Building a Home | build a home | how to build a house

Having a new customized home built can be an exciting experience. Getting through the process however can be a long and at times difficult ordeal. People having a new home built often rely solely on their builder to help guide them through the construction. Unfortunately he may not be the best person to advise them on their project.
Consider the following:
Home builders and many contractors involved in home construction are not licensed professionals No license means no mandated formal training or apprenticeship, no continuing education, and minimal accountability
City building inspectors check for code compliance, not quality
Codes do not cover all aspects of the building process
These are facts that the majority of people building new homes or for that matter having work done on their existing home, do not know. But who can a new construction home buyer find who will objectively and competently oversee an entire building project and provide knowledgeable, unbiased information on construction techniques and materials? An independent, licensed, professional home inspector.
Most often home inspectors are called in after the new home owner has been experiencing problems with the house, often for many months or even years after it was built. What new construction home buyers almost never consider is hiring the inspector while the house is being built.
When problems do occur and the homeowner is asked about new construction inspections some reasons heard for not enlisting the help of an independent home inspector are:
The local building official is inspecting the home
As previously stated these inspectors look for code compliance, not quality. They are in the home only briefly during different phases of the construction. Do they miss things? Yes they do and no they are not usually held accountable for their mistakes. Also they are municipal employees and are not directly responsible to the persons buying the home. In other words they won’t contact the buyer if there are problems. They simply instruct the builder to correct the issues and move on to the next home.
Cost
It’s always about the money and for good reason. Costs can escalate quickly when building a new home. Buyers often want upgrades and these push up costs. So hiring an independent inspector can be an expense that is hard to justify. After all they believe the city building official is inspecting the home.
The builder has a good reputation
He may, but how do you know. Many people do not research the builder before signing on with them to build their home. This may be even truer when purchasing the home through a third party such as Realtor. Get references and check them before signing a contract.
It is also important to understand specifically what the builders’ job is. He generally is the person who manages the entire construction process. He must hire and coordinate many sub-contractors to install the vast amount of components that make up a house. This can be an overwhelming task for just one home, but if he is building several homes at once it can be nearly impossible to effectively manage.
It’s a new house; there should be nothing wrong (Very likely the biggest misconception related to new homes)
If you have ever bought an item, taken it home and it broke the first time you used it then the absurdness of this statement should be glaringly apparent. But never the less many people who have a home built believe because it is new and there is a one year builders warranty there will be no problems.
A house is a complex structure containing many different systems that must all function correctly and in harmony. It is built over the course of several months by many different people. Assuredly there are going to be problems and most often they are minor or cosmetic. But there are those occasional big problems that can make the home barely habitable or in extreme cases uninhabitable.
Was not aware that an outside inspector could be hired
When paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to have a home built, you are certainly entitled to have whom every you choose oversee the process. If you meet resistance to bringing in an outside inspector, this should be a red flag that something could potentially be wrong.
But why is it important to hire an independent inspector to look after the project?
Very simply quality control. If the construction company in charge of building your home knows that the customer has hired an independent, knowledgeable inspector to oversee the build, they are very likely to be more diligent in their quality of work. The psychological effect can be just as influential as the actual physical inspections.
Home inspectors and home builders encompass similar knowledge of home construction. However home inspectors are formally trained individuals who are licensed and consequently must also attend a specific amount of continuing education for license renewal. Home builders are not licensed, only registered, and therefore are not required to be formally trained or attend continuing education. They must only pay a yearly fee to remain registered and in business.
This is also true of the majority of contractors who perform work on a new or existing home. The term Home Improvement Contractor is a catch all category for companies that do any type of improvement work on homes. For example carpenters who frame the home fall into this category, as do roofers, foundation contractors, sheet rockers, flooring installers and many other individual companies that are part of putting a house together.
Another important aspect of the home inspectors experience is they view all types and ages of homes. They see the results of poor construction practices and understand better than anyone the consequences of inferior workmanship. It’s an important and unique perspective that no other profession can claim.
Finally a hired independent home inspector works for and reports directly to you. He is your advocate and can be an invaluable asset during the building of your new home.
Before you buy a new home consumer groups advise protecting your rights by taking these steps:
Research your builder thoroughly before signing any agreements.
Consider hiring a real estate lawyer to negotiate your contract. There is no better time to negotiate than before you buy.
To protect your right to sue, strike any requirement that disputes will go to binding arbitration.
Ask for the names of subcontractors building your home. Investigate their work before you buy.
Hire a professional inspector to examine your home during construction. Point out flaws that can be fixed before you move in.
Discuss your warranty thoroughly with the builder. Put everything in writing.
Leave a paper trail. Send all correspondence to the builder by certified mail, return receipt requested.

Every four seconds someone conducts a log home related search online. That is over 7 million online searches a year! If you are one of the millions of people who are interested in log homes, log cabins or other log structures, you may want to consider an economical alternative: Swedish Cope log siding.
Swedish Cope is a design style that uses round logs that have a concave groove removed from the bottom of each log to allow the logs to stack firmly on each other while creating an evenly spread, load-bearing, weather-tight seal. The Swedish Cope style is a favorite of traditional log home enthusiasts because it highlights the full-rounded beauty of the log timbers on both the exterior and interior of the structure. Swedish Cope log siding captures the aesthetic value of this style but because the logs are cut in half vertically, they can be applied to any walled structure (internal as well as external) to give the look of full, round logs.
Based on data provided by the Log Homes Council, there are fewer than 30,000 log homes sold annually in the US. With more than 7 million online searches a year and fewer than 30,000 log homes sold, there seems to be a big disconnect between wanting a log home and buying one. One reason for this disconnect relates to the cost of building a log home. Another factor relates to wanting the charm and rustic beauty of a log home but not wanting the design and construction limitations that are often associated with traditional log homes. Swedish Cope log siding offers a perfect solution to both of these concerns.
Folks that want the log home look without the cost can convert their existing siding to Swedish Cope log siding complete with faux (false) corners and log cut door and window trim that completes the external appearance of an authentic log home. This also allows homeowners to maintain the creature comforts and conveniences they have become accustomed to with their frame-built interiors. For those who want a more traditional log home look, Swedish Cope log siding can be applied to interior walls as well to complete the transformation.
If this article has piqued your interest in Swedish Cope log siding, I encourage you to read the following tips for choosing a provider for your Swedish Cope log siding:
1. Seek a producer who specializes in milling log homes (such as Cedar Knoll Log Homes). Your local saw mill may be able to produce log siding for you, but you will likely encounter fewer problems dealing with a company that has experience milling log home materials.
2. Ask about custom design capabilities. Look for a company that can work with you to produce custom products that meet your specific needs. This can save you time and money while allowing you to create the one-of-a-kind home of your dreams.
3. Ask for Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding by name. There are a multitude of other log siding styles available but few offer the distinctive look of traditional log homes and provide a weather-tight seam that virtually eliminates water seepage between logs. Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding uses a unique shiplap joint that locks each half log to the one below and allows the siding to be applied without any visible nail heads showing. Call 800-644-3564 to speak to a Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding specialist.

