Stanton Homes - Building Green in the Triangle: December 2009

There is more interest in building green than in any other single type of home, with good reason.

A green home will help homeowners:

• Reduce Greenhouse Gas
• Save Money Every Month
• Lower Maintenance
• Increase Comfort
• Have Healthier Indoor Air
• Invest in the Future

Read through the slide show, and see what kind of impact building green can have.

New Homes Raleigh NC

Kitchen Island Styles

New Home Trends and Ideas for the Kitchen

A kitchen island can be an integral part of your new home kitchen design.  When designed correctly, a kitchen island can work well in an extra large or extra small kitchen.

Islands can be accessed from all sides, which makes them ideal for both workspaces and storage.

A kitchen island can feature display shelves, drawers, and cabinetry. 

Kitchen islands can be a beautiful feature in luxury homes or affordable custom homes. 

The style, size, and design depend on both taste and budget. 

Looking to keep your kitchen costs down?  Consider an island with one bank of full cabinets, with a great seating area.

Add some pendant lighting to emphasize this focal point of the kitchen.

In some kitchens, the island can provide the majority of the counter space.

Guests and family can be seated around the kitchen island while meals are prepared.

Homework routines can even revolve around the kitchen island - it's easy to answer those math questions while chopping vegetables!

Thinking of moving the kitchen sink to your kitchen island? 

Here's some thoughts to consider:

- Is there enough room for the dishwasher next to the sink (both depth and width)?

- Can the dishwasher open comfortably, with room to walk around?

- Is there room to include a pull out garbage bin/recycle center?

- Can the silverware be stored near the dishwasher?

- Is it possible to use dual height counters to better hide those dirty dishes?

Want to use the kitchen island mainly for food prep?

Keep these thoughts in mind:

- Are there outlets for small appliances?

- Is the refrigerator and cooktop conveniently close?

- Do you want a prep sink?

- Should you consider a butcher block counter?

Looking to cook at the kitchen island?

You'll want to talk to your builder about:

- Countertop materials: should it be heat resistant for ease of cooking with hot pans?

- Is there at least 18 inches of counterspace on either side of the range or cooktop?

- Can an overdraft hood be added, or is a downdraft cooktop required?  What is the additional cost versus a typical range or cooktop?

- Should a raised eating area be included?

Will you dine frequently at the kitchen island?

Discuss your options for informal dining at the kitchen island.

- How many can you seat comfortably at the island?

- Should stools be tucked away when not in use?

- How much will seating limit your storage options?

- What height should the island be?  Do you want two heights?

Your new kitchen island design should reflect your taste, be fully functional, and be ready for multiple uses and plenty of storage.

Talk to your builder about your ideas for your kitchen island design.  Bring pictures of what you have in mind.  Your builder will help you decide what's right for you, based on budget, size of kitchen, traffic flow, and much more!

More new home design ideas:

Top Trends in New Homes | Smaller, Cozier, and More Cost Effective!

Top 10 Master Bathroom Trends - Ideas You're Going to Love!

Top 9 New Home Features in '09 - What To Look For! Raleigh NC Home Builders Top Tips

"Green" Countertop Options | Green Kitchen Countertops in Your New Home

Raleigh Relocation Information

Surprising Facts About Gas Powered Lawn Mowers

Keep Your Lawn Green and Sustainable with Clean Air Lawn Care

Clean Air Lawn Care

Uses clean and quiet electric equipment powered by renewable energy

Did you know?

Electric mowers emit 3300 times less hydrocarbons than gas mowers.

Electric lawn mowers emit 5,000 times less carbon monoxide than gas lawn mowers.

Electric lawn mowers emit less than half the carbon dioxide of gas lawn mowers.

Clean Air Lawn Care offers a green approach to lawn care: 

•-          Charges its equipment using solar and wind energy.

•-          Runs larger mowers on locally produced biofuels

•-          Purchases wind power and carbon offsets from Carbonfund.org to ensure the entire operation is carbon neutral.

•-          Composts all grass clippings.

•-          Mows at a height that maximizes water conservation and nutrient uptake.

•-          Offers an organic fertilization program.

According to the EPA, in one hour, one gas lawn mower 

•-          Pollutes the same as 40 late model cars

•-          Emits the amount of hydrocarbons of an SUV driven for 23,600 miles

•-          Contributes 93 times more smog-forming emissions than 2006 cars

Gas lawn mowers consume 580 million gallons of gasoline annually

A 1000 sq ft lawn generates 300 pounds of clippings annually - let's keep those clippings out of the landfills.

I got to visit with Michael Andre, the owner of the Chapel Hill Clean Air Lawn Care, during a Chapel Hill Career Fair.  We had fun presenting different green career options to Chapel Hill middle school students, and I got to learn about some other great companies as well! 

