Once you've decided that you're ready to buy a new home, you'll probably find yourself noticing all sorts of things that might have escaped your attention in the past. Maybe you'll even take a look at magazines, articles, websites, and TV shows that cover the many aspects of making a home that expresses your personality, your attitudes, and your philosophy of life?and lifestyle. And if you've already started touring new homes, there's a high likelihood that you already have a growing checklist of ?must haves? and ?maybes? and ?definitely nots? going.



If you're reading this article, chances are you know exactly what we're talking about. And you're packed and ready for the journey towards home ownership. So travel along with us as we explore what's new, what's growing in popularity, what's hip and hot, and

what's up ahead in the not-so-distant future. Consider this article a road map. Keep in mind that it won't tell you where to head, though. No side streets, off-the-beaten-tracks or cul-de-sacs are shown. But when it comes to making a home your very own, it's sometimes as much as about how you got there as it is reaching that final destination. Bon Voyage!

Currently, the most popular architectural look for new homes in South Texas is, without a doubt, right out of the Old World. More specifically, it's the Italianate look of Tuscany and the sunny Mediterranean. With a little bit of Mexico and the Texas Hill Country thrown in for good measure. Which certainly makes a lot of sense, since South and Central Texas and the Rio Grande Valley have a lot in common, climate-wise, with that part of Europe.

What are the signatures of this trendy style in a home? Instead of brick, look for stone and stucco. Preferably done with rustic finishes that have the patina of age?even antiquity. Another element you'll frequently see is a tile or metal roof?both of which are very sensible for our region. The optimum effect is one of the luxury of handcraftsmanship and things made to last?well, practically forever. Perfect for a more gentle, gracious way of life.