Our first visit to a dealer...

[Stormy]

We decided to go with the advice here, and find a dealer THEN worry about finding a floor plan, lol.

We visited Solitaire Home is New Braunfeils, TX. The salesman was WONDERFUL!! We walked in, explained that we were just beginning our search, and wanted to look at 4 bedroon/2 bathroom homes that have about 2000 square feet. He gave us the keys and pointed out the four bedrooms on the lot, and told us to feel free to go and look our our own. And to look at any that interested us. It was very nice to be able to look on our own and just wander at our own pace. After we had looked around, we went back to the office, and talked construction. I had the check list page from Mr Eaton's book. The sales man answered all of our question, with out any high pressure sales pitches. It was an enjoyable first visit to a dealer. Their homes seem to be very well made. The biggest drawback seemed to be not having the option to change any interior walls, or add windows. Unfortunatly, we didn't find a floor plan that we REALLY liked. But I would recommend anyone looking in the San Antonio area at least visit Solitaire.

We are taking our time, and don't intend to make any big decisions before April. We have a list of 6 dealers, and plan to visit one each Saturday. Today was a nice start. Just wanted to share

[Sandy from Torrance, CA]

Stormy...just wondering. Why was adding a window not an option. Is it because they only sold what was on the lot? When we ordered our home from Golden West, we could change an interior wall for $1,500 but we were able to add several windows and also change the location of several windows, for example to center on the room as opposed to in the corner.

[Stormy]

that they do not do any modifications. You can't get them at all. The only thing that I could do was add sliding glass doors instead of windows off the family room. I am a 'window person'. I would have wanted at least 3 more windows in various rooms.
We're going to Partiot this week end. Hopefully we'll find something we like.

[rmurray]

The number and the placement of windows is covered in the HUD code...often the plant cannot delete or add windows...
There are extensive regulations on heat loss and gain...and extensive regulations on ventalation and light...even regualtions on window size in bedrooms...All of these can restrict the amount of flexability a plant has to change thing to your taste...

Some plants are only "what you see is what you get"..others do offer extensive custom options....but all must build to code...Good Luck..
P.S.....You are very right about the dealer...be sure they are good..sounds like you have encountered a honest salesperson...some would have said..."no problem"...proceeded with the sale...only to tell you later you could not get what you want..

[Neva]

Hi Mr Murray,

Any tips on what I should look for to indicate that the dealer is good? I don't want to just trust my first impressions. I also don't want to fall for a 'friendly' attitude. Are there questions I should ask, not related to the quality of the construction?

Thanks

[rmurray]

Every market has some locally owned family stores...I have found that they are some of the best to buy from...Most of these independent dealers handle multiple lines and can offer the whole range of homes...
Ask dealers about service department...ask for references..check with the BBB and state consumers agencies for unresolved complaints...
Be real aware...you are not looking for friends..you are looking for professional treatment and total honesty...If you feel uncomfortable with a sales person..ask the manager or owner to step in...If they lie...leave..
Good Luck