We are deep into autumn and well into football season. But while everyone else is bundling up indoors, you—lucky Armadillo plan homeowner—have a covered patio. That’s right: your very own outdoor stage for fall fun, rain or shine. At Thurman Homes, we know a covered patio isn’t just an architectural perk—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Alfresco Autumn Living
Why stay cooped up inside when the weather is perfect for cozying outdoors? A covered patio lets you:
Enjoy morning coffee while the fog drifts over your yard.
Host a fall brunch or dinner without worrying about unexpected drizzle.
Sip hot cocoa or mulled cider while reading a book under the soft glow of string lights.
Pumpkin-Perfect Decor
Turn your patio into a festive fall wonderland:
Line the edges with pumpkins, gourds, and colorful leaves.
Hang a whimsical wreath or seasonal banners.
Add cozy blankets and outdoor pillows so everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—feels comfy.
Cozy Nights Around a Fire
Even if you don’t have a built-in fireplace, a small tabletop fire pit or lanterns can turn your patio into a warm retreat. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, or just enjoy the crackle while watching the sunset. Bonus: your patio becomes the go-to spot for neighbors who forgot their scarves!
Multipurpose Space
Your covered patio is more than just a fall showcase:
Use it as an outdoor classroom for homework or arts and crafts.
Set up a mini home gym for crisp-morning yoga sessions.
Or just let it be the ultimate hangout spot for friends and family—no cleaning required.
Take Cover, Have Fun!
This fall, your covered patio with our Armadillo plan is more than shelter—it’s your seasonal sanctuary. At Thurman Homes, we design homes that let you enjoy every leaf, every breeze, and every cozy moment without compromise.
So grab a blanket, brew your favorite drink, and let your patio become the fall hotspot of the neighborhood.
Thinking about your next move? For many of us, the decision to leave a current home and build or buy new is about more than just a change of address—it's about a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner looking for more space or a tech professional relocating to Austin for a new job with a company like Tesla, the financing process can feel overwhelming.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be. As your trusted homebuilder in Central Texas, we at Thurman Homes believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge to make smart decisions. That’s why we’re breaking down the different types of financing for new construction homes.
1. Conventional Loans
This is the most common type of mortgage. Conventional loans are not backed by a government agency and are a great option for move-up buyers with strong credit. They offer flexibility in terms, and often provide the best interest rates for well-qualified borrowers. They are divided into two main categories:
Fixed-Rate Loans: The interest rate and monthly payment remain the same for the entire loan term, providing predictability and stability.
Adjustable-Rate Loans (ARMs): These loans offer a lower initial interest rate that is fixed for a set period (e.g., 5 or 7 years) and then adjusts periodically based on market indexes. An ARM can be a good option if you plan to move or refinance before the fixed-rate period ends.
For those with significant equity in their current home, a conventional loan is a straightforward path to financing your new Thurman home.
2. Jumbo Loans
Given the dynamic nature of the Austin real estate market, a jumbo loan might be the right fit for you. These are conventional loans that exceed the conforming loan limits set by government-sponsored enterprises. Thurman Homes offers a diverse price range of homes, from luxury downtown condos to suburban communities priced around Austin's median home value, as well as custom builds for any price point in between. A jumbo loan is a popular option for financing these larger homes.
3. Bridge Loans & HELOCs
For move-up buyers who need to finance their new home before their old one sells, a bridge loan or Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can "bridge" the financial gap. A bridge loan is a short-term loan that leverages the equity in your current home. A HELOC allows you to borrow against your home's equity as needed. Both can provide the cash for a down payment and closing costs, giving you the flexibility to move into your new home on your timeline.
Partner with an Expert
Navigating these options and finding the right fit for your unique situation is crucial. That’s why we have a long-standing partnership with our preferred lender, Arien Bowersock of The Home Loan Expert. Arien is a Central Texas native with deep knowledge of the local market and the specific needs of buyers like you. She and her team don't just process loans; they provide the education, calculators and tools you need to feel confident about your financial decisions.From detailed explanations of loan types to personalized consultations, Arien ensures a smooth and transparent financing process.
Arien Bowersock, The Home Loan Expert
Arien’s Approach
Quick: Arien and her team have a reputation for getting buyers pre-approved quickly.
Homeownership Hurdles: She gets people approved to buy, even those who never thought they could.
In-Depth: Her knowledge extends beyond simple paperwork; fluent in the nuances of new construction financing.
Easy: She and her team simplify what often feels like a complicated process.
Charlotte, Arien's Assistant
At Thurman Homes, we believe in surrounding ourselves with expert partners who can make your homebuying journey a seamless and positive experience. Arien and her team exemplify this commitment, helping to ensure you're fully qualified before a single contract is signed. By providing the education and personalized support you need, they help you make the best financial decisions for your future.
Ready to see how our expertise can benefit you? Contact Arien Bowersock to explore your financing options, then schedule a product tour to experience the Thurman Homes difference firsthand.
A couple years back we made a big move—going from East Austin and expanding into the leafy expanses of Whisper Valley. Don’t worry—we’re still loving it here—but sometimes, growth calls, and we answer. Now we dare to venture again, but this time into Bristol Highlands: our newest boutique infill subdivision that’s all about greenbelt living and modern design that we know you love.
A Slice of Seclusion But Still Convenient
Bristol Highlands isn’t just another neighborhood—it’s a hidden gem atop a secluded greenbelt. Think serene mornings with birds chirping, trails for afternoon strolls, and lots that let you feel like you’ve escaped the city…all while being smack dab in the middle of Austin. Central location? Check. Easy access to downtown’s high-rises and corporate buzz? Double check. In short: you get the calm without losing the pulse of the city.
