New Construction at Riverstone: Complete Guide to All Builders Past & Present
New Construction at Riverstone: Complete Guide to All Builders Past & Present
Explore D.R. Horton, Lennar, and Woodside Homes - Benefits of New Construction, Builder Comparisons & How to Choose
π Table of Contents
Riverstone offers something rare: brand-new homes from three of America's top builders, all in one master-planned community. Unlike resale markets where you're limited to existing inventory, Riverstone provides hundreds of new construction options across diverse price points, sizes, and styles. This guide explores every builder at Riverstone—past and present—the benefits of buying new construction, how to compare builders, and how to choose the right builder and home for your needs.
ποΈ New Construction at Riverstone Overview
Riverstone is an active new construction community with three national builders currently building and selling homes. This means fresh inventory, modern designs, energy efficiency, and builder warranties on every home.
Current Active Builders (2025):
| Builder | Collection | Price Range | Target Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| D.R. Horton | Artisan | $400,000-$550,000 | First-time buyers, value-focused |
| Lennar | Emery | $450,000-$650,000 | Move-up families, tech-savvy |
| Woodside Homes | Ariette | $550,000-$750,000+ | Luxury seekers, executives |
What "New Construction" Means:
- Never Lived In: You're the first owner, brand-new everything
- Modern Standards: Current building codes, energy efficiency, technology
- Customization: Choose options, upgrades, finishes during construction
- Warranties: Builder warranties covering defects and systems
- No Deferred Maintenance: Everything new, no accumulated wear
- Latest Design: Open floor plans, current aesthetics, modern layouts
Riverstone's Builder Strategy:
Tim Jones (developer) intentionally selected three builders to create competition, choice, and risk mitigation:
- Three Price Tiers: Entry (Artisan), mid (Emery), luxury (Ariette) serve all buyers
- Builder Competition: Competing for buyers maintains quality and value
- Style Variety: Different architectural approaches and aesthetics
- Risk Diversification: If one builder exits, others continue
- Market Coverage: No demographic left underserved
ποΈ Why Three Builders Matter: Most subdivisions use one builder—limiting choice to whatever that builder offers. Riverstone's three-builder approach means 30+ floor plans, three distinct collections, varied design philosophies, and genuine options. If you don't like D.R. Horton's approach, try Lennar. If Lennar doesn't fit, explore Woodside. This competition also keeps builders honest—they can't overcharge or cut corners when buyers have alternatives within the same community.
β Benefits of New Construction
Buying new construction at Riverstone offers advantages impossible with resale homes.
π 1. Customization & Personalization
- Structural Options: Add bedrooms, bathrooms, extend patios (if ordered during construction)
- Finishes: Choose flooring, countertops, cabinets, paint colors
- Upgrades: Gourmet kitchen packages, premium bathrooms, smart home tech
- Outdoor: Select landscaping, hardscaping, outdoor kitchens
- Technology: Pre-wire for home automation, security, entertainment
- Your Vision: Create home matching your taste, not previous owner's
π‘οΈ 2. Warranties & Protection
- Builder Warranty: Typically 1-2 years comprehensive coverage
- Structural Warranty: 10 years covering major structural defects
- HVAC/Systems: Manufacturer warranties on all equipment
- Appliances: New appliances with full warranties
- Peace of Mind: Something breaks? Builder fixes it under warranty
- No Hidden Issues: Unlike resale, you know condition from day one
β‘ 3. Energy Efficiency & Savings
- Modern Insulation: Superior to older homes, reduces heating/cooling costs
- High-Efficiency HVAC: New systems use 30-50% less energy than 20-year-old units
- Energy Star Appliances: Lower utility bills from day one
- LED Lighting: Modern fixtures with energy-efficient bulbs
- Tankless Water Heaters: (Many Lennar homes) heat on-demand, reduce waste
- Solar Ready: Lennar includes solar in many homes
