Homechoice Planners Blog

Minimalist Homes!

Whether it’s your first home or you’re downsizing from another, be sure to check out some of the best minimalist homes for any budget. The perfect blend of simplicity and style, each of these designs offers a distinct personality. Most future owners across the region love these designs, and we think you will, too! The best part about embracing minimalist living is that you are not limited by style, shape, or even size, to a certain degree. Whether you need a tiny home for easy relocation or a energy efficient and environmentally friendly design to live in for years, we have tons of options. And by committing to a minimalist home design, your wallet will be just as happy as you are! Minimalist homes are some of the most affordable because they place focus on necessities and cut out frivolities. By offering the best of the basics, you can get a great home that allows you to spend more time with your family instead of worrying about paying for or maintaining a larger, more complex homes. But don’t think that going minimal means that you have to sacrifice or cut any corners in the design or amenities. Our minimalist homes for any budget offer the spaces and styles you know and love, and you’ll find enough diversity to serve the needs of different families. Minimalist homes do not have to be cold, white, sparse, unlivable, or unrealistic. In fact, modern minimalism décor is turning around the misconception that minimalist homes cannot be cozy. We are all just searching for balance in our lives. Often our homes throw us off balance with the mounds of items stuffed within our square footage. So we decide that minimalism might be the cure. But sometimes we get stopped by fear that having a minimalist home will make it feel cold and well, less “homey.” Home is comfort and minimalism has had a bad wrap for making homes feel like distilled water. Luckily for us, minimalist homes are starting to find their own cozy vibe. From white kitchens to simple living rooms, minimalism is taking our homes by storm and it is not that difficult to create the look in your own home. If you truly feel there is no way to combine minimalism and coziness, then I encourage you to visit and build with us. Ready? Lets Talk!

Do you Really Saved Cost when you Do Not Hire a Builder?

There’s a very good reason why people hire experienced and expert professionals to help them in their new build, renovation and/or decorating their interiors. So that the fails and mistakes don’t end up happening to their home! A major constructional fail could cost a company significant time and expenses on a project. Worst of all, people’s lives could be at risk, if the structure isn’t sound! The drawers are super handy in any room, and simple enough to figure out how to use. You pull them out to store things, then close them for safekeeping. Always, always, always measure anything and everything first. Also, ensure to provide the same appliances being measured. Failing to measure a room or space is one of the most common interior design fails, and a sure-fire route to household disappointment. No matter how short you are of space, some rooms should be sacred. They might both need plumbing, but adding your toilet to your kitchen is a fail that cannot be overcome. There are so many pointed angles and sharp corners in this photo that even the image itself might end up blinding someone! Design a space that’s easy on the eye, and don’t think just chopping up doors is a way to solve the problem of strange ceiling angles. We get it, sometimes walls are annoying and cut out natural light. Choosing just to randomly cut out half of a wall and a door is a construction fail, where the solution is worse than the problem. It doesn’t matter how big your bathroom is, nobody wants to sit in a line during their special time, more so when their bottoms are almost touching, so don’t try to cut corners or costs for this area! Attention to detail is critical. The right tiles can be a great addition to your home, and even enhance the livability… but you need to get it right during installation, or live with the consequences of irregularity!  Don’t carpet a bathroom. Don’t carpet a bathtub. And most definitely don’t turn your bathtub into a weird carpeted four-poster bed-monster. It’s nice to make the most of all your spaces, but unless you’re Spiderman, you’re unlikely to find much value in this stranded island above this entrance area. A final fail to avoid is less about construction, and more about good choices. It’s important to carefully consider the color of your home before you commit. Otherwise, you might just end up with a horror show . Remember that sometimes, how you picture a design at the concept stage, won’t always have the same effect as the end result once it has been. This is why it’s so important to get feedback from other trusted parties, as they can provide a valuable point of view to your interior designs that you might have missed. And be sure the proper plans and shop drawings, documentation, contracts as well as materials specifications in placed. Do you really cut cost when you don’t hire a builder? No, you dont and it adds more stress. Ready to Build? Lets Talk!

Home Cleaning Series-Bathroom!