Renovating an existing home, or designing a home from the ground up can be a daunting task. Anyone who bought a pink toilet bowl or a green dishwasher can attest to the fact that what seems like a great idea today, might not be looked on so kindly in the future. Our advice for renovating and designing your home is to focus on regional influences, to make your home fit into its surroundings. In beautiful North and South Carolina, there are many home design trends you can follow to ensure your home has lasting value. The first places people consider when thinking about renovations are the kitchen and bathrooms. Kitchen and bathroom renovations account for the largest segment of the billion dollar per year home renovation industry. Thinking back to green dishwashers and pink toilets, you’ll want to make sure your renovations don’t fall into the tragic category. There are some safe bets, and some things to avoid.
Starting in the kitchen, you’ll probably be tempted to redo the cabinets. There has been a recent trend towards glass fronted cabinet doors, which seem to be a bad idea. Do you really want guests staring into the disarray that may be your cabinets, or have the added time requirements of keeping them streak and smudge free? Stick with traditional wood finishes. Darker wood colors are coming back into fashion, if you’re so inclined. Granite countertops have been a perennial favorite, and recently matte finished countertops have gained popularity. If you are considering installing these, you should be aware that they stain very easily, and can be subject to nicks and scratches. Instead, take a look at engineered compounds, which are blends of recycled granite and resin. These are less expensive than granite, come in more colors, and are not susceptible to stains or scratches.
In the bathroom you may be tempted to install one of the fancy, above the counter, bowl style sinks you’ve seen in trendy restaurants and cafes. Think again though, as they are difficult to clean, and unwieldy to use on a daily basis. Instead, invest in a soaking tub to relax your stresses away, and have grown in popularity over whirlpool tubs. Also popular are spa style showers which have multiple shower heads, and “garden” tubs designed to open from the front, allowing easier access for people.
On a national level there’s a trend toward using exterior materials and architectural features that provide durability and low maintenance. In the Carolinas, brick is the preferred building material. First, it’s made from local Carolina clay, and second it’s durable and attractive. Finally, since it has a good weight to it, brick increases the thermal mass of your home, contributing to increased energy efficiency. Installing awnings over windows is also a great way to increase the value of your home, and decrease your energy bills.
Traditionally people living in North Carolina or South Carolina enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. Today, it’s the biggest trend nationwide. Designing your home to incorporate the outdoors is one of the best things you can do to increase its attractiveness to buyers, and create enjoyment for yourself. Adding a porch, a sunroom, or an outdoor kitchen, are great ways to get outside. Many people also choose to add these features as a replacement for a traditional basement. Many people coming from the Northern states are used to basements, but many areas of the Carolinas are not suited for basements, due to the high water table or yearly humidity concerns. Adding these outdoor living spaces doesn’t have to be expensive either. The outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a terraced area made from attractive fieldstone and an inset grill. The sunroom and porch are simple enough projects that a good handyman can complete over a few weekends. From reading a good book in the sunroom in the early winter months, to grilling outside in the summer months, with the great climate of the Carolinas, you’ll be able to enjoy these features nearly year round.

Demand for environmentally friendly buildings has grown considerably in recent years, and Realtors are making a lot of money helping investors buy and sell them. As this market grows, it's up to savvy agents to follow new green technology, and the changing interests of buyers. Government green building incentives and international treaties are also a big factor, and agents who know what policies are next can often anticipate demand.
Part of the reason green buildings took so long to attract demand was the lack of knowledge on the subject. Many developers assumed building costs would be inaccesibly high because of standards that had to be met, and materials required. But in recent years the opposite has happened - buyer awareness has helped expand the market, and many developers have found green buildings to be much less expensive than they assumed. As green buildings become more common, construction materials, such as insulative glass, and public information, have increased dramatically.
Realtors looking for the latest information and industry perspective on green buildings can attend now attend regular conferences on the subject, which are among the most popular events in the real estate industry these days. The most common theme at these events is how to stay ahead of the curve, and ensure green developments don't go out of date as new technologies emerge.
Green buildings are also having an impact on the buy-sell cycle of many real estate markets, because their owners act differently than other buyers and sellers. Many green building owners and renters keep their homes for longer before selling them, a trend running counter to the common practice of buying and flipping in many high-end markets. With sustainable value comes higher overall prices, and the demand for better construction and longer lasting buildings.
The benefits of environmentally friendly construction are now well known: these buildings have a smaller demand on power and plumbing, resources resulting in fewer greenhouse gases and less resource extraction, heating and cooling cost savings, and more comfortable living spaces. They're also generally more attractive and complementary to the cityscape.

Whether it’s the start of a new phase in your life or your simply looking to start over, building a dream home takes a lot of work and sure is a terrible burden to bear. Even if it is a labor of love to make that house you’ve always wanted, one detail out of place, one measurement gone wrong, might just cause you nothing but migraines. Lets face it, as romantic and old-fashioned as it may be to build with your own hands; it still pays to have the professionals get things done. Need I say more? Okay.
One obvious reason is experience. Custom home contractors have made it their business to know everything that needs to know in the industry. They have built, rebuilt, styled, designed, renovated, and remodeled thousands of homes, enough to know where the problems usually arise. With proficient teams on the job you wouldn’t have to worry about making a mess or wasting materials repairing your mistakes. If anything you’ll be assured of minimal mishaps.
Years of experience have also earned construction companies familiarity with all sorts of people, making them well informed as to what people want, and in most cases, what people really need. Experts work closely with clients in ensuring the job gets done right and according to plan. And should you already have a plan as to what needs to go where and how you want things played out, specialists could also give your professional advice as to what might be best for your home. Overall, you can get what you want, maybe even something better, without compromising in any way.
Expertise. It’s usually more beneficial to trust construction companies when it comes to house building or remodeling homes because they typically know more than the average consumer. Utilizing the right tools for the right job and proficient with the appropriate materials needed to complete the project is usually better than relying on what you have in your shed and trusting on your instinct when it comes to picking out the right supplies.
Professionals also have the advantage of reliability. Sure you can work a saw, but it usually takes more than that to get a nice clean finish and ultimately achieve the most positive results. With construction companies taking on dozens of project on a single year, only a few achieve recognition and praise for their job well done. Having known people’s experience through companies such as this, gives the assurance that you can count on these professionals on making your dream home a reality.
When it comes to putting that house plan in action, sure, there are a number of ways you can save up by getting thing done the old do-it-yourself way. But wouldn’t you feel a whole lot better if you can sit back, have your mind at ease, and anticipate the development of your ideal home, without having to lift a single hammer or make a single compromise, or have a single headache. After all these years of working hard for that dream home, wouldn’t you say it’s worth it to have it done without too much worries?

