FAQ
The Answers You Need
Will you build from a purchased plan?
Yes, but keep in mind plans purchased online rarely meet the criteria to be submitted to the county for permitting. These plans often need modifications and will need to go to engineering for structural design.
Are design costs included in your price?
No, any design work is done at an additional cost. Generally, I would have you work with a designer that I have used. Any fees would be for their time and mine. Once the plans are finished, they are yours and you are not obligated to build with me.
I noticed you use designers rather than an Architect. Why is that?
This may be a personal preference, but in my experience, designers are much cheaper and better at listening to and meeting the desires of the customer.
What does it typically cost to have a plan designed?
a. That varies widely depending on the size of the home, the style and the details. I have had plans designed for as little as $3,000 and some approaching $10,000.
b. I have several avenues to use depending on how much information you have and I will recommend to you what path I feel would suit you best to meet your desires in the most cost-effective way possible.
Do you have your own crews?
a. The crews I use are the best local tradesmen that I have a good working relationship with. I do not just bid out the work and go with the cheapest guy. On occasions when I need additional help or find it necessary to replace someone I consult with my current tradesmen and some friends who are also builders. In addition, I check on some of the work they are doing elsewhere.
b. Every job is personally supervised by me. On the occasions when I do not need another set of eyes I have additional resources I can pull from.
Are you more expensive than other builders?
Yes and No. If you compare me to a large production builder more than likely I will be more expensive. Compared to other small builders I am competitive, but I am not willing to compromise my work just to get the job or be the cheapest.
How long does it take to build a home?
a. Typically, from the time the footing is poured it takes 6-8 months to complete a home. I always like to allow for an additional two weeks after the home is complete to walk it with the buyer and complete all items prior to them moving in.
b. You also need to allow 2-3 months to obtain a permit once the final design and engineering have been completed.
c. I am sure some other builders may tell you less, but I have never missed a closing date. In fact, I have even closed a few early.
Do your homes come with a warranty?
a. Yes. All homes come with a 1-year fit and finish warranty along with a 5-year structural warranty. Extended 3rd party warranties are available at an additional cost.
b. Just prior to the end of your warranty you are asked to send in a list of any items that need to be addressed. Typically, these lists are less than 10 items and can be addressed in less than a day.
Do you have different levels of quality depending on the cost of the home?
No. Quality is our standard, not an option.
What areas do you build homes?
I live in Williamsburg and try to keep all projects within 30 minutes. I found this allows me the time I need to manage projects appropriately.
Do you do remodeling?
I stopped doing remodeling in 2012. I feel these projects are best serviced by companies where this is their primary focus whereas mine is building new homes.
Are you insured?
Yes, I am fully insured and have never had any claims.
Are you licensed?
Yes, I have had my Class A since 2002 and always carry the appropriate licensing for any jurisdiction I am working in. My Class A is also Bonded, just another level of security for my customers.
Have you ever been sued?
No, not even a threat. I am a straight forward guy. If I tell you I am going to do something I do it. If for some reason I am unable too I will tell you why.
How are you different than other builders?
I am sure we all have our unique qualifications. Personally, I have worked for the largest privately-owned building company, the largest national builder and some smaller custom builders. In addition, I have worked in land development and ran a warranty department for these building companies. In my opinion the experience gained from that stands alone and cannot be taught in school. I am not aware of any builder in this area with this diverse mix of experience.
Are you involved with any charities?
Everyone has a different way of giving back. I am not the type person that gets involved for “photo ops” or show. The things I do are on a very private and personal level. Often the folks I help don’t even know I was involved. In the times they do know I try to keep it private. There is nothing like the feeling of helping someone who really needs it, but being totally anonymous. I know that my style is not for everyone, but for me, at least for now, this is how I prefer it.