- Estimated Savings: $100-300/month vs. comparable older home
π 4. No Deferred Maintenance
- New Roof: 20-30 years before replacement needed
- New HVAC: 15-20 years life expectancy
- New Water Heater: 10-15 years before replacement
- New Appliances: Years before repairs needed
- Fresh Paint: No repainting for years
- Clean Systems: No accumulated grime or wear
- Avoided Costs: $20K-50K in near-term repairs avoided
π¨ 5. Modern Design & Layouts
- Open Floor Plans: Great rooms connecting kitchen/living/dining
- Owner's Suites: Spacious bedrooms with luxury baths and walk-in closets
- Flex Spaces: Rooms adaptable to office, gym, playroom
- Storage: Walk-in pantries, linen closets, garage storage
- Outdoor Living: Covered patios, California rooms standard
- Technology Integration: Wired for smart home, security, entertainment
π° 6. Financial Advantages
- Appreciation Potential: New homes often appreciate faster than resale
- Lower Maintenance: Years before major expenses
- Builder Incentives: Closing cost assistance, rate buy-downs, upgrades
- Preferred Lenders: Streamlined financing through builder relationships
- Energy Savings: Lower utilities improve cash flow
- Tax Benefits: Mortgage interest deduction on larger loan amounts
π Real-World Value: Compare: $500K resale home (20 years old) vs. $500K new construction. Resale has roof nearing replacement ($20K), HVAC aging ($10K), water heater old ($2K), deferred maintenance ($5-10K), outdated design, previous owner's choices. New construction has zero immediate maintenance, 10+ years before major costs, warranties covering issues, your personalization, energy savings. Over 5 years, new construction saves $30K-50K+ in avoided repairs and lower utilities—plus you got exactly what you wanted.
ποΈ D.R. Horton - Artisan Collection
Builder Profile:
D.R. Horton is America's largest homebuilder, building 80,000+ homes annually nationwide. Known as "America's Builder," D.R. Horton focuses on value, efficiency, and serving first-time and value-conscious buyers.
- National Rank: #1 largest homebuilder in America
- Annual Production: 80,000+ homes nationwide
- Founded: 1978 (46+ years)
- Stock: Publicly traded (NYSE: DHI)
- Reputation: Affordable quality, efficient construction, strong value
- Markets: 118+ markets across 33 states
Artisan Collection at Riverstone:
- Price Range: $400,000-$550,000
- Size Range: 1,650-2,400 square feet
- Bedrooms: 3-4 bedrooms
- Bathrooms: 2-3 bathrooms
- Lot Sizes: 5,000-7,000 sq ft typical
- Approximate Homes: ~2,200-2,500 of Riverstone's 6,578 total
What D.R. Horton Does Best:
β D.R. Horton Strengths
- Affordability: Best entry price to Riverstone ownership
- Value Engineering: Efficiency and scale keep costs competitive
- Consistent Quality: Standardized processes ensure reliable construction
- First-Time Buyer Focus: Floor plans and pricing designed for entry-level market
- Straightforward Experience: No surprises, predictable process
- Strong Warranties: Backed by America's largest builder
- Efficient Layouts: Maximum livability from every square foot
Popular Artisan Floor Plans:
- Single-Story Plans: 1,650-2,100 sq ft, 3-4 bed, 2-3 bath (most popular)
- Two-Story Plans: 2,000-2,400 sq ft, 4 bed, 2.5-3 bath (maximum space)
- Open Concepts: Great room designs connecting living spaces
- Owner's Retreats: Master bedroom/bath/closet combinations
- Covered Patios: Standard on most plans
Standard Features:
- Granite countertops in kitchen and baths
- Stainless steel appliances
- Energy-efficient HVAC and insulation
- Luxury vinyl plank or carpet flooring
- Recessed LED lighting
- Covered patio
- Front yard landscaping
- 2-10 year warranties
Who Should Choose D.R. Horton/Artisan:
- First-time homebuyers maximizing affordability
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value
- Small families (1-3 people) needing 3-4 bedrooms
- Downsizers wanting newer, smaller, low-maintenance
- Investors seeking rental properties
- Anyone wanting Lodge access at lowest price point
ποΈ Lennar - Emery Collection
Builder Profile:
Lennar is America's #2 homebuilder and innovation leader, famous for "Everything's Included®" approach—bundling features other builders charge extra for. Lennar emphasizes smart home technology and comprehensive value.
