Stanbrooke Custom Homes – Custom Homes Seattle

#20 Top Ten Biggest Pitfalls In Building a Custom Home

We believe that this is an excellent time to build a custom home with interest rates at near record low levels, land pricing very affordable and continuing builder incentives. Building a custom home can be a pleasurable experience if you do your homework and know what to expect. In this issue we talk about the pitfalls to avoid as you embark on what should be an enjoyable venture.

Have a Plan. Think through carefully what is important to you in the house. It will become a reflection of your personality and lifestyle. Inevitably, there are choices that need to be made based on your budget, lot characteristics, or jurisdictional requirements. These choices will be made easier if you have carefully thought through priorities.

Choose a builder that is right for you. Your builder should have experience in building homes similar to the one you are envisioning and should be able to work with you comfortably during the design, sales, and building process to make sure your objectives are met. Make sure to look at a few homes the builder has completed, not so much to see the features in the home you are building, but to understand quality and ask questions.

Make sure you’re getting the land at the right price. If you are buying land, you need to do your homework. In many cases, vacant land is selling for 50% of what it did three years ago and you should have significant upward potential in your land purchase over the next five to ten years.

Consider the infrastructure requirements. Utilities can be one of the most costly components in building a custom house. Water, sewer, and power connection fees need to be considered. Sloped lots will increase the cost of construction and often delay completion due to geo-technical requirements. Permit fees may include mitigation fees for parks, roads, and schools

Thinking we’ll add features later may be a mistake. Choosing to delay laying tile or hardwood may seem like a wise choice to save money in the short term. Consider that you may have a challenge later in getting the floors to marry up properly due to underlayment that may or not be used on the flooring choices you have.

Envisioning house placement. Walk your lot a few times before finalizing the house plans. Visualize the landscaping; envision the light and views from the windows. Look at the topography; consider driveway and patio placement.

Reach consensus. We find that when couples or partners fully discuss options and reach a strong agreement on the design and finishes, the process works much better. Otherwise, that decision to “settle” might be a cloud that hangs over the entire building process and saps the enjoyment of it.

Designing in isolation may seem like the smart thing to do, but can often increase costs and make the project infeasible. Often a client hires an architect to design their dream home and the process works well until you get the price from the builder. Generally, you can expect to pay 10 to 15% more for a home that is fully designed prior to getting input from your builder.

Walk the house often during construction. You will notice new things every time you walk a house under construction and some of them may be very important. Ask questions of your builder or superintendent and envision yourself in the finished space as you walk through the house under construction. If there are changes that need to be made, the earlier these are identified, the better it is for all parties.

Pay attention to specifications, contract language, finish details, and personalities. While there are always details to be flushed out during the building process, having a good understanding of what is included in your house before you start construction is smart.

Frequently Asked Questions

#19 Top Ten Summer Bucket List

Now that summer has finally arrived in the Northwest, we decided to take a light hearted approach in this issue and publish our 2011 Summer Bucket List:

Take the street car to the Lake Union Park along the shores of Lake Union. Learn a little about Seattle’s maritime history and enjoy the spacious park. Take your model boat, if you have one, and see how it performs in the Model Boat Pond.

While you are in the area, take a walk a little south to the new Amazon campus and check out one of the Tom Douglas restaurants. It’s a 21 plus venue, but the Bravehorse Tavern offers communal tables and hearty food and drink. Try a hearth baked pretzel or a custom grind burger.

If you’re looking to escape the summer heat, cool down at the Tacoma Museum of Glass and be sure to take a walk along the Chihuly Bridge of Glass.

Mount St. Helens is a great day trip. The Johnston Ridge Observatory at mile marker 52 of SR 504 provides a history of the eruption and a beautiful view of the mountain.

Attend a Stanbrooke open house and dream a little about the house that might be yours next summer. (You knew we had to offer a little shameless self promotion.)

Enjoy an afternoon at the Pike Place Market. Shop for fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables and have a barbeque in your backyard. Be sure to visit the Gum Wall while you’re at the market; if you’re inclined you can make a contribution to the wall. Bubble gum sticks best.

Take the walk on ferry from Seattle to Bremerton and enjoy the City and natural vistas on your way. Explore the shops and restaurants adjacent to the dock. The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard is also nearby. The new Bremerton has a lot to offer.

Hike Mount Si. It’s a little steep and you won’t be alone, but the views of the mountains and the Puget Sound basin are tremendous.

Spend an afternoon at Alki Beach. You may feel like you’ve died and gone to Southern California on a nice August day, but the views, the people, and walking/biking paths make for a great afternoon escape.

If you’re at Alki into the evening, try out the Phoenicia for a light dinner. The small plates and tapas are reasonably priced and provide a feast of Mediterranean tastes.

Go to a hospital when you don’t have to. The new Swedish Medical Center at the Issaquah Highlands is architecturally interesting and gives a new face to hospital food. Try out an artisan pizza at the 1910 café.

Finally, if you can’t decide what to do…maybe take a Duck Tour for a little bit of everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

#18 Top Ten List - A Women's Perspective

Recently, we had the opportunity to view our homes through the perspective of women buyers—an extremely important perspective as women are either the sole or joint decision maker in 95% of the homes we build. While we know that each client is unique and generalities often don’t apply, we took several things away from that process and want to share a few of them with you.

Floor plans are more important than elevations. This is not to say that curb appeal (exterior elevations) is irrelevant. It is to say that our experience is that women like to walk the home in their minds first and envision how they will live in the home while men often gravitate to the curb appeal first.

Entertainment spaces need to reflect lifestyle. Preferences range from the kitchen with a large island that provides a place to congregate to a formal dining room with a butler’s pantry. Spaces for board games or to relax in conversation around a fireplace can be important.

Kid’s spaces vary with age. If the family is young, there is often a preference to have the kid’s bedrooms near the master bedroom while as kids become older, there is often a preference for a split plan where the master is on the opposite side of the main living area or on a different floor from the kid’s bedrooms.

Personal space is increasingly important. A separate room or alcove to read or do craft projects is an increasingly popular option. Custom lighting packages for this space enhance the overall experience.

Covered patios provide great space for entertaining or relaxing on a summer evening. Outdoor kitchens, see thru fireplaces, and flexible lighting can make the space comfortable for a variety of purposes.

Master bathroom design reflects a variety of preferences. Split vanities where the sinks involve separate counter spaces are increasingly popular. Walk in tile showers can provide a space to de-stress after a long day or get prepared for a new day. Television and computer outlets and rainfall shower heads add a little luxury without a big price tag.

