Actually, This layout is serving two purposes...
1. A practice for things to come...as in, a more realistic and a larger layout in the basement. (this currently uses Bachmann EZ Track)
2. The buildings are not HO, they are actually my wife's St. Nicholas Square Collection christmas village buildings. This layout is actually a display area for those buildings, with a little dynamic action (i.e. the trains)
So no the buildings are not HO, and, no they are not just for weight, but more as a learning tool...so that when I clear out the back corner of the basement (in the spring) I have somewhat 'honed' my skills.
Justin