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  • Get Moving: Tips for Saving for a New Home

    Get Moving: Tips for Saving for a New Home

    Get Moving: Tips for Saving for a New HomeOwning a home is the ultimate dream for many people but saving enough can feel impossible. But don’t let that stop you! With some financial planning, saving enough for the down payment is more than possible. And chances are, you’re probably well on the way to reaching that goal. Here are some simple savings strategies to make saving for your down payment attainable.

    Set a savings goal

    Having an end goal in mind can help motivate you to keep working towards it. So when it comes to saving for your home purchase, set yourself up for success by setting a specific goal—for example, saving $20,000 for a down payment or having enough saved within two years for closing costs. Once you have established this goal, do everything possible to make sure it becomes reality.

    Establish a budget

    The next step towards saving money for your new home purchase is by establishing a budget. This will help you gain control of your finances, figure out what kind of house you can afford, and identify areas where you might be able to cut back in order to save more money. Start by listing all of your monthly income and expenses so that you know exactly how much money is coming in and going out each month. Once you have that information, create a budget that meets both your current needs and the goal of saving for a home purchase.

    Man using calculator and calculate bills in home office.

    Automate savings

    Once your budget is established and your goals are set, it’s time to start automating those savings so that they happen automatically each month without any extra effort on your part. Set up automatic transfers from checking into savings or invest in an IRA account so that part of every paycheck goes directly into savings without requiring any extra action on your part. This way you won’t be tempted to spend the money instead.

    Pay extra toward debt

    If you have any outstanding debts such as student loans or credit card debt, consider paying them off as quickly as possible so more of your income can go directly towards saving for a home purchase. Even if it’s just an extra $20 per month toward credit cards or student loans, these small payments add up over time and can result in significant savings once they are paid off completely.

    Get Moving: Tips for Saving for a New Home
    Two businesspeople discussing details of a contract. Concerned мan asking financial advisor about conditions of mortgage. Getting a new home loan concept.

    Shop for savings 

    Don’t forget about shopping around for the best rates when it comes time to buy a house too! Shopping around means comparing mortgages from different lenders so that you get the best rate possible on the loan with terms most favorable for your situation (e.g., interest rate, length of loan). Doing this could result in thousands of dollars saved over the life of the mortgage!

    Owning a home is an exciting journey but one that requires taking some important steps along the way – from establishing a budget and setting goals to automating savings and paying off debts – these are all key components in saving for your new home. With some smart financial planning and dedication toward reaching these goals, achieving this dream is well within reach.

    Buying a new home with S&A Homes

    S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Whether you choose to purchase a home in one of our new home communities or build on your lot, we have floorplans for every stage in life. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online.

  • First Time Buyer? Consider a New Construction Home

    First Time Buyer? Consider a New Construction Home

    image of rosewood exterior homePurchasing a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. It’s also likely to be one of your most expensive purchases, so it’s important that you do your research and consider all of your options. One of those options is whether to purchase a newly constructed home or a resale home.

    Here are some reasons why first-time homebuyers should strongly consider buying new construction when they are in the market for their first home.

    Low maintenance

    When you purchase a new construction home, you don’t have to worry about dealing with repairs right away. Many older homes require some sort of repair or update before they can be considered livable. This can be time-consuming and costly. With a new construction home, however, you get all the latest upgrades and technology fully functional and ready to move into right away! This means less immediate maintenance and more time to enjoy your new place sooner.

    Energy efficiency

    Many new construction homes come with energy-efficient appliances like smart thermostats that help reduce your monthly utility bills. Not only do these features help save money on bills, but they can also improve your quality of life by providing better air circulation, noise reduction, and other comfort benefits. Additionally, new construction homes are built with the latest in efficient technology, building materials, and standards so your home is more efficient from the ground up.

