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Lane Boland

Remodel Commander Guide to Make Construction Business Profitable

Remodel Commander

Remodel Commander Guide to Make Construction Business Profitable

Remodel Commander

Running a construction business can be both exciting and challenging. While the demand for construction services is always present, ensuring your business remains profitable is the key to success. 

The experts from Remodel Commander are here to share some straightforward strategies for boosting profits and keeping your business thriving in the competitive construction industry.

  • Know Your Costs Inside Out

Understanding your costs is the foundation of a profitable construction business. This means knowing the big-ticket items like materials and labor and keeping track of minor expenses like transportation, permits, and equipment maintenance. 

A clear picture of your costs can ensure that your pricing is accurate and covers all expenses, leaving room for a healthy profit margin.

Start by creating a detailed budget for each project. Break down every cost component and regularly review it for unexpected expenses. This level of detail helps prevent surprises and ensures you’re not underbidding on projects.

  • Bid Smartly on Projects

Bidding is an art that combines knowledge, experience, and strategy. When bidding on projects, balancing being competitive and ensuring profitability is essential. 

Underbidding might help you win more projects but can lead to thin profit margins or losses. Research the market and your competitors to understand the going rates for similar projects. 

When preparing your bid, factor in your overhead costs, desired profit margin, and any potential risks that could affect the project’s timeline or budget. It’s better to submit a realistic bid that allows for profitability than to win a project at a price that jeopardizes your business’s financial health.

  • Invest in Your Team

Skilled, motivated employees produce quality work and help complete projects on time and within budget—critical factors for profitability. 

Invest in their training and development to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest construction techniques and safety standards. Happy employees are productive, so creating a positive work environment is essential. 

Recognize and reward their hard work regularly and address any concerns or suggestions they may have. A well-trained and satisfied team reduces the chances of costly mistakes and rework, leading to higher profits.

  • Streamline Your Operations

As per the consultants from Remodel Commander, efficiency is critical to maximizing profitability. Streamlining your operations means looking for ways to reduce waste, improve productivity, and optimize resource use. Start by reviewing your processes to identify inefficiencies. 

Are there tasks that could be automated? 

Could materials be ordered more efficiently? 

Are there ways to reduce downtime on job sites?

Consider implementing construction management software to track projects, schedules, and resources in real-time. These tools can help you stay organized, avoid delays, and make informed decisions quickly. 

By running a lean and efficient operation, you can complete projects faster and reduce overhead costs, contributing to higher profits.

Schedule a call with the Remodel Commander to make your business processes easier! 

  • Focus on Customer Satisfaction

“A satisfied customer is one of your best assets,” shared Lane Boland in his latest interview. Happy clients return for future projects and refer your business to others, leading to more work and, ultimately, more profits. 

Deliver quality work, meet deadlines, and maintain clear communication to ensure customer satisfaction. Ask for feedback regularly to ensure you’re meeting your client’s expectations. This could be through surveys, follow-up calls, or even informal conversations. 

  • Diversify Your Services

Relying on a single type of project or client can be risky. Diversifying your services allows you to tap into new markets and revenue streams, reducing the impact of seasonal fluctuations or economic downturns. 

For example, consider branching into commercial or industrial construction if you primarily focus on residential projects.

You might also explore offering services like design consultation, maintenance, or renovation. By diversifying, you increase your earning potential and position your business as a one-stop shop for clients, which can lead to larger, more profitable projects.

  • Manage Cash Flow Effectively

Cash flow is critical in the construction industry, where payment schedules can be irregular. Hear from Remodel Commander experts about why it can affect your business performance. Poor cash flow management can lead to delays in paying suppliers or employees, negatively impacting your business’s reputation and profitability.

To manage cash flow effectively, create a detailed cash flow forecast that tracks incoming and outgoing funds. Stay on top of invoicing and follow up promptly on late payments. 

Consider negotiating payment terms with clients that allow for regular payments throughout the project rather than a large sum at the end. This ensures you have enough cash to cover expenses and keep the business running smoothly.

