Quality Classic Homes - Poconos (Scranton, Monroe: for sale, rent, new home)

[Amisi]

Can anyone tell me about this company and the homes they build? I think it's called Quality Classic Homes or Classic Quality Homes.

They advertise a lot here in NY and we're thinking of relocating to PA

[Riverside4ever]

Why build when there are GREAT houses out there that can be had for a 1/3 of what a new home will cost , Plus .. all the company's sub out their work to the lowest bidder ... and there are a slew of shoddy installers up here ... Building a new home in this market is a dumb move ... within a year or two that house will be under water ,, ( just like 80% of Monroe county ) There are $225K houses that are selling for $100 k now .. Why do you think that is ?

[fisheye]

They built three homes within a quarter mile of my house this last summer. They looked very proficient – all three homes went up quick. They were occupied from the time they were finished. And, yes, I think all of the new owners were from NYC (I know at least two of them were)?

I have a friend that supplies the company with sheetrock. He told me that they do quality work. Of course; he has a vested interest in the company's survival.

For a big ticket item, like a house; do your homework. Try to get as much financial information about the potential builder as possible. We have had builders that declared bankruptcy or had financial problems. No homeowner wants to be stuck with a partially finished house. You also might want to see if the company would allow you to talk to some of their customers? Possibly the new home owners could give you some useful information?

[jimazee]

I don't know the builders. I do agree that in this housing market, a thorough look at houses that are for sale is a good idea. There should be some very good buys. Building new can be 'fun' for some folks and very trying for others, especially when done 'from a distance'.

If it is a 'custom' house, it usually costs more and takes more time than expected. (Not that there is anything wrong with that of course...as long as you are prepared for it). For custom construction, some people prefer using a smaller company/general contractor who does a couple houses a year.

You are doing the right thing by seeking 'references' outside those provided by the builder only.

[johnp292]

You're not going to try to live in the Poconos and work in NYC, are you? Please don't fall for that pipe dream, the reality of that commute is a nightmare no matter what the builders and realtors may tell you.

[Amisi]

No. If I was going to live in the Pocono area, I would work there. A long commute is something I seriously dislike!

Thanks for all the answers and advice. Not sure yet what we're doing but we want to get out of NY!!!

[johnp292]

Originally Posted by Amisi

No. If I was going to live in the Pocono area, I would work there. A long commute is something I seriously dislike!

Good for you. The job market in NEPA isn't great, but you probably know that already. When I lived up there I eventually found a job in Scranton to get out of the NJ commute. It was still almost an hour's drive, but it was heaven compared to driving on 80 east.

[poconoproud]

You could also call some of the community associations for recommendations for other builders to interview with, places like Arrowhead Lakes or Lake Naomi. They see different builders come into their communities and have heard from homeowner experiences which builders might be good or bad. It's a good idea to interview at least four builders to give yourself a good perspective of which way to go. Maybe rent a home in one, spend a weekend and get to know the area if you don't already. Then you can drive around and do some research. Good luck to you!