    Janice Glessner, the Online Sales and Marketing Manager at S&A Homes recommends homebuyers ask potential builders for “proof of the home’s energy-efficiency through a Home Energy Rating Score. “This can translate to hundreds of dollars, even thousands, saved every year depending on where and how you live.” (Realtor.com)

    Kitchen with quartz countertops, pendant lighting and center island

    Customization possibilities

    Buyers gain from being able to customize their home according to their personal taste with a range of color options and finishes available giving them the ability to create a unique look that fits their lifestyle perfectly! Whether it’s painting walls or changing fixtures or countertops, buyers have full control over how they want their space to look and feel when it’s complete – something that cannot be achieved with existing homes.

     

    Warranty coverage

    A major benefit of purchasing a newly constructed home is that it comes with a warranty coverage plan from the builder. This ensures any potential issues or defects within the home are taken care of quickly without making homeowners incur additional costs down the line. At S&A, we provide a 10-year warranty that’s fully transferable for our homebuyers’ convenience and peace of mind. Our dedicated Customer Care Department is on hand to simplify the claims process.

    New construction homes by S&A Homes

    Ultimately, the decision to buy a new construction home depends on your priorities and timeline. S&A Homes has a long history of building quality new construction homes throughout central and south-central Pennsylvania. Our new home communities are located in desirable neighborhoods.

    We offer several new construction options for first-time buyers. Buyers with a longer timeline can build a new home from the ground up with us. Our experienced team will walk you through every step of the building process. Choose from building in one of our many new home communities or on your own land.

    Want a new construction home without the wait of building from scratch? Check out our quick move-in homes as well as our Streamline Series of plans. Our Streamline collection of plans come with the same construction quality that S&A Homes is known for with a faster build time.

    We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home.  We invite you to learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit www.SAHomeBuilder.com to learn more about our new home communities, floorplans, and more.

  • Designing a Nursery You’ll Love

    Designing a Nursery You’ll Love

    As a new parent, designing a nursery can be an intimidating task. There are many things to consider and decisions to make like color schemes, furniture selection, and safety concerns. To help make the process easier, we’ve outlined some tips and tricks that you can use to create a nursery that is both inviting and practical for everyday use.

    Plan the layout and furniture

    The first step in designing any room is determining the size of the space you have to work with. Measure the square footage of the room and decide on the type of layout you would like to have in the nursery. The nursery should be sectioned into zones for sleeping, nursing, changing, and playing so you can easily take care of the baby. Find the best placement for the essential furniture like the crib, changing table, and rocking chair you’ll use for nursing based on the available space. Here are some layout options if you need some ideas.

    When it comes to planning what furniture to include in the nursery, size matters. Make sure whatever furniture you choose will fit in the room comfortably with enough room left over for your little one to explore. Don’t feel pressured to buy new or baby-specific furniture. You can get creative and use furniture your child can grow into so it doesn’t need to be replaced as they grow.

    Choose colors, fabrics, and accessoriesDesigning a Nursery You'll Love

    Now it’s time for the fun part: choosing colors, fabrics, and accessories! Try not to overload with too much color or too many patterns – this can make the space feel overwhelming. Go for a simple but stylish look to create an inviting atmosphere while still being practical. Bed linens are also important when creating a safe sleeping environment for your baby. Look for organic materials that are soft and cozy yet breathable such as cotton muslin or jersey knit sheets.

    Adding wall decorations helps bring life into the nursery while still keeping a calm atmosphere. Think about hanging artwork such as prints or framed photographs of family members that can become part of special memories later on in life with your little one. 

    Lighting options

    The nursery’s primary purpose is for sleeping. It’ll be important to control the light and noise in the space. Blackout shades will reduce light and make it easier for your little one to sleep during the day and thick pile rugs and drapes can dampen the noise from around the house.

    In addition, you’ll need adequate lighting in the room. Layer overhead lights with task lighting to provide bright illumination during diaper changes but also a cozy ambiance during nighttime feedings or lullabies.

    Pillows and toy in white wooden crib with pastel pink blanket in bright nursery

    Storage solutions

    Storage solutions are essential for any nursery design plan because they provide easy access to all of the baby’s essentials without taking up too much space. Look for storage options that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing; shelves with decorative baskets or drawers with colorful knobs can add character while still providing ample storage space for toys or clothing items.

