens

Big furniture has been replaced by smaller pieces, and bulk is a thing of the past. Large, fluffy sectionals, forget ‘em. Heavy armoires and buffets, not so much. Large projector TV’s, not in here. Smaller sized furniture with sleek designs is the hands down leader in home furnishings. Flatscreens are now wall-mounts or, more interesting still, custom framed to look like a piece of art.

Ultimately, home design is subjective and all about what you want in your home. And, as well all know, trends change all the time. A good rule of thumb when designing your home is to always consider the added resale value of the design or investment.

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Buying a New Home in the Carolinas? Join the Club !

Investment properties and vacation homes account for huge home sales, nearly 65 percent last year alone. North and South Carolina, offering homes and communities for everyone from singles to families to retirees, are two of the most popular destinations for new home buyers.

View new homes in the Carolinas    Visit 55+ Active Adult Living Communities

Welcome to the Carolina’s !

For years, the sister states of North Carolina and South Carolina have been home buying hotspots, typically reeling in resort-style living retirees with their southern charm, golf courses and beaches. However, with the change in the tech sector leading to expansions into key southern towns such as Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham, the Carolina’s have seen an influx of graduates, along with newly-weds and families looking for a home that offers safety, affordability, cultural diversity and steady employment opportunities.

With over 60 locations throughout Charlotte and Charleston, new home builder, True Homes, is intimately familiar with new home buyers moving to the Carolina’s. Housing demand requires a little something for everyone, and from townhomes to resort-style paradises, True Homes has continued to supply new home buyers with quality homes and affordable prices.

View Our Floor Plan Options

With excellent prices and historically low mortgage rates, now is a great time to buy a home in North or South Carolina. Combined with generous state tax incentives and discounts, the appeal to live in the southern states becomes even stronger, as the numbers show steady increases in people moving into the Carolina’s from other states.

The Carolina’s consistently make Top 10 lists of best states to live in. Cities and towns such as Fort Mills, South Carolina, a budding Charlotte suburb rated in the Top 10 Best Towns for Families by Family Circle, is one example of such a place.

If quality of life, affordability, excellent schools, a sense of community and job growth are on the list of places for you to call home, the Carolina’s just may be the place for you!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with new communities in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-937-2307.

Is 2012 a Good Year to Buy a House ?

According to a Wall Street blog written in April of this year, nearly three quarters of Americans feel that now is a good time to buy a house. Is that really the case?

Proponents for “buy now” state several reasons for 2012 being a great time to buy a home, citing historically low mortgage rates and fast inflating rental prices which have already seen significant spike throughout the year. As Fannie Mae chief economist Doug Duncan stated, “Conditions are coming together to encourage people to want to buy homes.”

According to a recent article on fiscaltimes.com, since the wild ride of big ticket home prices in the mid 2000’s, mortgage rates have been driven down and home prices have deeply declined making housing affordability the best it’s been in two decades.

In short, housing affordability is at levels not seen since prior to the early 1990s and is almost twice the level that it was in April 2006, the peak month for house price levels, when housing was the least affordable.

With all the elements in place making it an ideal time to buy a home, there is still one component to the bubble era that remains: bidding wars. As the number of available inventory decreases due to demand, there are fewer homes for sale in markets that were screaming for buyers. Perhaps a pain-in-the-neck challenge, but another key indicator that buying now is good, as availability becomes less and less.

So, what’s making up a strong percentage of these property snap-ups? Rental investments and vacation homes are a large part of sales. Second homes that offer close proximity to work, as well as getaways are high on the list of real estate investments, making up 65 percent of home sales in 2011. Visit True Homes in North and South Carolina.

With all of the key indicators in place, a little homework and bidding muscle, if you have cash to buy or the credit to obtain a home, now seems the perfect time, indeed.

True Homes is the largest new home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina and Charleston, South Carolina with homes in over 60 stunning communities throughout the region. For more information on building a new Carolina home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact them at 704-937-2307.

Fort Mill, South Carolina in Top 10 List of Best Cities for Families

A quaint little town nestled in the suburbs of Charlotte, fast-growing Fort Mill, South Carolina, with it’s excellent schools, comfortable population, low-crime rate and small-town charm, now resides in Family Circle’s list of Top 10 Best Towns for Families.

