Want to Build a Guesthouse? Here"s How to Find the Best Building Contractors in Arizona!

We’ve all heard the horrifying stories about contractors who fail to properly complete a project in someone’s home and then take off with the cash, leaving the homeowner high and dry.

If you want to build a guesthouse on your property, you have to do your research in order to find a contractor who can get the job done and not leave you in the lurch.

Not sure how to find the best building contractor in your area? No worries! We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you find the perfect contractor for your guesthouse.

Before Doing Anything, Be Sure to Know the ADU Laws in Your City

ADU laws, or accessory dwelling unit laws, are a set of laws that describe what can be constructed on your property and how it must be constructed. These laws are unique from city to city, so you will want to check with the planning and zoning department at city hall to see what they have on the books.

For example, the City of Phoenix limits you to one guest house per lot and has restrictions on parking and the size of the guest house.

Your contractor should be familiar with the ADU laws in your city, and they should be familiar with which permits that need to be acquired in order to commence construction. Having your own knowledge of the process will help you weed out untrustworthy contractors.

Know What You Want, but Be Realistic

There are many types of guesthouses you can build on your property. Are you looking for a place for your relatives to stay when they come to visit? Do you want it to be energy efficient or would you prefer a no-holds-barred luxury guest house?

How you want to use it dictates what you need to include and what types of permits you’ll need. Most importantly, you want to make sure that what you want can be achieved within your budget. A good contractor will give you an honest evaluation of this.

Do a Thorough Check of Reviews and References

There are several websites online that allow customers to review the service they received. Try looking your potential contractors up on Angie’s List or Yelp! because they make an effort to verify the reviews.

Don’t rely on online reviews alone — ask your potential contractors to give you references from previous customers.

Check Complaints and Litigation History

Check online for evidence of complaints or lawsuits between this contractor and previous customers. You can check with your local court, too, to see if they have been the subject of litigation.

Be sure to also check the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against them.

Confirm the Contractor Is Licensed and Insured

All contractors must be properly licensed and insured before they can work on any projects. Ask them for a copy of their license as well as copies of the licenses of any subcontractors who will be working on your new guest house.

Can They Build a Guesthouse?

Just like in any other profession, contractors frequently have types of construction in which they specialize. Obviously, you wouldn’t want someone who typically constructs office buildings to build your guest house, but that doesn’t mean any residential contractor will do.

Ask if they have constructed a guest house before, and ask for photos of their past work to verify the information.

They Should Provide Clear Information

Good contractors will provide you with clear information about the project. First, they will give you an estimate for the cost of the project.

Be sure not to max out your budget in the estimate. Always leave room for surprise costs.

Trustworthy contractors will also give you a relatively firm schedule in terms of when construction will commence, and when it will end. The key here is patience. The best contractors will have a busy schedule and won’t be able to start work right away, but rest assured, they are worth the wait.

Lastly, once you have agreed to move forward with a contractor, ask them for a list of workers. They should be able to provide you information about how many people will be working on your property, and who will be working on what.

If a potential contractor is being vague about expectations, look elsewhere.

Interview Three or More Contractors

This helps you in a few ways. First, it allows you to get a good idea of the cost involved in your project, from materials to labor. Second, it allows you to weed out contractors who are charging far too much and far too little — an indication that they are not necessarily being upfront with you about how much the project will cost.

Lastly, this allows you to negotiate the price down on your project by leveraging one offer against another.

Set a Payment Schedule

Do not ever pay a contractor the full amount for a project up front. Barring the necessity of certain luxury materials, the most you should pay up front should generally be about 10%.

Following the initial payment, establish a payment schedule that is determined by progress toward completion. For example, pay 10% down, 15% when they reach 25% completion, and then 25% for each quarter of completion thereafter. Do not make the final payment until they have reached 100% completion.

Sign a Detailed Contract

This is incredibly important. A contract is the first document a court will look at in the event you encounter issues and go to court with the contractor.

The contract should lay out exactly what work will be performed; the estimated start and completion dates; the materials that will be used, including specific models and the vendor from which they will be purchased; and the payment schedule.

If your project is particularly costly, consider hiring an attorney to go over the contract before signing. Be sure to put any changes that you and the contractor agree upon in writing as well.

Check out Our Website for All Your Luxury Construction Needs!

