I saw the same basic construction materials and techniques, wall thicknesses, depth of footings etc in developments that varied widely in price. Many of the more expensive homes had a glossy finish such as highly polished wood floors, fancy sinks and taps etc. Underneath the gloss it was pretty much samesame. I can always change or specify fancier fixtures for a bit more money if I wish.caller wrote:I certainly agree its best to view places when you're there and I spent some time riding around looking at developments without agents, to get a feel for what was on offer, how build quality and prices compared (thats the bit I don't get and Johnyk has commented on that on this and other sites).
Some houses had poor, unimaginative floor plans with terrible use of space and light, eg. long narrow living rooms where you would feel you were living in a railway car. Some developments were simply boxy houses plunked down in dull rows on tiny plots in the middle of a field and no money spent on design either external or internal.
Builders build to different standards for different reasons and quality varies. Some want to make a fair profit for their risk and effort and build a name, others want to make a quick hit and could care less. Some have a clear idea of their market, others don't. Experience levels also vary.
Its also possible the builder realizes he paid too much for the land and tries to recoup by cutting corners. It can be difficult to find skilled tradespeople, especially in a housing boom, so either the good workers demand more money or the builder can get only less-skilled people or the foreman is stealing materials or any number of things.