In today's fast-paced real estate market, new build homes are popping up across Austin at an astonishing rate. The allure of brand-new construction is undeniable—modern designs, energy-efficient features, and my personal favorite, the promise of a fresh start in a pristine space (the germaphobe in me loves a new space)! However, as an experienced Realtor and someone who deeply values the integrity of our community, I have to be candid about a pressing issue: not all new builds are created equal. I've seen it firsthand—homes that look stunning on the outside but have significant underlying problems. From shoddy workmanship to subpar materials, these homes can present a host of issues that aren't immediately apparent during a standard walkthrough.
To get a better sense of the challenges, I reached out to a few of my trusted vendors to gather their insights on the common issues they often encounter with poorly constructed new build communities.
Common Issues with Poorly Made New Builds
Foundation Problems: Austin's soil is notorious for its expansive properties, which can lead to foundation issues if not properly managed. Many new builds suffer from cracks and shifting foundations due to inadequate preparation and construction techniques. Jon Hallmark with Hallmark Inspections shared, “The biggest issue that I see is on sloped lots. These are called cut and fill lots, and often the 'fill' side of the lot doesn’t get properly compacted. As a result, that side of the house settles while the other side stays in place. There was an area in East Austin where every house along the street was settling on the front side (fill side). It was so bad that the driveway was 8 inches taller than the garage floor! This also had major ramifications for the sewer lines under the houses.”
Water Intrusion: Proper waterproofing and drainage are essential, yet I've encountered numerous new builds with water damage caused by poor design and installation. This could be from not sealing the doors or windows properly, allowing rain to easily enter the home. One common problem is leaky roofs due to poorly installed shingles or flashing, leading to interior water damage. Jon Hallmark also noted, “I would say water intrusion around stucco installation is the biggest one I have seen lately. Stucco is tricky since it doesn’t rot, but the wall behind it can. This can mean damage isn't visible for numerous years when the house is out of warranty.”
HVAC and Insulation Deficiencies: Energy efficiency is a key selling point, but I've seen new homes with improperly installed HVAC systems and insufficient insulation, leading to higher utility bills and uncomfortable living conditions. There’s even a video circulating online where an inspector confirmed that the attic had the correct height of insulation (Southern homes should be insulated with 13 to 16 inches). The builder put the correct amount of insulation at the point of entry in the attic, but not throughout the entire home, hoping the inspector wouldn’t notice! 👎 Another common issue is direct venting furnaces that are not set up correctly, which can damage the unit or, worse, release CO gas into the home.
Cosmetic Cover-Ups: Some builders focus on visual appeal to quickly sell properties, often covering up deeper issues with cosmetic fixes that won’t stand the test of time. Examples include painting over water stains without addressing the underlying leak, using caulk to hide gaps caused by poor workmanship, and installing cheap fixtures like plastic faucets in kitchens and bathrooms that look good initially but begin to leak, break, or show significant wear within a few months of use. We often see tile jobs that are not properly sealed, leading to leaks, or shower floors and niches that never drain because they are incorrectly installed.
Substandard Materials: To cut costs and speed up construction, some builders use low-quality materials that deteriorate quickly, resulting in costly repairs for the homeowner. Common examples include cheap flooring that wears out rapidly, thin drywall that is easily damaged, and inferior roofing materials that require early replacement. Lyndee McKinley with Allies Roofing and Construction said, “We see issues with three-tab shingles (common among new builds) which tend to easily damage from hail and can lift in high winds when not installed properly. If you’re looking for something more long-lasting, an impact-resistant shingle or a metal roof will hold up much better in Texas storm season.”
My Commitment to You
As your Realtor, my goal is to ensure that you make a sound investment in a home that will serve you well for years to come. I believe in transparency, integrity, and your long-term satisfaction. Here’s what I do to protect you:
Thorough Inspections: I work with trusted inspectors who can provide detailed evaluations of new build properties at various stages of the building process. Inspections throughout the process help to look beyond the surface and identify potential issues.
Reputable Builders: Some issues cannot be caught during inspections; it may take time living in and using your space to bring these problems to light. This is why I recommend builders with a proven track record of quality construction and customer satisfaction.
Advocacy and Negotiation: If you decide to pursue a new build, I’ll advocate for you throughout the process, ensuring that any issues are addressed before you close the deal. Unfortunately, the builder does not have your best interests in mind, which is why having proper representation is so important.
Investing Wisely
Austin’s real estate market offers incredible opportunities, but it’s essential to navigate it with care. Investing in a poorly made new build can lead to significant financial and emotional stress. But there are many wonderful options available. My commitment is to guide you toward homes that are not only beautiful but built to last, so you can enjoy the vibrant lifestyle Austin has to offer without worrying about hidden problems.
Let’s find you a home that truly reflects the best of what Austin has to offer. Reach out to me, and together, we’ll navigate this exciting journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Stay cool,
—America