Finding a great contractor to build your dream guesthouse is the hardest part of getting it constructed.

Now that you’ve found the right contractor to build a guesthouse, sit back, relax, and start planning how you’ll decorate your new guesthouse!

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If you’d like to expand your property by adding a luxury guest home, call Peak One Builders! As a top residential construction contractor in Phoenix, we can help make your vision a reality. Give us a call today at (480) 378-0611 to get started.

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Want to Build a Guesthouse? Here"s How to Find the Best Building Contractors in Arizona!

Creating a Masterpiece: Top Tips for the Perfect Master Bathroom Remodel

Do you plan on a whole house remodel?

You probably have ideas for every room… except for the bathroom. It’s common to get stumped when it comes to bathroom design.

But your bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Therefore, your bathroom should be personalized.

This includes the master bathroom — this bathroom is all yours so your bathroom design should reflect your personality.

If you’re preparing for your master bathroom remodel, here are some tips to create a bathroom that’s a work of art.

Style

The first thing you need to figure out is your bathroom style. Whether you’re going all out or want a minimalist bathroom, the style is the first thing you notice when you enter your bathroom.

Your bathroom can be as extravagant or as simple as you want. You can create intricate themes for your bathroom — creating an under the sea bathroom or even something out of the ordinary such as a Halloween-themed bathroom.

But simple designs work beautifully in the bathroom. Stick to a certain color theme or just focus on decorating your bathroom with nice paintings and knick-knacks.

Materials

Like the master bedroom, the master bathroom needs great materials. The towels, the shower curtain, the rugs, and all of the furniture makes for a well-crafted bathroom.

But what makes a “great” material is up to you.

Are you the kind of person who takes a luxurious bathroom and wraps up in a soft robe and marshmallow towels? Focus on comfort.

Are you the kind of homeowner who loves out-of-the-ordinary rugs or shower curtains? Focus on unique materials.

You’ll also have to pay attention to the more important materials, such as the countertops, sink, toilet, and shower. Focus on what you want.

If you want luxury, focus on fine materials such as granite and a shower meant for the rich. Or, find the weirdest designs and call it a day.

The Layout

Are you totally changing the bathroom’s layout? This should be done with the help of a designer. Have an idea in mind and discuss your options with a designer. Here are some specifics you’ll need to consider:

Shower or Bath

If there’s one area that should be revamped, it’s the shower. Whether you want a giant tub for a fancy bath or a minimalist shower, it’s important to buy the latest shower or tub.

The shower you choose depends on the type of shower you want and how quickly you’re in and out.

For the layout, your best option is to choose a small tub. If you don’t plan on taking a bath, why bother taking up so much space with a huge tub? But if you do plan on taking a bath, the tub will be the dominant feature of the bathroom.

You also have more options when it comes to choosing a shower. There are many shower head options. These include:

• Overhead showerheads


• Wall-mounted showerheads


• Hand-held showerhead


• Rain bars


• Steam showers

All of these showers do the same job, but the layout depends on your preference.

Sink

The sink may seem like something minuscule when you should pay attention to the type of sink and the number of sinks you have.

The average homeowner chooses to have two sinks in their master bathroom.

This gives plenty of room for you and one other person (usually your spouse) while you have plenty of counter and mirror room. No more than two sinks are recommended because your plumbing costs will rise.

The Toilet

The toilet is the most delicate aspect of the bathroom but is also one of the most important features. Therefore, you need to ensure you’re comfortable while you do your business.

Discuss where you want your toilet. Don’t feel embarrassed when you tell your designer specifics, such as if you want a separate room for your toilet. The designer will abide by your needs to ensure you get the best master bathroom.

Universal Design

When it comes to the smaller bathroom design details, many homeowners don’t have any knowledge or even any care. This is when a designer will apply universal design.

These design features are primarily in every effective and stylish bathroom.

Some of these aspects include:

• Wide doorways


• Low shower and bathtub entrances


• Large shower doors


• More floor space

Don’t worry about your bathroom looking ordinary or trendy. These details are so minor and will blend into your unique design.

Other Important Details

Is this advice not enough? There’s no shame in splurging on a master bathroom. It’s your bathroom! Spice up it up however you want. If you want smaller and added details, discuss your options with your bathroom designer.

