Which subdivision to choose in Avon? (Plainfield, Linden: homes, neighborhood, purchase)

[donzelle1]

Good day all...husband and I have been searching and searching for a home in Avon for approx 5 months. We just moved here from TN in early July. We go back and forth about building new (we've built 2 homes prior)or purchasing something pre-existing. One NEW sub-d we have fallen in love with is The Settlement with Centex Homes. The prices are reasonable, the builder has some incredible option bonuses right now and the neighborhood itself is full of amenities; walking trails, pool, clubhouse, basketball courts (I have 2 school aged boys), tennis, volleyball, etc. Has anyone built in there or know anyone who has? I'm interested in some feedback (positive or negative) with regard to the builder ethics, people in the neighborhood and quality of the homes overall. Thanks much!

[Michelle Morris]

Hi Donzelle!! Welcome back to the boards!!

The Settlement is pretty nice, and BIG! It is kind of confusing, because they are in Plainfield but go to Avon schools, but they don't get a discount at the Plainfield Rec Center. I actually live in a Centex Home, the Fox and Jacobs series, just like they are building there. I really love my house. If you want to see some that are already built so you can see how they hold up, check out Linden Square just west of 10th and Raceway, they were built in 1999-2002, so you can see how the neighborhood has aged.

Now, I've given you my salon, I've given you my opinions... are you working with a Realtor??

[donzelle1]

Hey girl! You are funny! I had to re-register on the forum today because I couldn't remember my login and password...duh...and I started thinking that nobody would remember me....anyway, yes, we have a realtor but I'm thinking now that we are considering building new, it may not be necessary to consume anymore of her time. And yes, the Settlement is HUGE, more like a "small city" than a neighborhood. But I love the amenities and I think that's what is selling us.....

[Michelle Morris]

Your realtor would definitely want you to use her/him! Even in building new, your realtor can help you choose options, be there in case of any "miscommunication" and fight for your best interests if needed. I encourage you to talk to your realtor about it, let them be registered as your agent with Centex, and let them get paid. I would be sad if I had showed you homes and then all of a sudden you went to build without me and I didn't get anything. Using a realtor when you build will NOT add to your price, it is paid through the builder's advertising fund.

[MortonR]

As a *very* satisfied client of MikiJayne's, I would concur that even if you decide to build, use your realtor. We have built several homes in our lifetime and only once did not use a realtor - that was only because we were working as our own GC (general contractor) and were building from scratch.

Your realtor is there to protect your interests and guide you through the transaction. Just because you go with a builder doesn't mean they are looking out for your interests - they're not.

As MikiJayne will confirm, we read every last word on any sort of contractual or legal document. When building, we have not only gone over the specifications in detail, but had them reviewed by a trusted party who has construction background. The stories I could tell you would curl your hair - and most would deal with a major national builder who has a good reputation. That's not to say they are bad or sloppy, but they are only as good as their worst subcontractor.... if you don't do your due diligence during the planning and construction phase, there's not a lot of relief you can get when problems show up.

One other thing I would say about building - know the plans, the layout and specs, and visit the job site as often as you possibly can to inspect it. Ask a *lot* of questions, and be ready to challenge things you don't like or don't agree with. After all, it's your house, and your money.

It amazes me that people will spend more time and effort to research a new car purchase than they will a home....

RM

[Michelle Morris]

Thank you, R!!!

[donzelle1]

Absolutely great info everyone! Thank you!