Building the Perfect Home for One-Level Living
Why buy new? With a new home, you pick the floor plan and finishes that fit your lifestyle. You choose the community and neighborhood that speak to you. And you can even select just the right energy-saving features that balance your personal philosophy with your budget. We asked this family to share what drove them to new construction.
Family: Tom and Julie Bess Gavaras (+ Bear Cat!)
Location: Medina
Builder: David Weekley Homes
Why did you decide to build new?
For more than three years, we looked for a home that would accommodate us in our retirement years. We toured more than 50 existing homes, but each needed significant work and/or changes to meet our future needs. Next, Julie searched for a builder and home plan for a one-level home in our price range. As we identified important changes to the original layout, our builder helped us to efficiently incorporate them. While pulling our home together, we came to the happy realization that we no longer would deal with replacing windows, siding, roof, furnace/air conditioner, driveway, etc.
How did energy efficiency influence your decision to buy new?
Energy efficiency is a big plus of quality new construction. Unlike our previous 1947 home, our new home has a 51 HERS Index as reflected on our MN Green Path Home Performance Report certificate. We are looking forward to lower energy bills.
What are features of your new home you're most excited for?
We built a home that is perfectly suited to us, now and in the future. We have tall ceilings, a large living area with a gourmet kitchen, main floor laundry, big windows, and light wooden floors accented by a dark fireplace and island. Our backyard has trees within feet of our deck and a garden built into the landscape. We even have a Bear Cat room with his own little door (this space is intended to be used as an elevator shaft). Every day we love our home more.
What did you enjoy most about the build process?
When we decided on new construction, we were fortunate to work with an intuitive builder who clarified our preferences and really guided us through all of the decisions. Our builder also kept us updated all along the way, from breaking ground to closing on Julie’s birthday. We are thrilled to live in a brand-new home of our dreams.