If you want a bathroom fit for a celebrity, add some fancy touches. A large chandelier, TV in front of the bathtub, and warming drawers for your towels and robes are perfect for a luxurious bathroom.

If you just want extra space for your beauty products, install an added area for your hair dryer, hair straightener, and curling iron. Make sure there’s plenty of countertop room and space for your myriad of makeup and skincare products.

If you just want a simple bathroom with no added details, make your bathroom as relaxing as possible. Have low-lighting options and use candles or incense. Make sure your towels and robe are always soft.

Always have air fresheners so the bathroom always smells nice. These touches may seem minor, but they will add ambiance to any bathroom.

Time to Do Your Master Bathroom Remodel

Are you excited about your master bathroom remodel but are unsure about what you want?

There are aspects all homeowners should have, such as deciding between shower size and smaller universal details.

But there are also more personalized features, such as having a TV in the bathroom and deciding on a unique design.

When you hire a designer and complete your bathroom renovation, the final product will be worth the hassle and decision-making.

Are you in Scottsdale and want to renovate your master bathroom? Take a look at our services.

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Are you ready to create the luxury bathroom of your dreams?  Contact Peak One Builders, a premier luxury bathroom remodeler in Scottsdale, to get started with a free consultation! Call 480-378-0611 today.

Read related articles:

• What Makes a Luxury Bathroom? 5 Luxurious Elements You Need


• 5 Ideas for Luxury Custom Bathrooms


• 5 Unique Luxury Bath Ideas You Need to See

Creating a Masterpiece: Top Tips for the Perfect Master Bathroom Remodel

7 Things to Look for in Residential Construction Companies

Are you getting ready to build a new home?

Looking for the best residential construction companies for the job?

If you’re building a new home, it’s important to make sure you get it done right. Not just any residential construction company will cut it. You need to find a builder you can rely on and who won’t cut any corners, go over budget, or take too much time.

Below we’ll tell you exactly what you need to look for when choosing the best residential construction companies.

1. The Right Qualifications

The first thing you need to find out about a builder is their qualifications. A quality builder should have the proper licensing to do the work in your area and should also be insured.

You should verify these credentials beforehand and also should check out their other experience and qualifications that they have. A great builder will have a lot of experience and years of building great homes over the years.

They’ll have all of the credentials they need to perform the work. Find out if they have any certifications that they have earned and if they are a member of any special home building associations.

Finding out about a builder’s qualifications can give you a lot of insight into how professional they will be once you hire them to build your luxury home.

2. Positive References

When trying to find a home builder, you also need to check if a company has any references or testimonials.

A great home builder will have provided plenty of positive experiences to many homeowners in the past. As a result, they’ll have plenty of references from previous jobs that they can refer you to.

Give these references a call and find out what they can tell you about the builder. Were they pleased with the end result? Was the builder professional?

Nothing quite beats the value of hearing directly from the actual customers and clients of a home building company when trying to determine if they’re the real deal.

3. The Quality and Value You Need

When looking for a residential construction company you need to do more than just consider the prices. Don’t just pick the most affordable builder to do the work. The truth is that you often get what you pay for with a home contractor.

You need to make sure that you’re putting a strong focus on value and quality when looking for a builder. Thoroughly check out the quality of their work and don’t settle for a poor quality builder.

You probably have a vision for your home in mind so stick to it. Only hire the best quality home builders for the job.

4. Great Communication Skills

Any home builder you work with should be able to communicate well with you when it comes to every part of the home building process.

Whether it’s during the initial planning stages or it’s once the home is nearly finished, you need to work with a builder who is able to communicate and keep you in the loop. If there are any problems or changes along the way they should be able to tell you about it.

Great home builders make communication a priority and build it into their process of building a home. They’ll make sure to check with you along the way and ensure that there aren’t any unforeseen problems with the budget or the timeline.

5. The Ability to Design For You

Remember that a builder shouldn’t be building what they want in a home, but instead, what you want. It’s important to make a home yours. A great builder will understand your personal needs and work with you to create your dream home.

Be sure to find a builder who can personalize and customize the home to your needs and specifications. If you’re looking for a home that you will live in for your later years you’ll probably have different needs than someone who is looking to build their very first house.

Think about what you need and when speaking with a contractor make sure they’re willing and capable of building to your specifications.

6. Honesty and Professionalism

Any residential construction companies you work with should have great values that are similar to yours. They should be professional throughout every part of the process.

