"Saving the trees on your lot when you clear feels great, but when the lot is cleared, the tree's profile changes quickly and not always for the better." Saving trees makes us feel good. Unfortunately, the shape and scope of a lone tree change quickly and dramatically when it is given space to grow. I have seen more people have to remove trees after just a few years of … [Read more...]
The Popular Plans
"Builders have popular plans for a reason. They can build them cheaper and the home functions better. Ask the builder which plans they like and then ask them 'why'?" You should always ask the builder not only what plan they like - but why they feel that way. Over time, all successful builders have found a plan (or several) with efficiencies in material use (means they … [Read more...]
Green is no longer ‘Elective’
Earthcraft Certified. LEED Certified. ‘High-Performance’ Housing ‘Energy Star’ Compliant. The incredible and powerful shift to responsible building techniques is both powerful and permanent. Building GREEN will continue to become more and more prevalent as both techniques and materials become more accepted and less expensive. It is a trend I think we all recognize as … [Read more...]
What Does it Cost to Build a Home?
Obviously, these costs vary by size, style, area, overall conditions in the marketplace and a host of other considerations, but generally speaking, most home builders follow a version of this economic model. Builder Costs (21%) Sales Commissions Closing Costs Deferred Marketing Advertising Contingency General Administration Cost Profit Income … [Read more...]
Hardwood Floors
Buyer - “Look at the hardwood floors…. they are beautiful!” Seller – “Cha-ching” It is the most common refrain from almost any buyer when they see wood floors (of ANY age) that have been well maintained. Not only do they add a sense of luxury and class, they last far longer and greatly enhance air quality. A good wood floor is arguably the ultimate investment in that it is … [Read more...]