The job of building a house is never an easy one. There are so many aspects to the process and so many possibilities that trying to keep it all organized can get quite hard at times.
Construction companies are ideal for the process for this very reason, making it much easier to keep everything organized and ensure the absolute best housing project possible. For those looking to complete the life long dream of building a home in Cyprus, construction companies there are assured to help you make it a reality.
Cyprus is home to thousands of acres of beautiful real estate, all of it primed for new homes and your dream house. For that reason, there are also plenty of construction companies devoted to making the process easier.
No matter what you are planning to build – be it a three story house in the hills or a tiny beach side villa – Cyprus construction companies can help you get it done. The only hard part is deciding exactly what you want to build and how you want to have it built.
The most popular and desirable building location in Cyprus is Nicosia. As a capital city, Nicosia has long since become a hub for investment hungry expats looking to build new lives. For those working from or near this city, there are an especially large number of construction companies to choose from for this reason.
The list of companies to choose from is quite long, consisting of names like Aser Engineering Ltd., Er Insaat Mutehhitligi, and Candemir Mustafa Insaat Mutahitligi. All of these companies have made a name for themselves working out of Nicosia alone. For anyone looking to put their dream house into motion, choosing the correct company is ideal. There are plenty of options available, so when it comes time to make a decision, ample research is vital.
One good step is to research exactly how well each company has performed in the past. Look for comments from other expats who have used any of these companies before and ask questions on Internet message boards to get a better idea of how they will handle your project. Also, meet with them, ask for estimates and discuss your project. The more they know about you, the better they can assist in getting the project completed.
In certain areas of Cyprus especially, you will undoubtedly require the assistance of a professional construction company. Cities such as Larnaca, Agia Napa, and Kyrenia are prime examples of Cyprus areas that have dozens of prospective construction companies to assist you with your housing project. Do your research and you should be well on your way to that one of a kind dream house.

There's no doubt about it: Purchasing a new home is one of the most exciting times in your life. If you haven't purchased a brand new home in many years (or have never purchased a home to be built just for you), there is much to consider, and much to learn. But the process doesn't have to be overwhelming – and it can be a real joy – if you take these few simple steps.
Do Your Homework Ask the builders you are considering what their procedures are. You will be surprised how much they vary from builder to builder. Some questions to ask…
1. How much of a deposit will hold the homesite you desire – and for how long?
2. When does the contract have to be signed, and how much money is due at signing?
3. How much time will you have between signing the contract and making your exterior and interior selections?
4. How many appointments (and how much time) will you be given to make your selections?
5. When are selections considered final (and no further changes will be considered)?
6. How much of the options and upgrades must be paid in advance?
7. Will the builder entertain custom changes to the home's design and layout – moving walls and doorways, adding or deleting windows, substituting a bay window for a plain window, installing products not available on the options list (KitchenAid rather than GE appliances, Andersen windows rather than another brand, etc.)?
8. Is there an advantage to you for using the builder's preferred lender – perhaps a discount on options or cash toward settlement?
Decide in advance what questions must be answered with a resounding "Yes!" If you absolutely cannot live without a 40" Viking range, you'll want to know that your builder will price a customized kitchen layout with a Viking range for you, if he doesn't offer a home that includes one. (That goes for anything else not listed on the standard features or options lists.) Earlier is better than later – so don't wait until you're in contract and sitting down to make your selections with the Design Center Coordinator before mentioning it, as it will probably be too late. Only you can avoid the disappointment that comes from not asking a question until it's too late.
Prioritize It's a rare occasion when we can "have it all." Most of the time, we have to compromise on certain things. So it is with building a new home. Whether it's your budget, the design or layout of the house itself, or the builder's offerings that are limiting what you can have in your new home, list your "must haves" and your "nice to haves" in separate columns on a sheet of paper. Having it in black and white helps you to clarify your true priorities, in case you're forced to make a choice. (A double wall oven and cooktop, or a kitchen island? An expanded walk-in closet, or a more luxurious master bath?)
Organize Your Thoughts Use an accordion file folder to collect…
1. Photos of favorite furniture pieces, window treatments you're bringing with you to the new home, and features of your current home (built-ins, architectural features, window groupings and/or placements, etc.) that you'd like to repeat in your new home.
2. Magazine clippings of home exteriors that appeal to you, as well as interior decorator touches you'd like to replicate in your new home
3. Measurements – length, depth, and height – of furniture you're planning to bring with you (particularly oversized pieces that require lots of wall space, but don't forget that baker's rack from your kitchen or the desk and hutch in your home office, which also may have trouble fitting into your new space)
4. Paint chips and fabric swatches that represent your sense of style and favorite décor colors
Having these things handy will help keep you focused not only while making your interior selections but, perhaps more importantly, as you're choosing the home design itself.
Come Prepared When making your interior selections, don't forget…
1. The file folder you started (above)!
2. To bring sofa cushions, bath towels, pillow sham, placemats, a dinner plate, etc. – the better to choose the cabinets, countertops, and flooring for your new home.
The Right Frame of Mind Most importantly, approach every encounter with your builder and his representatives in the right frame of mind. This can and should be one of the most enjoyable times of your life, but remember that people build homes and people buy homes – and allow for the fact that wherever humans are involved, there is no such thing as 100 percent perfect!
Try to keep a positive mental attitude, particularly when something goes wrong. In the end, your home will almost undoubtedly be everything you want it to be and you will enjoy many happy years there. From long experience in the industry (and having built two homes of my own), I can assure you that the fact that the carpet color you had chosen was discontinued and you had to "settle" for your second choice, or that the French doors were not framed in until you reminded the builder during your framing inspection that you had purchased that option, will not affect the integrity of the home or your enjoyment of it one bit after you move in. Try not to let small issues take away from the joy you should be experiencing as you enter this exciting next chapter of your life.

It can be a deeply American experience to build a house. For upholding traditional ideas of the family, there is nothing like building from a plan. These days it is possible for completely unqualified people to design their own house, thanks to the wealth of house plans available. Whether you are a traditionalist or are looking for truly contemporary design, you can be sure that a professional has already done the donkey work for you – all you have to do is name your specifications and pick up a design.
For anyone with a little imagination – or a dream – and a computer with a mouse, house design has become as easy as drawing is for children. After learning the basics of a package, which are comparable to paint or Photoshop in terms of level of difficulty the sky’s the limit. No wonder this cost and time saving solution is catching on. Architects already use it – so why not you?
Most of us can’t imagine what a plan will pan out as, which is why the software is able to give you a preview projection of your design as you draw it up and modify it. If you do not wish to design a whole house, but only a certain feature like a porch, a particular room or the garden area, you should look for a specific package to further save on costs.
There are basically two types of house plan available the good ones, and the ones that are absolutely incomprehensible. Look consider carefully the following factors: Cost – be careful to make sure you understand not just the cost of buying the plan, but all the materials which you will need for executing it. Setting – how well does your plan match the neighbourhood and surrounding area? You are sure to be able to get just the right plan for your neck of the woods, if you shop around.
Optimal use of space – will the finished house meet your space requirements? The most successful plans are those which create a fine-looking house, with the required rooms, and just that little bit over for the yards to fill the plot. You don’t want to end up sharing your bedroom with the dog. Building regulations – these vary from state to state. The building plans available in your area are generally marketed there because they meet specifications. If you are buying plans out of state, check the packaging and if need be your local planning office.
If you are planning a house for a hot or tropical climate area, you would do well to choose a cool house plan. These tend to come with flat roofs – more efficient for heat-deflection- and a lot of ventilation features, as opposed to built-in air conditioning.