No one likes to bathe in a tub that hasn’t been cleaned, yet how many of us hop in the same shower day after day without cleaning it at all? It’s time to tackle this chore like a pro. Since a dark, damp environment is perfect for growing mold, mildew and germs, you can minimize funk by leaving the shower as dry as possible when you’re finished. After every use, we suggests taking the following steps:
1. Scrape and squeegee the water off of walls, floor and door.
2. Wipe these areas again with a towel to remove any leftover condensation.
3. Leave a bathroom window open for an hour or run the vent fan for 20-30 minutes to reduce humidity.
4. Leave the shower curtain or door ajar to allow humidity to disperse.
Even though you do your best to keep the shower dry, it’s inevitable that some moisture will remain. Left untouched, this moisture can form slime, mold and mildew that’s not only unsightly and stinky, it’s downright unhealthy. You may be adding to your shower’s problems without realizing it. Did you know opaque bar soap leaves behind soap scum? It sure does. Make the switch to liquid body wash or shower gel and soap scum will be a thing of the past. Where you keep bath products in the shower is also a factor in the growth of slime and mildew. Is your shampoo, conditioner and body scrub stored on the floor of the shower? Bad idea. This allows water to collect under them and become a breeding ground. It’s better to keep them on a shelf or a shower caddy that does not have a solid bottom. Also, check your cleaning products, if possible used biodegradable and natural cleaning products, if it harms the microorganisms-it is also does to humans. Bottom line , just ensure regular cleaning and drying every after use to avoid accumulation. Happy cleaning!

Cozy Workplace at Home!

Anyone can appreciate a dedicated work area to complete a to-do list, read a good book or even kickstart a passion project that’s been put on the back burner for way too long. Whether that space is an entire room where you can shut the door or just a cozy small nook in the corner of a living room, there are a myriad of home office ideas that can help you maximize space without skimping on style. Once you’ve nailed down exactly how you plan to use your home office, you can have fun with all kinds of design tricks. There’s removable wallpaper, budget-friendly furniture, stylish color palettes — the list goes on. What’s more, a home office presents the opportunity to put your favorite decorating style on full display. You can go for a sleek and modern look that’s complete with a built-in cabinet and minimal accessories, or on the other end of the spectrum, you can boost your creativity with a trendy design scheme that’s packed with lively hues and patterns. For the past two years, our work space has drastically change and evolve. We learn to maximize and utilize our technology trends in the workplace. Working within our home is the new normal. These days, you can run an entire office within the palm of your hand. But just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s efficient. If you plan on getting some real work done, you’ll need an office, and for many of us, that means a home office. With the right infrastructure and set-up, you can create a space that’s as efficient as it is stylish. By the time you hook up your scanner, your printer, your monitor, your phone and your tablet, you’ve got a mess of cords to deal with. Is there any space left to work? Get a desk that can help you manage all that cable clutter. Holes by the leg allow the cords to run down one side neatly, so you can turn that mess into a streamlined situation. Making a conference call? You’ll want a speaker so you can talk hands-free and be heard clearly. But this is your home office, so no stuffy gray system for you. Buy a bluetooth speaker in bright colors, and is a multi-tasker. It will charge your smartphone while you’re on the call, and you can use it anywhere in the house to stream music when the workday is done. A shredder isn’t sexy, but it’s critical for properly disposing of sensitive documents you work with at home. Bottom-line, we are doing all this to achieve much more productivity in our work even at home!
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How Much does it Cost to Build my New Home?