    Safety considerations

    When designing your nursery, it is important to consider potential hazards such as electrical outlets or sharp edges on furniture pieces. Make sure that all electrical outlets are covered and all furniture pieces are securely attached to walls or floors (if necessary). Keep any small items away from curious little hands by using secure storage solutions or hiding them in cabinets or drawers with childproof locks.

    Designing a nursery doesn’t have to be stressful; by following our tips and tricks outlined above you should have no trouble creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of practical storage solutions thrown into the mix too.

    Whether you’re looking for more space to grow your family or need extra room for a new arrival, we hope you’ll consider us. S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Pennsylvania. We can also build your dream home on your own land! For more details, visit us at SAHomebuilder.com.

  • Energy Efficiency Tips for Your New S&A Home

    Energy Efficiency Tips for Your New S&A Home

    Energy Efficiency Tips for Your New S&A HomeMaking your new S&A home more energy efficient is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint, save money and ensure a comfortable living environment. Here are some tips on how you can make your home more energy efficient.

    Use Natural Light

    One of the most cost-effective ways to save electricity and reduce energy consumption in your home is to take advantage of natural light whenever possible. Open up blinds and curtains throughout the day and let the sun’s rays fill up your space so that you don’t have to turn on an extra lamp or two when trying to read.

    Change Lightbulbs

    Choosing energy-efficient lighting like LED or CFL bulbs over traditional incandescent ones can save hundreds of dollars annually on your electricity bill while remaining eco-friendly at the same time. LED and CFL bulbs last up to 25 times longer, use 75% less electricity than their counterparts, provide better quality lighting overall, and come in a variety of customizable colors depending on your specific needs and preferences.

    Insulate Windows & Doors

    Inadequate insulation around windows and doors can be a major source of air leaks in any home – letting warm air escape during winter months or cold air escape during summer months. Even with double-paned windows present, insulation around frames should still be sealed tightly for additional protection. Install weatherstripping around cracks within frames for maximum efficiency. 

    Upgrade Your Appliances

    Upgrading older models of appliances with newer, ENERGY STAR-certified ones can drastically reduce energy usage throughout the home while still providing optimal results – especially when it comes to laundry machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Not only do these appliances require less power than other models (which means lower bills), but they are also often quieter as well due to their increased efficiency ratings points overall. 

    Programmable Thermostat - Energy Efficiency Tips for Your New S&A HomeUtilize Smart Thermostats

    Smart thermostats allow you to regulate temperatures throughout the entire house without having to manually adjust settings each time you want to change them. This means that no matter which room you’re in, temperatures will always be ideal allowing you to have greater control over heating and cooling costs year-round. Additionally, many smart thermostats come with learning functionalities that allow the device itself to take note of temperature preferences over time.

    Unplug chargers and turn off electronics

    To reduce wasted energy, it’s important to unplug chargers and other electronics when they’re not being used. These secret energy vampires quietly drain energy when left plugged in when not in use. Energy.gov notes the average charger consumes 0.26 watts of energy when idle and 2.24 watts when connected to your device.

    Maintain your HVAC systems

    Tuning your HVAC system is a great way to keep your home energy efficient. By adjusting air filters, checking for air leaks, and inspecting the ducts regularly, you can make sure that your HVAC system is working properly and not wasting energy. With proper maintenance of your HVAC system, you can save money on energy bills while also keeping your home comfortable.

    Energy-Efficient New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

    S&A’s eHomes are designed to be eco-friendly, energy efficient, and healthier without sacrificing a home’s value. We pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve by including cutting edge energy efficient technology in every home we build. We focus on the whole house – not just components.

    You can rest assured knowing your S&A home has been built to the highest construction standards with quality energy efficient materials. To learn more about S&A Homes and our energy-efficient new homes, visit Life in a S&A Home.

