I was relieved to be driving a fairly late-model vehicle with a very efficient heating and defrosting system and windshield wipers that didn't clog up with snow and ice, so I could get safely along my way.
But imagine if I had been driving an old car in that same scenario.
I suspect my driving experience would have been a lot more nerve-wracking. Let's face it, there have been a lot of advancements in the automotive field in the last 40 years or so.
The same can be said for housing. If you have not lived in a brand-new home in the last 40, 30 or even 20 years, you would be amazed at the advances.
In a very competitive marketplace, new-home builders are using advanced design, materials and construction techniques to provide home buyers with a wide range of options and great value.
"öDesign: It all begins with design. Good home design begins with an understanding of how people live in their homes. Times have changed. Families have changed, and with it, our lifestyles have evolved.
"öEnergy efficiency: The energy efficiency of Canadian homes has improved greatly over the years. Thanks to major advances in building techniques and product innovation, today's new homeowner can expect to use only half of the energy required for a similar home built in 1950, and at the same time enjoy a far more comfortable living environment. From windows to insulation to state-of-the-art heating and air conditioning systems, today's new homes are superior when it comes to energy efficiency.
"öEnvironmentally responsible products: Today's new home buyers have the opportunity to build a much more environmentally friendly home than was built 40 or 50 years ago. Great advances have been made in developing and manufacturing building products that contribute to the "greening" of Canadian homes.
"öSafety: New homes boast many products and features that ensure your family home is a safe environment. Whether it's superior air ventilation and heating systems, stair railings and risers built to code, improved electrical components or products that reduce gas emissions, a new house is built to a stringent code.
There's a saying you often hear people say about new homes: "They don't build them like they used to." I say that is very, very true. Because the reality is we build them better -- much better.
Joe Rauti is the president of the Greater Windsor Home Builders' Association.
-- Canwest News Service