Myth #1: You don't need a realtor when you build a new home because you can save a commission and, therefore, get a better deal from the builder.
Myth #2: You don't need a realtor since you will be working directly with the builder. The builder will take care of the financing, the title company, and all of the administrative paperwork associated with the purchase of a new home.
Myth #3: Realtors know little or nothing of construction, so why would you need one? A realtor would just be in the way.
Let's discuss Myth #1:
New home construction prices are generally based on the builder's cost plus their profit or markup. In most cases, homebuilders either have a marketing budget, which includes commissions or they use a percentage profit or markup which includes a commission. What generally happens when a buyer/client works directly with a builder is that the builder pockets the commission as additional profit. Most builders or their salespersons will advise you that their is no need for you to have a real estate agent. It is important to remember that builders represent themselves; not you as the client.
Myth #2:
Builders will make it seem simpler without a realtor and that having one is really not necessary. This might be true if the builder represented your interests instead of theirs. Do you think he does? Did you know that most homebuilders have their own mortgage and title companies, not for your interest, but for theirs? The builders need their lender and title companies to finance their business and buy your lot and others. This is big business for both of them and be assured that those relationships favor the builder's interest way ahead of yours.
Myth #3:
Remember the title of this article says "qualified realtor". The very best arrangement is for you, the buyer, to have a qualified, seasoned, realtor to represent you in a real estate transaction. Would you represent yourself in a lawsuit? Would you represent yourself in probably the largest investment you will ever make...your home? Interview a few realtors to determine their knowledge, experience, and success on new builds. You can ask them to justify the commission dollar wise, but remember, as discussed above, you are not the one who will be paying the commission.
Here are some of the things that a realtor should and will do for you if they are qualified:
- Most buyers will use a builder’s floor plan without consulting an architect. A good realtor will insist on a professional architect’s input. Because architects will introduce ideas and standards that builders want to avoid, builders will almost always discourage a buyer from using one.
- Typically, 4-6 meetings are conducted between the builder and the buyer before a contract is executed. Usually the buyer signs the contract on the spot. However, if a realtor is present, the realtor insists on waiting several days so that additional negotiations can take place. A good realtor may require more than one additional meeting to ensure the buyer gets the best contract price possible.
- Most buyers will do only a walk-through with the builder. A good realtor will insist on an inspection by a licensed professional prior to closing and will attend the inspection with the buyer.

The real estate process of buying a home for the typical family can be a very stressful event, almost at the top of the charts. The selection of a professional agent can be a tremendous benefit as a counselor and guide to navigate you through the process with as little stress as possible. The average home buyer spends very little time interviewing and investigating agents for the role as their agent.
The first part of the home buying process for many is the desire to look at homes and not the careful selection of a real estate agent. This can be a huge mistake as the knowledge and experience level of an agent can change the outcome of the stressful process to a smooth one. Many homebuyers end up with an agent by default, what I mean by this is that the buyer has no plan of action for selecting their agent. The introduction may have been as casual as the buyer calling on an ad or attending an open house.
Of course you want to start the home buying process with a strong foundation and finding the right agent will make a big difference in the total experience. As a first time home buyer you will depend on the expertise of your agent. You will not know what to expect or when to expect it within this very challenging process.
You will want to interview several agents before you even start looking for a home. By pursuing an interview process you will also educate yourself. Here are several areas you will want to discuss with agents that you are interviewing.
1. What is the experience level of the agent? Selecting someone that has at least two years or more of experience will show they have survived the test of time and the knowledge to assist you in the home buying process.
2. What is the geographical area that they service. As an agent works in a given neighborhood they will gain additional non-real estate knowledge such as which area has better schools, less rush-hour traffic or lower crime rates.
3. Does the agent carry errors and omissions insurance? This protects them and you when there is a contractual issue or an undisclosed defect in the home. The Department of real estate doesn't require a broker to carry it, and this is not something you want to find out after closing.
4. Many agents work only on a buyer broker agreement basis, you will be asked to sign a contract for several months during which you will be obligated to work with this agent exclusively for that time period. Other agents will ask you for this agreement once they have worked with you, both parties feel it is a good relationship, and you are ready to make an offer.
5. Always ask for references. A good agent will have their references ready for you.
6. In order to serve their client as best as possible some agents have decided not to represent both a buyer and seller in the same transaction. One of the main reasons for this is that it is very difficult to be an advocate for two parties with opposite goals.
7. How does the agent select the homes that they show you? Many agents will e-mail their clients a lot of properties and let the buyer decide which homes to see, this can be a very ineffective and time consuming process in which the buyer sees many homes that do not suit their needs. The best agents will preview all of the homes on the market that fit a buyer’s general criteria and then show their client only the best homes. This process leads to a much more efficient and beneficial outcome for the buyer.
8. Does the agent have a close relationship with a trustworthy and knowledgeable lender? By working closely with the lender an agent will be more able to guide the process ensuring that the buyer gets the best loan program for their situation and is only looking at homes that fit their budget.

Every four seconds someone conducts a log home related search online. That is over 7 million online searches a year! If you are one of the millions of people who are interested in log homes, log cabins or other log structures, you may want to consider an economical alternative: Swedish Cope log siding.
Swedish Cope is a design style that uses round logs that have a concave groove removed from the bottom of each log to allow the logs to stack firmly on each other while creating an evenly spread, load-bearing, weather-tight seal. The Swedish Cope style is a favorite of traditional log home enthusiasts because it highlights the full-rounded beauty of the log timbers on both the exterior and interior of the structure. Swedish Cope log siding captures the aesthetic value of this style but because the logs are cut in half vertically, they can be applied to any walled structure (internal as well as external) to give the look of full, round logs.
Based on data provided by the Log Homes Council, there are fewer than 30,000 log homes sold annually in the US. With more than 7 million online searches a year and fewer than 30,000 log homes sold, there seems to be a big disconnect between wanting a log home and buying one. One reason for this disconnect relates to the cost of building a log home. Another factor relates to wanting the charm and rustic beauty of a log home but not wanting the design and construction limitations that are often associated with traditional log homes. Swedish Cope log siding offers a perfect solution to both of these concerns.
Folks that want the log home look without the cost can convert their existing siding to Swedish Cope log siding complete with faux (false) corners and log cut door and window trim that completes the external appearance of an authentic log home. This also allows homeowners to maintain the creature comforts and conveniences they have become accustomed to with their frame-built interiors. For those who want a more traditional log home look, Swedish Cope log siding can be applied to interior walls as well to complete the transformation.
If this article has piqued your interest in Swedish Cope log siding, I encourage you to read the following tips for choosing a provider for your Swedish Cope log siding:
1. Seek a producer who specializes in milling log homes (such as Cedar Knoll Log Homes). Your local saw mill may be able to produce log siding for you, but you will likely encounter fewer problems dealing with a company that has experience milling log home materials.
2. Ask about custom design capabilities. Look for a company that can work with you to produce custom products that meet your specific needs. This can save you time and money while allowing you to create the one-of-a-kind home of your dreams.
3. Ask for Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding by name. There are a multitude of other log siding styles available but few offer the distinctive look of traditional log homes and provide a weather-tight seam that virtually eliminates water seepage between logs. Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding uses a unique shiplap joint that locks each half log to the one below and allows the siding to be applied without any visible nail heads showing. Call 800-644-3564 to speak to a Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding specialist.