- National Rank: #2 largest homebuilder in America
- Annual Production: 60,000+ homes nationwide
- Founded: 1954 (70+ years)
- Stock: Publicly traded (NYSE: LEN)
- Reputation: Innovation, smart home leader, Everything's Included®
- Markets: 24 states with focus on major metros
Emery Collection at Riverstone:
- Price Range: $450,000-$650,000
- Size Range: 1,850-3,200+ square feet
- Bedrooms: 3-5 bedrooms
- Bathrooms: 2.5-4 bathrooms
- Lot Sizes: 6,000-8,500 sq ft typical
- Approximate Homes: ~2,500-2,800 of Riverstone's 6,578 total (largest collection)
Everything's Included® Standard Features:
β Lennar's Everything's Included® (No Extra Charge)
- Smart Home Technology: Wi-Fi certified design, Amazon Alexa integration
- Video Doorbell: Smart doorbell with smartphone access
- Smart Locks: Keyless entry, remote control
- Smart Thermostat: Voice and app-controlled climate
- Smart Lighting: Controlled via voice or app
- Home Automation: Unified app controlling all systems
- Solar Panels: Included (lease or purchase options)
- Quartz Countertops: Throughout kitchen and baths
- Stainless Appliances: Complete package
- Upgraded Flooring: Premium selections included
- Window Treatments: Blinds throughout
- Garage Door Opener: Wi-Fi enabled, smart integrated
What Lennar Does Best:
- Technology Leadership: Most advanced smart home standard in industry
- Value Proposition: $15K-25K in features included at no charge
- Energy Efficiency: Solar standard reduces utility costs
- Floor Plan Variety: 10+ layouts serving diverse needs
- Innovation: First to adopt new technology and features
- Transparency: All-in pricing, fewer surprises
Popular Emery Floor Plans:
- Single-Story Plans: 1,850-2,600 sq ft, 3-4 bed (popular with downsizers)
- Two-Story Plans: 2,200-3,200+ sq ft, 4-5 bed (families, multi-gen)
- NextGen® Suites: Separate living quarters for parents/adult children
- Owner's Retreats: Spa-like bathrooms, huge closets
- Flex Spaces: Lofts, bonus rooms, offices
- Outdoor Living: California rooms, extended patios
Who Should Choose Lennar/Emery:
- Tech-savvy buyers wanting smart home features
- Move-up families needing 4-5 bedrooms
- Mid-market buyers seeking premium features at fair price
- Energy-conscious buyers valuing solar
- Multi-generational families (NextGen® suites)
- Remote workers needing dedicated office space
- Anyone wanting comprehensive features without upgrades
ποΈ Woodside Homes - Ariette Collection
Builder Profile:
Woodside Homes is a regional luxury builder focusing on Western U.S. markets. Known for premium finishes, customization options, and attention to detail, Woodside serves move-up and luxury buyers seeking executive-level homes.