Want to learn more?  Give Michael a call at 919-720-6396.

Meet the Builder: Learn About Building Your Home

Saturday January 2, 12-4pm

"Meet the Builder" drop-in events are an informal opportunity for homebuyers to bring questions to an experienced new home builder, even before you decide what or where you want to build.

What To Look For In Your New Home

Stanton Homes offers one-on-one advice on what to look for when buying a lot, choosing a floor plan, or evaluating options, including topics such as:

- Building a Custom Home - why it's more affordable (and easier) than you think.

- Green Building - what does it actually do, and what does that cost?

- EnergyWise Guaranteed Energy Savings - how it can reduce heating and cooling energy costs by 50-70%.

- Wheelchair accessible homes, mother in law suites, Aging in Place, and other special modifications: what it takes.

Looking for a full, free building cost estimate?

Bring a copy of your floor plan, or contact us ahead of time at http://www.stantonhomes.com/ContactUs.aspx or 919-278-8070.

Send a link to the online catalog which contains the floor plan you're considering, or choose a floor plan from our Library of Favorites.

Need help finding a plan? 

Let us know what you're looking for, and we'll send you some plans to consider that meet your exact specifications. 

We work from thousands of different floor plans.

Stanton Homes takes pride in our commitment to building top quality homes with the kind of custom amenities you'd expect to pay a whole lot more for. With decades of combined homebuilder experience and attention to the latest homebuilding trends and options, we construct our homes with emphasis on comfort, value, and excellence. Stanton Homes features Energy Wise guaranteed energy savings and extensive Green Building options, and offers discounts through one of the nation's largest military/veteran programs, Stanton Homes for Heroes.

Directions to Horizon - 8 Minutes from Chapel Hill

This Open House will be at Horizon, a new custom homes on acreage neighborhood just south of Chapel Hill. 

Horizon is just 8 minutes from Chapel Hill.  From Chapel Hill, take 15/501 south.  Turn right on Hamlet Chapel Road, just past Fearrington.  Horizon is one mile ahead on the right. 

Find out more about the Horizon neighborhood at http://www.horizonneighborhood.com/. Horizon offers new custom homes starting in the $330s, on beautiful rolling wooded acreage.  New homes are available throughout the Triangle from the upper $100s to the $500s.

Stanton Homes builds throughout the Triangle. Locations available in Angier, Apex, Benson, Bunn, Carrboro, Cedar Grove, Chapel Hill, Clayton, Coats, Creedmoor, Dunn, Durham, Fuquay Varina, Garner, Graham, Haw River, Hillsborough, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Lillington, Mebane, Moncure, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rougemont, Siler City, Wake Forest, Willow Spring, Willow Springs, Youngsville, Zebulon, Alamance County, Harnett County, Johnston County, Lee County, and more.

First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit and Repeat Homebuyers Tax Credit

Tax Credit Myths and Truths

If you're looking to build a new home and take advantage of the extended tax credit, there might be less time than you think to make your decision.

The contract has to be signed by April 30. The home has to be completed and closed by July 1. That two month difference does not allow time for the process (finance, permits, construction) which can take up to six months.

Here are the facts you need to know, so you don't miss out on $8,000 for first time buyers; $6,500 for repeat homebuyers.

Tax Credit Truths and Myths

Myth:  The tax credit is good until July 1st. Therefore, I can make a purchase up until that date.

Truth: Your home purchase can be CLOSED by July 1, but the actual CONTRACT MUST BE SIGNED BY APRIL 30^th.  The days in between are allocated for financing to be finalized and the transaction to be completed.

Myth: As long as I sign a contract by April 30th, I'll get the $8,000 first time homebuyers or $6,500 repeat homebuyers tax credit, even if my home isn't built yet.

Truth: The home has to be built by July 1, or you will not qualify. A home can be completed in 90 days or less with some builders, weather permitting.  Factor in financing (see next myth), and permitting (see subsequent myth) and you'll want to make decisions by January 2010, to qualify. A new home contract signed on April 30^th will result in a home being completed in September or October, three or four months beyond the tax credit deadline.

Myth: I can get financing for a new home within a couple of weeks.

Fact: Applications are taking from 30-60 days, or longer, in today's banking environment.

Myth: Permits are ready to go as soon as I choose a floor plan.

Truth: The permit process before things can get started usually takes three weeks - and can take longer for a home with special features such as handicap access or other homes built within special federal specifications.  

Myth: I'm not a first time homebuyer, so I don't qualify for the credit.