Renovating an existing home, or designing a home from the ground up can be a daunting task. Anyone who bought a pink toilet bowl or a green dishwasher can attest to the fact that what seems like a great idea today, might not be looked on so kindly in the future. Our advice for renovating and designing your home is to focus on regional influences, to make your home fit into its surroundings. In beautiful North and South Carolina, there are many home design trends you can follow to ensure your home has lasting value. The first places people consider when thinking about renovations are the kitchen and bathrooms. Kitchen and bathroom renovations account for the largest segment of the billion dollar per year home renovation industry. Thinking back to green dishwashers and pink toilets, you’ll want to make sure your renovations don’t fall into the tragic category. There are some safe bets, and some things to avoid.
Starting in the kitchen, you’ll probably be tempted to redo the cabinets. There has been a recent trend towards glass fronted cabinet doors, which seem to be a bad idea. Do you really want guests staring into the disarray that may be your cabinets, or have the added time requirements of keeping them streak and smudge free? Stick with traditional wood finishes. Darker wood colors are coming back into fashion, if you’re so inclined. Granite countertops have been a perennial favorite, and recently matte finished countertops have gained popularity. If you are considering installing these, you should be aware that they stain very easily, and can be subject to nicks and scratches. Instead, take a look at engineered compounds, which are blends of recycled granite and resin. These are less expensive than granite, come in more colors, and are not susceptible to stains or scratches.
In the bathroom you may be tempted to install one of the fancy, above the counter, bowl style sinks you’ve seen in trendy restaurants and cafes. Think again though, as they are difficult to clean, and unwieldy to use on a daily basis. Instead, invest in a soaking tub to relax your stresses away, and have grown in popularity over whirlpool tubs. Also popular are spa style showers which have multiple shower heads, and “garden” tubs designed to open from the front, allowing easier access for people.
On a national level there’s a trend toward using exterior materials and architectural features that provide durability and low maintenance. In the Carolinas, brick is the preferred building material. First, it’s made from local Carolina clay, and second it’s durable and attractive. Finally, since it has a good weight to it, brick increases the thermal mass of your home, contributing to increased energy efficiency. Installing awnings over windows is also a great way to increase the value of your home, and decrease your energy bills.
Traditionally people living in North Carolina or South Carolina enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. Today, it’s the biggest trend nationwide. Designing your home to incorporate the outdoors is one of the best things you can do to increase its attractiveness to buyers, and create enjoyment for yourself. Adding a porch, a sunroom, or an outdoor kitchen, are great ways to get outside. Many people also choose to add these features as a replacement for a traditional basement. Many people coming from the Northern states are used to basements, but many areas of the Carolinas are not suited for basements, due to the high water table or yearly humidity concerns. Adding these outdoor living spaces doesn’t have to be expensive either. The outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a terraced area made from attractive fieldstone and an inset grill. The sunroom and porch are simple enough projects that a good handyman can complete over a few weekends. From reading a good book in the sunroom in the early winter months, to grilling outside in the summer months, with the great climate of the Carolinas, you’ll be able to enjoy these features nearly year round.

Demand for environmentally friendly buildings has grown considerably in recent years, and Realtors are making a lot of money helping investors buy and sell them. As this market grows, it's up to savvy agents to follow new green technology, and the changing interests of buyers. Government green building incentives and international treaties are also a big factor, and agents who know what policies are next can often anticipate demand.
Part of the reason green buildings took so long to attract demand was the lack of knowledge on the subject. Many developers assumed building costs would be inaccesibly high because of standards that had to be met, and materials required. But in recent years the opposite has happened - buyer awareness has helped expand the market, and many developers have found green buildings to be much less expensive than they assumed. As green buildings become more common, construction materials, such as insulative glass, and public information, have increased dramatically.
Realtors looking for the latest information and industry perspective on green buildings can attend now attend regular conferences on the subject, which are among the most popular events in the real estate industry these days. The most common theme at these events is how to stay ahead of the curve, and ensure green developments don't go out of date as new technologies emerge.
Green buildings are also having an impact on the buy-sell cycle of many real estate markets, because their owners act differently than other buyers and sellers. Many green building owners and renters keep their homes for longer before selling them, a trend running counter to the common practice of buying and flipping in many high-end markets. With sustainable value comes higher overall prices, and the demand for better construction and longer lasting buildings.
The benefits of environmentally friendly construction are now well known: these buildings have a smaller demand on power and plumbing, resources resulting in fewer greenhouse gases and less resource extraction, heating and cooling cost savings, and more comfortable living spaces. They're also generally more attractive and complementary to the cityscape.
Realtors who understand the benefits green construction, and know how to talk about it with buyers and sellers, will profit considerably as demand for these buildings increases. Now's the time to learn all you can about this exciting new home market.

Whether it’s the start of a new phase in your life or your simply looking to start over, building a dream home takes a lot of work and sure is a terrible burden to bear. Even if it is a labor of love to make that house you’ve always wanted, one detail out of place, one measurement gone wrong, might just cause you nothing but migraines. Lets face it, as romantic and old-fashioned as it may be to build with your own hands; it still pays to have the professionals get things done. Need I say more? Okay.
One obvious reason is experience. Custom home contractors have made it their business to know everything that needs to know in the industry. They have built, rebuilt, styled, designed, renovated, and remodeled thousands of homes, enough to know where the problems usually arise. With proficient teams on the job you wouldn’t have to worry about making a mess or wasting materials repairing your mistakes. If anything you’ll be assured of minimal mishaps.
Years of experience have also earned construction companies familiarity with all sorts of people, making them well informed as to what people want, and in most cases, what people really need. Experts work closely with clients in ensuring the job gets done right and according to plan. And should you already have a plan as to what needs to go where and how you want things played out, specialists could also give your professional advice as to what might be best for your home. Overall, you can get what you want, maybe even something better, without compromising in any way.
Expertise. It’s usually more beneficial to trust construction companies when it comes to house building or remodeling homes because they typically know more than the average consumer. Utilizing the right tools for the right job and proficient with the appropriate materials needed to complete the project is usually better than relying on what you have in your shed and trusting on your instinct when it comes to picking out the right supplies.
Professionals also have the advantage of reliability. Sure you can work a saw, but it usually takes more than that to get a nice clean finish and ultimately achieve the most positive results. With construction companies taking on dozens of project on a single year, only a few achieve recognition and praise for their job well done. Having known people’s experience through companies such as this, gives the assurance that you can count on these professionals on making your dream home a reality.
When it comes to putting that house plan in action, sure, there are a number of ways you can save up by getting thing done the old do-it-yourself way. But wouldn’t you feel a whole lot better if you can sit back, have your mind at ease, and anticipate the development of your ideal home, without having to lift a single hammer or make a single compromise, or have a single headache. After all these years of working hard for that dream home, wouldn’t you say it’s worth it to have it done without too much worries?

