What Truly Matters?

What if prospective buyers knew exactly what to look for and the right questions to ask before signing on the dotted line? Instead of focusing solely on paint touch-ups and minor visual imperfections, imagine if they understood these technical details that will affect the long-term comfort, health, and energy efficiency of their new home:

1. What Type of Insulation Will Be Used?

   Insulation comes in various forms, including batt insulation, blown-in fiberglass, and spray foam—each with its own set of pros and cons. What R-value will the insulation meet in the walls, floors, and ceilings of your homes? Are there factors that could prevent the insulation from meeting that R-value? To take this even further, teach them the difference between R-values and effective R-values.
   

2. What is Air Sealing, and Why Is It Critical?

   Air sealing plays a crucial role in the comfort and moisture control of homes. As insulation standards improve, preventing air leakage has become more important. Proper air sealing ensures that unwanted outside air doesn’t affect the indoor environment. Are there any visible gaps that could allow air to infiltrate? What common areas and issues can lead to air leakage? How about the "blower door test," an energy-efficiency test that measures the air leakage in a home? Have you conducted this test, and will you share the results with your prospective buyers?
   

3. What Type of Weather Barriers Will Be Used?

   How is water kept out of your homes? Tell your homebuyers that you have done what it takes to ensure that the right weather barrier is in place to protect your homes from water damage. What specific products are used and how are they installed? Were the manufacturer's installation guidelines followed?
   

4. Is Ventilation Being Installed?

   If so, what type? Fresh air ventilation, exhaust-only systems, or perhaps the ideal solution: a balanced intake and exhaust system. As homes become more energy-efficient and air-tight, proper ventilation is essential. With less fresh air entering homes today and many pollutants inside homes, it is important to understand the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). This can be especially beneficial for those with allergies or asthma. Communicate with homebuyers how you plan to manage ventilation in a way that balances energy efficiency with healthy air quality.

Go Beyond the Surface We should be encouraging homebuyers to research and ask questions that go beyond the aesthetic appeal of a new home. Not all builders are the same, and product quality can vary not only from builder to builder but also between communities. By helping homeowners be proactive and ask the right questions, they will make a more informed decision and choose a home that truly meets their needs.