- National Rank: Regional builder (not top 10 nationally)
- Annual Production: 2,000-3,000 homes across multiple states
- Founded: 1991 (33+ years)
- Ownership: Private company
- Reputation: Luxury focus, customization, quality craftsmanship
- Markets: California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Idaho
Ariette Collection at Riverstone:
- Price Range: $550,000-$750,000+
- Size Range: 2,400-3,800+ square feet
- Bedrooms: 4-6 bedrooms
- Bathrooms: 3-5 bathrooms
- Lot Sizes: 8,000-12,000+ sq ft (largest in Riverstone)
- Approximate Homes: ~1,500-1,878 of Riverstone's 6,578 total
What Woodside Does Best:
β Woodside Strengths
- Customization: Extensive structural and finish options during construction
- Premium Finishes: Upgraded materials and craftsmanship standard
- Architectural Detail: Coffered ceilings, crown molding, custom trim
- Luxury Bathrooms: Soaking tubs, walk-in showers, high-end fixtures
- Gourmet Kitchens: Chef-grade appliances, large islands, butler's pantries
- Personal Service: Hands-on approach, design consultations
- Attention to Detail: Quality control and finish work
Standard Luxury Features:
- Premium flooring (tile, hardwood, upgraded carpet)
- Quartz or granite countertops throughout
- High-end appliances (KitchenAid, Bosch, or similar)
- Architectural details (coffered ceilings, wainscoting)
- Luxury bathroom fixtures and finishes
- Enhanced landscaping packages
- 3-car garages standard (some 4-car)
- RV parking options on select lots
Customization Options:
Woodside's customization is most extensive:
- Structural Changes: Add bedrooms, bathrooms, extend rooms
- Kitchen Upgrades: Professional appliances, custom islands, upgraded backsplashes
- Flooring Choices: Hardwood, tile, premium carpet throughout
- Casita Conversions: Guest suites with separate entries
- Outdoor Living: Summer kitchens, fire features, extended patios
- Technology: Whole-home audio, theater systems, automation
- Premium Lots: Corner, cul-de-sac, park view, estate lots available
Popular Ariette Floor Plans:
- Single-Story Executive: 2,800-3,400 sq ft, 4-5 bed, luxury one-level living
- Two-Story Grand: 3,200-3,800+ sq ft, 5-6 bed, impressive presence
- Formal Spaces: Separate living/dining rooms for entertaining
- Owner's Retreats: Massive suites with sitting areas, spa baths
- Secondary Suites: Ensuite bathrooms for multiple bedrooms
- Dedicated Spaces: Home theaters, wine rooms, gyms, offices
Who Should Choose Woodside/Ariette:
- Luxury buyers seeking premium finishes and details
- Large families needing 5-6 bedrooms
- Executives and high-income professionals
- Buyers wanting extensive customization
- Entertainers needing formal spaces and flow
- Bay Area relocators expecting coastal quality
- Anyone wanting maximum space and luxury at Central Valley prices
βοΈ Side-by-Side Builder Comparison
| Feature | D.R. Horton (Artisan) | Lennar (Emery) | Woodside (Ariette) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $400K-$550K | $450K-$650K | $550K-$750K+ |
| Size Range | 1,650-2,400 sq ft | 1,850-3,200+ sq ft | 2,400-3,800+ sq ft |
| Target Market | First-time, value | Move-up, mid-market | Luxury, executive |
| Primary Strength | Affordability | Technology, value | Customization, luxury |
| Smart Home | Prewire available | Comprehensive (included) | Prewire standard |
| Solar | Not standard | Included | Available upgrade |
| Customization | Limited | Moderate | Extensive |
| Lot Sizes | 5,000-7,000 sq ft | 6,000-8,500 sq ft | 8,000-12,000+ sq ft |
| Garage | 2-3 car | 2-3 car (some tandem) | 3-4 car |
| Builder Size | #1 nationally | #2 nationally | Regional |
| Approximate Homes | ~2,200-2,500 | ~2,500-2,800 | ~1,500-1,878 |
Quick Selection Guide:
- Choose D.R. Horton if: Affordability is priority, 3-4 bedrooms sufficient, first-time buyer
- Choose Lennar if: Want smart home tech, value solar, need 4-5 bedrooms, tech-savvy
- Choose Woodside if: Seeking luxury finishes, need 5-6 bedrooms, want customization
π― No "Best" Builder: There's no objectively best builder—only best for your needs and budget. D.R. Horton excels at value. Lennar leads in technology. Woodside delivers luxury. All three are financially stable, nationally recognized (or regionally respected), and deliver quality homes. Choose based on what matters to you: price, technology, size, customization, or finishes. You can't go wrong—just pick the one aligned with your priorities.