East Austin Vibes, Boutique Style
Returning to East Austin isn’t just nostalgia—it’s strategy. Bristol Highlands sits within Windsor Park, a neighborhood that’s eclectic, eco-friendly, and brimming with creativity. Only 6 miles (15 minutes!) from downtown, it offers the perfect mix of convenience and character. And if you’re craving urban flair, Mueller is just around the corner with 140 acres of parks, shopping, and year-round events like farmers’ markets and live concerts. It’s the kind of neighborhood that makes you want to stroll, explore, and say hello to strangers who actually feel like friends.
Modern Homes That Make You Swoon
Our first offerings include two-story detached homes with the clean lines, open layouts, and modern aesthetic that define Thurman Homes. Early reservations even secure coveted greenbelt lots, giving you the perfect mix of privacy and community. And since we’re an 8-time Modern Homes Tour builder, you know we’re not messing around—every home is designed with style, function, and livability in mind.
Why Join Bristol Highlands?
Secluded greenbelt lots for privacy and serenity
Central location near downtown, Mueller, and all the Austin buzz
Eclectic, creative community that celebrates the best of East Austin
Stylish modern homes designed by a trusted, award-winning builder
So you see, when we make a move it’s good for everyone! Bristol Highlands isn’t just a place to live—it’s a community to love. Whether you’re walking the trails, enjoying a concert in Mueller, or sipping coffee on your greenbelt lot, this is where modern living meets Austin charm.
So why wait? Be part of a neighborhood that’s small in size but massive in character—and secure your spot in Bristol Highlands today.
When you’re ready to move into a fresh, modern New Home, there’s nothing like stepping into a home that’s designed just for you. At Thurman Homes Texas, as a premier New Home Builder in Austin, we specialize in creating exceptional New Construction Homes. Here are the top four reasons to choose a newly built home or a to-be-built home with us.
1. Tailored Design from the Ground Up
As your New Home Builder, we make sure your semi-custom home reflects your vision and reflects your choices. Whether you're planning a gourmet kitchen, an open-concpet great room, luxury owner's suite, or smart storage solutions - we bring your dream to life. Starting from Day One, your preferences guide how your new home reflects your personality. Design choices in architecture, finishes and peatures ensure that the home you have built meets all of your family's needs. THe challenge with a resale is you're moving into someone else's home, someone else's vision and choices. You could spend years (not to mention the expense) undoing customization someone else made in the previous century that just does not reflect modern living.
2. Built with Modern Quality & Standards
New homes far outperform resale houses thanks to advances in construction and modern materials. As a trusted Home Builder, Thurman Homes ensures every property we build meets or exceeds today’s safety, durability, and sustainability expectations. Expect:
High-efficiency HVAC systems
Superior insulation, energy-smart windows
Smart-home technology
Low-maintenance, eco-friendly finishes
Your New Home build isn’t just beautiful—it’s built to stand the test of time. Purchasing a used resale home is like purchasing a used car. It runs but who really maintained it? You never know the quality of workmanship that has been done on that home. Did they use a licensed contractor who pulled permits or did they use uncle Bob who watched a YouTube video on how to wire the basement? With pre-existing homes it is not what you see on the outside that is expensive, is what you cannot see that ends up costing you money for repairs.
3. Energy Efficiency That Saves You Money
New construction automatically benefits from the latest energy-efficient design and technology. From insulation to lighting and appliances, every choice is made to optimize energy use. The payoff? Lower utility bills, a smaller environmental impact, and potential eligibility for energy-efficiency tax incentives—such as solar rebates or Energy Star credits. If you buy or build in Whisper Valley, you have the advanced technology of Geothermal energy. This technology further lowers your utility bills. Technology that just is not available to resale homes. If you combine that with solar power on your new home then you could be in a situation where your utility bills are a fraction of other homes in Austin.
4. Peace of Mind & Low Maintenance
One of the biggest ease-of-mind benefits of new construction homes is that everything is brand-new—and covered under warranty. No worrying about outdated plumbing, older HVAC systems, or aging roofing. With fewer repairs and maintenance, you get to enjoy your home and lifestyle instead of fixing it. This contrasts with resale homes. While the price per square foot can be less, add back in the maintenance and material cost of needed upgrades and you are back to even. The real question becomes do you want to enjoy your home now or in five years. Contractors are not getting cheaper and DIY robs you of time and money.
Final Thoughts: Your New Home vs Resale Homes
Buying a new home or to-be-built home with Thurman Homes Texas is more than purchasing a property—it’s choosing a lifestyle tailored to you and your future. We offer personalized design support, local expertise, and expert craftsmanship to create your ideal home in the Austin area.
Ready to start your journey? Contact us today and let’s build the New Home you’ve always dreamed of.
FAQs
Q: What’s a semi-custom home versus a spec or resale home? A: A semi-custom or "to-be-built" home refers to a new construction home that is not yet built when you enter a contract. You select a specific lot and a floor plan from the builder's offerings, and make design selections along the way. A "spec home" is also new construction, which may be partially or fully completed when offered for sale, allowing for some customization prior to move-in. Resale homes are previously occupied and owned homes with no location options and limited design options.
Q: How long does it take to build a new home in Austin? A: While the process generally can take 6–9 months, depending on size, location, and customization scope, Thurman Homes’ team and long-term vendor/supplier collaborations often deliver homes much quicker.
Q: Are new homes more expensive? A: A common misconception is that upfront costs for new construction may be higher. Thurman Homes offered in Whisper Valley actually start less than the median home cost in Austin. Additionally, savings from energy efficiency, lower maintenance, and modern materials make it a smart long-term investment.