The job of building a house is never an easy one. There are so many aspects to the process and so many possibilities that trying to keep it all organized can get quite hard at times.
Construction companies are ideal for the process for this very reason, making it much easier to keep everything organized and ensure the absolute best housing project possible. For those looking to complete the life long dream of building a home in Cyprus, construction companies there are assured to help you make it a reality.
Cyprus is home to thousands of acres of beautiful real estate, all of it primed for new homes and your dream house. For that reason, there are also plenty of construction companies devoted to making the process easier.
No matter what you are planning to build – be it a three story house in the hills or a tiny beach side villa – Cyprus construction companies can help you get it done. The only hard part is deciding exactly what you want to build and how you want to have it built.
The most popular and desirable building location in Cyprus is Nicosia. As a capital city, Nicosia has long since become a hub for investment hungry expats looking to build new lives. For those working from or near this city, there are an especially large number of construction companies to choose from for this reason.
The list of companies to choose from is quite long, consisting of names like Aser Engineering Ltd., Er Insaat Mutehhitligi, and Candemir Mustafa Insaat Mutahitligi. All of these companies have made a name for themselves working out of Nicosia alone. For anyone looking to put their dream house into motion, choosing the correct company is ideal. There are plenty of options available, so when it comes time to make a decision, ample research is vital.
One good step is to research exactly how well each company has performed in the past. Look for comments from other expats who have used any of these companies before and ask questions on Internet message boards to get a better idea of how they will handle your project. Also, meet with them, ask for estimates and discuss your project. The more they know about you, the better they can assist in getting the project completed.
In certain areas of Cyprus especially, you will undoubtedly require the assistance of a professional construction company. Cities such as Larnaca, Agia Napa, and Kyrenia are prime examples of Cyprus areas that have dozens of prospective construction companies to assist you with your housing project. Do your research and you should be well on your way to that one of a kind dream house.

There's no doubt about it: Purchasing a new home is one of the most exciting times in your life. If you haven't purchased a brand new home in many years (or have never purchased a home to be built just for you), there is much to consider, and much to learn. But the process doesn't have to be overwhelming – and it can be a real joy – if you take these few simple steps.
Do Your Homework Ask the builders you are considering what their procedures are. You will be surprised how much they vary from builder to builder. Some questions to ask…
1. How much of a deposit will hold the homesite you desire – and for how long?
2. When does the contract have to be signed, and how much money is due at signing?
3. How much time will you have between signing the contract and making your exterior and interior selections?
4. How many appointments (and how much time) will you be given to make your selections?
5. When are selections considered final (and no further changes will be considered)?
6. How much of the options and upgrades must be paid in advance?
7. Will the builder entertain custom changes to the home's design and layout – moving walls and doorways, adding or deleting windows, substituting a bay window for a plain window, installing products not available on the options list (KitchenAid rather than GE appliances, Andersen windows rather than another brand, etc.)?
8. Is there an advantage to you for using the builder's preferred lender – perhaps a discount on options or cash toward settlement?
Decide in advance what questions must be answered with a resounding "Yes!" If you absolutely cannot live without a 40" Viking range, you'll want to know that your builder will price a customized kitchen layout with a Viking range for you, if he doesn't offer a home that includes one. (That goes for anything else not listed on the standard features or options lists.) Earlier is better than later – so don't wait until you're in contract and sitting down to make your selections with the Design Center Coordinator before mentioning it, as it will probably be too late. Only you can avoid the disappointment that comes from not asking a question until it's too late.
Prioritize It's a rare occasion when we can "have it all." Most of the time, we have to compromise on certain things. So it is with building a new home. Whether it's your budget, the design or layout of the house itself, or the builder's offerings that are limiting what you can have in your new home, list your "must haves" and your "nice to haves" in separate columns on a sheet of paper. Having it in black and white helps you to clarify your true priorities, in case you're forced to make a choice. (A double wall oven and cooktop, or a kitchen island? An expanded walk-in closet, or a more luxurious master bath?)
Organize Your Thoughts Use an accordion file folder to collect…
1. Photos of favorite furniture pieces, window treatments you're bringing with you to the new home, and features of your current home (built-ins, architectural features, window groupings and/or placements, etc.) that you'd like to repeat in your new home.
2. Magazine clippings of home exteriors that appeal to you, as well as interior decorator touches you'd like to replicate in your new home
3. Measurements – length, depth, and height – of furniture you're planning to bring with you (particularly oversized pieces that require lots of wall space, but don't forget that baker's rack from your kitchen or the desk and hutch in your home office, which also may have trouble fitting into your new space)
4. Paint chips and fabric swatches that represent your sense of style and favorite décor colors
Having these things handy will help keep you focused not only while making your interior selections but, perhaps more importantly, as you're choosing the home design itself.
Come Prepared When making your interior selections, don't forget…
1. The file folder you started (above)!
2. To bring sofa cushions, bath towels, pillow sham, placemats, a dinner plate, etc. – the better to choose the cabinets, countertops, and flooring for your new home.
The Right Frame of Mind Most importantly, approach every encounter with your builder and his representatives in the right frame of mind. This can and should be one of the most enjoyable times of your life, but remember that people build homes and people buy homes – and allow for the fact that wherever humans are involved, there is no such thing as 100 percent perfect!
Try to keep a positive mental attitude, particularly when something goes wrong. In the end, your home will almost undoubtedly be everything you want it to be and you will enjoy many happy years there. From long experience in the industry (and having built two homes of my own), I can assure you that the fact that the carpet color you had chosen was discontinued and you had to "settle" for your second choice, or that the French doors were not framed in until you reminded the builder during your framing inspection that you had purchased that option, will not affect the integrity of the home or your enjoyment of it one bit after you move in. Try not to let small issues take away from the joy you should be experiencing as you enter this exciting next chapter of your life.

Nestled between the coastal communities of Carlsbad and Vista, San Marcos is one of the fastest growing cities in Northern San Diego County. Located approximately 40 miles from downtown San Diego, the San Marcos real estate community offers a wide variety of housing options, and strives to accommodate almost any potential home buyer.
Prime Location an Advantage for the San Marcos Real Estate Area
Located only miles away from prominent coastal communities, the San Marcos real estate area has a prime geographical location. Only 12 miles west of the beautiful Carlsbad beaches, San Marcos is also surrounded by Vista to the North, Escondido to the East, and La Costa to the South.
The San Marcos real estate community also has access to several notable interstates. Located along Highway 1-15, the business friendly city of San Marcos draws visitors from all across the country for its selection of home furniture and electronics. Highway 78 is also available to the San Marcos real estate area, running completely east to west through the city, past Vista, all the way to the Pacific Coast.
San Marcos Real Estate Steadily Expanding
The San Marcos real estate area has a population of more than 64,000 residents, 29 percent under the age of 18. With only 40 percent of the area’s suitable land developed, the San Marcos real estate area has a capacity for much more growth. Design and construction of one of the largest home developments in the history of San Diego County has begun, and will prove to be an advantage for the enterprising San Marcos real estate community. The community of San Elijo Hills is projected to increase to 3,400 homes on 2,000 acres in the next ten years. The location for this San Marcos real estate expansion will be centered along the hills of Lake San Marcos, which resides on the western border of the city.

