New Construction Consulting

08 · 09

The Amenity Arms Race

The AMENITY ARMS RACE

Buyer’s and Real Estate Professionals alike should understand that there is a huge difference between a home built in 2010 and one built as little as a few years ago. As a new construction specialist, I often hear comments comparing new homes against distressed property opportunities (i.e. short sales, foreclosures and REO/BANK owned properties). There is no debating that there is a substantial difference in price between the two, but it should also be understood that what we are really talking about is like comparing apples to oranges.

For example, buyer’s and agents should understand that market trends over the last five years have dramatically increased competition amongst the builders. The end result is what I call an “Amenity Arms Race”…..meaning that the builder who have survived the market correction over the last four years have done so because they have put more and more into their homes in a market with price instability. Some examples would be:

A price per square foot analysis of a property without consideration for amenities, location & community continuity is really of no value! Buying a home is an emotional decision and not as simple as buying a highly duplicated commodity (i.e. computer, car, ect) WHAT IS A GREAT DEAL? The answer for every buyer is different……but all buyer’s & their agents should understand that it is not simply about price!

Joe Grubiak

Managing Partner

43 Degrees North Real Estate

Boise Builders New Construction

08 · 09

Benefits of Pressurized Irrigation

When touring different communities, one item or amenity as it should be referenced, that is often brought up in a sales pitch is pressurized irrigation. This is often overlooked by potential buyers or clumped into many other amenities and not given much thought, attention or value.

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Pressurized irrigation is water that is brought from the local canals and pumped through the sprinkler system in select communities. For example, Rod Blackstead of Blackstead Building Company, the developer and a member of the builder team for Cedar Edge community in southwest Boise decided that this was an important benefit that he wanted to include in his community for homeowners. Communities with pressurized irrigation access tend to have well maintained and lush landscaping. The homeowners do not ‘feel the pinch’ of the summer water bill while rates skyrocket during the hottest time of the year when our landscaping needs it most. If you have owned a home in a location where there is no pressurized irrigation and hot summers, then you know the pain of opening a water bill in late July. It hurts. Even if you plan for it, at that moment, your mind bounces back to the sales pitch of a local realtor boasting about pressurized irrigation and its many benefits.

This summer has proven to be hot one, so while you are making sure to keep your lawn and plants hydrated, don’t forget to keep yourself and pets hydrated as well. Enjoy the sunshine and hot days… come February we will be dreaming of this heat once again.

by Emily J. Smith

08 · 09

Artistry vs. Commodity

Artistry VS. Commodity

You’ve heard the term “Hot Commodity”? A good or product where there is demand, but consistently supplied without qualitative differentiation across a market.

Do you ever get this feeling when comparing production builder to production builder in the Treasure Valley? Homes that are fungible, ie. equivalent no matter who produces them. What this equates to is a lack of uniqueness and a much tougher sell down the road. Don’t make the mistake of buying a commodity based on a certain sales price. Always give thought to who’s going to buy your home when it’s time to move on. If your home is one of ten other commodities being sold at the same time, what are the odds of your home being chosen over the other ten?

Remember, future buyers could have a tough time differentiating your “Hot Commodity” from the rest of the re-sale pack.

What I find refreshing working with builders like Rod Blackstead, Zach Evans, James Clyde and Scott Tutt is the artistry and uniqueness of every design they deliver. They are not mass producing their homes, but rather giving every buyer sophisticated architectural designs enriched with distinct interior color palettes, high end amenities, creative blueprints and the comfort and savings of an energy efficient home. Not only are they delivering a noticeable work of art, but a much easier resale exit strategy for their owners.

By Rob Pearce

Boise Builder New Construction

07 · 30

Hazelwood Village Community

Just some random photos of Hazelwood Village community.

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Boise Hazelwood Village Real Estate

07 · 11

Spurwing Greens Media Release

If you missed the Spurwing Greens Media Event, 43º North New Construction Division is representing 2 out of the 3 builders on the New Building Team that will be building in Spurwing Greens community. Blackstead Building Co. and James Clyde Custom homes. Check out the video for yourself.

(Video provided by Blackstead Building Co)

Full Version: (13 mins)

Shortened Version: (7 Mins)

43re Construction Meridian New Homes Spurwing Greens

07 · 09

The Gabrielle by James Clyde Custom Homes

Stunning creativity & planning are reflected throughout this captivating 2010 Parade Home by James Clyde Custom Homes. Sophisticated architectural detailing, rich interior finishes, and dramatic elevated ceiling create a private oasis for the most discerning of tastes. Graciously sized master suite and bath offers a romantic setting with spa like features. Lavish dream kitchen with extravagant island, chic appliances and creative custom cabinetry opens to a warm and inviting social gathering room. Well appointed formal dining room with Butler’s Pantry opens its doors to exterior courtyard living designed for your privacy and serenity. Desirable 4 car garage creates unlimited options for the car and toy enthusiasts. The Gabrielle by James Clyde Custom Homes - an unmatched lifestyle at $274,777