Furniture placement can be a paramount consideration in home design. Often, portions of the home are designed around a favorite chair, sofa, cabinet, or dining room table. The right wall space and lighting is important for that favorite piece of artwork or sculpture.

Flexible spaces need to reflect lifestyle as well. That den or craft room may also need to work as a guest room or as a place to home school children during the day. Home offices often need space for multiple computers.

Storage spaces need to be ample including oversized bedroom closets, a kitchen pantry, an alcove in the garage, linen closets and separate coat and guest closets. Spacious cabinets in the laundry area can be a priority An area in the kitchen separate from the food preparation space for chargers, handbags, and electronic devices to be dropped on the way in the house is often important.

Entering the house is visualized for both those that live in it and those that visit. A mud room can provide space to store frequently used coats and shoes and a visual barrier from the rest of the house. A mud room can also ensure that the formal entry is kept clean from clutter that accompanies an active family.

Stanbrooke Custom Homes builds quality home personalized to fit our clients’ lifestyles. Design features that are important to you are equally important to us!

Frequently Asked Questions

#17 Ten Green Things to Consider

We are of the opinion that there is a tremendous amount of “green washing” that goes on in the construction industry where the talk about green practices substantially outpaces the substance. For example, we were recently approached by a cabinet supplier that touted his cabinets as being “green”. When we asked what that meant to him, he said that they were shipped in recycled boxes.

On the other hand, at Stanbrooke we have focused on what we feel are more impactful and value added elements such as long term sustainability, maintenance, and operating costs which are and continue to be a major focus of ours in designing quality homes. This equates to good building science and good design.

Envelope design. We have long been designing homes that are tightly constructed. Recently, we conducted blower door testing on a few of our homes prior to implementing new energy code requirements and were amazed that we met the new required performance levels with absolutely no modification from our long-standing building practices to these homes.

Enclosure. Window quality and installation are critical to long term sustainability in homes. We only use specialists to install our windows that are factory certified because we know this is a major potential risk area.

Efficient materials. The utilization of renewable resources is building responsibly. “Wood is good” and is, in our opinion, the best framing material to use in building your new home. We design responsibly, ensuring the structural integrity is maintained without wasting materials.

Basement design. Many clients still prefer basements because they add square footage to be completed now or later and take advantage of lot slope characteristics. Waterproof technology is critical to ensuring that the basement is dry and comfortable living space. We use a two step waterproofing process that ensures the space is dry while the typical builder only uses one or the other.

Siding Materials. Utilizing materials that last not only reduces the life time operating costs of your home, but also is environmentally friendly. Fiber cement siding is attractive and reduces the overall costs of maintaining your home.

Chemical free. As much as practical, we utilize chemical free products, such as formaldehyde free insulation and no added urea formaldehyde wood products for finish materials.

Energy star appliances are a good option to reduce energy consumption in your home and generally will pay for themselves in a short period of time.

HVAC systems comfortably heat and cool houses today with minimal energy use. Geothermal systems, while having an upfront cost, utilize the heat in the ground to heat and cool the house efficiently and can be a great long term investment.

Radiant floor heating gets a lot of attention, but in our experience, is rarely chosen. When the cost of installation is considered, including the cost associated with additional weight on the structure, under floor piping, and the use of Gyp-Crete on top of wood floors, the cost often approaches $10 per square foot. Nice warm floors result, but you are still left without a cooling solution unless you address that separately.

Options. The use of local products, natural stone products, bamboo flooring, double flush toilets, low VOC paints, and carpets produced from recycled plastic bottles are popular “green” options. We’ll cover more about these in a future issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

#16 Ten reasons why NOW might be the best time to BUILD

Interest rates are favorable. Construction loans are available under 5% and permanent financing is available in the low 4% range. With record federal deficits and inflation looming on the horizon, these rates are not likely to last into 2012.

Home prices are leveling off. Depending on the report you look at, home prices are either slightly down or slightly up in most markets. As foreclosure properties work their way through the system, home prices will start increasing. (Even with the real estate crisis over the last few years, prices in the Seattle market are up 2% over the past five years and 52% over the last ten years.)

Builders are still offering incentives. The soft home-building market continues to provide home-buyers with opportunities to negotiate pricing upgrades at favorable levels.

Land is reasonable. Land prices have not increased for several years and in many cases are at levels not seen since prior to 2000. As national home-builders and foreign investors enter the market, prices will stabilize and begin to increase.

Land sellers are motivated. Desirable building lots are often created by short platting a large residential lot. Individual homeowners holding on to lots adjacent to their primary homes have been waiting to sell over the last few years and are becoming fatigued with the wait. We see a number of lots being acquired from owners who are behind on their property tax payments. These are often motivated sellers.

The Economy is improving and as the job market improves, demand for housing will outpace the supply since new construction has been at depressed levels for the past few years.

The Stock market is improving and as a result investors are becoming more confident and aggressive. Real estate has not shown the same recovery and will begin to become a more desirable investment over the next few years.

Inflation has not yet returned but will return. The cost to build will increase as a result of new building, energy, storm water, and drainage codes and energy prices.

A long term view would suggest that after an extended soft real estate market, the market will eventually return to normal. If you are looking to build a family home that you expect to live in for ten or more years, you may be in the perfect place to “buy low and sell high.”

Waiting for a better time may well be an elusive path. With interest rates low, land available, prices reasonable, and inflation on the horizon, what factors would lead you to believe that waiting is better than moving forward now?

Frequently Asked Questions

#15 Christmas Top Ten List

Christmas is a time when parties abound, extended families get together and the house often gets a workout. Below are a few tips to consider in building a home that might help your home and guests flourish rather than tire during holiday entertaining. Be careful what you do though as guests might never leave.

Kitchen islands have a myriad of purposes. As you know everyone gravitates to the kitchen during gatherings. An island provides a little congregation space that spreads the crowd and allows the space to continue to function as a kitchen. It’s also a great spot for that holiday floral arrangement or other decorations.

Eave plugs tucked in under the roof overhangs are an easy add during construction and allow you to hang exterior lights without cords dangling everywhere. They also allow you to turn the lights on and off without going outside.

Gas fireplaces add warmth and ambience and of course, allow Santa to arrive and deliver everything you’ve always wanted. A blower kit on the fireplace will often heat the entire home or at least the open living space.

Separate guest quarters, preferably well insulated with a bathroom nearby makes your home the place that relatives want to visit, while maintaining your sanity and extended family harmony. Of course, flex space (an office or den) can easily be converted to guest quarters with a little planning.

Dining rooms are often merged into great room space today and this arrangement can work well. A formal dining room can be a great place, however, for extended family gatherings and provide adults with a space to linger.

