The 2011 Spring Parade of Homes continues on Saturday and Sunday for a second weekend of tours.

The event features 21 brand new homes constructed by Home Builders Association of Craven and Pamlico Counties member builders. The houses are divided into price categories and include starter homes, family homes, and homes suitable for retirement years, said Janie Figueroa, the association’s executive officer.

“There’s something for everyone,” Figueroa said,

The houses are open from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and visitors may rate the homes at the Sun Journal’s website. The house that receives the highest rating will receive the People’s Choice Award.

Walk-through traffic on the first weekend of tours was vigorous, Figueroa said.

“There’re definitely people out there looking to buy houses,” she said.

Each of the builders meets the association’s standards for integrity, credibility and professionalism, Figueroa said, and all of the houses come with a builder’s warranty.

“Buying a new home has a lot of advantages as opposed to buying a pre-owned home,” she said.

Buyers who purchase a home in the planning stages are able to choose finishes, and new houses come with updated, energy efficient appliances and the latest in building materials.

The Spring Parade of Homes has been an annual event for at least 30 years, Figueroa said.

More information on the Home Builders Association of Craven and Pamlico Counties is available from its website at newbernbulders.com.

P. Christine Smith can be reached at 252-635-5666 or pcsmith@freedomenc.com.