  • Embrace Technology

Technology is a powerful tool that can transform construction businesses in today’s fast-paced world. Don’t be afraid to invest in new tools and systems to improve your business. While there may be an upfront cost, the long-term benefits of productivity, accuracy, and profitability are well worth it.

Conclusion

Running a profitable construction business requires smart financial management, efficient operations, and a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. 

By understanding your costs, bidding strategically, investing in your team, and embracing technology, you can set your business on a path to sustained profitability. Remember, the key is continually assessing and adapting your strategies.

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Lane Boland

Lane Boland

Lane Boland

Lane Boland

Lane Boland

Lane Boland is a name that pops into the head when most business experts think of a successful remodel consultant. If you already know who he is, you might be aware of his excellence in what he does.

Lane Boland brilliance has been heard before, but have you fully appreciated what he has accomplished? If so, we have a guide that will help you understand what makes him stand out in the remodeling industry!

With no further delay, let’s learn more about his ventures!

Who is Lane Boland?

Lane Boland is a prominent figure in the remodeling and construction industry, known to do magic for struggling businesses. His story is quite interesting and far from typical. 

Lane began his career in the contractor business, but his first venture was less successful than he had hoped. It was quite the opposite—a “burning dumpster fire of cash,” as he describes it. Instead of addressing the root issues like estimating and project management, he expanded, opening multiple locations across cities such as Kansas City, Dallas, and Denver.

Despite his efforts, the profitability issues persisted. Within two years, he decided to sell these businesses to his employees and take some time off in Puerto Rico. 

During this period of retirement, Lane began to study successful business models and strategies deeply. He focused on understanding the secrets behind high-margin businesses and began testing these methods in his first client’s company, CQC Home.

Was He Always A Remodel Consultant?

No, Lane Boland was not always a remodeling consultant. Significant challenges and financial difficulties marked his initial foray into the industry. However, these experiences were instrumental in shaping his future career. After his retirement, Lane’s fascination with perfection and his rigorous study of successful businesses led him to a breakthrough.

The changes he implemented at CQC Home were impressive. In just six months, the company’s revenue soared from $8 million to $11 million annually, with gross profit rising from 27.6% to over 37%. This remarkable turnaround caught the attention of many in the industry and set the stage for the founding of Remodel Commanders.

Remodel Commanders was born out of a need Lane identified—there was a lack of industry-specific training focused on scaling sales and operations while maintaining healthy gross margins. His background and hands-on experience allowed him to fill this gap, and he has since been recognized for his achievements, including being named Pro Remodeler 40 Under 40 in 2023.

Key Qualities of Lane As A Business Consultant

So, what makes Lane Boland an exceptional business consultant? Here are some key qualities that set him apart:

Experience and Resilience

Lane’s journey from struggling contractor to successful consultant showcases his resilience and adaptability. He didn’t let early failures define his career. Instead, he used them as learning opportunities, which has been crucial in his role as a consultant.

Passion for Learning

Lane’s time in Puerto Rico was not just a break but a period of intense learning and analysis. His dedication to understanding what makes businesses succeed allowed him to implement effective strategies and drive substantial growth.

Practical Knowledge

Unlike many consultants who rely on theoretical knowledge, Lane’s approach is grounded in practical, real-world experience. He has firsthand experience with the challenges and solutions in the remodeling industry, making his advice and strategies highly relevant.

Commitment to Innovation

Lane is known for his willingness to invest in new strategies, tactics, and processes. He continuously tests and refines methods to improve various business aspects, from lead generation to talent retention.

Focus on Margins and Growth

One of Lane’s standout qualities is his emphasis on maintaining healthy gross margins while driving business growth. His approach ensures that companies grow financially and sustainably.

Final Thoughts

Lane Boland’s journey from a struggling contractor to a leading remodel consultant is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and innovative thinking. 

His unique background and hands-on experience make him a valuable asset to the remodeling industry, helping businesses thrive and achieve substantial growth.