Find out about a contractor beforehand and find out what you can learn about their code of ethics and their values. Find out about their involvement in the community as well as their professional history. These things can give you a lot of insight into the values of a builder.

Do what you can to understand their background and their involvement in your area. By doing this, you may just learn a good deal about them and whether you truly want to hire them for the job or not.

7. They Stand By Their Work

The best home builders won’t make promises they won’t keep. If there are any problems with their work after your move-in date they’ll have the reliability and honesty to stand by it.

A great residential construction company will provide a warranty for their work. While different appliances and other parts of your home may have a warranty from the manufacturer, a great home builder will offer a warranty of their own as well.

Parts of a newly built home such as an unsafe roof or other defects may pose a danger to you and your family. These things are known as “major structural defects” and will often be covered by a warranty for several years after your move-in date.

Choosing the Best Residential Construction Companies

It’s important to take your time when looking for the best residential construction companies to choose from. Not all of them are the same. Remember that you’ll likely live in your new home for a long time so it’s important to make sure it’s built right from the very beginning.

Are you ready to find a reliable home builder in Arizona? Request a free home building consultation now to learn more about what we can do for you.

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Are you thinking of building a home? To ensure that your custom home building process goes smoothly, you will want to go with the best builder! Peak One Builders is a top residential construction company in Scottsdale.  Contact us to set up a free consultation! Call 480-378-0611 today.

 

Read related articles:

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7 Things to Look for in Residential Construction Companies

6 Steps to Take Before Kitchen Remodeling in Scottsdale

Remodeling your kitchen not only updates your home and gives it a new look and feel, but it also increases your home’s value.

If you’re thinking about kitchen remodeling in Scottsdale, there are some important steps you should take before you begin construction.

Keep reading to learn the six things you should do before kitchen remodeling in Scottsdale.

1. Plan

The most important part of kitchen remodeling is planning. Some experts recommend you should spend six months planning a home remodel. It is important to spend a lot of time planning so you know for sure the layout of your kitchen will be the right one.

The first step in planning is to plan the smartest layout for your family and needs. Here are questions to ask yourself that will help with your plans:

How many people are often cooking in the kitchen?

It is important to know how many people use the cooking areas. This helps you decide on the space needed behind the kitchen island and around the stove and sink.

How many others are “hanging out” in the kitchen?

This question is also important for determining the space needed in traffic areas. Do you need space for bar stools? Do you eat in the kitchen? If so, you’ll need space for a table and chairs.

After you know how many people are often in the kitchen at one time, you can decide accurately how much space you need to be comfortable.

What is your cooking style?

If you often prepare meals with lots of ingredients and materials, then you’ll need space for this. Think about how much counter space you’d desire when preparing meals.

Think about how large your stove and oven need to be. Again, these questions help you plan a space that will be comfortable and well-organized for you.

How much storage do you need?

This question is important for determining how many cabinets, drawers, and how much pantry space you need. All things to consider in design, as these items take away from traffic areas.

How much time do you have?

Understand and plan your remodel based on how much time you have to get the job done. Think about how long you feel you can go without a kitchen.

Think about the future, too. For example, are you hosting Thanksgiving this year? If so, you’ll need your kitchen done by then.

How many entrances do you need?

Think about your traffic patterns and how much access you want the kitchen to have to the rest of the house.

If you often host meals outdoors, then it is smart to have an outdoor exit attached to the kitchen. If you prefer an open floor-plan, then make sure this is known and planned for.

Once you’ve thought about these planning questions and can answer them, you’re ready to really get to planning the layout and design.

2. Hire a Contractor

Contractors will make the job easier on you and ensure you get the best price and quality for your money. Contractors do all the bidding, finding, scheduling, and make sure laborers are on track and on time.

Contractors hire architects, engineers, designers, and builders. They also are there to routinely check for issues and take care of them.

With a contractor, you don’t have to worry about whether you’re wallets are getting taken advantage of, as they are knowledgeable on market pricing and cost of materials and labor.

3. Choose Appliances

Before you start your kitchen remodeling in Scottsdale, you must, must, must, choose your appliances. If you’re keeping the same appliances, then measure them and write down their measurements, brand, and style.

If you’re buying new appliances, pick them out first. Builders must know the exact measurements of the appliances they are building around.