  • Key Qualities to Look for in a New Home Builder

    Key Qualities to Look for in a New Home Builder

    Key Qualities to Look for in a New Home BuilderWhen it comes to building a new home in Central Pennsylvania, selecting the right homebuilder is one of the most important decisions you will make. It’s essential to carefully research and evaluate each builder you are considering to ensure you are making an informed decision. We uncover the key qualities you should look for when choosing a new home builder in central Pennsylvania.

    1.    A solid reputation

    A good reputation is one of the most important qualities of any homebuilder. You can start by doing some online research and check customer feedback and ratings to gauge reliability and trustworthiness. Most importantly, talk to other homeowners who have purchased homes from that builder as they have direct experience with the builder’s process and results. You may also want to ask your real estate agent for referrals or their experience with local builders.

    2.    Building experience

    Experience matters when it comes to building homes. You want to make sure you choose a home builder who is capable of completing the job in a timely and efficient manner. When interviewing builders, ask about their past projects, particularly those similar to your project to make sure they have an established track record for success.S&A Homes - New Home Builder in Central and South Central Pennsylvania

    3.    Uses quality materials

    It is important to make sure that your builder uses quality materials in their work. Ask about the grade of materials that will be used, whether there are any extra costs associated with upgrades, and whether you will pay more for better materials upfront or during construction. It may also be helpful to request samples so that you can inspect them up close. 

    4.    Attention To Detail

    Investigate how well builders pay attention to design elements such as trim and fixtures. Consider reviewing online portfolios or examples of previous projects for a better understanding of their capabilities in this area; this could help determine whether or not their style matches yours.

    5.    Flexibility and adaptability

    Life inevitably throws curve balls at us every once in a while. If your prospective builder cannot handle change then they may not be right for your project. It may be helpful to check if they have processes in place that allow them to easily adjust plans according to changing requirements or unexpected challenges such as bad weather conditions or supply delays. so your project runs smoothly throughout its duration.

    6.    Clear communication

    Last but certainly not least, communication is key! Discuss clear communication policies so expectations are established from both parties involved in the project; this will help avoid miscommunication down the line during the construction process itself or after it’s complete when dealing with ongoing maintenance or repairs issues that may arise over time. Establish response times for questions or concerns that arise during or after construction is complete. Ultimately you want a new home builder who will provide timely responses and feedback throughout your entire build.

    By keeping these essential qualities in mind, you can rest assured knowing you have selected an experienced and reliable home builder who can meet both your needs and budget – resulting in a dream house you’ll love.

    At S&A Homes, we believe building a home shouldn’t be a hassle. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the new home process with us.

    Finding the right new home builder to partner with on your new home is important. We hope you’ll consider building your new home with S&A Homes. To learn more about our amazing new home opportunities where we build in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania, including build on your lot, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit www.SAHomeBuilder.com.

  • Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Home Office

    Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Home Office

    Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Home OfficeWorking from home has become increasingly popular as many companies are now offering remote work arrangements. With this shift to working remotely, it’s important to set up a productive and comfortable workspace in your new construction home. Here are some tips to optimize your workspace for maximum productivity and efficiency.

    Choose the right space

    The first step is finding the right spot in your new home for your office. Ideally, you should try to separate work and living spaces as much as possible to keep work-related stress from spilling into other areas of your home life. It also allows for more mental clarity when switching between tasks.

    Converting an extra bedroom into an office is a common solution. Other remote workers set up a workspace in a dedicated area of a shared living space. Many of our home plans offer options for a dedicated office or den space that can serve as your home office without needing to give up a bedroom.

    Investing in quality furniture

    Ergonomic comfort is critical when setting up an effective workspace at home. Investing in quality furniture can be beneficial in promoting proper posture and avoiding strain on the body throughout long hours of work. Desks and chairs should be at elbow height or higher for comfortable typing on the computer. Adjustable standing desks also offer great alternatives if you prefer to stand while you work.

    alexandria office option with built-in cabinetsLighting matters

    Lighting plays an important role in creating a productive environment at home. Natural light is ideal because it reduces eye strain during long hours of screen time while also increasing alertness and productivity levels throughout the day. Supplement natural light with task lighting so your home office is properly lit in case you need to work late into the night.   