π‘οΈ Warranties & Buyer Protection
All three Riverstone builders provide comprehensive warranty coverage protecting your investment.
Standard New Construction Warranties:
β Coverage Breakdown
- 1-Year Workmanship Warranty: Builder covers defects in workmanship and materials
- 2-Year Systems Warranty: HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems covered
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: Major structural defects (foundation, framing, roof structure)
- Manufacturer Warranties: Appliances, HVAC equipment, water heaters from manufacturers
- Roofing Warranty: 20-30 years on roof materials
What Warranties Cover:
| Warranty Type | Coverage Period | What's Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Workmanship | 1-2 years | Construction defects, finish issues, material defects |
| Systems | 2 years | HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater |
| Structural | 10 years | Foundation, load-bearing walls, roof structure |
| Appliances | 1-5 years (varies) | Refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave |
| HVAC Equipment | 5-10 years | Air conditioner, furnace, thermostat |
Builder-Specific Warranty Programs:
- D.R. Horton: Standard 2-10 warranty program, backed by third-party insurance
- Lennar: Everything's Included® warranty, comprehensive coverage, strong reputation
- Woodside: Premium warranty program with enhanced customer service
How Warranties Work:
- Year 1: Report issues to builder, they dispatch warranty service
- Walk-Through: 30-day and 11-month inspections identify issues
- Response Time: Builders typically respond within 7-14 days
- Emergency Issues: HVAC failure, plumbing leaks addressed immediately
- After Year 2: Contact warranty administrator for structural claims
What's NOT Covered:
- Normal wear and tear
- Homeowner negligence or misuse
- Cosmetic issues (small cracks, nail pops) after 1 year
- Landscaping (typically 30-90 days only)
- Upgrades installed by homeowner
- Acts of God (earthquakes, floods - covered by homeowner's insurance)
π‘οΈ Warranty Value: New construction warranties save thousands compared to resale. Example: HVAC system fails in year 2. Repair cost: $2,000-5,000. New construction: Covered by warranty. Resale: You pay out of pocket. Over 10 years, warranty coverage potentially saves $10K-30K in unexpected repairs. This peace of mind has real financial value beyond the tangible coverage.
π€ How to Choose Your Builder
With three excellent builders, how do you decide? Follow this decision framework:
Step 1: Establish Budget
- Get Pre-Approved: Know exact budget before touring
- Factor HOA: Add $200-300/month to mortgage payment
- Consider Upgrades: Budget $10K-50K+ for customization
- Price Ranges: Artisan ($400K-$550K), Emery ($450K-$650K), Ariette ($550K-$750K+)
- Be Realistic: Don't stretch to higher builder if it stresses finances
Step 2: Define Needs
- Bedrooms: 3-4? 4-5? 5-6? Eliminates some builders
- Square Footage: Minimum size needed?
- Single vs. Two-Story: Preference or requirement?
- Must-Haves: Office? Guest suite? Extra garage bay?
- Lot Size: Need for RV, pool, outdoor living?
Step 3: Identify Priorities
Rank these factors 1-10:
- Affordability / lowest price
- Smart home technology
- Energy efficiency / solar
- Customization options
- Premium finishes / luxury
- Maximum square footage
- Lot size
- Builder reputation
Step 4: Tour Model Homes
- Visit All Three: Even if leaning toward one, tour competitors
- Floor Plan Feel: Layouts look different on paper vs. walking through
- Finishes Quality: See and touch materials, cabinets, counters
- Sales Consultants: Gauge responsiveness and helpfulness
- Available Inventory: What's for sale now? Timeline to build?
