If you are looking to make a change in your housing situation this year, knowledge is power.  We decided to do a series on "Quick Tips" that you need to know before making that decision.  It is important to not only look at the aesthetics of the home, but verify that the builder is trained and qualified to build the home.

Once you have decided the style of the home you are wanting (Farmhouse, Modern, Rustic, Mountain Lodge, Mid-Century Modern, Transitional, Urban, Tribal Chic, Traditional) you can create a list of potential builders who can meet those needs.

Be sure and contact your local home builder associations to verify that they are a member and in good standing.  It is also very important to make sure they are a Certified Professional Home Builder. In order to become a certified professional builder, the builder must meet the following requirements.

• They must be a member of Oklahoma State Home Builders Association in good standing for at least 2 years.
• The builder must obtain 9 hours of continuing education each year to ensure they are up to date on the industries best practices and new regulations.  3 of the 9 hours must be on insurance, safety or ethics.
• All builders in the program must comply with Oklahoma statutes concerning residential contractors.
• A Certified Professional Builder must meet the credit check requirements set by their local association.
• To be eligible for the program, all builders must carry a minimum premium insurance policy of workers compensation and a minimum $1 million in general liability.
• Certified Professional Builders must be a member of their local associations for at least 2 years.
• A warranty must be provided to every homeowner for no less than one year.
• Each member must adhere to the Oklahoma State Code of Ethics.  If you want to learn more about that you can find it here.
• Certified Professional Builders must build in compliance with the minimum construction standards.

Don't risk the biggest investment of your life with a builder that doesn't meet the Certified Professional Builder standard.

This beautiful home is located in Montoro Ridge, one of Landmark Fine Homes newest communities.  If you are looking for country living with easy access to everything in Norman, this is the community for you!  It offers 1/2 acres lots with City Utilities and Great Views.  On a clear day you can see to the Devan Tower!

The Fall Parade of Homes will give you many options but none will have these features.  The rustic cedar beams will greet you on the front porch.  There is plenty of room to sit on the couch and enjoy a morning cup of coffee.  Once you enter you will notice the formal dining and study that flank both sides of the door.  The large living is anchored with a rock fireplace that extended to the cathedral ceiling.  Windows line the back of the home that give you great views of the outdoor living space that includes a fireplace and TV hookup.  Privacy is easy since this home backs up to the Green Space.  The kitchen is open to the Great room and offers 2 islands with lots of storage.  The Master Retreat not only is secluded but it also has great access to the laundry room.  Upstairs has both a media room as well as a flex space and 1/2 bath. 2 Secondary Bedrooms with a separate baths and a flex living space that is perfect for a "Kids Living Area".  This space comes with a closet so if you are needing a true 4 bedroom home it is a easy adjustment.  The 3 Car Garage is separated by a double and 1 single.  The Double Car Garage also comes with a peg board and cabinets to hold all those tools.

Montoro Ridge is serviced by Norman Public Schools- Norman North High School.  There are several private schools that are only minutes away as well.

Stop by the home this weekend any day from 1:00-7:00.  After the Parade of Homes is over the home will be open Thursday- Monday from 1:00-6:00, that is IF it is still available!