Builder Takes Buyers to School

For many of the nearly 1.5 million Americans who will buy new homes this year, the entire process -- from choosing a builder to moving in -- will be an extremely stressful and sometimes mystifying experience. One Pennsylvania builder is tackling that fear of the unknown by guiding buyers through the ins and outs of building their home.

Dewey Homes runs an innovative program called "Dewey University," where they educate buyers about the entire process. In just a few hours, Dewey employees teach customers about everything from the initial sale, lot clearing and selection process to the construction and final presettlement inspection.

"Dewey U. allows our buyers to get to know us better," says Ken Dewey, executive vice president. "We give our customers the knowledge they need and then they know what to expect."

Held every six weeks at the corporate office in Paoli, Pa., Ken and his brother John Dewey, president of the company, often run the seminars. Representatives from the sales, construction and warranty departments also attend. The seminars have received a tremendous response since they began two years ago.

Dewey Homes is a mid-sized builder, with 130 closings last year. They have received numerous awards including "Community of the Year" and "Best Model Home Under $350,000" in 1998 from the Main Line Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties.