This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The dream of buying a new home can quickly turn into a nightmare for any homebuyer who hasn't done their homework. Unexpected energy costs, outdated building materials and inefficient floor plans have a habit of hiding from homebuyers until well after they've moved in and the honeymoon is over.

That's why it's crucial to learn what makes a home smart before you ever take the keys. It's important to understand that you're not only buying a new home for you and your family, but you're also living with the homebuilder's business practices for years to come.

1. Energy efficiency

Do you know how thick the exterior walls are? Is the garage (including the garage door) insulated? What about solar panels to help with energy costs?

Making a home energy efficient is about more than just the type of insulation that is stuffed into the walls that you can see. It's also about making a space that maximizes circulation, and smarter home technology to reduce monthly energy costs and best practices before you move in. Try asking your builder how their floor plan maximizes light and airflow to make sure you're not flushing money each month.

At Sego Homes, for example, exteriors are built with 2x6 walls using sustainable materials that require less maintenance and help keep homes energy efficient. Functional roofs with decks can be fitted with solar panels to help generate electricity year-round and Sego Homes is a 100% ENERGY STAR builder, which requires homes undergo a rigorous screening process before you move in.

2. Up-to-date technology

Would you buy a new car with a cassette player?

For many homebuyers, the appeal of a new home can be overwhelming and distracting. It's possible to overlook the wiring when so much attention is paid to the color of the cabinets, carpet, closet size, etc. Rightfully so — there are hundreds of important decisions to make when purchasing a new home.

Picking a new homebuilder that utilizes up-to-date technology is crucial. Is your new home wired for CAT5 cable? What about surround sound in the living room? What about the latest in home automation, including smart thermostats and home connectivity?

Sego Homes incorporates the latest technologies, including USB charging stations in their kitchens and an electronic keyless deadbolt on the front door.

It's also worth asking your builder how adaptable the home will be for future technologies. It's impossible to see into the future, but any reputable builder should be amenable to describing how your home can be easily upgraded.

3. Ventilation

We don't often think about the air that we breathe, but understandably it's one of the most important aspects of a new home. Whether you suffer from the occasional seasonal allergy or if you're hypersensitive year-round, it's vital to know where your air is coming from.

Ask your builder what type of HVAC system they use, its efficiency rating and the type of allergens it can eliminate in your new home. How often do filters need to be replaced?

For instance, Sego townhomes in Daybreak use an enhanced MERV-8 air filtration system. What that means for homebuyers is an air filtration system that rated just below a hospital laboratory, and can filter air particulates between 3 and 10 micrometers. (50 to 100 times thinner than a human hair.)

4. Interior building materials

Insulation is important, but so is what goes on the walls, around the walls — even how the walls go up.

Asking your homebuilder what kind of paint and wall texture they use, how they ventilate the home before you move in and what kind of sustainable environmental practices they use isn't nitpicking — it's a homebuyer's responsibility.

It's vital to understand and expect that your homebuilder uses common-sense and sustainable business practices and materials for your new home — not only for your pocketbook but for future buyers too.

Sego Homes has been building homes for over 30 years. Husband-and-wife team Wayne and Brenda Corbridge put their passion in creating award-winning, long-lasting homes, town homes and condominiums into each design, plan and neighborhood. For more information about Sego Homes go to segohomes.com or call 801-850-2040.