March 25, 2025

What to Look For in a New Home Builder

While many aspiring home buyers are in “wait-and-see” mode as the new administration predicts an economic resurgence, lots of home buyers don’t want to miss out on sales events and incentive offerings from new home builders, like the three at Looking Glass in Parker.

We asked the folks at D.R. Horton and Dream Finders Homes, if THEY were house hunting in today’s market, what THEY would look for in a new home builder. After all, they deal with the ins and outs, and ups and downs, of new home construction every day! 

Builder As Buyer: What THEY’D Look For

Tracy Gonzalez, Marketing Manager for D.R. Horton, responded that the first thing she would do is research trustworthy builders who offer communities that fit her lifestyle, needs, and budget. “I’d also take a close look at their reputation for quality and customer satisfaction,” she said. 

“This is critical because buying a home is a huge investment, and I want to make sure I’m working with a builder who has a track record of delivering not just great homes, but also an outstanding home-buying experience.” 

Alesha Poston, Marketing Coordinator for Dream Finders Homes added, “I’d start by researching online to get a sense of available communities, floor plans, and pricing. Then, I’d visit a few model homes to get a feel for different builders’ styles and quality.”

Information, Communication and Quality

Tracy went on to say that the second thing she’d consider is an efficient and supportive sales process – a smooth, well-organized experience from start to finish.

“I should feel confident that I’m receiving the right information at the right time and that I’m supported throughout the process,” she said. “Whether it’s helping me choose the right home or providing clear timelines and communication, the builder’s team should make the journey as easy as possible.”

Alesha added, “I’d want to see positive reviews, testimonials, and examples of their past work.” Referrals, recommendations and positive customer evaluations are the kinds of things that give a new home buyer confidence that a builder will deliver the quality and attention to detail that he/she/they want, need and expect. 

Model Homes – Flow, Function and Upgrades

Often the first exposure a homebuyer has to a new home builder is the model home, viewing it either in person or scrolling through digital photos on the builder’s website, social media pages, or a community website like this one. Builders agree that when touring a model home, even their own, the homebuyer focus should be the overall craftsmanship, finishes and the flow and functionality of the space. Does the layout make sense for how you live? Are the rooms spacious and well-proportioned? 

Both builders encourage homebuyers to pay particular attention to the quality of materials used, from countertops and flooring to cabinetry and light fixtures. Take note of how carefully the finishes were installed. And find out what’s standard vs. what’s an upgraded feature – what’s included in the base price and what’s extra.

Warranties and Special Features

Each builder brings its own strengths to a possible transaction, but it’s important to understand what differentiates one builder from another. Tracy advises that a buyer ask the builder about unique offerings – whether it’s innovative building techniques, exclusive home features, or special community amenities. Alesha suggests asking a prospective builder for an estimated-build timeline and how the builder handles delays.

She noted too that “knowing how the builder’s warranty program works” is important, as well as “how they handle delays.”

New Home Builders in Looking Glass

D.R. Horton has been in the home-building business for over 40 years and is one of the largest homebuilders in America. Their long-standing commitment to quality and customer service adds to buyer confidence in its ability to build your dream home, whether you’re looking for a traditional design or something more contemporary.

Dream Finders builds new homes across 10 states in 22 different markets and is committed to delivering the highest standards with design features that exceed customer expectations. They are defining the future of new home construction with unique designs, superior quality materials and a strong focus on customer satisfaction.

With a rich history and legacy spanning 100 years, Taylor Morrison is rooted in strong values and has earned the coveted distinction of ‘America’s Most Trusted® Home Builder’ repeatedly for the past 10 years. Guided by a commitment to exceptional customer service, superior quality, and sustainability, they deliver homes that meet the varied needs of our diverse customer base.