Truth: If you've been renting for three years, you'll still qualify for the first time homebuyers tax credit.  As long as you haven't owned a home for the past three years, according to the law you're still a "first time homebuyer". 

Myth: I sold my home a year ago, so I don't qualify for the credit.

Truth: As long as you owned your previous home for five consecutive years out of the previous eight, you'll still qualify for the "repeat homebuyer" tax credit of $6500.

Myth: The new house must cost more than the old house.

Truth: Repeat homebuyers meeting eligibility requirements receive a tax credit of $6500, as long as the new home does not cost more than $800,000.

Myth: No home can be purchased for more than $800,000.

Truth: The $800,000 limit applies to repeat homebuyers. There is no limit to the price point for first time buyers.

Myth: Income does not matter.

Truth: For first-time buyers, the income limit eligibility is $75,000 for singles, $150,000 combined income for married.  For repeat homebuyers, income limits are $125,000 for singles, $225,000 combined for married.

*Check with a tax professional.  Stanton Homes does not offer tax advice, and recommends working with a tax professional for information on your specific situation.

For most of our homebuyers, it's energy efficiency, hands down.  Take the poll and let us know what you're looking for!

Specially Adapted Housing Grants - Top 10 Questions

How to Get Started in the Raleigh Area - Assistance for Veterans

Veterans and servicemembers who have suffered a service-connected disability have access to a government grant to help purchase, retrofit, or build a home that can accomodate their needs. 

The Specially Adapted Housing Grant offers a maximum amount of $60,000, and can be used up to three separate times. 

Here's some of the quick facts, and how to apply for the Specially Adapted Housing Grant in the Raleigh area. 

Which veterans or servicemembers may be eligible for the grant?

The Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant is available to servicemembers or veterans who have a service-connected permanent and total disability, which can include:

A.   The loss, or loss of use, of both lower extremities such as to preclude locomotion without the aid of braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair.

B.   Blindness in both eyes having only light perception, plus loss or loss of use of one lower extremity.

C.   The loss, or loss of use, of one lower extremity together with

•(1)  residuals of organic disease or injury, or

•(2)  the loss or loss of use of one upper extremity.

Item (1) and Item (2) above must so affect the functions of balance or propulsion as to preclude locomotion without the aid of braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair.

D.   The loss, or loss of use, of both upper extremities, so as to preclude use of the arms at or above the elbows.

How can a veteran or servicemember find out if they are eligible for the grant, and who determines basic eligibility?

The current or most recent VA Rating Decision issued by the Veterans Service Center of jurisdiction establishes the veteran's or servicemember's basic eligibility for a Specially Adapted Housing Grant.  The VA Rating Decision is subject to review and revision.

What other requirements must be filled for a veteran or servicemember to be able to recieve this grant?

 a. It must be medically feasible for the veteran or servicemember to reside in the house.

 b. The house must be adapted to be suitable to the veteran's or servicemember's needs for living purposes.

 c. It must be financially feasible for the veteran or servicemember to acquire the house, with the assistance provided by the grant.

How soon after the injury or incident must the veteran or servicemember apply for a Specially Adapted Housing Grant?  Is there a deadline? 

There is no time limit on the use of the grant.  We have worked with servicemembers who have just been wounded in Iraq, as well as veterans who now have disabilities as a result of actions in the Korean War. 

The grant is "up to" $60,000.  How does that work?  How much specially adapted housing assistance can a veteran or servicemember receive?

An eligible veteran or servicemember may receive a VA grant of not more than 50 percent of the cost of a specially adapted house, up to the aggregate maximum amount allowable by law.  Thus an $100,000 home will only be eligible for a $50,000 grant. 

How many times may a veteran or servicemember receive specially adapted housing assistance?

Public Law 109-233 authorizes up to three usages of grant benefits.  If future changes to the governing law provide for an increase in the maximum grant amount, veterans or servicemembers who have not used the assistance available to them up to the allowable three times may be entitled to the increase in the maximum grant amount at that time.

Are there restrictions?  How may the grant be used?

An eligible veteran or servicemember has the option to use up to the full amount of the grant under any one of the following plans:

Plan (1).  The veteran or servicemember may elect to construct a home on land to be acquired for that purpose.

Plan (2).  The veteran or servicemember may build a home on land already owned if it is suitable for specially adapted housing.

Plan (3).  The veteran or servicemember may remodel an existing home if it can be made suitable for specially adapted housing.

Plan (4).  When the veteran or servicemember has already acquired a specially adapted home (without the assistance of a VA grant), the grant may be applied against the unpaid principal mortgage balance of the home.

 What adaptations are considered necessary for specially adapted housing?