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Lane Boland

Lane Boland’s Guide To Blend Aesthetics and Functionality in Homes

Remodel Commander

Lane Boland’s Guide To Blend Aesthetics and Functionality in Homes

Remodel Commander

Lane Boland accepts that adding aesthetics and functionality to homes is incredibly tough. Have you signed a new contract for a home remodeling project? If yes, why not turn your clients into HAPPY AND SATISFIED CLIENTS?

Even if your clients have not yet requested that their homes be made aesthetically pleasing, this should not be excluded. So, how do you blend aesthetics and functionality? 

To answer this, we have a detailed guide from experts from Remdoel Commander. So, without any delay, let’s dive in and learn how to do it just right:

1. Optimal Space Planning

The key aspect of any home remodeling project is utilizing space efficiently. It’s all about organizing the layout to maximize functionality and visual appeal. 

Start by analyzing the layout of each room and how you use your space. For instance, in an open-concept living area, you’ll want to create distinct zones for different activities, like cooking, dining, and relaxing, without cluttering the space.

Think about traffic flow and how people move through the space. Avoid placing furniture or features that obstruct pathways. Also, consider the scale and proportion of your furnishings. 

Too much-oversized furniture can overwhelm a small room, while too little can make it feel sparse. By carefully planning the space, you ensure that every area serves its purpose while contributing to the overall aesthetic.

2. Understand Needs & Lifestyle

Designing a home isn’t just about making it look good; it’s about ensuring it works for the people there. Start by understanding your needs and lifestyle. Do you have a growing family? Maybe you need additional storage or a play area. If you work from home, a dedicated office space might be essential.

Lane Boland emphasizes the importance of personalizing your space. If you love to cook, investing in high-quality kitchen appliances and ample counter space should be a priority. If you enjoy entertaining, a spacious dining area or a stylish outdoor living space could enhance your experience.

3. Simplified Design

When blending aesthetics with functionality, simplicity is often the key. A simplified design doesn’t mean sacrificing style but focusing on clean lines, minimal clutter, and thoughtful choices. Go for a neutral color palette with a hint of color through accessories like cushions or artwork. This approach creates a timeless look that doesn’t overwhelm the senses.

In terms of furnishings, choose pieces that offer both style and practicality. For example, a sleek, modern sofa can be paired with a coffee table that provides storage. Simplified design helps maintain a cohesive look throughout the home and ensures that each element serves a purpose without creating visual chaos.

4. Understand the Latest Trends

No consultant must stay behind in the latest home designs to make your renovation project a success. Remember, trends evolve, but choosing ones that fit your style and home’s functionality is essential. 

For example, open shelving has become popular in kitchens, offering aesthetic appeal and easy access to frequently used items. However, balancing this with sufficient closed storage is important to keep the space looking tidy.

Another trend is the use of sustainable materials, which not only look great but also offer environmental benefits. Trends like these can guide your choices, but remember, the best design integrates trends to complement your unique needs and preferences.

5. Natural Light and Ventilation

According to consultants from Remdoel Commander, natural light and proper ventilation are critical components of a well-designed home. They enhance the aesthetic appeal by making spaces feel brighter and more inviting. To maximize natural light and create a sense of openness, try the following: 

  • Large windows 
  • Skylights
  • Strategically placed mirrors

In addition, it is necessary to focus on ventilation. Ensure that rooms have adequate airflow to prevent stuffiness and promote air quality. Consider adding features like ceiling fans or an HVAC system to improve ventilation. These elements enhance functionality and contribute to a pleasant living experience.

6. Material Selection

To blend a home’s functionality and appearance, you must choose the right materials for remodeling. Opt for durable and easy-to-maintain materials that align with your design vision. For example, hardwood floors offer timeless elegance and durability, while natural stone countertops provide a sophisticated look and long-lasting performance.

Lane Boland suggests mixing materials to create visual interest. Combining different textures, such as a smooth marble countertop with a rough brick backsplash, adds depth and character to your space.

Conclusion

Blending aesthetics with functionality in your home design involves thoughtful planning and consideration of various elements. 

For more updates on home remodels and rebuilds, follow more posts from our website!