Surround sound and speaker wiring make for great holiday entertaining. Enjoying your favorite holiday music as you walk from room to room decorating or as you have people in more than one room adds warmth and class to a gathering.

Beverage refrigerators are great for entertaining. They allow you to use the primary refrigeration space for food and allow guests and family to access appropriate beverages with ease. They can be built into an island and are often placed on the side of the island opposite the kitchen working space.

Wine glasses go very well with the beverage refer if wine is an appropriate beverage in your house. We recommend Riedel wine glasses for their enduring quality, style, and functionality. They are even available in Target stores now.

Security systems provide a sense of comfort to you if you have to be away for all or part of the holidays. Your home investment is usually well protected as a would be burglar will often go for the house that is unprotected.

Plasma screens are often used in many rooms today—from the kitchen, to the master bath, living room and bonus room. Planning ahead with current technology wiring will give you the flexibility to use the latest gadgets and be the “cool” house in the neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

#14 Thanksgiving at Home…Top ten list

Recently, we asked several customers that had moved into their homes what they enjoyed most about entertaining in their new home. As the holiday season approaches, we thought we’d share some of the list with you. Some may be a little light hearted, while others more serious.

Double Ovens… It’s so much easier to cook the dinner. The turkey goes in one oven, while everything else cooks in the other one.

My veggie sink…. Two people can work in the kitchen easily without rubbing “buns” if you know what I mean.

The fireplace. I enjoy both the sight and the heat of the flames. Standing at my kitchen sink, I can look out the window as well as see the fire flickering in the family room. It feels so much like home particularly as the rain falls.

The Plasma TV. Well, the kids (including my husband) are more into the TV than I am. What I really enjoy is that it is in the bonus room and removed from the rest of the house. They can go up there, make some noise and leave me to have some peace of mind in the kitchen.

Lighting… I am so glad I put a lot of thought into the lights. They give the house warmth while also giving us plenty of light to work and create a variety of moods.

Plumbing… It all works. When there are lots of people around and plenty of food and beverages, there’s always a demand on the plumbing—both the human plumbing and the bathroom. New fixtures, new lines, and a new septic system make it almost heavenly.

Warmth… The house is comfortable throughout. I don’t feel drafts near the windows and doors and the furnace heats the rooms evenly.

Covered Porch… Even in the winter, the covered porch comes in handy for the barbecue and for those that have to have a cigarette. I can also stand out of the rain when I let the dog out to take care of business.

Heated Jacuzzi tub… After a long day, whether it’s in the kitchen or at work, I love to relax and enjoy the bath. We’re so glad we added the heat and jets. It can be so cool to sit and luxuriate while the wind whips around outside.

Coming Home. It was a pretty intense time building our house. So many decisions to make and things to do, but I just love it. As I drove up the long drive way and see the house, it still sends shivers up my spine.

Frequently Asked Questions

#13 Ten Reasons to Build a Custom Home

While you might find some deals out there with homes that are already built, there is something about building a custom home that uniquely expresses your personality and lifestyle. You get to put your foot print on every element of the process and final outcome. Here are some thoughts to consider as you weigh your options:

What would you change about your current house if you had the chance? Take a walk around and ponder this question. If the answer is nothing, you should probably stay where you are unless the reason for moving is purely geographic/community reasons. Most people come up with a pretty good size list and then face the challenge of finding a house that meets most of the criteria. With a custom home, you might not be able to meet everything on your list, but you should be able to come pretty close.

What do you want to see when you look out the window? Having an opportunity to frame what you see when you first get up, when you’re doing dishes, at work in your home office, and even in the bath is often important to custom home buyers. Spec builders are often just looking to maximize the space, where we find there is generally an emotional attachment to room positioning and house placement on the lot that only a custom buyer can fully satisfy.

Where do you hang out? We find that clients often tell us about their favorite room in the house and it is usually the one that they spend much of their waking time in while at home. It might be a family room, or a den, or a loft. Wherever you think you’ll be spending a large portion of your time, put some extra thought into finishes and conveniences in that location and also consider where that room should be positioned in the flow of your house.

Oh yes, the kitchen…The kitchen can be used for so many things other than cooking meals. You want it to work for cooking and the type of and position of appliances is an important consideration, but the kitchen is often also used for entertaining, informal family eating, kids doing their homework, or an informal conversation with family members or intimate friends. Think about the mood you want to create and the space you need. We find that kitchens evoke a lot of emotion and drive a significant portion of the design process.

And then, there’s the garage…Three or even four car garages are becoming increasingly important, particularly on larger lots. We find that it becomes social space for many men and this also drives the design process. Increasingly, there are shop spaces and bathrooms adjacent to the garage. When you build a home that you look forward to coming home to, remember that your first impression at night is often the garage.

Custom homes are worth more. Generally, our clients move into their homes with equity—their homes are worth more than they pay for them. And that is for two reasons. First, they are able to design in those little extras that make the home “snap.” And second, they are only paying for the features they want and they aren’t paying for the risk premium that goes with a spec home—in this market spec builders often assume that a home they build might be on the market for six to nine months and price it accordingly.

What about all that stuff? We’ve never heard a client complain about too much closet or storage space, but we’ve walked through plenty of spec homes where you’re left scratching your head. Is there a coat closet, a linen closet, a pantry, a generous master closet, or unfinished space to be used for storing those seasonal decorations and sports equipment?

How long will I live there? Conventional wisdom is that if you’re only going to live in a house for a few years that a custom home might not be the best choice for you. And while this is definitely a consideration, the real issue becomes how you finish the house and what features you include so it is a good investment regardless of how long you might stay. With home prices beginning to increase, there’s an excellent chance that if you move in with equity, you’ll move out with cash even if you only stay for a couple of years.

What about special circumstances? Custom homes give you a wonderful opportunity to design for unique family considerations. You may have a mother or mother-in-law that will be moving in with you now or in the future, you may have a spouse or a child with disabilities, or you may home school your children. Whatever your situation, a custom home gives you the chance to match your home design with the needs of you and your family.

How about those finishes? A custom home allows you to choose. Likely your lifestyle will dictate the finishes you want—from decorative crown molding and architectural niches to that built in beverage refrigerator in the kitchen, family room or den, to the tile shower or jetted tub in the master bath. With a custom home, you pay only for what you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

#12 Ten Things to “Summer-ize” your Home

Summer has finally arrived in the Northwest! In between vacations and time with family and friends, here are a few pointers to consider and actions to take to keep your home operating costs low and the home in pristine condition.

Consider planting a shade tree near your heat pump or air conditioning unit. It will help it to run more efficiently.