    Cleaning & decluttering

    Keeping things clean is essential for maintaining focus and staying organized throughout the day – especially if multiple people are sharing a single workspace. Shelves, cabinets, and drawers can help keep items organized while offering convenient access when needed later on. A neat space will go a long way toward helping you stay motivated and productive during work hours!

    Business man typing on laptop computer

    Personalize your workspace

    An often-overlooked perk of working from home is the complete freedom to decorate your workspace exactly how you want. Incorporate photographs of friends or family members that inspire you, collectibles, and artwork. House plants have been known to improve moods by providing oxygen. Experiment with different styles until you find something that speaks to you.   

    Take breaks

    While this last tip isn’t for something tangible, it’s still important. Be sure to take regular breaks throughout the day. Since your coworkers aren’t around (or perhaps because of this!), it’s easy to get lost in long periods of uninterrupted workflow without realizing how much time has passed between breaks. Regularly taking breaks throughout the day helps refresh both mind and body from fatigue and burnout. Taking short 5-10 minute breaks every few hours will give you the boost you need.

    Creating a productive workspace at home doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive; with some careful planning, you can create an effective and productive workspace at home.

    To learn more about new home opportunities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania from S&A Homes, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit www.SAHomeBuilder.com.

  • How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a New Home in Central Pennsylvania?

    How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a New Home in Central Pennsylvania?

    How Much Does it Cost to Buy a New Home in Central PennsylvaniaPurchasing a home is an exciting journey, but it’s important to have a financial plan in place before you start house hunting. If you’re looking to buy a new construction home in Central Pennsylvania, there are certain costs to consider that can affect your budget. Here’s an overview of the associated costs of buying a new home in Central Pennsylvania.

    Home Prices in Central Pennsylvania

    The median price for a home in Pennsylvania is $263,500 according to Redfin (as of November 2022). This amount will vary depending on where you live and what type of property you’re looking for. For example, if you’re looking for a luxury single-family detached home with all the bells and whistles then expect to pay more than the average price. On the other hand, if you want something smaller like a condo or townhouse then it may be possible to get into these types of properties for less.

    Regardless of what type of property you choose, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with homeownership – which goes beyond just the purchase price of the property, in order to determine how much you need.

    Deerfield. Single Family Homes in Shippensburg, PA

    1. Down Payment

    This refers to a portion of the total cost of the home that is paid upfront when making an offer on it. The minimum down payment amount required by lenders varies depending on the type of loan program and additional criteria such as credit score. Most people will need to have at least 3.5-10% saved up for a down payment on their new home. For a median priced home, this would be between $9,222 and $26,350.

    Additionally, you should also factor in other expenses such as closing costs (more on that in a moment), property tax payments, homeowner’s insurance, furnishings, and any unexpected repairs that may arise after purchasing the property.

    2. Closing Costs

    In addition to the down payment, there are also closing costs associated with purchasing a home that typically ranges between 2 – 5% of the purchase price. These include fees for title insurance, inspections, appraisals, attorneys, and more that help cover administrative fees before closing on the house. Again, for a median price home, the estimated range would be $5,270- $13,175.

    3. Remodeling and Repairs

    Unless you’ve purchased a new construction home, you may want to do some remodeling or repairs to make it yours. Depending on what type of projects you have planned out (e.g., kitchen renovations or bathroom updates) budgeting anywhere from $5,000 – $100,000+ could be necessary here as well. You don’t need to complete all of the projects at the same time. You can spread them out over time.

    While the choice between new construction and resale comes down to personal preference, here are some benefits of purchasing a new construction home.

    How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a New Home in Central Pennsylvania?4. Moving Costs

    If you’re relocating cities or states to purchase your new Central Pennsylvania property don’t forget to budget for moving expenses. Factors such as when you move, distance traveled, and the number of trucks or pods needed will impact how much this will ultimately cost so be sure to factor these into your budget too.

