What is important to consider when building custom homes?
Building custom homes can be a stressful, but an enjoyable experience. When you hire a builder, you need to believe in them and allow them to make decisions in the process, as a true custom home has never been built before. Plans and engineering are not always perfect the first time, so patience and trust in the builder is essential. I’ve used the same subcontractors over the years, and this helps with the overall quality and performance of the house. Our subcontractors are part of the team, we work together to bring our clients’ dreams to reality.
You provide homeowners with the opportunity to source products from anywhere in the world and work with interior designers and architects of their choice, how does this shape your builds?
Many builders call themselves custom builders, but they force you to use their in-house designers and preferred vendors. I’ve always allowed our clients the flexibility to source products from anywhere and use the designer and architect of their choice. I believe this is the only way you can really be called a custom home builder, and this approach makes the finished product enjoyable. Importing products from around the world can add some stress to scheduling, but it is cool to see one-of-a-kind products being used in our builds.
Clients appreciate that you deliver finished houses on time and on budget, why is this important to you?
Delivering on time and on budget are the most important aspects of the process. My background with running a low voltage subcontracting business helped me understand how important scheduling is and the need to see progress every day without down times. Our clients expect the same as well. The number one reason there is conflict between a client and builder is due to cost overruns, so keeping a close eye on budget is important. Over the years, I’ve called myself not just a home builder, but a financial planner as well and work with the client and design team to keep within budget.
What is the driving force behind your business?
The driving force behind my business is the pride of completion--taking ideas and a paper drawing and turning it into a beautiful home. Seeing the delight of our clients as the home gets framed and starts to take shape is fun. I’ve had clients start crying with joy as they walk into the final competed home, this is what makes you want to come back for more.
What are some of the most memorable features you have worked on?
One that really stands out is the above ground pool window we did on a project. Our client had a great idea of seeing the Willamette River through the side wall, while underwater. I asked pool companies in the Portland area if anyone had done this and couldn’t find anyone. So, I contacted a company in Florida, and they assisted me in the process. That house and pool now has over 14 million views on our Instagram account.
You’ve built up a notable body of residential work, what are some major takeaways from building homes?
I appreciate seeing our clients’ dreams come together and enjoy working with so many people with different backgrounds. Our subcontractors come from a variety of countries and cultures and our client backgrounds are diverse. I’ve learned so much from our subs and clients and the importance of being a careful listener and being patient to succeed in building custom homes.
What are your favorite building sites?
I’ve been lucky to have built on some of the nicest properties in Oregon including the Oregon coast, Lake Oswego, and central Oregon. I’d be happy in any of those places.