Change the ceiling fan direction. Run the ceiling fan counter-clockwise during summer to push air down (to produce a wind chill effect) and clockwise during the winter to push air up (to create an updraft).

Clean moss off the roof. If your roof line is shaded by trees, inevitably moss will grow on the roof. Spray some white vinegar (available at Costco for about $4 for two gallons) all over the roof during a stretch of warm weather. This will ensure that moss doesn’t grow to the point where you need to pressure wash or scrape it off.

Pressure wash walks and driveways. After the fall and winter with inevitable yard debris, your concrete will start to take on a dull look. With just a little bit of effort, you can typically make that concrete look like it was just poured yesterday.

Clean dryer vents. Clogged dryer vents cause warm air to blow back into the room where your dryer is located and raising the temperature of the house. They can also represent a fire hazard.

Use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) wherever possible. Not only do they last longer and reduce energy costs, they also give off less heat than incandescent bulbs.

Keep curtains or blinds closed whenever possible. It’s always good, particularly, on west facing rooms, to close the blinds in rooms you’re not occupying. It will keep the house cooler during the summer and warmer during the winter.

Freshen up the caulk around plumbing fixtures, countertops, and siding where applicable. Inevitably, caulk stretches and shrinks based on weather and moisture, so periodic maintenance is important.

Run the bathroom exhaust fans during showers. Showers, particularly long ones, can create muggy conditions in the bathroom that spill out into adjacent rooms when you open the door.

Enjoy the summer. Now that your work is done, Invite some friends over for a backyard barbeque. Enjoy a few beverages and relax.

Frequently Asked Questions

#11 Ten Reasons to do a Tear Down

Intuitively, you might think that an empty building lot is the best choice for building that dream home of yours. And, it may be; on the other hand, you could actually save money by tearing down an existing structure. Here are some things you should consider.

Mitigation fees can be substantial. Increasingly, counties and municipalities are adding impact fees to the price of a building permit under the concept that new residences drive the need for additional infrastructure and services and that these should be paid for by the new resident. These can include parks, traffic, schools, and other types of fees and can range from a few thousand dollars to more than ten thousand dollars. When you tear down an existing structure (or move a mobile or manufactured home off the site), your project will typically not be assessed these fees because there is no “impact.”

Desirable lots can be hard to find. If you are looking to build in an area that has been developed for a number of years, such as within the cities of Seattle or Tacoma, vacant lots can be difficult to find. Those that are available will typically have significant building challenges (raising the cost of construction) or the result of a recent short plat. You may find it easier and ultimately cheaper to find a home that has been neglected and tear it down.

You may also be tempted to remodel rather than tear down. If the house is in great shape and you just need to make a few cosmetic changes, remodeling is probably a good option. Major remodels will often cost $200 per square foot remodeled and often result in a house that screams remodel. Bear in mind that older homes typically have small kitchens, few bathrooms, often no insulation, outdated electrical and heating systems, single pane windows, and other challenges. As you resolve each issue in a remodel, other issues often surface driving the costs up at each challenge.

You may be able to take advantage of the set backs of the existing structure versus using current standards when your lot has an existing home on it. This may require saving part of the existing structure, but where you are dealing with tight lots, views, and waterfront amenities, this can have a huge impact on the valuation of your new home.

New homes are much more efficient. Recent changes in energy codes and building practices make for much more efficient homes. You might save 33% to 50% on energy costs on a new home that is of the same size and comparably equipped as one built 50 years ago. Insulation standards and windows have a huge impact on energy bills.

The cost of bringing power to a new lot can be substantial. Depending upon the proximity to neighboring homes and the adequacy of transformers, bringing power to a lot can have significant costs. You may even need an easement over your neighbors’ property to get power to your lot. With an existing home, these costs are typically much less.

Sewer and water costs can be reduced. For public water and sewer service, there are often general facility charges when you connect for the first time. If a house or mobile home has been on the lot, these are typically waived.

New home technology has improved dramatically. Water and moisture infiltration issues have been nearly eliminated by current building standards and practices. Window installation practices and ventilation requirements for new structures have resulted in a much better built house today. Additionally, engineered floor systems make for sturdy structures while eliminating almost all floor squeaks.

Road or Right of Way Improvements may be waived when you are replacing an existing structure. If you are building on a vacant lot, you may be required to provide sidewalks, curbs, and storm water systems that your neighbors do not have. These requirements might be less when you are “re-building.”

Rehab loans might be a financing option. Rehab loans can provide up to 97% financing. You will likely have to leave some of the existing structure in place to take advantage of this option, but it is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

#10 Ten Reasons to Build a Custom Home

In this market, there are sometimes short sales or foreclosures that are tempting. While you may find a great value, these opportunities are often fraught with impediments, frustrations, and problems. We thought we would underscore this month some of the reasons why custom homes present a very attractive opportunity, especially in this market.

Whose vision is it anyway? When you buy an existing home, you buy into someone else’s vision for your lifestyle. It could be perfect for you, but consider what’s important to you and how you will live in the space. Will it feel good to come home at night?

Is everything operable? Custom homes come with a warranty while foreclosures and short sales typically don’t. Often, there are headaches involved in getting a “deal.” Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and enclosure failures can be a major expense and hassle. You should definitely have a “rainy day” fund when buying that foreclosure.

Land is amazingly affordable today. With the housing market showing signs of a turnaround, vacant land is going for 50% to 75% of the prices two years ago. Now may be the perfect time to buy that piece of property for a dream, second, or retirement home.

Builder incentives are still prevalent. While lumber, millwork, and other prices are beginning to increase, there are still incentives available. These incentives will likely dry up in the second half of the year.

What would you change? When you buy an existing home, this question might be irrelevant, especially with respect to structural elements. When you build a custom home, you get to decide what you want. Is it a sitting room in the master bedroom? Do you need a large dining room for the antique table, or is a jetted tub in the master bath really important to you.

What is inside those walls? Watching your home being built is both exciting and comforting. It is exciting to see the progress toward your dream; it’s comforting to know what materials are being used and to see quality built into the project.

There’s just something about new. When you walk on that new floor, or use those appliances for the first time, or make the first holes in the wall to hang up that artwork, it just plain feels good. It’s an opportunity to leave your mark, rather than clean up for someone else’s.

Instant equity. When you buy the land right and take advantage of builder incentives, your going to start with instant equity in your new home. With so many homeowners under water today, that’s a very strong position that will improve significantly over time.

It costs less to build new. Your dollars will always go further the first time around. Remodeling is often twice the price of building the same feature or space new.