Step 5: Compare Specifics
Create comparison spreadsheet:
- Price of comparable floor plans across builders
- Standard features included
- Cost of desired upgrades
- Total all-in price (base + upgrades + lot premium)
- Square footage per dollar
- Construction timeline
- Builder incentives available
Step 6: Check References
- Online Reviews: Google, Yelp, builder-specific sites
- Talk to Residents: Walk neighborhood, ask Riverstone homeowners
- BBB Ratings: Check Better Business Bureau records
- Construction Quality: Look at occupied homes for finish quality
Decision Matrix Example:
| Your Priority | Best Builder | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Affordability | D.R. Horton | Lowest entry price, best value per sq ft |
| Smart Home Tech | Lennar | Everything's Included® comprehensive system |
| Energy Efficiency | Lennar | Solar included, lowest utility bills |
| Maximum Space | Woodside | Largest homes (3,800+ sq ft available) |
| Luxury Finishes | Woodside | Premium materials and craftsmanship |
| Customization | Woodside | Extensive structural and finish options |
| Best Overall Value | Lennar | Features included worth $15K-25K |
π‘ Trust Your Gut: After analyzing data, trust instinct. Which model home felt like "home"? Which sales consultant did you connect with? Which builder's approach resonated? Sometimes intangibles matter as much as spreadsheets. If Lennar's Everything's Included® excites you, that enthusiasm matters. If Woodside's customization appeals to your creative side, that's valid. Choose the builder where excitement meets budget.
π New Construction Buying Process
Buying new construction differs from resale. Here's the typical timeline and process:
Phase 1: Research & Selection (1-4 weeks)
- Tour all three builders' model homes
- Compare floor plans, pricing, features
- Get pre-approved for mortgage
- Select preferred builder and floor plan
- Choose lot (if available lots to select from)
Phase 2: Purchase Agreement (1-2 weeks)
- Review purchase agreement with builder
- Provide earnest money deposit ($5K-20K typical)
- Lock in price and specifications
- Schedule design studio appointment (if applicable)
- Finalize financing plan
Phase 3: Customization (2-4 weeks)
- Meet with design consultant
- Select structural options (if available)
- Choose finishes (flooring, cabinets, countertops, paint)
- Select upgrades (kitchen packages, bath upgrades, tech)
- Finalize total price with all upgrades
Phase 4: Construction (4-7 months)
- Builder begins construction
- Pre-drywall walk-through (optional, verify options installed)
- Regular updates from builder (photos, timeline)
- Prepare for closing (finalize financing, homeowner's insurance)
- Final walk-through before closing
Phase 5: Closing (1-2 weeks)
- Complete final walk-through, create punch list
- Sign closing documents
- Wire funds for down payment and closing costs
- Receive keys and take possession
- Builder addresses punch list items post-closing
Total Timeline:
- Inventory Home (Completed): 30-60 days to closing
- Under Construction: 2-4 months to completion
- To-Be-Built: 6-8 months from contract to closing
Key Differences from Resale:
| Aspect | New Construction | Resale Home |
|---|---|---|
| Negotiation | Limited price negotiation, incentives available | Negotiate price, concessions, repairs |
| Inspection | New, under warranty, minimal inspection needed | Thorough inspection required, negotiate repairs |
| Timeline | 4-8 months typical | 30-45 days typical |
| Customization | Extensive options available | Buy as-is, renovate after closing |
| Earnest Money | $5K-20K, often non-refundable after design | $3K-10K, refundable with contingencies |
| Lender | Builder-preferred lender (incentives available) | Any lender |
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my own realtor when buying new construction at Riverstone?
A: Yes, but you must bring your realtor on first visit. If you tour alone and later bring realtor, builders won't pay commission. Realtors typically receive 2-3% commission from builder. However, some builders offer equivalent incentives to unrepresented buyers, so compare: realtor representation vs. solo buyer incentives. Ask builders about both options.