“For every action, there is an opposite reaction.” So said Isaac Newton in his 3rd Law of Motion. Newton’s law is true for an apple falling from a tree or building a new home. Consider three primary opposing forces at work when building a new home – Cost, Quality and Time. We call this the CQT Triangle. Understanding the opposing forces of the CQT Triangle is critical when selecting the right builder to build your new home.
The CQT Triangle has three opposing corners that tend to pull at each other – Cost, Quality and Time. Putting emphasis on one corner tends to have an opposing, negative effect on the other corners.
For example, if your primary concern is meeting an aggressive timeline, then it’s more likely cost will increase. There is also the risk that quality will be compromised in order to meet an aggressive timeline. Conversely, if the builder has a more flexible building schedule, it may allow him the time to achieve a higher standard of quality and more opportunity to better control costs. If quality is your primary consideration, the cost will be higher and the construction may take longer. If your primary concern, however, is staying within a specified budget, accepting a more modest quality standard may be required. For example, tile countertops might be perfectly acceptable as opposed to granite countertops and will save on costs. Or, carpeting the bedrooms and limiting hardwood to the great room and kitchen areas might be an opportunity to save costs.
Understanding the relationship of Cost, Quality and Time is important in choosing the right builder. The Due Diligence Report provided by PrecisionCraft will give you much needed information about prospective builders. It’s not uncommon for builders to have more strength in one or two of the CQT corners. For example, a builder that specializes in a high quality craftsmanship might have an “artwork” standard. But, there is a price to pay for “artwork” usually in time and/or cost. Aligning your priorities with the strength of the builder will help you achieve your objective.
The information in the PrecisionCraft Due Diligence Report combined with a clear understanding of your CQT priorities will help you make the right choice in selecting a builder. It is always best to talk with your PrecisionCraft Project Manager and the prospective builders about your expectations and priorities.

Sarasota, Florida certainly is a magnet for those seeking the ultimate vacation house, as well as the permanent home, since the place offers a wide variety of enlightening experiences within beautiful surroundings.
Historically, people are not quite sure how Sarasota derived its name. One theory is that it was named after the daughter of Hernando De Soto, Sara. De Soto, along with Ponce de Leon and Panfilo Narvez, were the first explorers to land on the Gulf Coast in search of gold and silver. Another legend says that the name may have been derived from the Spanish "sarao sota", which when translated means "a place of dancing."
Sarasota, Florida is a fantastic, and colorful city. With a population of over 53,000, there are a lot of options for housing that are accessible to prospective homeowners. If you are considering building a home in Sarasota and need more information in regard to modular homes, there are assorted companies available to provide you and your family the very best home for your needs.
The Sarasota market continues to gain strength compared to the overall state of Florida, according to the Sarasota Association of Realtors. For example, Condominium purchases went up by 12% in July 2007, as compared with 141 sales in July 2006. The median sales price was up 14.8%, from $269,990 in July 2006 to $310,000 in July 2007. Single family home sales went up by 5% from 351 in July 2006 to 369 in July 2007, but median sales price was down 14.5%. Statewide however, the real estate market saw a decline of 24% from July to July for single family homes.
In deciding to build a home in Sarasota, there are some more questions to ask yourself and priorities you need to establish. Here are the stuff you need to consider:
* How much could you really afford in buying a home. A local mortgage company can help you answer this question.
* How much space do you need, or want.
* Are there specific areas of town that you prefer.
* How many bedrooms and baths do you feel you need ?
* Find out other amenities are important to you (ex: eat-in kitchens, family room, pool, attached garage, etc)
* How big a lot of land would you like to have
* Should the house be close to certain schools, your job, or public transport

Having a new customized home built can be an exciting experience. Getting through the process however can be a long and at times difficult ordeal. People having a new home built often rely solely on their builder to help guide them through the construction. Unfortunately he may not be the best person to advise them on their project.
Consider the following:
Home builders and many contractors involved in home construction are not licensed professionals No license means no mandated formal training or apprenticeship, no continuing education, and minimal accountability
City building inspectors check for code compliance, not quality
Codes do not cover all aspects of the building process
These are facts that the majority of people building new homes or for that matter having work done on their existing home, do not know. But who can a new construction home buyer find who will objectively and competently oversee an entire building project and provide knowledgeable, unbiased information on construction techniques and materials? An independent, licensed, professional home inspector.
Most often home inspectors are called in after the new home owner has been experiencing problems with the house, often for many months or even years after it was built. What new construction home buyers almost never consider is hiring the inspector while the house is being built.
When problems do occur and the homeowner is asked about new construction inspections some reasons heard for not enlisting the help of an independent home inspector are:
The local building official is inspecting the home
As previously stated these inspectors look for code compliance, not quality. They are in the home only briefly during different phases of the construction. Do they miss things? Yes they do and no they are not usually held accountable for their mistakes. Also they are municipal employees and are not directly responsible to the persons buying the home. In other words they won’t contact the buyer if there are problems. They simply instruct the builder to correct the issues and move on to the next home.
Cost
It’s always about the money and for good reason. Costs can escalate quickly when building a new home. Buyers often want upgrades and these push up costs. So hiring an independent inspector can be an expense that is hard to justify. After all they believe the city building official is inspecting the home.
The builder has a good reputation
He may, but how do you know. Many people do not research the builder before signing on with them to build their home. This may be even truer when purchasing the home through a third party such as Realtor. Get references and check them before signing a contract.
It is also important to understand specifically what the builders’ job is. He generally is the person who manages the entire construction process. He must hire and coordinate many sub-contractors to install the vast amount of components that make up a house. This can be an overwhelming task for just one home, but if he is building several homes at once it can be nearly impossible to effectively manage.
It’s a new house; there should be nothing wrong (Very likely the biggest misconception related to new homes)
If you have ever bought an item, taken it home and it broke the first time you used it then the absurdness of this statement should be glaringly apparent. But never the less many people who have a home built believe because it is new and there is a one year builders warranty there will be no problems.
A house is a complex structure containing many different systems that must all function correctly and in harmony. It is built over the course of several months by many different people. Assuredly there are going to be problems and most often they are minor or cosmetic. But there are those occasional big problems that can make the home barely habitable or in extreme cases uninhabitable.
Was not aware that an outside inspector could be hired
When paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to have a home built, you are certainly entitled to have whom every you choose oversee the process. If you meet resistance to bringing in an outside inspector, this should be a red flag that something could potentially be wrong.
But why is it important to hire an independent inspector to look after the project?
Very simply quality control. If the construction company in charge of building your home knows that the customer has hired an independent, knowledgeable inspector to oversee the build, they are very likely to be more diligent in their quality of work. The psychological effect can be just as influential as the actual physical inspections.
Home inspectors and home builders encompass similar knowledge of home construction. However home inspectors are formally trained individuals who are licensed and consequently must also attend a specific amount of continuing education for license renewal. Home builders are not licensed, only registered, and therefore are not required to be formally trained or attend continuing education. They must only pay a yearly fee to remain registered and in business.
This is also true of the majority of contractors who perform work on a new or existing home. The term Home Improvement Contractor is a catch all category for companies that do any type of improvement work on homes. For example carpenters who frame the home fall into this category, as do roofers, foundation contractors, sheet rockers, flooring installers and many other individual companies that are part of putting a house together.
Another important aspect of the home inspectors experience is they view all types and ages of homes. They see the results of poor construction practices and understand better than anyone the consequences of inferior workmanship. It’s an important and unique perspective that no other profession can claim.
Finally a hired independent home inspector works for and reports directly to you. He is your advocate and can be an invaluable asset during the building of your new home.
Before you buy a new home consumer groups advise protecting your rights by taking these steps:
Research your builder thoroughly before signing any agreements.
Consider hiring a real estate lawyer to negotiate your contract. There is no better time to negotiate than before you buy.
To protect your right to sue, strike any requirement that disputes will go to binding arbitration.
Ask for the names of subcontractors building your home. Investigate their work before you buy.
Hire a professional inspector to examine your home during construction. Point out flaws that can be fixed before you move in.
Discuss your warranty thoroughly with the builder. Put everything in writing.
Leave a paper trail. Send all correspondence to the builder by certified mail, return receipt requested.