Nobody wants to remodel their kitchen only to find their oven no longer fits. You also don’t want to have gaping spaces on the sides of appliances.

Keep in mind the plan for the space when you’re choosing appliances as well. In addition, look for appliances that will “match” your design.

4. Visit a Showroom

Seeing something on paper simply isn’t the same as experiencing it in real life. One of the best things you can do before beginning kitchen remodeling in Scottsdale is to visit a kitchen design showroom.

A showroom will show you the latest trends, give you a feel for layout and lighting, and help you choose sizes. It can even help you decide which appliances to purchase for your new kitchen style.

5. Make the Most of What You Have

If you’re on a budget, then you should try to utilize parts of your kitchen you already have. Instead of replacing, consider refinishing your cabinets or changing the countertops.

Keeping the same lighting and appliances will save you big bucks, too.

Another thing to consider is the space you have. It will be much quicker and easier to remodel your kitchen if you are not expanding or drastically changing the space such as the walls and entryways.

6. Design in 3D

Once you’ve planned and designed the kitchen with your contractor, you should look at it in 3D. Request that your contractor provide you a 3D design of the space so you can understand how it will look and feel.

It will also show you what exactly has to be done to turn the remodel into reality. You’ll see plumbing, structural pieces, electrical elements, and more with a 3D design.

Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodeling in Scottsdale?

If you’re ready to start planning your dream kitchen, then Peak One Builders & Restoration, LLC is here to help.

We are your local experienced contractor with professionals in every sector of home building and remodeling. We are dedicated to making your dreams a reality while providing you with quality services at competitive prices.

Contact us today to a request a consultation for kitchen remodeling in Scottsdale.

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Are you looking for a trusted, experienced Scottsdale kitchen remodeling company?  We can help you turn your dreams of a luxury kitchen into reality! Contact the team at Peak One Builders to set up a free consultation! Call 480-378-0611 today.

 

Read related articles:

• What to Do Before Hiring Kitchen Remodeling Contractors


• What Are the Latest Kitchen Trends of 2018?


• 5 Custom Kitchens That Would Look Great in Your Scottsdale Home

6 Steps to Take Before Kitchen Remodeling in Scottsdale

7 Tips for Your Scottsdale Swimming Pool Remodel

Are you considering remodeling your swimming pool?

Let’s be honest, Scottsdale summers are hot, hot, hot. In fact, the average summer high in Scottsdale is said to be 104 degrees Fahrenheit. And, on these days, what better way to cool down than to take a dip in the pool?

While there’s no denying the enjoyment swimming pools can provide, they can prove to require extensive work. And, the truth is, most pools are going to demand a remodel at one point or another. When it comes time to remodel, it’s essential to know the facts.

When you take on a Scottsdale swimming pool remodel, you’re going to want to ensure that you’ve considered all of the options. After all, a swimming pool remodel is not always a quick nor simple process.

If you’re contemplating upgrading your swimming pool, you’re going to want to read this. We’re uncovering seven tips and tricks for making the most out of your Scottsdale swimming pool remodel.

1. Consider Rockface Waterfalls

We all know that idyllic image of the perfect swimming pool: Crystal clear waters that are set amongst beautiful scenery and outfitted with nature-inspired waterfalls.

The truth is, creating natural and beautiful rockface waterfalls doesn’t have to be that complicated nor expensive. If you’re looking to make your ordinary pool feel more like a spa-like, peaceful retreat, you may want to consider the addition of a rockface waterfall.

Rockface waterfalls add a natural and custom feel to any pool and help add some personality to an otherwise simple pool. And, adding a simple layer of movement to your pool might be just what you need to curb that desire for a total remodel.

Are you lusting after some design inspiration? We’ve all got to start somewhere and pictures are often the best source of inspiration. Be sure to view our Scottsdale swimming pool gallery for ideas!

2. Adding Energy Efficient Aspects

Depending on the age and model of your swimming pool, some pools can be more expensive to operate than others.

For the sake of our wallet and the environment, why not consider making your swimming pool more energy efficient? To name a few simple changes:

• A variable speed pool pump


• Solar powered lights and heaters


• Energy efficient filters

After installation, you’ll begin to notice that your pool utilizes less electricity. Depending on your location, you may even qualify for energy-efficient rebates.