 There are many requirements for a home to be considered qualified for specially adapted housing.  Some may be waived, others may not.  Each situation is to be approved by the Specially Adapted Housing representative through the VA office. 

How To Apply For Benefits

Where does a veteran or servicemember go to find out if he/she is eligible for a Specially Adapted Housing Grant?

Any VA office, but preferably the VA office where the veteran's or servicemember's claim records are located.  A determination will be made as to basic eligibility and whether it is medically feasible for the veteran or servicemember to reside in a specially adapted home.

For the Raleigh Durham area, these are the local Specially Adapted Housing Agents. 

Winston-Salem (Atlanta Regional Loan Center)
Lester Carter
VA Regional Office (262)
Federal Building
251 North Main Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27155
(336) 714-0763
Fax: (336) 631-5272

Gary McDowell
(336) 714-0762
Fax: (336) 631-5272

Rick Siavrakas
(336) 714-0890
Fax: (336) 631-5272

Or find more representatives here.

The process won't be quick, and will require good documentation.  It may take 30 days or longer to have the initial application approved.  Once the grant itself is approved, you and your builder or contractor will need to submit floor plans, drawings, schematics, location of the home, and other paperwork describing the home to be built or changes to be made.  After these are submitted to the VA, it generally takes another 60 days for approval, before construction can begin. 

Where Can I Find Out More?

Find out more about the Specially Adapted Housing program, download online application forms, and more.  Click here.  Stanton Homes has experience with the grant process, floor plan redesign to meet VA requirements, and the inspection process throughout construction of a new Specially Adapted Housing home.  Contact us or call 919-278-8070 for more information about Specially Adapted homes in the Raleigh area. 

Find Out More About Accessible Homes in the Raleigh, NC Area

Stanton Homes for Heroes Military Program 

New Home Ideas

Tile Tub Surround Options and Ideas

Designing Your Tile Master Bath with Style

A full tile master bath is standard in nearly every home we build.  There are endless ideas for tile tub surrounds.  These are some of our favorite trends!

When selecting your new home, first find out exactly what your builder means by a tile surround.

A full tile surround should cover the tub base deck, extend downwards to the floor, and extend up the walls by a foot or so.

Some builders refer to a "tile surround" but only include a small tile border around the upper part of a full fiberglass tub.

This basic full tile surround is simple yet elegant, and set apart by the "bullnose" pieces, the narrow pieces with rounded edges surrounding the tub deck.

This tile tub surround is a bit more extravagent, but still not out of reach.

The 8"x12" tile is set on end, and a natural stone listello (or border accent) surrounds the base of the tub.

For any corner tub, a contrasting detail on the front of the tub deck is a great eye catcher - and with only about nine linear feet required, the accent won't be a deal breaker.

A stepped tub deck can be another great tile master bath feature.

Just let your builder know upfront what you have in mind - changes will be made at framing stage.   The tub deck will be decreased in size, the step framed in, and the plumbing relocated just a bit versus a standard master bath layout.

Even a monochromatic tile can be simple and eye catching with a stepped tub deck. 

Large or small medallions are great accents for both tub decks and floors in the master bath.

The most cost effective medallions are actually smaller tiles.  They can be 2x2 or 3x3 squares of small mosaics.

A contrasting color works well for master bath tile medallion accents.

There are a couple of great master bath tile ideas here!

The standard 12"x12" tiles are accented by a border of 4"x4" tiles in four different tones of the same color family.

The entire tub surround is wrapped with a dark "chair rail", the raised, rounded piece that's about 1 inch high and 12 inches long. 

This master bath tub deck is one of the more complex patterns we've done, with some beautiful results. 

The listello border is featured on both the tub base and the upper surround. 

In addition, a dark 4"x4" tile set on the diagonal wraps around the base of the tub deck. 

A warm family of neutrals gives this master bath tile tub surround a truly unique look.

There's a combination of small and large tiles, two different listello details, and tiles set on both the horizontal and the diagonal.

The floor is another great feature, set in a pinwheel pattern.

A half wall can be another great accent around a master bath soaking tub with a full tile surround, particularly a corner tub. 

Crown moulding and other details make all the difference.

These are just a few of the different ideas you can include in your new master bath.

We recommend working with an experienced tile designer to plan your new tile tub surround. 

Bring photos of some of your favorite ideas.  Your builder or tile designer will be able to let you know which patterns and pieces are most cost effective, and help you bring your ideas to life in your new master bath!

You may also be interested in these popular articles:

Today's Ceilings Make Statements - Types of Ceilings and Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Next Home

New Home Trends and Ideas - What's the Latest?

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

5 Steps to Buying a Lot

Copyright Stanton Homes 2009. Photos represent a variety of styles currently available, from several different builders.