     

    The journey towards buying a new construction home in Pennsylvania comes with many financial considerations and responsibilities. Researching market conditions ahead of time will prove invaluable when calculating just how much money one needs upfront for both down payments and closing costs while also keeping track of ongoing expenses during homeownership such as taxes and insurance premiums will ensure there aren’t any surprises along the way.

    Finding Your Dream Home in Central Pennsylvania

    S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We can also build on buyer-owned land through our Build on Your Own Land program. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 855-921-3626 or contact us now. We’re happy to help!

  • Resolved to Own a New Home in 2023? S&A Homes Can Deliver

    Resolved to Own a New Home in 2023? S&A Homes Can Deliver

    New home at Honors CrossingAs new year’s resolutions go, becoming a homeowner is both one of the most ambitious and one of the easiest to accomplish – especially when S&A Homes is here to help.

    And, the way we see it, resolving to buy a home is much more fun than committing to 12 months of dieting and sweating it out at the gym!

    So, if you’re resolved to become a homeowner in 2023, here are three ways S&A Homes can assist.

    1. Buy a Quick Move-In Home

    First, if you want to move quickly, we have Quick Move-In Homes ready to go now. One reason our buyers love the option of choosing a brand-new home that’s already built is they don’t have to wait through potential weather delays for a winter move. These homes are ready now.

    They also love that design professionals have already made the hard choices for them, including finishes that homebuyers can agonize over for hours (and argue over with their significant others!).

    2. Build a New Home in a Top Central Pennsylvania Community

    new home community in Central Pennsylvania

    Second, S&A Homes can help buyers who prefer to make all the choices themselves with a new construction home in one of our many communities. We have single-family and townhome options in the Altoona; Carlisle, Chambersburg & Shippensburg; Gettysburg; and State College & Bellefonte areas. When they choose to build in one of our communities, buyers know they are getting a convenient location with the neighborhood amenities they want.

    3. Build On Your Land

    personalized home plan built on your landFinally, if community living is not your style, S&A Homes can also help you meet your new year’s resolution by building on the homesite you’ve selected. Through our Build On Your Land program, an S&A Project Manager works with each homebuyer to perfectly position the home plan they prefer on the plot they choose.

    Deciding on a home may seem like the easy part at first glance. With 2022’s shift in interest rates and the home market, would-be homeowners may be more concerned about financing their purchase than about choosing the home of their dreams.

    At S&A Homes, we’re committed to working with buyers no matter the type of financing they’re pursuing, whether it’s a conventional construction loan, a zero-down-payment USDA mortgage, or an FHA loan. We have worked through many real estate cycles, and we know there are tools to help buyers get into the homes of their dreams in any market.

    If becoming a homeowner – or simply moving into a new home – is your resolution, there’s no need to look any further than S&A Homes. We can help you check that resolution off your list faster than you can finish up the last bit of holiday candy before the diet starts.

    And speaking of diets – wouldn’t it be great to kick off your new commitment to cooking healthy meals at home in a brand-new kitchen? Or replace last year’s neglected gym membership with a home gym built out in your new home’s flex space?

    The possibilities are endless and the resolutions are easy with a new home by S&A Homes!

  • 6 Easy Steps to Build on Your Land

    6 Easy Steps to Build on Your Land

    Newport home plan

    At S&A Homes, we believe that building on your own piece of land does not mean that you have to settle for an unreasonably priced custom builder. With over 25% of our customer homes being built on buyer-owned land, our six-step Build on Your Land program is easy, cost-effective and worry-free! 

    Step 1: Lot Visit

    To begin the Build on Your Land process, you’ll first meet with a sales representative to decide which home plan is the best option. You’ll then meet with a project manager who will walk the lot to determine grading, which utilities are already present if any, how much clearing needs to be done, and if there can be a walk-out basement option. The project manager will gather other significant information to calculate an accurate estimate of the costs of work needed on the site.

    Project Estimating for a new custom homeStep 2: Costs Review

    Your S&A Homes sales representative and project manager then mutually agree on a cost estimate to deliver to you before you make a purchase. Included in the estimated price are the costs of the home and any additional features, as well as the land and site-related charges. The estimated price can vary depending on the home plan, site condition, specific home features, local code and more!