Building standards represent significant improvements. With new energy, insulation, window, and moisture barrier requirements, you will have a more efficient home today than those built even five or ten years ago. Quality continues to improve.

#9 Ten things to do to sell your home.

Now is an excellent time for someone who has owned their home for a while and wants a little more space or additional features or options in a new home to act. Clients see this opportunity, but are sometimes concerned about how quickly their existing home will sell. Based on our discussion with successful move-up buyers and real estate agents, we wanted to provide a few pointers to help you sell your existing home.

Determine what sets your home apart. It might be the location—close to schools, freeways or parks--the expansive covered deck area with a fire pit or the gorgeous master bath. If you’re not sure, ask a trusted friend or real estate agent. Make sure this feature(s) is highlighted in postings or brochures.

Price it right, or at least according to your objectives. If you want to sell it quickly, you need to give prospects a reason to move quickly. If you’re not in a hurry, you can price it a little higher, but you don’t want to price it well above market because that might scare away prospects. Remember that if you are “moving up,” the price you are getting on the product you are buying might well make taking a lower price on your sale worthwhile.

Hire the best real estate agent. Generally, we would recommend comparing three different agents. Ask your friends or business associates for referrals. Your real estate agent should have experience in your neighborhood.

Do small things only to ready the home. It may make sense to update the paint in a room with dated or dingy colors or paint the front door and put a strike plate on it. You won’t likely get the price of a kitchen remodel out of the selling price.

De-clutter and stage. Generally, less is better. Rent a storage shed or a portable storage unit that can be delivered to your home. Move things you’ve been gathering for years and also valuable pieces out of the home. The home will look larger and better when someone walks in and sees there is room for more—furniture, artwork, books, and other stuff.

Clean. Consider hiring a professional cleaner to clear out all the cobwebs, scrub the grout in the bathrooms, clean the windows, and make the home shine from top to bottom. It’s a lot of work, but nothing turns someone away faster than accumulated grime.

Spruce up the yard. Cut the grass, prune the trees, pressure wash the driveway, and remove any moss from the roof. A less is better approach in the yard typically also applies.

Provide an incentive. If there’s an open house planned for this weekend, you might consider including new appliances or a carpet allowance if the house sells within a few days of the weekend.

Shop on line for comparative homes. Your real estate agent, if you are using one, will be helpful for you in determining price and marketing your home. But, you should also take the time to look at what other buyers are looking at in your neighborhood and price range. Again, what sets your home apart and is it clear to the prospective buyer?

Take good pictures. Again, your real estate agent might handle this, but the old adage of a picture is worth a thousand words (or several thousand dollars) applies. Take the pictures in bright light or at dusk if you take the time to illuminate the windows from inside. Pictures will determine who visits the home and if they don’t visit your home, they aren’t going to buy it.

#8 Eleven Things to Celebrate

Recently, Kiplinger, a leader in personal financial advice and forecasts issued a list of eleven things to celebrate as 2009 came to a close. As we start the new year, we thought we would include highlights from their list.

It's the best time in decades to buy a new home. With affordability and mortgages at attractive levels and the extension of the tax credit to all home buyers, there are good opportunities in the market.

Stock market gains? Kiplinger suggests that with price-earnings ratios at historical levels, investors can expect approximately 8% gains in 2010.

Heating bills will be lower this winter. The Kiplinger list cites the US Energy Information Administration in forecasting an average 8% decrease in energy bills. There are also tax credits available for new construction and retro-fits related to energy efficient materials.

Food prices overall are down. For example, prices for whole milk, cheddar cheese, potatoes, and apples are down 27%, 23%, 22%, and 19% from a year ago.

Traffic fatalities are dropping. At 1.28 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles, the lowest fatality rate ever recorded occurred last year.

Consumer electronics are affordable for all. Flat screen high definition televisions are available as low as $299.99 for a 32 inch model.

Roth IRA's are open to virtually all taxpayers in 2010. Roth IRA's have tax advantages, particularly with respect to estates and distributions.

Food is becoming healthier, safer, and tastier. Science is allowing for new methods that reduce or eliminate trans-fats in certain foods and other quality improvements.

Personal savings rate is up. Stimulus checks from May 2008 were largely saved rather than spent and since then savings rates are over 3% of disposable income.

Credit card debt is declining. A decline of 13% on an annual basis has been recorded by the Federal Reserve Board as of September 2009.

Vacations are more affordable. Hotel room rates have dropped 9% in 2009 because of demand and many new properties hitting the market.

#7 Ten Things You've Got to Have in a New Home

With interest rates low, builder incentives in place, and a strong possibility of expanded tax credits, now is the time to build that dream home of yours. While there are some bargains out there on existing and new homes, there are some things that define quality construction. Don't make the mistake of buying a home that screams "I bought it for the price tag!"

Roof Ridge Vents should be used today instead of the unsightly mushroom caps that decorated the roof line ten years ago. A 30-year architectural roof is a minimum standard.

Roof Pitch of at least 6/12 or steeper (where possible) presents curb appeal. The 70's era houe with a 2/12 or 4/12 pitch looks very outdated in today's environment and typically has substantially more drainage and leakage issues.

Engineered Floor Systems are a basic requirement of quality construction. Some builders still build the floor with dimensional lumber--which will save a few hundred dollars in the construction of the house. Engineered floor systems reduce or eliminate floor squeaks and provide a much firmer feel throughout the house.

Stacked foundations make sense in almost all cases. The main floor can be "hung" below the foundation wall to save costs, but in most cases the trade-off isn't worth it. Running HVAC below the floor (which is preferable) becomes difficult at best and nearly impossible at worst with a hung floor system. You will also find it very difficult to access anything under the house. Stacked foundations allow for required vents to be placed in the rim where they virtually disappear rather than in the concrete wall where they can be unsightly.

Fiber cement siding on all four sides of the house looks great and provides low maintenance durability for decades. You can save money with siding products such as vinyl or T-111 that replaces the sheeting on the outside of the home and also acts as siding (sometimes called single-wall construction), but you sacrifice appearance and increase the risk of water intrusion. Retrofits to correct moisture intrusion problems later can be very expensive.

Enclosed porch soffits just say “class” and are a must in a Custom Home, especially if you use a clear-coated tongue and groove product. Open soffits leave the trusses or structural members exposed and will often showcase roofing nails that are required to penetrate the roof sheeting material. Exterior window wraps also dress up the house significantly.

Sheetrock in the garage gives it a finished look. Exposed structural members, while functional, can look cheap. With more and more time being spent in garages and uses that usually expand beyond a parking space, you should demand sheetrock on all the walls of the garage. By the way, a Custom Home should have 2X6 exterior walls in the garage just as in the rest of the home.