Building your own house is a dream project for many. But it’s not one that should be taken lightly. You cannot just ask the cost without considering so many factors and dynamics. Or else it just a bluff. There are a huge range of financial, legal, and practical questions you should learn before you even begin! First among them is how much it even costs to build a house? Maybe you’ve always dreamed of building your own home. After all, home is where most of life’s biggest memories take place—who wouldn’t want to live in a brand-new house built just for them? The only problem is new things always come with a higher price tag. So how much does it cost to build a house these days? And will you be able to afford it? Some people want to build their dream home from the ground up. When you’re at the helm of your home, you’re in control of the property and its features. Whether you want cutting-edge energy-efficiency or hot design trends, it’s all in your hands. Plus, you avoid the cutthroat competition in the real estate market. But for anyone who planned to build their home since they were a kid, you may need to check your detailed expense estimates. The COVID-19 pandemic and the conflicts in Ukraine, caused the average cost to build a house to increase drastically compared to previous years. So, you may want to review the typical costs waiting for you as a home builder in 2022, including buying land, obtaining permits, designing the property and building it, and the necessary materials ( both structural and architectural). Factors like labor and supply shortages led to increased building costs over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. So, the overall cost for home builders in 2022 and upcoming year may still be more higher than previous years. The golden rule of house building – investigate the costs in detail before you get started! Remember, unless you’re lucky enough to own a piece of land, or in a situation where you’re tearing down an old home to build a dreamy new one, purchasing land will have to factor into these costs. It’s going to be a whole lot more difficult and expensive to buy that land. Construction costs also vary by region, factoring in elements like local contractors, permits and licenses, materials, weather and even terrain. You can’t design a house on the back of a napkin. You’ll need to work closely with the architect and a builder to create a blueprint that provides a detailed plan for construction of your home. If you can find a design-build firm it would be much better. They can offer more flexible packages than separate ones. A qualified architect/builder not only helps create a practical vision of your dream, but should also know all the relevant building and zoning regulations. One of the single greatest risks to your house construction budget is overrun timelines. Every day that your project goes beyond the budgeted timeline is a day more you have to pay professionals to finish your home. It also has knock-on impacts such as having to continue to pay for your current accommodation beyond the budgeted time. That’s a major problem for cost escalation. Work closely with your architect and builders to create a sensible and achievable timeline for your home build with detailed documentations, contracts and specifications. Beware of being overconfident of how much you might get done yourself – novice home builders failing to appreciate how much time and effort they will have to pump into construction is a common stumbling block. Administration costs money, that’s true whether you’re buying a new home or building your own. That means paperwork and permits must be factored and should be inclusive into your budget.  With the outline of your plans in place, and financing already considered, it’s time to get those pesky permits sorted. You should already have a good outline of the materials you want to use from your architectural and structural plans. Now, base on the details and items on both structural and architectural finishes, the builder now can give you rough estimates. Don’t be misguided on builders offering cheap cost, you will surely suffer.  Take note, that the architects and the builder will just collate on your requirements-and by then the cost be determined more closely. Remember that material costs nowadays regularly fluctuates and increases, particularly if the earlier stages of permits and planning have taken longer than expected. We’re sure you’ve got a good idea in mind of what this might look like, but it’s down to the fine points where costs can start to come in. If your budget is becoming stretched, you could always go for a more affordable and practical interior design idea now, with the promise that you’ll upgrade to that dream kitchen or bathroom later. Sure, it might be aspirational to have that stunning Italian wallpaper and hardwood floors, but it’s not the same sacrifice as removing two bedrooms because you’re fixated on the budget for fittings. If you have the budget, and the desire, you should always hire or consult a professional designer and builder to really deliver on that final piece of your dream home. Furthermore, if you only had considerable budget, work closely to them to understand the dynamics and mechanics. Might be that your budget does not fit with want you want and desire.

Delays of Construction Projects!

You’ve decided that you would like to build a house. That’s great news! Selecting a custom home provides nearly endless possibilities when it comes to personalizing your dream home.
As you might have learned at some point, buying a preconstruction home can be stressful, especially when the date of completion keeps getting pushed further and further back. Not knowing when you will be in your new home is a frustrating situation that many people run into. Knowing common reasons for delays is half the battle, and by gaining a better understanding of what might cause them, you will know what to do if they happen.
In a perfect world, all home builds would stay on schedule, but, in most situations, a delay or two is a normal part of the process. From permit issues to supply chain delays to workforce shortages, and customers financial schemes,  there are many contributing factors.
Based on our experience and keeping an eye on our customers’ experiences, here are five of the most common factors that contribute to delays:
1. The CLIENT doesn’t have financing.
A client might go through the entire prebuild process only to find out that their finances are not in order. Much like purchasing an existing home, there are several factors that contribute to your financial health when it comes to financing a home build. Most common barrier is the unanticipated budget and purchase of new appliances and house furnishing that commonly sacrifice the builder from not being paid. Furniture’s and appliances tends to become the priority forgetting the covenants of their agreements which is also the most common source of future conflicts. Most home builder are more secured if the custom homes was financed by the bank or loan institution. It is also not great to hear for client to demand takeover without full settlement of financial obligations. Remember, builders had partners and stakeholders who also anticipated the same full settlements from them.
2. The inspector isn’t timely.
Inspection is a highly important part of the process, and it can get delayed due to scheduling errors, communication delays, or overspending and clients inability to provide their financial obligations. Although this factor tends to be a bit trickier to resolve because you are relying on the services of another company, you can do your research and make sure you partner with an inspector that has positive testimonials that are directly related to their timeliness.
3. The weather isn’t ideal.
The majority of a build takes place outside, which means the project is subject to the elements, and weather can dictate the pace of a project. Although severe weather can’t be avoided, a clear line of communication with your builder to identify next steps can make a big difference.
4. Materials aren’t available.
Custom selection of fixtures means that your house runs the risk of not having those materials when you’re ready for them. You can also run into issues with necessary materials, such as lumber, due to shortages or high prices.
How to Deal with Delays
1. Contact your contractor or builder.
Just like most situations, communication is key! Contact your builder to find out more information about the situation. Although delays can be frustrating, it’s important to stay calm and be willing to listen and compromise with them. Be sure to bring any important documents or materials and take notes to ensure you’re both on the same page.
2. Get an update on the timeline.
After having identified the issue, come to an agreement on the new estimated completion time so that you can reset your expectations—especially if you are on a tight schedule. Be sure to inform the builder of any legal obligation that relies on completion of the build, such as the sale of your current home. And be sure also that you complied with the financial obligations to your builder. Just stick to the covenants and provision of the Contracts and approved plans. It will minimize conflicts.
3. Create a check-in plan with your point of contact.
Although delays aren’t uncommon, significant changes to a building schedule are—especially those that push the completion date back by months. To help you stay on top of any future issues, create a check-in plan with your builder so that you can receive progress reports. This will give you peace of mind that things are progressing as they should be.
4. Make sure you know how to deal with any future delays.
Multiple delays aren’t common, but they do happen. If one ends up happening to your build, be sure to have a plan in place that will help manage expectations about the future of the build. For example, if the delays are a result of an unresponsive local municipality in regard to permits, ask if your builder is willing to shorten their contact intervals with the township to prevent so much time from passing.

Proper Documentation Misconceptions!

Why is proper documentation and records control so important? What can you do to make sure your documentation and control practices are correct? Proper documentation and  records control, both clients and builders record is important for three main reasons: to protect the contract agreement, to protect the client, and to protect you the builder. Good documentation and records control is important to protect everyone involve—not too much and not too little—to the right people. It also promotes safety and quality. At the end of the day, that’s what really matters. It can also help you avoid liability and keep out of fraud and abuse trouble. If your records do not justify the items or services for which you billed, you may have to pay that money back. Document and records control is a vital practice within organizations to ensure that information is accurate, up-to-date, accessible, and aligned with the nature of the business. In a world where information has become the lifeblood of organizations, it is critical to ensure the proper flow of information and transparency of business activities to help companies function efficiently. Document and records control refers to a set of procedures intended to oversee the creation, review, approval, release, distribution, access, storage, security, and disposal of documents and records. It is the bedrock upon which compliance, accuracy, integrity, efficiency, and accountability are built. In conclusion, document and records control is essential for every organization. Information deserves to be treated with care, confidentiality, and dignity.

Change Orders!

Do documented Change Orders cause Inconvenience?
Change order and add-on is common term in construction industry. But, though you may not have come across it, knowledge of change orders and how to handle disputes that arise from them is important. Change order is used in the construction industry in reference to an amendment or changes or add-on to the construction contract as well as plans with the potential to change the scope of the work to be done by the contractor. Essentially, a change order alters or modifies the work that a contract document requires the contractor to complete. In turn, this increases price of the contract. It also leads to the adjustment of the time required by the contractor to complete the project. For a change order to be valid, the contractor and the owner must reach a separate agreement. Take note, that prior to implementation ensure all proper and detailed documentation as well as full financial settlement of change orders prior. Unfortunately, change orders lead to disputes in most cases. That’s because contractors and owners do not seem to reach an agreement when it comes to changing parts of their contractor scope. The first and most crucial step is to determine whether the change order in question is fact-specific. Determine whether there is real change in the contract. Look at the pre-construction documents, field work orders, request for quote responses from suppliers, and dealing course for the parties. It’s also crucial to consider the order-of-precedence clauses that determine if drawing control or written specifications are necessary. Most contractors proceed with the extra work without securing a change order in writing first in order to please clients. Furthermore, keen details, plans and agreements must be in placed before hitting the ground to avoid future conflicts on cost and timelines. Yes it is really stressful but being careful on details and changes is much better. This will avoid future conflicts. Better be sure than sorry, take it from us, from our almost score of experiences . Remember, change orders and add-on means extra time to prepare the plan and details, extra work, extra cost, and extra time on basic target. Ready? Lets Talk!

Your Kitchen!

The kitchen is one of the most important and traffic spaces in your home. It’s where you plan meals, eat as a family and even entertain guests, so stylish, functional and chic design is common option. Whether you live in a small apartment with limited storage or have a dreamy layout that’s complete with a large marble island, spacious cabinets and sleek smart appliances, there are numerous creative design ideas that can make you enjoy your kitchen much more. There are two distinct design approaches you can take when it comes to revamping your kitchen. You can transform your cooking space with practical, easy updates that won’t break the bank—think hanging new light fixtures, upgrading cabinet hardware or incorporating a great piece of wall art to show off your style. On the other hand, you might feel prepared to take the leap with a major kitchen renovation, which involves everything from installing new countertops and flooring to choosing a statement tile backsplash. It’s best to take the time to figure out the option that works best for your current lifestyle, trends and most of all the budget. If you’re ready for some décor inspiration, stroll and shop some of your favorite kitchen designs online and stores  nearby. There are more than enough expert-approved tips and ideas for every type of interior design lover. You’ll find colorful design schemes with striking paint colors that maximalists would love along with minimalist layouts that are undeniably timeless. The design possibilities are endless. All you have to do is start planning your dream kitchen, if possible, make sketches and list on the possible appliance and utensils upgrade.

Specifications!

Contracts are essential in many different industries and generally need to be as detailed as possible. One way to document details correctly is through the specification section of a contract or made a separate form for clear and detailed specifications. In the construction industry, owners, architects, and designers must be specific about the project’s necessary work for completion, as well as materials to be used and its equivalent. Specifications in construction describe the materials, labor, and skill required for construction development. If contractors are not able to communicate these specifications, delays, change orders, and cost overruns will occur. There is a formal process dedicated to building specifications because they are such a keystone in construction. Building Specifications (also called “specs”) are used as a guide to choosing the right materials duly approved and signed by the owner for the whole and specialized scope. Their overall purpose is to define the requirements for project execution regarding installation, materials, products, procedures, and quality aspects. The specifics that the owner and contractor discuss become the legal documents for the project and a keystone for the project design. The project is more likely to be correctly executed when the description and information are more precise. Specifications can be categorized similar to data because as project complexity increases, access to data is critical to making the right decisions. Additionally, if the contract states the specs precisely, there will be a considerable reduction in risk. Architects and designers create building specifications BEFORE construction starts in the design phase as part of contract documents, drawings and plans. Typically, architects delegate them to other team members, but sometimes, engineers handle them because of their technical knowledge. Construction specifications are detailed within a construction service contract that outline all the important aspects necessary for project fulfillment. Throughout the course of project completion, contractors and construction crews will use specifications as a reference for any questions that arise and to ensure the correct fulfillment of each project requirement. It is also commonly use to supplement architectural drawings and blueprints to describe and document information they may not be able to visually provide. Ready? Lets Talk! Make us your Homechoice!