These simple changes make swimming pools less expensive to operate and increases the functionality of the pool. While this may prove appealing for the time being, it may also benefit the resale value of your property overall.

3. Swapping the Waterline Tile

If you’re swimming pool is feeling just a little outdated, there are simple steps that you can take to create a more modern aesthetic.

This is where the changing of the pool tile comes into play.

For the most simple of swimming pool remodels, try swapping the waterline tile for something more unique or contemporary. While ceramic mosaics were the go-to choice years ago, glass mosaics are now proving to be more popular.

Glass mosaics also tend to have more of a selection available in terms of color and effects. Simply changing the tile is a minor project that can go a long way and add some sparkle to your swimming pool!

With all of the tile options available for swimming pools these days, the sky is the limit!

4. Stone Decking

Giving your swimming pool a facelift doesn’t have to be limited to the pool itself.

When considering the overall aesthetic of the pool, remember that the surrounding deck has a significant influence on the overall look of the pool. While a clean and contemporary pool may prove to be attractive, an outdated and cracking cement deck is sure to take away from the appeal of the pool.

If your pool is outfitted by updated wood or cement, consider opting for something more visually appealing such as stone. In combination with a swimming pool, a custom stone deck is an upgrade that is capable of transforming the entirety of the backyard.

While this upgrade may not be as cost-effective, it’s a renovation that is sure to maximize the allure of the entire property.

5. Replacing Lights with LED Lighting

Did you know that LED light bulbs can cut energy use by more than 80 percent?

The reality is that many swimming pools were built long before LED lighting became popular and well-trusted.

If your swimming pool is currently outfitted with standard lighting, consider making the change to LED lighting. As with the home, energy efficient lighting is one of the most affordable means of making your interior and exterior less harmful to the environment.

Try adding fun LED colors below the water, around the perimeter or outfitting the deck. And, as a bonus, you’ll love the decrease in how often the LED lighting needs to be replaced and repurchased!

6. Poolside Fire Pits

If you’re looking to add a taste of luxury to your swimming pool, consider the addition of a poolside fire pit. After all, is there anything more enjoyable than a late-night swim following by sitting fireside?

The fire pits sit in close proximity to the swimming pool and can be custom built to suit your preference.

These fire pits are generally available in wood or gas and are the perfect way to transform a backyard into an extraordinary oasis.

7. Upgrading the Technology

As technology continues to evolve, so should the technology of our swimming pools.

After all, pool maintenance can prove to be not only a burden but also time-consuming. This makes swimming pool maintenance possible even when you’re not around. Consider taking a load off and shifting this responsibility onto technology. Some ideas:

• Robotic cleaner


• Automatic pool cover


• Pool system connected to a smartphone

The best news? Many of these gadgets can be easily retrofitted to older swimming pool models.

Scottsdale Swimming Pool Remodel

Are you considering remodeling your swimming pool?

If so, you’ll want to consider these tips and tricks for making the most of your remodel.

The truth is, a pool remodel is generally a good use of time and money. This is especially the case if the homeowner is planning to reside in the home long-term and/or make good use of their swimming pool.

From changing the tile to upgrading the technology, these tips are sure to benefit your pool remodel.

If you’ve been dreaming of giving your swimming pool the facelift it deserves, then what are you waiting for? Visit our website today to learn more about how we can help with your Scottsdale swimming pool remodel.

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As a premier Scottsdale swimming pool construction company, Peak One Builders specializes in amazing pool remodels that will change the look of your outdoor space! Request a free estimate or call 480-378-0611 now to get started!

 

Read related articles:

• What Style of Swimming Pool Should You Add to Your Home?


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7 Tips for Your Scottsdale Swimming Pool Remodel

7 Things to Know About the Custom Home Building Process

Building a home to your specifications is an exciting experience, but you have to ensure you are well prepared for the project. You also need to learn about the custom home building process.

Don’t know anything about the building process?

Well, worry not.

In this piece, we are going to look at seven important things you should know about building a custom home.

If you are planning to construct a custom home instead of buying an existing one, these things will help make the process easier and more exciting. Just read on.

1. Be Ready to Tackle One Thing at a Time

Building a custom home or remodeling a house to match your specifications can be an exhaustive experience, especially if you are a first-timer.

Therefore, you want to be relaxed and ready to tackle one thing at a time. You should note that your custom home will only make you happy if your decisions were made intentionally and not on impulse.