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Lane Boland

Remodel Commander Guide To Quality Control in Construction

Lane Boland

Remodel Commander Guide To Quality Control in Construction

Lane Boland

Lane Boland, owner of Remodel Commander, sets the gold standard for quality control in construction. Quality control is essential to ensure that every project meets high standards and fulfills client expectations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to achieving top-notch quality control, step by step

1. Outline Your Acceptance Criteria

According to Lane Boland, the first step in maintaining quality control is clearly outlining your acceptance criteria. These are the specific standards and requirements that a project must meet to be considered complete and satisfactory. 

Think of them as your blueprint for success. Determining these criteria upfront helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone involved is on the same page.

Acceptance criteria can include everything from material specifications to finishing details. For example, if you’re renovating a kitchen, your criteria might include the type of countertops, the cabinets’ finish, and the fixtures’ quality. Setting these benchmarks early on provides a clear target for the team to aim for.

2. Create a Checklist

Once you’ve outlined your criteria, the next step is to create a detailed checklist. This checklist will act as a road map for the project, guiding you through each phase and ensuring nothing gets overlooked. 

Remodel Commander‘s practical approach is: “Break down the checklist into sections that align with your acceptance criteria—such as structural work, electrical systems, and finishes.”

A well-organized checklist helps keep the project on track and provides a way to monitor progress. By marking off completed tasks, you can easily see what’s been done and what still needs attention. This also helps identify any issues early, allowing for timely corrections.

3. Define the Expectations

Clear communication is key in any construction project, and defining expectations is a big part of it. Ensure everyone involved understands what is expected of them and the standards they must meet. This includes subcontractors, suppliers, and your team.

Communicate these expectations through detailed project briefs, regular meetings, and written documentation. For instance, if you expect a certain level of finish on drywall, make this clear in the project specifications and ensure the team understands the importance of meeting these standards.

4. Have an Inspection Plan

Lane Boland says an effective inspection plan is crucial for quality control. This plan outlines how and when inspections will occur throughout the construction process. Inspections help identify deviations from the set standards and allow for corrections before they become more significant.

Develop a schedule for inspections at key milestones, such as after structural work is completed, before drywall installation, and after finishing touches are applied. Ensure to involve experienced inspectors who can objectively assess and catch potential problems early.

5. Correct Deficiencies

Even with the best planning, issues can arise during construction. When they do, it’s essential to address them promptly. Correcting deficiencies means fixing any problems that don’t meet your acceptance criteria. This could involve redoing work, replacing materials, or adjusting to ensure everything is up to standard.

Create a system for reporting and tracking deficiencies. This might involve a form or software where issues are logged and assigned to the appropriate team members for resolution. Regular follow-ups ensure that deficiencies are addressed promptly, preventing delays and maintaining the overall quality of the project.

Review and Revise

“Finally, review and revise your quality control processes regularly,” suggest experts from Remodel Commanders. At the end of each project, assess what went well and what could be improved. Gather feedback from your team, clients, and any other stakeholders involved.

Use this feedback to refine your acceptance criteria, checklists, inspection plans, and overall approach to quality control. Continuous improvement is key to maintaining high standards and ensuring that each project exceeds expectations.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps—outlining acceptance criteria, creating a checklist, defining expectations, having an inspection plan, correcting deficiencies, and reviewing and revising—you can ensure that your construction projects meet and exceed quality standards. 

Remodel Commander exemplifies how effective quality control leads to exceptional results, and with these practices, you’ll be on your way to achieving the same level of excellence.

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The Home Building Process

Custom Home Land Search Tips

Considering or already looking for a lot for your home?

Acquiring the right piece of property to build you dream home can be a daunting task that is time consuming and monotonous.  Most people, armed with their Zillow App head to the hills to see what they can find in the land search quest.  This usually ends up with heat exhaustion, twisted ankles, mosquito bites, ticks and chiggars.  If your lucky, the rattlesnakes will leave you alone.