Q: Should I use the builder's preferred lender?
A: Often yes, but compare. Builder-preferred lenders typically offer incentives ($5K-15K closing cost credits, rate discounts) making them competitive even if rates aren't the absolute lowest. Get quotes from builder's lender AND outside lenders, compare total costs. Builder lenders also streamline the process since they know the builder's requirements.
Q: How much should I budget for upgrades?
A: Varies dramatically. Conservative: $10K-20K. Average: $20K-50K. Luxury: $50K-100K+. Lennar's Everything's Included® reduces upgrade needs. D.R. Horton buyers often upgrade more since base is simpler. Woodside buyers seeking ultimate customization can spend $75K-150K. Discipline yourself—upgrades add up fast. Prioritize must-haves, skip nice-to-haves you can add later.
Q: Can I negotiate the price with builders?
A: Price negotiation is limited—builders publish pricing and rarely discount (maintains market integrity). However, you CAN negotiate: (1) Included upgrades, (2) Closing cost credits, (3) Rate buy-downs, (4) Free options, (5) Extended rate locks. Ask "What incentives are available?" rather than "Can you discount the price?" Builders have more flexibility on incentives than base price.
Q: What if construction is delayed?
A: Delays happen—weather, supply chain, labor issues. Purchase agreements typically have "estimated completion" not guaranteed dates, protecting builders from liability. If your apartment lease expires or you need to move, request realistic timelines and build in 30-60 day buffer. Some agreements include rental assistance if builder-caused delays exceed thresholds, but read your contract carefully.
Q: Should I get a home inspection on new construction?
A: Optional but can provide peace of mind. New construction is under warranty and inspected by city, but independent inspector can catch issues before closing. Cost: $400-600. Value: Leverage to get builder to fix items before closing. Recommended if you're detail-oriented or buying most expensive home of your life. Skip if you trust builder's process and warranty coverage.
Q: How do I compare builders on quality if everything looks new?
A: Look beyond model homes: (1) Visit occupied homes, check quality 1-2 years later, (2) Talk to residents about warranty service, (3) Check online reviews and BBB ratings, (4) Compare standard features (flooring quality, cabinet construction, hardware), (5) Look at framing and insulation during construction tours, (6) Ask about construction methods and materials. Quality differences emerge over time, not in polished models.
Q: Are there any builders who have left or been removed from Riverstone?
A: As of January 2025, all three original builders (D.R. Horton, Lennar, Woodside) remain active and committed. No builders have exited. This stability signals strong market and successful development. However, over 15-20 year build-out, builder composition could change—some may complete allocations, new builders could join. This is normal in large master-planned communities.
Q: Can I buy a home and rent it out as investment property?
A: Yes, but check builder restrictions. Some builders limit investor purchases or require owner-occupancy for certain financing programs. Riverstone HOA allows rentals. However, if using FHA/VA financing, you typically must occupy as primary residence for 12 months. Conventional investors face no occupancy restrictions. Ask builders about investment purchase policies before proceeding.
Q: What happens if a builder goes out of business during construction?
A: Rare for national builders like D.R. Horton, Lennar. If it happened: (1) Your earnest money is typically held in escrow (protected), (2) Structural warranty backed by third-party insurance (coverage continues), (3) Incomplete home becomes legal/financial mess—consult attorney, (4) Developer (Tim Jones) might find replacement builder or refund deposits. Risk is very low with financially stable national builders, but understand it exists. This is why builder financial strength matters.
Start Your New Construction Journey
Tour all three builders at Riverstone to compare quality, features, and pricing. Experience the difference of new construction with warranty protection and personalization options.
Tour D.R. Horton Tour Lennar Tour Woodside Homesβ Which Builder Appeals to You?
After learning about all three builders, which one interests you most? D.R. Horton for value? Lennar for technology? Woodside for luxury? Or are you still deciding? Share your thoughts and what factors matter most in your builder selection!
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