When it comes to building your dream home, not all builders are created equal. Most of them make sure to meet building code requirements, but very few go above and beyond to deliver long-term quality, comfort, and value.
This is why it pays to compare. It’s important to ask the right questions when deciding on your builder so you can know whether you’re getting craftsmanship and materials that will last, or just the bare minimum. At Blythwood Homes, we believe in delivering the kind of quality that goes beyond what people expect from most homebuilders, or… what you should expect.
Let’s take a closer look at the most important features to consider when making your decision.
1. Foundation: The Base of Your Investment
A strong foundation is essential. Make sure you look for poured concrete foundations with rebar reinforcement and proper waterproofing (like Delta Wrap). These things will prevent future cracking, leaks, and other costly repairs.
Why it matters: Many builders cut corners by using block foundations or skipping waterproofing to save money.
The Blythwood difference: All our homes have poured foundation with rebar and Delta Wrap. We give peace of mind from the ground up.
2. Windows: Energy Efficiency & Comfort
Windows aren’t just useful for letting in light, they also affect energy bills, privacy, and comfort. Optional privacy or sun-blocking glass make living spaces more comfortable, while double-glazed Low-E argon windows provide stellar installation.
What to ask: Are your basement windows from a trusted supplier? Do we get privacy options or heat protection on south-facing windows?
The Blythwood difference: Our supplier, Pollard Windows, assures smooth, reliable operation and offers a wide range of styles, colours, and glazing options to match your needs.
3. Kitchens & Interiors: Function Meets Style
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where everything happens, and cabinetry makes all the difference. We bring both beauty and function by providing quality, furniture-grade cabinets with features like soft-close drawers, crown mouldings, and custom fits to appliances.
What to check: Are the cabinets standard or fully customizable? How many finish options are available?
The Blythwood difference: We don’t just have a builder’s limited line, we provide premium cabinetry as our standard, plus detailed layouts and finishes to match your décor.
4. Energy Efficiency & Comfort Systems
Hidden systems in your home affect comfort every single day. Tankless water heaters, high-efficiency furnaces, and properly insulated walls go a long way in saving money on utilities.
What to ask: What is the efficiency rating of the furnace? Is A/C included in the purchase price?
The Blythwood difference: With our homes, we include 97% efficiency tankless hot water heaters, a 96% efficient two-stage furnace, and a 14 SEER air conditioning unit, ensuring your comfort while keeping energy costs low.
5. Finishes That Last: Roof, Patios & Exteriors
From the outside in, your home should be built to withstand the test of time. Exterior finishes, roofing warranties, and siding quality make a huge impact on durability and curb appeal.
What to check: Is your roof covered by a lifetime warranty? Is your siding made from wood, vinyl, or a longer-lasting option?
The Blythwood difference: We use Timberline fiberglass shingles with a lifetime warranty, premium finishes such as stone, brick, STO Stucco, or James Hardie siding, and poured concrete patios that surpass wood decks in performance by a mile.
6. Customization: Your Home, Your Way
When it comes to your dream home, one-size-fits-all doesn’t work. The option to personalize layouts, finishes, and materials makes sure that your space reflects your unique lifestyle.
What to ask: Can the builder adjust floor plans? Are finishes limited to a small line, or do you get broader choices?
The Blythwood difference: We work with trusted custom cabinet makers, masons, and flooring companies to give you a wide range of choices. Blythwood offers many ways of customizing because we believe in customization over compromise.
7. Structure: Built for Strength & Stability
Your home’s framing and floor systems determine how solid your home feels. Look for 2” x 6” framing and engineered floor joists, which reduce bounce and squeaks over time.
What to check: Is the home framed with 2” x 4” or 2” x 6”? How is the subfloor attached?
The Blythwood difference: Our homes are built with 2” x 6” framing at 16” centers and engineered TGI floor joists. Subfloors are both glued AND screwed-in to prevent creaks, giving you a rock-solid home for years to come.
Final Thoughts: Why It Pays to Compare
Choosing isn’t a builder shouldn’t just be about price. It’s about knowing what’s going into your home, from the foundation to the finishes. When you compare builders side by side, you’ll quickly see where quality shines through.
At Blythwood Homes, we believe every detail matters. From high-efficiency systems to timeless finishes, we build homes designed for comfort, durability, visual appeal, and value. Before you choose your builder, take a walk through a Blythwood model home and experience the difference for yourself.
2025 Open house dates
Virgil – Settlers Landing
31 & 32 Harvest Dr
Sep 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
Ridgeway – The Oaks
21 Sunrise Crt N
Sep 14, 21, 28
Niagara Falls – Garner Estates
6156 Curlin Cres
Sep 21, 28
Fonthill – Tanner Woods
11 Stickles St
Sep 21, 28