Dryer boxes and ice maker boxes are small things, but the absence of them screams “cheap.” Plumbing walls should also have 2X6 framing as a minimum standard to avoid sheet rock bowing because of piping being crammed into a 2X4 wall.

True Eight foot ceilings are an absolute minimum and nine or ten foot ceilings, at least on the main floor, give your home that “custom feel”.

Fireplaces not only warm the house, but give you that very attractive focal point and gathering space for the family and friends. Whenever possible use gas or propane units because they provide significant warmth and also look great.

Frequently Asked Questions

#6 Ten Things to Consider Before Remodeling

Remodeling typically costs $150 to $200 per square foot depending upon the complexity of the project, while new construction will typically cost between $75 and $100 per square foot. Think carefully about your project objectives before embarking on an extensive remodel. Tearing down the existing project and re-building an up-to-date design may make more sense financially.

Required Lot setbacks and existing structure requirements could be impacted. Make sure you understand what the jurisdiction requirements are before proceeding too far. In some cases, an extensive remodel can trigger compliance with current building requirements including setbacks that are different from when the original structure was completed. This can have a significant impact on the overall cost.

Consider carefully the “feel” of the remodeled home. You have probably been in homes where the sense of what the room “used to be” is readily apparent. A bedroom that has been converted into a dining room, for example, may always “feel” like a bedroom, or a garage that has been converted into a master bedroom may always “feel” like a garage. Your designer should be able to help you not only get the utility you are looking for, but also the feel.

Living in the home may not be ideal. While you may think living in the home while you remodel may save you money, it may actually increase your overall costs. Your contractor will incur costs to ensure your safety and comfort during the construction process in an extensive remodel. This can add time and costs to the overall project.

What will the market value of the home be after the remodel? While you may not be able to immediately see the value of your remodeled home increase by the amount you spend on remodeling, you should consider how long it might take to recover your costs. Typically, extensive kitchen and bathroom remodels, while expensive, will have the best impact on the market value of your remodeled home.

Include repairs and upgrades in your remodel. If for example, you are making a structural addition and will need a new roof over the existing structure within a few years, it will probably cost you less to include the new roof in your current remodel. You may also want to update some or all of your electrical wiring at the same time.

Carefully consider Heating and Cooling (HVAC). While you may be able to expand existing duct runs to cover the new space, if the original run is not sized properly, you may be unhappy with the result. It may make sense to heat and cool the new space with a separate system or to upsize your existing system. The good news is that current building and energy codes will typically result in a space that is more efficient to heat and cool than your existing house.

Financing is always a consideration. Interest rates are currently low and you may be able to pay for your remodel with a home equity loan or a HUD rehab loan. Be sure to understand what the requirements of the program are. A particular type of permit may be required for different programs. Consider whether to fix your interest rate or take advantage of low variable rates.

Priorities and Trade-offs. Inevitably, you have to make choices. These can be driven by budgets and also by practical considerations. Make a list of your goals and prioritize them. And, be flexible. While it may be most desirable to add that new master bath on the east wall of the house, adding it on the west wall where it is closer to existing plumbing runs may reduce costs significantly. One of the advantages to tearing down the existing structure and rebuilding is that your goals are usually more easily met in the design.

Warranty considerations. You will want to understand what your contractor is warranting in a remodel and for what period of time. Additions and remodels will almost always involve transitions from the old structure to the new structure. These transitions can be problematic and while the new structure may be problem-free, it can contribute to or accentuate problems in the current structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

#5 Ten Things to Ask Your Designer

How much time will the process take? This depends on how much you know about what you want. We often find that it is a six to eight hour process and it is usually best to be divided in to more than one meeting because there are many decisions to be made.

Where do we start? We usually suggest starting with the kitchen and with the cabinet choice. The wood finishes will then impact the countertops, flooring, and millwork throughout the house. This is one advantage of dealing with a builder that allows you to make all your selections under one rool You can easily see how the choices complement each other.

What kind of "green" materials do you offer? Green materials include everything today from paint to appliances. Energy star dishwashers and lighting are increasingly standard. Bamboo hardwoods are popular as are recycled carpets and sometimes carpet pads. Energy efficiency is often built into the home with windows and insulation, and there are also HVAC choices that foster sustainability. Hot water recirculation systems and double flush toilets are considerations.

What type of kitchen counter tops do you recommend? 3cm slab granite with full tile backsplash is a poplular option. Tile (13" X13") with a decorative backsplash can look beautiful and save you money. Also, today's plastic laminates come in a variety of colors and finishes that are very attractive.

What is included in the base price? Our specifications are quite clear about what is included. We offer finished houses at fixed prices. Our Autograph series has more inclusions that our Memories series. Of course, we will build in allowances if you want, but this is totally your choice. Your builder should be able to give you a comprehensive list of what your included options are and what is excluded.

What if I want to make changes during the construction process? You should be able to. Of course, there is a time to make changes and a time not to. And, there are some changes that might require building department approval and delay the project substantially. Walk the house often during construction and envision how you will use the space. And, ask lots of questions. We always request an electrical walk through prior to electrical rough-in, so you have input into where outlets, switches, and lights are located. Of course, code requires that some things be done in certain ways.

Can I add hardwoods or granite counter tops later after the house is built? You can, but...it might not be as easy as you think. Budgets sometimes don't allow you to have all the things you want in your house. You may think I'll go with laminate on the counter tops and have granite installed later when I have the money, or the same with vinyl and hardwood. And of course, that can be done. Understand however, that the transition can be more involved than you might think. Vinyls are glued down over an underlayment while hardwoods are typcially floated over the sub-floor. So, you might be faced with either pulling up the entire sub floor or having a flooring transition that is not ideal.

What type of paint is best for the interior walls? We always recommend washable flat paints for the interior. A PVA primer is applied at the end of the drywall process and then the flat paint is applied after that. One of the advantages to washable flats is that they are more easily touched up later without "flashing."

What about appliances? We include appliances (range, microwave/hood combination, and a dishwasher) with the home. You can upgrade these or add a refrigerator, washer, and dryer. Sometimes, you have very specific requirements and want to source your appliances outside. That is fine, but it is very important to work with your designer to make sure the cabinets are laid out properly and the project comes together as you envision.

What should be my priorities? Kitchens and bathrooms, especially the master bathroom are very important resale features. Of course, you are building your home to live in it, not to sell it, but you also spend a lot of time in these rooms. If you have a limited budget for upgrades, these are areas that you can add a little splash without a lot of coin.