If you are a first-timer, talk to a friend or a colleague who has done it before. This will help you learn about some of the challenges they encountered and how they solve them.

With this information, you will be able to come up with a strategy that will help you avoid many challenges that might come your way during the building project planning and implementation stages.

2. You Should Be Realistic

Like most people, you want to live in a house where you can get everything you want, including recreation facilities.

But let’s face it; unless you are very rich, some of the features you see in your dream home might not come true.

You should, therefore, be realistic when coming up with your plan and budget. The best way to do this is to come up with a list of all the features that you want to see in your dream house.

After coming up with the list, calculate how much it will cost you to include all those features in your custom home.

Can you afford to include all those features in your custom house?

If you can, it’s well and good. If you can’t, note the things that you can afford and those that are more of a dream.

You should also understand that some features and improvements will add more value to your home than others. With this in mind, come up with another list that contains the things that you can afford.

The features that will add more value to your custom home should top your final list. Being realistic will help make the process of building a custom home run smoothly.

You should also have a realistic project timeline.

Your dream house cannot be completed in two weeks. You should be ready for delays and other possible challenges.

Your timeline should accommodate any delays and time to tackle various challenges. This will help make your experience smooth. It’ll also help you manage your project easily without losing your mind.

3. Choose Your Team Wisely

If you want to succeed in building your custom home, you must be careful when choosing a custom builder.

Make sure the custom builder you hire has the knowledge, skills, and experience required to give you the exceptional results you are looking for.

The custom builder you choose should also come with a team that understands the process of constructing a custom home. Everyone who works for you should be licensed, bonded, and insured. This way, you can relax knowing that your project is in good hands and they will deliver on time.

A contractor who knows what he/she is doing will keep you informed every step of the way.

4. You Need to Learn About Construction Financing

Unless you have tons of cash in your account, you will require a construction loan to fund your custom home. Unfortunately, the process of financing a custom home is a little bit more complicated than the process of financing an existing home.

There are two types of construction loans: the ones that convert to permanent mortgages, and the ones that don’t.

If you go for the temporary construction loan that does not convert to a mortgage, you will be forced to secure a separate mortgage loan after your house is complete.

Which option should you go for?

Well, this depends on your unique needs. Learning about construction financing will help you choose a loan that complements your needs.

You should also note that construction loans aren’t accessible to everyone. You need to have a good credit score to get this type of loan.

5. Ask Questions Relating to the Custom Home Building Process

Reading several articles and watching YouTube videos about the process of building a custom house does not make you an expert.

There are still a lot of things that you don’t know.

Asking questions will help you know more about the custom built house. It will also make it easy for you to create a good relationship with your team.

You should also ask about the background information of the people who work for you. This is important and can help you assess the skills of your construction team and adjust your expectations.

6. Your Plan and Budget Should Accommodate Any Additional Costs

Like we mentioned, building a custom house is not easy, and you may face some challenges.

Some of these challenges require some money to solve. You should, therefore, not forget to leave room in your budget to accommodate additional, unexpected costs.

This will make it easy for you to fight any challenges that come your way. It’ll also make the construction process easier and saner throughout.

7. Stay Involved

The more involved you are, the more satisfied you’ll be with the end result. Ensure you are part of the construction process, including the selection of materials, planning of the layout, and finishing.

Won’t you be labeled a control freak? No!

Any reputable, knowledgeable custom builder will appreciate that you are part of the team.

The Bottom Line

The custom home building process can be a mystery for a starter. However, this should not discourage you.

If you follow the tips discussed above, you can be sure that your custom house will be completed without any issues. Our informative blog has more helpful posts on this and other home construction topics.

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As the top custom home construction company in Scottsdale AZ, Peak One Builders has decades of experience helping clients through every step of the home building process. Contact us online or call 480-378-0611 today so we can discuss all of your options!

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6 Mistakes to Avoid When Building a New Home

Planning on building a new home? With custom house building, you can design your new home to be exactly as you want it to. But as usual, the devil is in the details, and small mistakes can ruin your grand plans.

If you are a first time home builder, you should make sure you get everything right the first time around, as mistakes are costly and hard to fix. Read on to find out some of the most common custom home building mistakes.