As things progress, questions will arise…

  • Where are the property lines?
  • Is this the lot?
  • Does the house I want to build fit the lot?
  • Is there power to the property? Is it overhead or underground?
  • Do I have to drill a well?
  • Septic Tank (eeeew… is that even sanitary?)
  • I don’t have a signal… Can I get a landline? Do I need one?
  • Can I build on the side of a hill? Is that going to cost more?
  • Can we maximize that view?!
  • Can we block the view of the neighbor’s house?
  • Is that a dry creek bed running across this lot?
  • Why is this lot so cheap compared to the others?
  • What school district is this in?
  • What are the county taxes?
  • Do I have to pay cash for the lot? Is it better to finance?
  • How much will it cost to build on this lot.

That’s just a few of the questions and concerns we’ve heard over the years; but that last one is in bold print, because it really is the bottom line.  When you’re looking at purchasing a lot, the evaluation process should focus on one thing.  With the budget I have in mind… Can I build the house of my dreams on this property?  Secondarily, Can/should I think about adjusting my budget if it checks all the boxes?

If you do decide to brave it alone and do your own homework, here are a few tips…

  • Take plenty of water and a few snacks
  • Have an idea where the closest place is for a potty break
  • Take a first aid kit
  • Narrow it down before you go
  • Be careful about trapsing through tall grass and wooded areas
  • Especially in Texas, respect private property
  • If you see anything painted purple turn around. Someone takes their private property seriously and know their rights
  • We recommend the Land Glide App at https://app.landglide.com/ to assist in determining (generally) where property lines are located Google Maps can be helpful too.

Download our Lot Evaluation Checklist to make sure you are asking the right questions and making informed decisions OR… Call our design center today to inquire about assistance with your land search.  We have licensed real estate agents available to assist you with your land search, make offers, and negotiate a great deal for you… All at a discounted rate!!! Let us do the leg work!

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Home Remodeling

Elevating Your Home: Exploring High-Performance Home Remodeling

Remodeling your home is an exciting endeavor, offering a chance to breathe new life into your living space while adding value and functionality. In recent years, the concept of high-performance home remodeling has gained traction, as homeowners seek to integrate sustainable and energy-efficient features into their revamped spaces. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of high-performance home remodeling, exploring the benefits, key considerations, and transformative features that can elevate your home to a new level of efficiency and sustainability. Energy Efficiency Upgrades:
  1. When it comes to high-performance home remodeling, energy efficiency takes center stage. Consider these key upgrades to enhance your home’s energy performance:
  1. a) Insulation: Improve your home’s insulation by upgrading to high-quality materials and sealing any air leaks. This ensures optimal temperature control, reduces energy loss, and lowers heating and cooling costs.
  2. b) Window Upgrades: Replace old, inefficient windows with energy-efficient alternatives. Double or triple-pane windows with Low-E coatings can significantly reduce heat transfer and provide better insulation, allowing for more efficient temperature regulation.
  3. c) LED Lighting: Replace traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights throughout your home. LED bulbs consume less energy, have a longer lifespan, and produce less heat, making them an excellent choice for reducing electricity consumption.
Sustainable Materials and Finishes:
  1. High-performance home remodeling embraces sustainable materials and finishes that reduce environmental impact while enhancing aesthetics. Consider these options:
  1. a) Eco-Friendly Flooring: Opt for sustainable flooring materials like bamboo, cork, or reclaimed hardwood. These choices are durable, renewable, and add a touch of natural beauty to your space.
  2. b) Low-VOC Paints: Choose low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or zero-VOC paints to minimize indoor air pollution. These paints emit fewer harmful chemicals, ensuring better indoor air quality and a healthier living environment.
  3. c) Recycled or Reclaimed Materials: Incorporate recycled or reclaimed materials into your remodeling project. For instance, reclaimed wood can be repurposed for cabinetry, furniture, or accent walls, adding a unique touch to your space while reducing the demand for new materials.
Smart Home Integration:
  1. Integrating smart home technology into your high-performance remodeling project can enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Consider the following upgrades:
  1. a) Smart Thermostats: Install a programmable or smart thermostat to regulate temperature settings and optimize energy usage. These devices learn your habits, allowing you to control heating and cooling remotely and saving energy when you’re away.
  2. b) Automated Lighting Systems: Implement smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely or through voice commands. This allows you to easily manage your lighting, adjust brightness, and set schedules, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
  3. c) Energy Monitoring Systems: Install energy monitoring devices that provide real-time data on your energy usage. These systems help you identify areas of inefficiency, allowing you to make informed decisions on reducing energy consumption.
Water Efficiency Upgrades:
  1. High-performance home remodeling extends to water efficiency upgrades that conserve this precious resource. Consider the following features:
  1. a) Low-Flow Fixtures: Replace old faucets, showerheads, and toilets with water-saving fixtures. Low-flow options reduce water consumption without compromising performance, resulting in significant water savings over time.
  2. b) Rainwater Harvesting: Install a rainwater harvesting system to collect and store rainwater for irrigation or non-potable water usage. This reduces reliance on municipal water sources and conserves water resources.
High-performance home remodeling offers an opportunity to transform your living space into a sustainable, energy-efficient, and technologically advanced haven. By incorporating energy efficiency upgrades, sustainable materials and finishes, smart home integration, and water efficiency measures, you can create a home that not only reduces its environmental impact but also enhances your comfort and overall quality of life. Embrace the potential of high-performance home remodeling to elevate your living experience while contributing to a greener future.
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Home Remodeling