    Step 3: Financing Services

    By prioritizing a simple home financing process, we have built connections with local banks that can offer multiple financing options for those who wish to purchase their own land or already own their own lot! Whether it’s specialized programs or traditional construction loans, our S&A Homes team can help you select a bank that provides competitive interest rates and home financing that perfectly fits your needs.

    Step 4: Purchase Agreement

    The estimated price becomes part of your purchase agreement once both parties agree to move to the next step. Your S&A Homes project manager will update you throughout the construction process with a refined quote at each stage.

    Step 5: Plan Review & Pre-Construction Meeting

    Before construction begins, you have the opportunity to look over blueprints specifically developed for your home including the features you selected. At the plan review, you can also make any changes you feel are necessary while your project manager and sales representative review your selections and paperwork.

    building a new construction homeStep 6: Construction Process

    While many custom builders only serve as a middleman between you and the sub-contractors, your S&A Homes project manager will remain on-site while overseeing every aspect of the construction process. We provide a list of various preferred septic contractors, well drillers and excavators to choose from, but home buyers are welcome to use their own licensed professional contractors. Outside contractors are only allowed to work outside of the home and must provide proper insurance, follow all excavation bid parameters and ensure all safety guidelines are met.

    Are you ready to build on your land? Let S&A Homes bring your dream home to life!

    Contact us for more information on our Build on Your Land program or to get a free quote.

    Don’t have your own land? That’s okay! Explore our new home communities located in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. 

     

  • 5 Top Kitchen Trends for 2023

    5 Top Kitchen Trends for 2023

    There is no better time to give your kitchen a revival than the start of a new year! Whether you want to change the stylistic feel or completely remodel your space, navigating the everchanging home trends can be a hassle. That is why our S&A Homes team has listed our five top kitchen trends for 2023 to help you make your dream kitchen a reality! 

    Wood Cabinetry

    contrasting wood kitchen cabinets

    Add a sense of coziness to your home by incorporating natural grain wood cabinetry within your kitchen. The beautiful tones of the pure woods bring warmth to your kitchen and a more organic feel. Mix a wood island with vibrantly painted cabinetry, or vice versa, to maintain a trendy-yet-classic aesthetic.

    Mixed Metals

    mixed metals is a top kitchen trend for 2023

    Achieve a high-end, welcoming look in the new year by mixing metals throughout your kitchen! Blending stainless steel, brass, nickel, bronze, black and other finishes keeps your kitchen current and unique. For example, showcase a matte black kitchen sink faucet with a stainless-steel range hood above the stove. 

    Blue and Green Shades

    Anticipate blue and green shades to be all the rage in the upcoming year! Brighter blues with green undertones showcase a refreshing-yet-unexpected pop of color, while deeper blues and greens provide a timeless feel. Highlight these gorgeous hues on cabinetry or kitchen islands along warm wooden elements to provide an inviting space.

    Reimagined Islands

    Another trend expected to rise in popularity within the new year is reimagined islands. Replace your outdated, built-in kitchen island with a butcher-block or vintage-style table. Reimagining your kitchen island enhances the functionality and personality of your kitchen and is ideal for adding an eat-in kitchen space that doubles as an additional prep area. 

    Sustainable Materials

    Caring more about the value of their homes than finding the cheapest materials, homeowners are becoming more aware of the benefits of sustainability. LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, VOC-free paints and many other materials are becoming more desirable. 

    Kitchen with sustainable materials

    At S&A Homes, we prioritize sustainable building with the most effective, cutting-edge technology innovations. Each of our homes features 90% LED lighting to reduce excessive waste, MERV 11 air filters that are 30-40 times more effective than the standard filter, Energy StarTM appliances, thermal envelopes that increase your home’s energy efficiency by up to 15% and so much more! 

    For more information about S&A Homes and our energy-efficient homes, visit www.sahomebuilder.com/life-in-a-sa-home