Bonus question...What do you think? One of the wonderful things about building a custom home is that you get to make all the choices. And after all, it is all about you...not us. That being said, we may have a few suggestions that will give you the long term utility and pride that goes with a custom home. We can tell you what is popular in today's market and steer you away from some choices you might regret later. We're here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

#4 Ten Things to Ask Your Building Department

Are there critical areas on the lot? Often times, a lot will have designated critical areas on it. These can include wetlands and proximity to creeks (even dry creeks), river beds or lakes, steep slopes, protected wildlife, and old timber. A critical area on your lot may be designated because of its proximity to conditions on a neighboring lot. You'll want to know what has been designated and what you need to do to get a building permit.

What are the costs to obtain a building permit? Building permit costs are often broken into several parts. These may include building and development fees, design review fees, demolition fees, mitigation, impact and/or latecomer fees. Your building department should be able to give you a good estimate of what the total cost is to obtain a permit.

What are the building setbacks on the lot? Standard front, back, and side setbacks will be established for your lot. You need to understand what these are and where they are measured from and to. Are there easements on the lot and do your setbacks need to be measured from them? You may also want to know the procedure for obtaining a variance. Some may be relatively easy to obtain.

Who are the utility purveyors? The building department should be able to tell you who provides electricity, gas (if available), telephone, cable, sewer and water. Of course, many lots will require a septic system and/or a well, if these services are not provided by the community. If you need a septic system, you'll want to have a perc test done. You'll also need to be able to provide the building department proof of water availability for the lot. Making contact with the electricity and gas (if applicable) purveyors to understand what is involved in them making the connections is an important step in the process. Typically, your builder will need to work with you to complete the application because they will need load information.

What is required for road access? Typically, a road permit will be required to connect your lot to the community road system. This may be as simple as a curb cut, or may involve establishing the actual road that enters your lot. Either way, there are often very specific guidelines for what must be done to connect with the public road system. Adhering to these guidelines is critical and can delay occupancy of your new home.

Is there a requirement for fire sprinklers? Building departments will have a set of criteria for what triggers you to install a fire sprinkler system in your home. These requirements are not uniform across building departments, but are often based on proximity to lot lines and fire hydrants, size of the structure, and construction materials being used. The cost of fire sprinklers has come down significantly in recent years and they can provide peace of mind, but you will want to understand if they will be required for your house.

Are there covenants and other restrictions placed on this lot? Many communities place restrictions on the style, size, and features of homes built in neighborhoods. These are called CCR's and are typically governed by the Architectural Control Committee of your local Homeowners Association. The title report for your lot will identify these as they will be recorded. You may need the Architectural Control Committee to sign off on your building plans before building.

What are the height restrictions? You will want to understand the maximum height of your house and how that is measured from the lot surface. You'll also want to know if there are view covenant or restrictions on the lot.

What are the impervious surface restrictions? This can be an important consideration. The community will typically have restrictions on the total lot area that can be covered including the house, patios, and driveways. Knowing what this percentage is and how it is calculated is key. Storm water management is a high priority for many jurisdictions and may limit the buildable area on the lot.

How long does it take to get a permit? This will, of course, depend on a number of factors, but understanding if the building department has established review times for its activities will help you to plan. Ask the local building department about the typical permit throughput time.

Bonus question...who can help me with all this stuff?. Your builder should be your partner during this process. An experienced builder has encountered all of these obstacles and figured out how to resolve them in the most expeditious manner. At Stanbrooke, we interface directly with the building department and submit for your building permit because we know that this process can be frustrating and time consuming for those that haven't been through it before with the particular jurisdiction. In some cases, professional services may be required for septic, wells, soils, and other factors. We can provide referrals for these, if necessary.

#3 Ten Things to Do to Celebrate Your New Home

Have a housewarming party. You've worked hard to complete your new home and now it is time to show it off and maybe say thanks to a few people who helped along the way. Have a few people over and celebrate. Fresh flowers in the summer time are a must

Plant some flowers. The home is complete, but the yard probably needs a little work. The Washington state flower is the rhododendron and always a staple in Northwest gardens. Gardening with Ciscoe airs at 10am on Saturdays on King 5 and is sure to present a few choice gardening tips.

Shop for new furniture. Every new home needs at least a few choice pieces of furniture. If you've been fortunate enough to buy a Stanbrooke home in June 2009, you'll have a $10,000 gift certificate at the furniture store of your choice to spend upon completion and final payment for your home.

Watch the sunset. Sunsets in the summer in the Northwest are beautiful particularly with mountains and lakes or the Sound in the background. There is something about a summer evening that says relax and enjoy a glass of wine or the beverage of your choice with that special someone.

Turn up the air conditioning. If you've selected a heat pump for your home or a furnace with air conditioning, you can endure those few days of beastly hot summer weather in style and sleep like a baby.

Curl up by the fireplace with a good book. Most nights in the Northwest are cool and there's something especially relaxing about sitting near the fireplace, enjoying a cup of coffee, and reading that book you've had sitting on your nightstand for so long.

Take a bubble bath or enjoy some privacy. Hopefully, you've designed your home with some personal privacy in mind. That might be the master bath with an oversized tub or it might be a spare bedroom or den. You might enjoy spending a little alone time this summer reflecting on your past and planning your future.

Cook in your new kitchen. Perhaps the kitchen more than any other room in a new house screams "new." Bright new appliances are waiting for you to inaugurate them. Whether you're partial to "Betty Crocker" or "Bon Appetit" you're sure to enjoy cooking for the first time in your new kitchen.

Take some pictures. After you've settled in, it's always a good idea to have pictures of your home showing both its features and furnishings you've chosen. Put copies in a safe deposit box or store them on a remote network for insurance purposes. Also, you might plan that perfect family Christmas photo in front of the fireplace or on the patio.

Watch a movie. Whether you've got cable "on demand," Netflix, or just returned from a trip to the video store, a good movie can entertain and help you escape. We recommend "The Soloist" as a must-see this summer.

Bonus activity...relax because you've earned it. Building a new house is hard work. There are so many decisions to make and so many tasks to perform. Take satisfaction in knowing that you've completed the process, and hopefully you can now enjoy your new home for many years to come. Also, relax knowing that your new home comes with a valuable warranty. Answers to your questions or concerns are just a phone call away.

#2 Things to Ask Your Contractor before building a home

You will want to think of your contractor as your partner during the entire building process and into warranty service. Getting to know them before you build is an important step.

Tell me about a project that you are proud of and went well. Contractors exude pride when they hear their customer say "I love my home" at the end of the project. It means the job has been done well and that the end result is what the client expected. Your contractor should be able to recount at least a few of these experiences and you should sense the passion that he or she has for the building process.

