Highland Homes Reviews

Another issue is that when we turned in a request to install a new 6' PVC privacy fence (in the backyard) they want it installed on the property line (both sides of the backyard). The problem is that there is a utility easement of 5' on both sides of the backyard. Therefore we moved the fence in from that utility easement of 5' and they denied our request for the fence. You should not install anything somewhat permanent on any utility easement! We learned that years ago through experience! If you are looking to purchase a new home in the Ocala area I would recommend that you pass up this builder! There are many other great builders in the Ocala, Florida area.

My primary concern revolves around the AC system's inability to adequately cool the entire house, with a particular emphasis on the master bedroom. Despite submitting multiple warranty requests and receiving numerous visits from Strada Services, the appointed HVAC company, the problem remains unresolved. On eight separate occasions, or more including July 26th, 2023 Strada Services has attempted various fixes, including adjustments to the attic, vents, ductwork, and insulation, but unfortunately, none of these efforts have proven effective in resolving the cooling issues.

During my investigation, I discovered that my 2005 square-foot home is equipped with an undersized 2.5-ton AC unit, whereas industry standards dictate that it should have been fitted with a 3.5/4-ton unit. It has come to my attention that Highland Homes made the switch to Strada Services from a previous HVAC company due to increased material costs caused by Covid. Intriguingly, homes completed before this transition, including my neighbor's property at 107 Eagle Summit Dr Riskin FL (a 1715 sq ft home), were fitted with correctly-sized AC units (3-ton) model number GSZ140361LB by the previous company, while mine model number GSZ140301KG and some other homes in the neighborhood are grappling with the same issue.

The consequences of this undersized AC unit have been substantial. My utility costs have skyrocketed when compared to similar-sized homes in the area, yet my house remains uncomfortably warm, with the temperature rarely dropping below 77-79 degrees Fahrenheit, even when the AC runs 24/7 on the lowest setting. The master bedroom, in particular, lacks proper cooling, compelling me to rely on additional fans to seek some relief from the stifling heat. Also causing molding and rusting on the air handler due to constant condensation.

As the summer progresses and humidity rises, the situation worsens, making the house unbearably hot. Having to resort to using portable air conditioners in other bedrooms as a makeshift solution is far from satisfactory, especially for a home of this size and caliber. Despite my consistent efforts to communicate these concerns to Highland Warranty Technician, the issue remains unresolved, significantly impacting the quality of life for my family and me. In light of these persisting problems, I urgently request the following actions to be taken: I request the immediate replacement of the current undersized 2.5-ton AC unit to a suitable 3.5/4-ton unit that matches the size of my 2005 square-foot home. Highland Homes has already had about 18 months to solve this.

The work is done fast, without taking the time in providing good quality work. I have taken pictures addressed my concerns to be told it’s still being worked on. The only thing I have seen is the problems are being covered up not taken care of and fixed. I notified the personnel & supervisor in charge of the built regarding my concerns through email, text, pictures & even spoke to them in person. Recently, my home is now closed where I do not have access to entry. When addressed, Sheila from the office told me if the builder closed it I can not see what has been done with my own home until the final walk-through!! Interesting how I addressed these issues and now I’m not able to see my home until it is finally done!! God knows if anything was completed correctly or masked like a bandaid!!

I write this review because I have had 2 new built homes done before. This was suppose to be my new starter home in the beginning I was happy to start a new life in my home and entrusted in Highland Homes to provide a awesome, easy experience with great quality work!! Now I question did I make the biggest mistake!! My advice is check the work to make sure things are being done right!! Because so far all I have seen is poor workmanship, lots of coverup and now the builder failing to allow me to see the home I’m purchasing because I called them out!!

Then the bathroom the tiles lifting off the green starting to spread. Called again. Sent someone over. They took down half the tiles and decided it was the pan cause we had sand coming up in the one corner; new pan tiles broke shower door so they had to replace it. The tiles were not set straight by the toilet or under the lip grout cracking off little pieces leaving space for ants to crawl in. We went on the lani to see if we can see anything... BINGO. There was water on the other side. Damn. We saw a worker and asked him what it was. He says it’s a crack where the wall and floor connect. He fixed it. A while later the grout around the pan is cracked all the way around and the tiles have grout missing and the blue color is back on the outside by the shower. Master bath same stuff. The grout is coming away and also around the tub which we never use. Oh and all the silicone around the vanity, kitchen counter same thing.

The door step (silver plate between the door frames on the floor) are not on right. Well let’s just put some wood shims under them. That’ll fix it again “right” then let’s spread silicone to fill the hole that’s left even in bathroom one. Then the kitchen, vinyl not glued down properly. My vacuum cleaner on low is sucking up my vinyl. Again caulking around the base of the cabinets was done by a kid I am sure. No uniformity. We won’t talk about the pipes or septic or the horrendous smell coming out of my sink!!

Let’s go outside now; they left big holes above the design. We van had ants. Big ones running track up there and in the house again, we never would have known it if the siding hadn’t blown off this year. When they came to fix it the siding was held on by one nail here and there which by the way we had to pay the deductible. There are holes everywhere where things can get in, like a squirrel!!

Susan GG

Now the house price has increased so much and we are stranded because of sales person. Why would you lie to a customer and murder their dream? Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I'd have to back out on my dream house, which I'd invested so much time, money, and energy. With my current lease expiring in a few days, and no home, I am without another option and I have nowhere to go. I am very very dissatisfied with highland homes. Never in my life, I will recommend highland homes to anyone.

Original Review: June 2, 2019

We were going to purchase a Highland inventory home in Artesia. Dolly ** was very gracious initially and told us our earnest money deposit would be refunded if we didn't secure financing. Due to circumstances beyond our control we did not secure financing and decided to wait before buying a new home. When we explained this to Dolly ** of Highland Homes in Prosper, she refused to return the money. Ms. ** said she could only return it if she sold the house. This is not what she said initially or what the contract specified. Ms. ** is heavy handed in her sales approach. The contract language is ambiguous and unclear. If anyone is going to purchase a Highland home from Dolly ** or any salesperson, it would be wise to use an experienced real estate broker or a real estate attorney to advocate on the buyer's behalf. I want people to learn from our experience, so they won't be taken advantage as we were. Sandra **.