A sprawling city located just 20 miles from Charlotte, Fort Mill offers a safe and peaceful environment for raising a family. Promoting low-crime and goodwill, the local police department oversees the Do the Right Thing program where parents and children alike are encouraged to participate in good deeds, community development and charity organizations. Stellar schools abound with some of the best and brightest students being taught and led by some of the best and brightest teachers around.

The town of Fort Mill tends to give off an easy-going vibe with a southern-style charm. Considered a fast growing suburban town, the city offers a family-feel with rich roots in community and business. Culture, diversity, art and worship join to form an eclectic mix of lifestyles and interests.

With homes available in five different locations throughout Fort Mill, South Carolina, True Homes offers a variety of family living styles and floor plans to choose from. Visit our properties in Fort Mills.

For more information on homes for sale in Fort Mill, South Carolina contact True Homes at 704-937-2307.

True Homes is the largest new home builder in the Carolinas. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com.

Single Home Buyer? True has a Home for You !

Single and looking for a home to buy in North or South Carolina? True Homes offers a wide variety of homes and floor plans to choose from.

In today’s world, singles are fast climbing the charts in percentage of first-time home buyers. No longer just a family purchase, singles make up for nearly 30 percent of home buyers in today’s market. So, if you are single and wanting to buy that first house, have no fear, there are plenty out there for you, and plenty of financing options to boot.

At True Homes, we pride ourselves on offering a range of new homes for single home buyers. With prices starting in the mid 100’s, single folks can easily find something well within their home buying budget. With over 60 locations on Charlotte and new homes popping up in Charleston, True Homes is a leading home builder of the south offering spacious designer floor plans that appeal to all personalities and lifestyles.

View True Homes Floor Plans in Charlotte    View True Homes Floor Plans in Charleston

Quick Move-in Homes

If expedient occupancy is what you are after, True Homes also offers a large selection of homes that are ready for immediate or near future move-in. Quick move-in homes are available throughout Charlotte and Charleston and also come with a variety of spacious designer floor plans to choose from.

Green Homes

If green is your thing and an energy-efficient home is what you are after, True Homes has the place for you. All True Homes are green homes that are independently tested and certified for energy efficiency, making them 40 percent more energy efficient than a typical existing home. Read more about True Homes Green Homes

Four Different Home Collections

True Homes is committed to leaving no one out when it comes to finding the home of their dreams. That is why we offer four different home collections - from sassy townhomes to elegant luxury homes - so you can find what fits your personality, lifestyle and budget. Our unique combination of True Space and True Style ensures you get the most house for your money – and one that fits your own personal taste and style.

So, single and looking for a great home? Visit True Homes today to find yours!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a new market in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704.271.1191.

How to Choose a Great Neighborhood

Choosing a neighborhood to live in is just as important as choosing the right house.

So, you finally picked the perfect home to live in and it’s everything you dreamed of and more. But what about the neighborhood? Do you know who will be living next to you?

When it comes to buying a home, neighborhood counts. Alot. One of the biggest mistakes home buyers make is failing to thoroughly investigate the area they will be living in. More people have had their dream homes turn to nightmares simply because they failed to conduct due diligence on the community they chose to call home.

Even when dealing with a real estate agent, it’s important for home buyers to remember that agents are prohibited by law to disclose or reveal any information that may be deemed biased or prejudiced. So, if you are a family with kids, living in party-central is most likely not going to be for you. As a new home buyer, it is entirely up to you as the potential new home owner to investigate the community you are considering calling home. Here are a few ways you can research your neighborhood to be sure you are picking the right one.

Drive Bys

Driving through a neighborhood is one of the best ways to get an idea of what goes on there. Driving around during the day is fine; however, nighttime or early evening is often best as that is when people are home. When driving around take note of what you see and hear. Is it quiet, or noisy? Are there cars on lawns and people hanging out on the streets? Is the place clean and litter free, or is there trash on the streets and sidewalks? What is the landscaping like at other homes in the area? Are the lawns well-kept, or overgrown, dry and full of weeds? What do the other homes look like? Are they worn down, or well-maintained? All of these things will give you a good idea of who your neighbors are as well as the living habits they practice.

Demographics

Demographics are important to know for any neighborhood you are considering living in. A great place to start is online research for the city you are planning on moving into. Most city sites have a full breakdown of the area’s demographics. Questions to consider are who lives there and what do they do? What are the professions and average income levels of those in the area? What is the percentage of home buyers versus renters? Another great source of information is the local police department. Whether online or by phone law enforcement officials can lend great insight into a community, especially when it comes to crime statistics.

Commutes

No one wants to spend long hours driving to and from work or school. Consider where you are located in proximity to where you will be spending the majority of your time during the week. If long hauls are not for you, then choosing a neighborhood that is more conveniently located will be critically important.

Schools

One sign of a great neighborhood is a well-maintained school. Distance is also another factor to consider as kids participate in after school programs, sports and other events that require time on campus. Also, the rating of the school itself is vital, as well as is safety. Be sure to investigate areas and the schools that cater to them.

Property Values and Taxes

Knowing current property values and how much they have changed over the last several years is very important when considering the future worth of your own home. Also learning of any future developments can be beneficial as they will bring changes to the area as far as traffic and taxes are concerned. Another good thing to inquire of is property taxes and how they have increased over the last few years. This gives you a great idea of increases you can expect.

Proximity

Everyone needs to get out every now and then and when they do, they like to have their amenities close to home. Parks, theaters, restaurants and grocery stores in close proximity lends to a more leisurely and carefree life and far less time-consuming days off.

Remember, you are investing in the neighborhood as much as you are the home itself, so be sure to do whatever is necessary to make your investment count!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a new market in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704.271.1191.

Picking the Perfect Home

Your dream home should be a house that fits within the budget and needs of your lifestyle, whether single, couple or family. A home that meets those requirements is a perfect home indeed and one well worth shopping around for.

Think It Through

When planning that new home purchase the first thing on your list should be to execute a well-thought out assessment of what your budget allowance and lifestyle needs will be. Buying more house than you can afford or one that fails to suit your needs are two of the most detrimental moves home buyers often make. Consider this stage to be the foundational keys to picking that perfect home; one that will provide you and your family with years of joy and comfort.

One simple way of starting this process is to make a wish list. Divide the list into two columns with one titled “Must Have’s” and the other titled “Would Like to Have’s. Obviously, you are shooting for both but the must-haves should take precedence. Space, amount of bedrooms and bathrooms, fireplaces, fenced in yards, urban or rural are just a few examples of things that may find their way onto that list. When developing the wish list don’t only consider the present needs, but future needs, as well. You don’t want to outgrow the house before your time.

Floor Plans

The layout of your home is probably one of the most significant choices you will ever make concerning your home. The placement of the rooms and how they flow will largely depend on your lifestyle. Take into thought your family’s size and ages when determining floor plan options. One way to do this is to consider your current floor plan and what you would do to change it. Other criteria for selecting a floor plan are accessibility, indoor and outdoor entertainment styles and garage space. View True Homes’ Designer Floor Plans

Neighborhood

Everyone knows in real estate that location counts. Not only in regards to city, but also neighborhood. Several factors play into choosing a great neighborhood such as daily lifestyle, schools, amenities and preference of an urban, suburban or rural community. It’s a good idea to thoroughly research any neighborhood you are considering moving into. Crime statistics and demographics are two key sources of information that will lend great insight into the type of neighborhood you will be investing in.

Shop Around

Like most of us, it’s tempting to jump at the first house we come across that seems to be everything we ever wanted. However, impulse buying without shopping around is highly discouraged, especially when dealing with such a big ticket item as a home. Experts warn of hasty moves and suggest viewing not just two or three houses, but several homes that may qualify as your perfect home. Being a buyer’s market with inventory as plentiful as it is, there most likely will be many homes that suit your needs and desires. Also, when you shop around you can rest assured that you did due diligence in looking into every possibility out there. That way, when you finally do decide on a house to buy, you will be confident you made the right choice.

Home Inspection

There is nothing like buying your perfect home only to find out it’s not so perfect after all. Looks can be deceiving and a good home inspection will prevent you from purchasing that beautiful ranch home that has major problems your eyes cannot see.

Home inspections will check the safety of your home, as well as structural, construction and electrical issues. Make sure your purchase contract has a clause that states the sale of the home is contingent upon your approval and always be present during the inspection. It’s also a good idea to select your own home inspection service and not use the one offered by the seller or the seller’s agent.

Picking the perfect home does not have to be a tedious process, but it does require due diligence. Those who are willing to take the time and put in the effort to cover all of their bases will end up with the perfect home, indeed.