Can I contact the client or see the project? The only acceptable response is "absolutely." Anything else should cause you to question the success of the project. Of course, there are those customers who want to remain anonymous and/or might not want people walking through their home after they've moved in. You don't need to walk through the home, but why would your contractor choose to tell you about an anonymous client when you ask this question?

Tell me about a project that had issues. Projects rarely come off without some challenges. The important thing is how the contractor responds and solves problems. How your contractor responds to this question will tell you something about he or she will respond to any issues you experience in building your home. Almost always, the issues are small, but the all important thing to be looking for is a positive "problem-solving" attitude.

Can I contact the client or see the project? This is where the "rubber meets the road." Good contractors know that they need happy customers at the end of the project even if there were challenges. Often, the best reference is someone who had issues during the construction process.

What is the actual price of the project ? How many items are allowance items? Ideally, you want to keep allowance items to a minimum and enter into a fixed price construction agreement with your contractor. Allowances are certainly a way to build in the necessary costs to cover selections you haven't made. For example, you may know you want granite counter tops or hardwood floors, but you haven't selected the actual material at the time of signing the contract. You should make sure you know exactly what is an allowance and exactly what is a fixed price before you sign.

What is included in the project and what do I have to pay for separately? Often site related costs are separate from the costs of building the actual home. These are site specific and often reflect your preferences. For example you may have a perfectly flat section of your lot, but you want the home situated on a section that is sloped because it maximizes view or sun exposure. This may result in additional excavation, foundation, landscaping and other costs. Of course, you also want to review the specifications with your builder so you know what is expected of you. For example, does the price for your home include lighting fixtures, closet racks, towel bars and appliances?

How long have you been in business and how many homes have you built? You want to make sure that your contractor is going to be there throughout the process of building your home and satisfying warranty obligations. The best indicator of future success is often past success. Purely custom builders do not own land and as a result their business model is much more easily scalable than builders that develop tracts. In these challenging economic times, that can be an important consideration.

Who do I contact during the construction process and how quickly will they respond to my questions? Of course, there are no right or wrong answers here. You just want to understand the process and enter into one of the biggest decisions of your life with clearly understood expectations. You will want to understand if your project is managed from an office or by a superintendent that is on site.

What if I want to make changes during the process of building my home? Of course, the best time to make changes is before construction begins. However, there may be things that you didn't anticipate and that may be a source of irritation as long as you live in the house. You will certainly want the flexibility to make small changes during the construction; big changes may delay the project for an extended period of time and even require a new or revised permit. Understanding the contractor's process here and how changes will be priced is important.

How does the design and permitting process work? Again, there is no right or wrong answer here. You will want input into the design of your home and flexibility to customize it to your individual tastes including paint colors, flooring selections, and countertops. You will also want to review the plans before they are submitted for permitting and understand who will work with the building jurisdiction on any questions that surface during the process.

Bonus question: Is this a good time to build? With low interest rates, reduced land prices, and special builder incentives, the timing may be perfect to build your dream home. Luxury has never been more affordable. And, the Seattle metropolitan area just topped the Forbes magazine list of the best real estate investments in the country over the next year.

Frequently Asked Questions

#1 Things to ask your spouse or partner before building a home

Building a home can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It is not without work and headaches, but it is all worth it if you know what you want and have a clearly defined plan to get it.

Where will we entertain? There is a growing trend away from formal spaces toward great room plans. In a great room, the primary living space (kitchen, living, and dining) is typically an open area that blends together seamlessly. This is great for casual entertainment, but if you like to have separate family space from entertaining space, a formal dining and living room might be the right option for you. Many great room plans today include a separate dining room option.

Where will your mother stay when she is here overnight? We’re guessing the garage would not be a popular option. If you plan on having frequent visitors or visitors for an extended period of time, you may want to consider a split bedroom plan. The master bedroom is separated from the other bedrooms by the kitchen/living/dining space in a split bedroom plan. Another option is to have a main floor master with the other bedrooms upstairs.

Where do I go when you are mad at me? Increasingly, we’re finding that couples want their own spaces within the house. It could be a shop, craft room, game room, or office.

How long do we plan on staying in this house? There are always trade-offs in life, but the longer you plan to stay in your house, the fewer compromises you should make on what you really want. While options can add to the initial price tag, if you’re going to enjoy them for years, they are certainly worth the investment. And, in the long term, they are sure to pay off.

Do you want to park your car in the garage (or is it just for storage?) We all have stuff and it needs to go somewhere. You’re probably thinking you’ll purge before moving, but often that doesn’t happen. Many people are comfortable not parking in the garage and using it for storage. On the other hand, if you want to park your car in the garage, you should consider how much storage space you need and where it is located. There may be options for attic storage or crawl space storage too.

What’s important to you in the kitchen? Kitchens are often designed with a triangle in mind. You want the range, the refrigerator, and the sink in fairly close proximity (within the triangle) and you also want open counter/work space within that triangle. The kitchen is one of the most frequented rooms in the house, so granite countertops, tile backsplashes, wood floors, and upgraded appliances and lighting are often a worthwhile investment. You may also want a wine cooler or rack and crown moulding.

Can we share the office/den space? Increasingly, people spend a lot of time in home offices. Kids also need computer access. So, you should think about the size of the office and if you need more than one home office. You also need to consider if you will have a wired or wireless network and plan for the connections you need throughout the house.

Which room(s) do you see us spending most of our time in? There is no right or wrong answer, but when you build a custom home, you get to make major lifestyle choices. Our clients often spend most of their time in just a few rooms of the house. If you plan to hang out in the bedroom, you may want to have sitting space, a cable connection on the wall for a plasma screen, and maybe even a fireplace. If you’ll spend your time in a separate family room, you’ll want to make sure you have some of the same amenities there.

Do you want a jetted tub and does it need to be big enough for two? Master bathrooms are a key selling point in a home and as a result are an area to consider upgrades. Granite or tile countertops? Large corner or oval tub? Two shower heads in the master shower?

What can we afford? Building a custom home allows you to get what you want while also controlling the budget. Early in the process, you should establish your budget. If you’re paying cash, how much are you willing to pay? If you’re taking out a loan, speak with a banker early in the process to know how much you can qualify for.

Bonus Question: Do you really love me? Building a custom home can be trying on relationships as there are a lot of decisions to be made and it involves change. If you have a plan and you’re both on the same page, it will almost certainly be a worthwhile process. Make sure you have a picture or plans nearby to remind you of the end product and to keep perspective as to why you’re going through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions