A Smarter Way to Compare New Homes

When you’re searching for a new home, comparing floor plans and prices is easy. But the true difference between builders becomes clear when you look at what’s actually included — and what you’ll end up paying more for later.

That’s where New Home Inc’s Duncan’s Creek in Lillington, NC stands apart from Stone Barrow by Mattamy Homes.

According to the “Dare to Compare” report, buyers at Stone Barrow would need to spend $109,575 in upgrades just to match what comes standard at Duncan’s Creek.

It’s not simply a comparison of homes — it’s a comparison of value, innovation, and lifestyle.

Smart Home Features Built In, Not Added On

A modern home should work smarter, not harder. At Duncan’s Creek, smart technology is part of the standard package—no upgrade pricing, no “optional” tech bundles.

Standard smart features include:

• Ecobee Smart Thermostat

• Ring Video Doorbell

• Smart Switch system

• CAT6 network panel

• Wi-Fi-enabled garage door opener

• Smart front door lock

• 220V EV charging outlet

Stone Barrow by Mattamy charges individually for each one:

• EV outlet: +$650

• CAT6 network wiring: +$700

• Smart door lock: +$950

• Smart switches: +$750

• Ring Doorbell: +$300

• Wi-Fi garage opener: +$1,200

At Duncan’s Creek, your home is designed for today’s connected lifestyle — right out of the box.

A Healthier Home Without the Extra Price Tag

New Home Inc puts a major emphasis on healthier living and energy efficiency — and at Duncan’s Creek, these features are standard.

Included:

• Fresh air intake with MERV 11 filters

• Integrated return ventilation system

• EcoSelect™ certification

• Garage insulation (R-60)

At Stone Barrow (Mattamy Homes), these features cost extra:

• Fresh air intake HVAC: +$750

• Garage insulation: +$750

The result? Better air quality, more consistent temperatures, and lower utility bills — without surprise add-ons.

Exterior Features That Elevate Curb Appeal

Duncan’s Creek homes are built with enhanced exterior features that would cost buyers thousands more at Stone Barrow by Mattamy Homes.

Included at Duncan’s Creek:

• Padded front porch columns

• Large wooded homesites

• Sealed & conditioned crawl space (lot specific)

• Stone or brick wainscoting

• Extended rear patio (per plan)

• Premium screened porch details

Stone Barrow upgrade prices include:

• Wooded homesite: +$30,000

• Conditioned crawl space: +$10,000

• Screen porch enhancements: +$900

• Large patio: +$12,000

• Stone/brick accents: +$5,000

At Duncan’s Creek, enhanced curb appeal doesn’t require an upgrade budget.

Interior Trim, Details, and Craftsmanship — Already Included

Inside the home, Duncan’s Creek offers an elevated level of detail and craftsmanship that sets it apart from typical “builder-basic” finishes.

Standard interior features:

• Full Craftsman trim package

• Board & batten wainscoting

• 4¼” crown molding

• Open-railing staircase

• Ceiling fan in family room

• Fan pre-wires in key rooms

Stone Barrow by Mattamy charges:

• Trim package: +$5,850

• Crown/wainscoting: +$1,250

• Open staircase: +$675

• Family room ceiling fan: +$350

• Fan pre-wires: +$500

These details create a custom-feel home — without the custom-level pricing.

Kitchens Built for Real Life (Not Real Estate Upgrades)

Duncan’s Creek kitchens are designed around everyday functionality and hosting — and they come stocked with features other builders treat as paid options.

Included:

• Ceramic tile backsplash

• Multi-sided kitchen island (per plan)

• Pendant lighting pre-wire

• Deep 8" single-bowl sink

• Messy Kitchen (per plan)

• Walk-In Power Pantry (per plan)

Stone Barrow (Mattamy Homes) upgrade costs:

• Tile backsplash: +$1,500

• Island: +$3,950

• Pendant lights: +$1,200

• 8" sink: +$350

• Messy Kitchen: +$10,000

• Walk-in Power Pantry: +$5,000

Duncan’s Creek gives you the storage, prep space, and style you need — before you ever open your wallet.

Bathrooms That Feel Like an Upgrade — Without Being One

New Home Inc elevates every owner’s suite with spa-like design:

Included:

• Large 42x42 tile shower

• Bench seating

• Quartz vanity countertops

Stone Barrow pricing:

• Tile shower upgrade: +$3,500

• Quartz counters: +$1,500

Where Stone Barrow upsells luxury, Duncan’s Creek delivers it upfront.

Duncan’s Creek: A Community with Heart and Natural Beauty

What truly sets Duncan’s Creek apart is its community design — something Mattamy Homes’ Stone Barrow doesn’t match.

Highlights at Duncan’s Creek:

• Walking trails through wooded areas

• Scenic ponds throughout the neighborhood

• Playground and green space for families

• Privacy-rich wooded homesites

• Quiet streets and a nature-oriented setting

• Close to the Cape Fear River, Downtown Lillington, parks, and schools

(Infographic 8: “Community Comparison — Duncan’s Creek Advantage”)

This is a community built around wellness, recreation, and connection — not just homes.

The Bottom Line: What You’d Spend Elsewhere

When you compare Duncan’s Creek to Stone Barrow by Mattamy Homes, the numbers speak for themselves:

The value built into every Duncan’s Creek home isn’t just noticeable — it’s unmatched.

Don’t Upgrade Your Countertops — Upgrade Your Expectations

At Duncan’s Creek, smart technology, healthier living, better design, and an exceptional community all come included.

If you're exploring new homes in Lillington NC, start with Duncan’s Creek — and see the difference that true built-in value makes.