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a new market in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704.271.1191.

Making Family Time in a Busy World

It’s no family secret that finding time for loved ones can be challenging. With hectic schedules and both spouses often working 9-5’s, much needed family time can often take a back seat. Here are a few ways for finding time for one another. 

Quality vs. Quantity

When it comes to time spent, it’s often said that quality trumps quantity. For busy families, time is precious and the duration of the event may not be as important as the quality itself. For families with kids, it is especially important that time is used wisely to invest in the lives of the children. Recreational events that offer opportunities to converse with kids about school, friends and activities will lead to security and stability for kids that will stick with them, especially when time spent is often minimal.

Set a Date

Another great way to guarantee family time is to schedule a time and day when the event will take place. Movie or pizza nights, hikes, camp outs, bicycle rides or Sunday breakfasts, whatever it is that appeals to your clan, pick a day and time and make it a regular family event where everyone participates.

Surprise Connect

With today’s endless ways of communicating, breaks are a great way to take a moment and shoot an email, text or call the ones you love just to say hey. This is a great way to remind family members that you are thinking of them; even in the middle of a busy day. It may only be a few moments and a few words, but when times are crazy, those precious moments can speak volumes.

Dinner’s Ready!

No doubt, food brings people together. Across cultures and throughout time, families, friends and loved that have supped together formed strong bonds and relationships with one another. There is just something about food that does that. It doesn’t just have to be dinner that brings the gang together. Time permissive, it could be a weekday breakfast or weekend brunch or lunch. Whatever time allows and the palette calls for, make it a time for all of the family to come together and enjoy great food and each other!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a new market in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704.271.1191.

Luscious Landscape Ideas for Carolina New Home Buyers

Lush landscape beauty, inviting curb appeal, backyard escapes and robust foliage, what Carolina new home buyer doesn’t want all that for their new house? When it comes to dressing up your home, individuality combined with a little spark of creativity will not only lead to eye-popping scenery, it will add monetary value to your home for years to come.

Foundation First

In what can often times be a demanding climate, laying the proper foundation for your trees, shrubs and flower beds is crucial to their survival. Varying temperatures can wreak havoc on landscapes with a poor base, substantially shortening the life and vibrancy of your greenery. Traditional mulches, such as garden mulch, have often been the common choice for flower and garden beds. However, rising in popularity is the more eco-friendly pine straw mulch, a more aesthetically pleasing foundation that requires less maintenance over time.

Consider Your Location

One of the most attractive qualities of the Carolinas is their amazingly diverse terrain. From the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains to the lovely shores of the Atlantic, North and South Carolina have it all. That said, wet, dry, shady or sunny, your new home location must be considered when constructing your ideal landscape. From drought-tolerant perennial beds to wetland plants, there is something for every area and terrain. With a little research and a good landscape plan, you can be sure of picking the right plant for every condition.

Roll Out the Creativity

Once you have determined the best landscaping plan for your new Carolina home, it’s time to let your imagination and individuality run wild. Here are a few trendy design ideas to get you started:

 * Xeriscaping

This very green landscaping plan is an excellent way to save up to 50 percent or more on your water bill by using plants and grasses with low water needs, covering the ground with foundations such as mulch to prevent humidity loss, and using an efficient irrigation system. Visit our True Green Homes

*  Hardscapes

In the world of landscapes, hardscaping is a term used to describe creating an outdoor space. The word has become more common as Carolina new home owners long to create chic outdoor living/entertainment areas with personal flair. Patio blocks, ponds, walkways, waterfalls and outdoor kitchens, are being built to compliment traditional landscapes. Hardscapes are great for areas that, for whatever reason, just don’t fly for plants and other forms of softscapes.  

 

*Vertical Gardens

Especially great for smaller, urban spaces where accessibility is limited, vertical gardens offer Carolina new home buyers the opportunity to save precious space by growing up instead of out. Invented by French botanist, Patrick Blanc, living walls, as they are also referred to, can help reduce air toxins, regulate moisture, reflect light and heat, and provide a peaceful, warming effect on cooler city dwellings. 

* Edible Gardens

Spawned by an ever increasing demand for organic foods and a growing awareness and aversion to pesticides, edible gardens have become a growing trend for many Carolina new home buyers interested in turning ornamentation into a harvest of healthy foods. Herb gardens are especially popular among young home buyers who want an aesthetically pleasing yet functional landscape.

True Homes is the largest new home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with homes in over 60 stunning communities throughout the region. For more information on building a new Carolina home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact them at 704.271.1191.

Dare to Compare: True Homes vs. the Competition

Why pay other builders extra for the features you want?

Truth or dare: when it comes to standard home features, True Homes offers more than any other home builder in Charlotte or Charleston.

It’s true. As the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, True Homes includes more standard features with their new homes than other home builders in the Charlotte community. Go ahead and compare for yourself. Download our Dare to Compare list of standard home features.

More Bang for Your New-home Buck

From foundations to framing - and every room in between - True Homes uses more brand name products than the competition - and includes them as standard home features. Other Charlotte home builders charge significantly more for those same features. That equals more value and far more bang for your new-home buck. Who doesn’t want that?

But don’t take our word for it. Find out for yourself! As you begin your hunt for a new home builder, compare our home packages with other Charlotte builders and you will soon find we outshine the competition on every level! View a sample of our Elements home package features. Being a home building leader that serves 60 distinct communities in Charlotte, we pride ourselves on offering our customers the best overall value for their homes. That affordability is what has allowed us to become the Charlotte home building leader we are today.

Functional, Affordable - and Energy Efficient!

Not only do True Homes come with large functional floor plans and flexibility, they also are built green with energy efficiency and conservation in mind. That’s a home building bargain we dare you to find anywhere else!
View our True Homes Designer Collection Series
Welcome to your True Home!

True Homes is the largest home builder in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a new market in Charleston, South Carolina. For more information on building your True dream home, visit www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704.271.1191.

Charlotte, North Carolina Leading the Way in Green Communities

When it comes to green energy, Charlotte, North Carolina is a prime example of what it means to be a clean, green city. From electric car charging stations to solar trees and recycling, Charlotte’s energy conservation initiatives are setting the bar for other major metropolitan communities around the nation.

More Power 2 Ya

Fueled by the Power2Charlotte campaign for public and private energy conservation, Charlotte’s innovative program has fast advanced the city into a nationally green hero. With 16 green energy projects under its belt, the Power2 energy conservation strategy offers projects and programs that promote aggressive advances in energy efficiency education and environmental quality for both residential and commercial consumers alike.

View an interactive map of Charlotte’s energy initiatives

A Land of Electric Cars

With 26 electric car charging stations in seven convenient locations, Charlotte provides the most advanced incentive for going electric when it comes to your vehicle. The use of electric vehicles has often been encumbered by a lack of easy-to-get-to charging stations. This deterrent has now been overcome with plans to erect even more stations in the near future. Major businesses such as Duke Energy and Wells Fargo have also agreed to partner with the project and offer public charging stations at their locations.

Public Building Energy Efficiency

From computer energy conservation to retrofitting apartment complexes, Charlotte offers some of the best public energy initiatives in the nation. The Old City Hall building, along with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities office, will gain major ground when it comes to conserving energy. It is anticipated that the aggressive measures will lead to an 80 percent annual reduction in energy consumption overall.

Green Neighborhoods and Homes

Select neighborhoods like Avenue Condos, Spring Park and Wilmore, are only a few communities that have been awarded grants to enable energy conservation endeavors. Action plan items include home audits, public transit incentives, solar lighting replacements and conservation workshops. Check out True Homes’ Green Homes in Charlotte

The Big Solar Power Kahuna

Of all the energy conservation steps being taken, none grab more attention than the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center (CMGC) parking deck solar installation. With 40 solar panels, the project will be used to monitor energy production and savings, as well as host the energy efficient lighting upgrades and six of the electric car charging stations. And that is just the beginning.

Green Jobs and Careers

According to the 2011 Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Industries Census, Charlotte is quickly topping the charts in the number of North Carolina clean-energy businesses. Renewable energy jobs were up 18% in 2011, right in line with annual projections. Even in spite of a weakened economy and housing construction declines, energy efficiency careers continue to grow at strong rates. Now, with signs of an uptick in the Charlotte real estate market, housing construction will again increase, leading to even more green buildings, and green jobs.

For more information on True Homes’ Green Home Initiatives, visit us online at www.truehomesusa.com or contact us at 704-271-1191.

True Homes is Charlotte’s largest new home builder with over 60 locations throughout the city.