1. Energy Inefficiency

Simply put, if your new home doesn’t have Energy Star certification, you’ll be losing a lot of money in the long run. How much, you ask? Well, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Energy Star houses may use up to 30% less energy compared to conventional houses.

Energy Star indicates that a product meets certain energy efficiency standards. It’s an indication used for most energy-hungry home appliances, including HVAC systems. However, many people don’t know you can actually get an Energy Star certification for your own home as well.

Building an Energy Star home requires advanced insulation, Energy Star appliances, efficient HVAC and expert design. In order to qualify, you need to meet all the requirements set by the EPA.

After your new house is ready, you will need to contract an independent energy rater to determine if your house qualifies for Energy Star certification.

Receiving Energy Star certification is a difficult process, but the promise of 30% less energy consumption more than makes up for the challenge. Working with a dependable green home building contractor will allow you to obtain the coveted Energy Star certification at minimum cost. Without the right builder at your side, it is likely that your home will not meet the standards, and you won’t be able to get your Energy Star certification.

2. Inadequate HVAC System

Building an energy efficient house is one thing, but making it so that it’s actually comfortable to live in is another. Poor HVAC planning can lead to all sorts of problems with air quality, too much moisture and even mold.

Standing for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, HVAC is so much more than thermal comfort. Sure, it’s important to keep your house comfortably warm, but you need to consider proper ventilation and humidity control as well.

Your HVAC system should be just the right size for the total floor space of your house. Small models will not cool or heat your home efficiently. On the other hand, an HVAC system that is too big for your house will just be wasting money and energy.

Another problem of poor HVAC planning is the unsightly wall acne. The term wall acne refers to a multitude of mismatched lights, switches, controls and keypads on a wall. You can avoid this completely with proper design.

3. Bad Space Planning and Design

Space planning is crucial regardless of the size of your new home. Even the largest homes can run out of space if you have not designed them efficiently.

Regardless of your goals, you need to plan your floor space in advance. Take your time to plan out the layout of your new home, and make sure you are not skimping on important details.

First, you need to assess how much storage space you will need in each room. You can’t just pile everything up in the garage, and even garages get full after a while! Each bedroom should have at least one closet, and bathrooms will require some kind of storage as well. Your entrance hall should have a coat closet, especially if you live in colder climates.

Your building contractor will be able to give you a 3D representation of how your house will look like. You can use that to help you plan everything to perfection.

4. Wrong Room Placement

You should always keep the bigger plan in mind. Where do you want to spend most of the time? What do you want from your new house? Where to place each room?

It is easy to get bogged down in details and forget the real issues. For example, your laundry room should be placed close to your bedrooms for convenience. Having your laundry room in the basement will waste valuable time.

You should place your bedrooms on the quietest side of your house. Ideally, that should be as far away from traffic as possible. Make sure you place bedrooms away from the garage and opposite to street view to minimize traffic noise. Ideally, bedrooms should not share walls with main living spaces.

You should position your kitchen in such a way as to make unloading groceries easy. That’s either next to the garage or the back entrance. The garage itself should be in the ground floor and neighboring your kitchen and your mudroom.

5. Underused Rooms

Do you really need a game room or that walk-in closet you saw on TV? One of the biggest mistakes is to build rooms that won’t be used much. Underused rooms will eat up your budget, lower your energy efficiency and make your house less livable.

What’s worse, underused rooms often end up becoming storage spaces for all sorts of unused junk that people tend to accumulate over the years.

6. No Long-Term Planning

Finally, keep your long-term goals in mind. This is your new home. Make sure it fits your needs now and in the future.

When designing your new house, you should think of your habits, lifestyle and future choices. Do you plan to raise kids in this house? How long do you plan to stay? Will you spend your retirement years in this house?

The above considerations, and more, will define the design of your new house. Above all, you need the place you will be spending much of your life in to be livable and safe.

Ready to Start Building a New Home?

Building your house from scratch can be a daunting task. Thankfully, you are not alone! Check out Peak One Builders, a leading luxury home building and remodeling company in Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ.

We aim to make the construction or remodeling of your luxury home an enjoyable experience and hassle-free experience. Contact us today for a consultation and get started on building a new home you will be proud of!

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Avoid common mistakes when building your new home by working with Peak One Builders, the best home builders in North Scottsdale! We can help bring your dreams to life. Contact us to set up a free consultation so we can discuss all of your options! Call 480-378-0611 today.

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