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Home with Design-Build Remodeling Services

flat renovation, apartment refurbishment, room modernization
Your home is a reflection of your personality and a sanctuary where cherished memories are made. However, as time goes by, your needs and preferences evolve, leaving your living spaces in need of a refreshing transformation. This is where design-build remodeling services come to the rescue, offering a seamless and comprehensive approach to renovating your home. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and advantages of design-build remodeling services, highlighting why they are the ultimate solution for homeowners looking to revamp their living spaces.
  1. Streamlined Collaboration: One of the standout features of design-build remodeling services is the integration of design and construction under a single entity. By working with a design-build firm, you benefit from a streamlined collaboration process where home designers, and construction experts collaborate from the initial concept to the final execution. This cohesive approach ensures better communication, efficient decision-making, and a more cohesive end result.
  2. Enhanced Efficiency: Design-build remodeling eliminates the need for separate agreements, meetings, and priorities with architects, designers, and contractors. Instead, you have a single point of contact responsible for overseeing the entire project. This integrated approach significantly reduces miscommunications, delays, and conflicts that often arise when multiple parties are involved. The result is a streamlined workflow, faster project completion, and reduced costs.
  3. Customized Solutions: Design-build firms prioritize understanding your unique vision and lifestyle needs. They work closely with you to encompass your ideas into functional and aesthetically pleasing designs. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or a complete home makeover, design-build professionals have the expertise to transform your dreams into reality. Their deep knowledge of construction techniques and materials ensures that your design satisfies not only form and function, but also practical building techniques that meet the needs of your design..
  4. Budget-Friendly Approach: Home remodeling projects can quickly become overwhelming when multiple contractors and designers are involved. Design-build remodeling services provide a clear picture of the costs involved right from the beginning. With a dedicated team responsible for both design and construction, they can provide accurate estimates, prioritize your budget, and propose cost-effective alternatives without compromising on quality.
  5. Time-Saving Solution: Design-build remodeling services are known for their time-saving capabilities. With the entire project managed by a single entity, there are fewer delays, streamlined decision-making, and a more efficient construction process. Additionally, design-build firms have established relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, allowing for better coordination and timely delivery of materials, further accelerating the project timeline.
  6. Fewer Change Orders: The by-product of all the benefits and advantages above naturally produce fewer change orders and disagreements. With streamlined communication, fewer information relays, and more informed and efficient decision-making, there will be fewer changes leading to fewer delays and tighter budgets.
Design-build remodeling services offer homeowners a comprehensive and stress-free solution to transform their living spaces. By combining design, construction, and project management expertise into one unified team, homeowners can expect a seamless process from start to finish. The advantages of streamlined collaboration, enhanced efficiency, customized solutions, budget-friendly approaches, and time-saving benefits make design-build remodeling an appealing option for those seeking to revitalize their homes. Don’t wait any longer—unlock the full potential of your home with design-build remodeling services and embark on a journey of transformation!
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Hiring a Builder Personality

