Why Does It Take So Long To Start Construction of a Custom Home?
One of the first questions people ask a custom home builder is: “When can you start?” or “When do you have an opening in your schedule?”. If you have ever asked some form of that question, there’s a good chance you’ve followed up with another one:...
Is A Net Zero ICF Home Really Worth It In West Michigan?
You’ve probably heard that an ICF home is more efficient than others. Here’s a quick crash-course about ICF homes. Maybe you’ve even come across figures like 32% to 44% energy savings. But how accurate are those claims? And is a net-zero home really...
The WORST Wall System For Your Lake Michigan Custom Home (it’s not what you think!)
You can’t unknow something. If you are happy with the status quo, maybe it’s best to skip this post and move on. If you read this, you may end up like me: convinced it is unethical to build a home you know will have hidden problems. You’re...
Should I Wait For Home Prices To Drop In Grand Rapids?
Interest rates are high, and both material and labor costs are high. It’s an election year and the political climate and stock markets are unstable. Is now a horrible time to build a custom home in Michigan? Should I wait for a better market, for...
The BEST Way To Be Hands-On In Your Net Zero Home Build
Some people would like to be involved in the construction of their new home beyond just writing a check and picking out colors. If that's you, this is the blog for you. Maybe you have that can-do attitude that built America that we see all over...
3 Reasons DIY Sustainable Home Builds FAIL in West Michigan!
Today we're going to be talking about three reasons that do-it-yourself homebuilders fail to meet their sustainable goals. Right now you're probably not too sure how to get started designing and constructing your custom Net Zero home or ICF home....
Can I Bring My Own Trade Partners in Grand Rapids: Part 2
Last month I discussed some common questions builders receive regarding whether R-Value Homes allows homeowner clients to specify or choose some of the subcontractors (we call them Trade Partners) to work on their home. I started by looking at...
7 Bad Reasons to Use Your Own Trade Partners: Part 1
Can my electrician friend and I moonlight the electrical when you build my house? Do you allow me to use some of my preferred subcontractors on my custom home build? These are common questions builders get. Bringing your own Trade Partners is...
8 Principles For a Successful Custom Home Building Project
Start With WHY. You may be finding yourself asking these questions: Why do you want to move out of your existing home? Why do you want a sustainable home? Why you aren’t buying or remodeling an existing home? Why should I start looking for a...
