Why Change Orders Are Costly

January 7th, 2014|Commonly Asked Questions, Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

Even small changes made after work begins can have surprising effects on the budget. Here’s why. Minimizing change orders is one of the most effective things homeowners can do to control costs. The reason is that seemingly small changes can have cost impacts beyond the builder’s control—costs that ultimately are borne by the customer.

Nailing Down a Competitive Bid

December 3rd, 2013|How to Choose a Custom Home Builder, Newsletter|

A well-defined process can make bidding more accurate and productive. Homeowners see the competitive bidding process as a way to get the most value for their money. But it doesn't always work that way. Bids are only useful if they come from comparable companies, and if they are structured so that they can be accurately compared. Most owners, and even some architects, don't do a good job at this.

Custom Home Construction – Plan to Succeed

November 5th, 2013|How to Choose a Custom Home Builder, Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

A complete set of plans and specs will eliminate problems and help ensure a smooth project. Never underestimate the importance of good plans and specifications to a successful new home build. These crucial documents need to be fully completed in order to generate a realistic price, schedule, and contract. Too often, however, they're left undone.

Size Matters: Choose Your Custom Home Contractor Wisely

September 11th, 2013|How to Choose a Custom Home Builder, Newsletter|

The low-bid, budget company may cost more in the long run. Here's why. The Las Vegas housing market is improving with good values for existing homes playing a big part. Buying an existing house for a great price is only the first step in creating your new home. Many of today’s homebuyers are getting such a good deal that they have the ability to customize the new home to fit their family’s, needs with their aesthetics. Home construction, both new and remodeling, is increasing and with fewer custom contractors left after the recession the competition has increased. It is more important than ever to find the builder/contractor whose skills, staff and expertise is a match for your home.

Eliminate Surprises by Clearly Defining the Job

July 2nd, 2013|How to Choose a Custom Home Builder, Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

Steve, Bart and the Merlin Custom Home Builders team understand that building a new home is one of the most important investments a family will make. In many cases it represents the single largest financial investment. The home is designed and built to provide years of pleasure, comfort, and security. It is the physical manifestation of "family" and the place where celebration and joy are expressed and experienced.

The Launching Pad: Preconstruction Meeting

June 4th, 2013|Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

Without a successful take-off, a safe landing is impossible. All homebuyers want their new home to turn out just as they envisioned, built on schedule, and for the agreed upon price. As a Professional Builder, we want exactly the same thing. That's what makes the preconstruction meeting so important. This is a time for builder and client to ensure all of the new home’s details are clear and agreed upon. Clients who get the most from the preconstruction meeting know what to expect and come prepared to fully participate.

Minimize Stress and Maximize Sanity

May 7th, 2013|How to Choose a Custom Home Builder, Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

Building a home can be stressful. Savvy homeowners choose a builder who will make it less so. But beyond making certain the company is licensed and insured and has provided a fair bid and a professional contract, how do owners determine whether a company will deliver on its promises and not tax their sanity? The answers lie in good systems. Companies with clearly defined management systems tend to be better organized, communicate more effectively and minimize unwanted surprises.

Is Geothermal in Your Future?

February 5th, 2013|Newsletter, Tips and Tools for Building Your Custom Home|

Improving home energy efficiency and building more sustainable housing is no longer a trend -- it's mainstream. As a professional builder, we feel it's important to keep up on emerging technologies that will down the line help our clients save money, improve comfort and reduce our impact on the environment.

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