Avoid These 7 Builders When Hiring a Contractor

Hiring a builder to build your dream home can be a somewhat daunting task.  There are many pitfalls and sales gimmicks.   I have personally seen some of these mistakes made as I have had the unfortunate opportunity to take over jobs that were started by unscrupulous builders that were fired or shut down by the bank. It’s always hard to see people in this position.  Below, you will find a short list of builders to avoid. Avoid hiring the wrong builder for the type of home you want to build…  If you are looking for a Custom or Semi Custom Home, obviously you don’t want to hire a production builder.  Some of these builders do have Custom Home divisions, but really, all these large scale builders are nothing more than a bank disguised as a builder.  Do you want a bank building your home?  Or, would you rather hire a professional who has experience building quality, high performance custom homes in the areas you want to build? Additionally, ask your builder what his experience is… Has your builder ever swung a hammer for a living?  Did he ever do any of his own work?  If not, can he really understand how to solve problems on the jobsite? Avoid Hiring the Cheapest Option…  The cheapest option is only the best option if your decision making process is based on the dollar.  There are many other things to consider when building a home.  Value is provided in many ways. Here is a short list of other things that add value.  Timeliness, cleanliness, experience, quality of work, ability to estimate properly and stay on budget. These are just a few intangibles that add value and reduce stress around the job. Most likely, your low bidder falls short in these categories. Avoid Builders Who Don’t Offer A Warranty… The industry standard in Texas is (1) Year Workmanship, (2) Years for all systems (plumbing, electrical, & HVAC) (10) Years for all Structural Items.  If your builder is not meeting this or (preferably) exceeding this, keep looking! Avoid Builders That Tell You They Offer “Additional 3rd Party Inspections”  Please understand… We of course encourage our clients to obtain 3rd Party Inspections if they want them.  However, we prefer that the client contract for these inspections on their own.  If a builder provides a 3rd party inspection from an inspector they use over and over again, is that really a 3rd party inspection?  Avoid Hiring Builders Who Are Not Local… Local knowledge is an important piece of the puzzle.  Knowing what foundation types are acceptable and the soil types in each area are extremely helpful in accurate preliminary pricing. But, it doesn’t stop there, knowing the ins and outs of the local market and customary building practices make for a smooth build. Beware of franchises and large scale builders that trade on being local, but are in fact an entire business model that we are not accustomed to. Avoid Builders That Use Bait & Switch Tactics… It seems like this might be kind of difficult given that you are building a custom home, but here is how this one plays out.  You come to the builder with a set of plans or choose a plan from “stock” the builder applies a set of low end specifications to the plan and gives you a price. You sign and pay a deposit, but as you go through the selections process, the price skyrockets as you go because your selections differ from the standard specs. Avoid Builders That Quote a Price/SF… The price per square foot is a WILDLY INACCURATE way of pricing a home.  This question is common, but has no real meaning. If you take 2 houses with different floor plans, there will be a number of variables that can never be reconciled. 2 houses of the same 2500 square feet can be shaped differently. One house could have more exterior and/or interior walls. This would use more lumber, drywall, fasteners, insulation, sheathing, stucco, etc. A roof with gables is typically bigger, or maybe it’s a higher pitch.  A typical allowance budget for a home of this size could be $60-$70k. With different clients making selections, that number could be $45k (for a frugal person on a budget) or $100k for those with a healthier budget and an opulent lifestyle. These are just a few of the variables.  This could result in a $50/SF swing either direction. Additionally, bait and switch tactics are common with the price per square foot model because it’s hard to know what all is included for that price.  
Categories
Custom Home Design

All About Our Signature Style, “Rustic Elegance”

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Throughout the years, we have seen the popularity of many different home styles, from the classic architectural styles studied in college to the modern takes on some of those styles like “Modern Ranch” or “Modern Farmhouse”. We have had the pleasure of working on many of these styles including Ranch, Tudor, Federal, traditional Farmhouse, and Craftsman.