Every four seconds someone conducts a log home related search online. That is over 7 million online searches a year! If you are one of the millions of people who are interested in log homes, log cabins or other log structures, you may want to consider an economical alternative: Swedish Cope log siding.
Swedish Cope is a design style that uses round logs that have a concave groove removed from the bottom of each log to allow the logs to stack firmly on each other while creating an evenly spread, load-bearing, weather-tight seal. The Swedish Cope style is a favorite of traditional log home enthusiasts because it highlights the full-rounded beauty of the log timbers on both the exterior and interior of the structure. Swedish Cope log siding captures the aesthetic value of this style but because the logs are cut in half vertically, they can be applied to any walled structure (internal as well as external) to give the look of full, round logs.
Based on data provided by the Log Homes Council, there are fewer than 30,000 log homes sold annually in the US. With more than 7 million online searches a year and fewer than 30,000 log homes sold, there seems to be a big disconnect between wanting a log home and buying one. One reason for this disconnect relates to the cost of building a log home. Another factor relates to wanting the charm and rustic beauty of a log home but not wanting the design and construction limitations that are often associated with traditional log homes. Swedish Cope log siding offers a perfect solution to both of these concerns.
Folks that want the log home look without the cost can convert their existing siding to Swedish Cope log siding complete with faux (false) corners and log cut door and window trim that completes the external appearance of an authentic log home. This also allows homeowners to maintain the creature comforts and conveniences they have become accustomed to with their frame-built interiors. For those who want a more traditional log home look, Swedish Cope log siding can be applied to interior walls as well to complete the transformation.
If this article has piqued your interest in Swedish Cope log siding, I encourage you to read the following tips for choosing a provider for your Swedish Cope log siding:
1. Seek a producer who specializes in milling log homes (such as Cedar Knoll Log Homes). Your local saw mill may be able to produce log siding for you, but you will likely encounter fewer problems dealing with a company that has experience milling log home materials.
2. Ask about custom design capabilities. Look for a company that can work with you to produce custom products that meet your specific needs. This can save you time and money while allowing you to create the one-of-a-kind home of your dreams.
3. Ask for Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding by name. There are a multitude of other log siding styles available but few offer the distinctive look of traditional log homes and provide a weather-tight seam that virtually eliminates water seepage between logs. Cedar Knoll Swedish Cope Log Siding uses a unique shiplap joint that locks each half log to the one below and allows the siding to be applied without any visible nail heads showing.

Renovating an existing home, or designing a home from the ground up can be a daunting task. Anyone who bought a pink toilet bowl or a green dishwasher can attest to the fact that what seems like a great idea today, might not be looked on so kindly in the future. Our advice for renovating and designing your home is to focus on regional influences, to make your home fit into its surroundings. In beautiful North and South Carolina, there are many home design trends you can follow to ensure your home has lasting value. The first places people consider when thinking about renovations are the kitchen and bathrooms. Kitchen and bathroom renovations account for the largest segment of the billion dollar per year home renovation industry. Thinking back to green dishwashers and pink toilets, you’ll want to make sure your renovations don’t fall into the tragic category. There are some safe bets, and some things to avoid.
Starting in the kitchen, you’ll probably be tempted to redo the cabinets. There has been a recent trend towards glass fronted cabinet doors, which seem to be a bad idea. Do you really want guests staring into the disarray that may be your cabinets, or have the added time requirements of keeping them streak and smudge free? Stick with traditional wood finishes. Darker wood colors are coming back into fashion, if you’re so inclined. Granite countertops have been a perennial favorite, and recently matte finished countertops have gained popularity. If you are considering installing these, you should be aware that they stain very easily, and can be subject to nicks and scratches. Instead, take a look at engineered compounds, which are blends of recycled granite and resin. These are less expensive than granite, come in more colors, and are not susceptible to stains or scratches.
In the bathroom you may be tempted to install one of the fancy, above the counter, bowl style sinks you’ve seen in trendy restaurants and cafes. Think again though, as they are difficult to clean, and unwieldy to use on a daily basis. Instead, invest in a soaking tub to relax your stresses away, and have grown in popularity over whirlpool tubs. Also popular are spa style showers which have multiple shower heads, and “garden” tubs designed to open from the front, allowing easier access for people.
On a national level there’s a trend toward using exterior materials and architectural features that provide durability and low maintenance. In the Carolinas, brick is the preferred building material. First, it’s made from local Carolina clay, and second it’s durable and attractive. Finally, since it has a good weight to it, brick increases the thermal mass of your home, contributing to increased energy efficiency. Installing awnings over windows is also a great way to increase the value of your home, and decrease your energy bills.
Traditionally people living in North Carolina or South Carolina enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. Today, it’s the biggest trend nationwide. Designing your home to incorporate the outdoors is one of the best things you can do to increase its attractiveness to buyers, and create enjoyment for yourself. Adding a porch, a sunroom, or an outdoor kitchen, are great ways to get outside. Many people also choose to add these features as a replacement for a traditional basement. Many people coming from the Northern states are used to basements, but many areas of the Carolinas are not suited for basements, due to the high water table or yearly humidity concerns. Adding these outdoor living spaces doesn’t have to be expensive either. The outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a terraced area made from attractive fieldstone and an inset grill. The sunroom and porch are simple enough projects that a good handyman can complete over a few weekends. From reading a good book in the sunroom in the early winter months, to grilling outside in the summer months, with the great climate of the Carolinas, you’ll be able to enjoy these features nearly year round.