Quality builders inside the loop (Rice: townhomes, construction, living)

[houstonfan]

I can't help but notice that the quality of most affordable recent-construction townhomes/houses (ie, under 400k) inside the loop look shoddy. Especially Military Rice, Montrose, even UK and Heights. Aside from the lack of any curb appeal (no yard, 3 story, box), I find most are in cheap stucco/cementboard, walls look thin and weak, interior finish iffy at best if you look closely at craftsmanship. I'm no expert, but...

I am assuming this is b/c land is so expensive inside the loop so at that price point (<400k), they can't build anything decent? Why are all builders going with really cheap stucco when they can build a smaller stone or brick building?

Since I'm not expert, can someone who is tell me who are the best builders in this price range? HNN, InTown, Urban Living, etc...
I know most company contract out tasks so it can be a crapshoot, but 'in general', are there some that are better than others?

And while I'm on my rant, what's up with these imitation craftsmen bungalows? - Not feeling it. Lol.