Currently, we are finishing an extensive remodel that not only underwent a change of floor plan but a change of style as well. This house has been transformed from an English Tudor to a Romanesque Revival. While we love the diversity of architecture in our area, we truly enjoy building our signature style which we call “Rustic Elegance”.

Rustic Elegance is a blend of many styles of architecture. We will lay it out from top to bottom below…

The Roof

With this home, you will find many different roof lines. Some hips, a few gables and low-pitched sheds create a complex, but pleasing style with many points of interest. You may also find a dormer or two and second story or attic walls above roof lines. Galvalume Standing Seam is a favorite with this house.

The Exterior

This is where we really think this home shines. First, throw the rules out the window. The exterior can be just about anything. From rustic barn wood to stone or stucco, the key to “Rustic Elegance” is a marriage of different styles to include usually 3 different materials such as Stone (as a wainscot), Stucco, and Brick (for trims and accent walls), and heavy wood beams for that timber-framed look.

Between the roof and the exterior, this home drips with curb appeal and appeals to the masses with the clean lines and smooth surfaces provided by stucco, along with that rough, rustic use of timber. There is a little something in it for everyone.

We can also skew that one way or the other with material selection. Smooth stone will tip toward elegance and rough stone and tumbled, or handmade brick will tip toward rustic. For families that enjoy more of that rustic look, we can design and accent the walls in a way that looks like multiple houses or buildings were cobbled together fantastically to make one huge home.

The Interior

Moving inside, the key remains the same. Marriage of materials… Bring the outside in to provide accents. Same principles apply with regards to selections to suit your taste. Whether your motif is a fishing lodge in Colorado or stately spaces like the White House, your selections and furnishings will pull it off.

You would be surprised by how well the contrast of farmhouse shiplap and clean superb craftsmanship of a cased opening comes together to create an interesting focal point. A mix of high barreled, groin-vaulted, or stepped ceilings adds a touch of flair. Arches and columns can bring in a little elegance. Beams or open trusses can add interest to any room. From one room to the next, you must wonder what’s around the next corner.

Early on, when we began building this style of home, the Tuscan theme was very popular. We have found recently that this style fits very well with the recent revival of Farmhouse architecture and the “grayscapes” that typically accompany that style.

Many families have differing tastes within the family, and Rustic Elegance is, in our opinion, the perfect way to blend those tastes and create a unique look that is all your own.

Interested in using our Rustic Elegance style for your custom home? Call us to set up an initial appointment and meet our home builders.

 

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Categories
Home Remodeling

Increase Your Home Value with a Kitchen Upgrade

217 Valley Oak
The kitchen is the heart of the home. For many families, it’s where a lot of quality time is spent! Having a kitchen that is updated, spacious and welcoming can also greatly increase the home value – and should be a top priority for any homeowner. Here are a few things to consider when thinking about a kitchen upgrade.

1. What’s It Going To Cost?

The kitchen is one of the most important aspects to potential home buyers, but a full kitchen renovation typically costs anywhere between $5,000-$150,000. Be prepared to budget – and hire a builder that will deliver the biggest bang for your buck.

2. How Can I Save Money?

Brand new appliances will take up most of your budget. However, you can save big by reusing some of the things you already own. Paint your current cabinets instead of buying new ones. Keep your plumbing in the same spot. And don’t forget to check for any good deals at the Habitat For Humanity ReStore (or other discounted/resale stores) in your area.

3. What’s the Payback?

It all depends on how much you put in. In Texas, the average return on investment for a major kitchen remodel is 59%. If you spend $30,000, you could hypothetically expect an increase of $18,000 in your home’s value. Keep in mind there is no guaranteed standard of increase in home value for kitchen remodels. To get a far more accurate estimate on your home, we recommend scheduling a free interview with one of our expert builders. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen to sell or you want to re-do it for yourself, Carson Custom Homes has got you covered. Contact us for more information on how you can achieve your dream kitchen.