Making Choices - And Changes

Keith Sawlor, March 25, 2024

Decisions, decisions, decisions. When you’re building a custom home, you’ll face a lot of them.

What kind of flooring should you choose? What about countertops? Cabinets? Paint colors?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the many choices you’ll have to make. A good builder will have a team to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.

Your builder will work with you to develop a plan that incorporates all the structural elements of your new home. Later, you’ll work with an interior designer to narrow down the details. They will show you a range of products to suit your style, needs and budget, which, when pieced together, will form the overall look of your home. Once you sign off to proceed, your plans will be set into motion.

So, what happens if you change your mind after you’ve signed off? Let your builder know right away. A builder with a strong team should be able to research and implement changes quickly, easily, and at a reasonable cost.

Your builder should provide you with a change order that outlines the details of the change, as well as the cost or credit. You and your builder should sign off on the change order, acknowledging that you both understand and agree on the change to be made. It’s very important to get all changes in writing to avoid miscommunication.

At the end of the building process, your final bill should only show your contract amount and any change orders you approved and signed. Surprises—especially financial surprises—should not be a part of your building experience or final bill.

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National, Safety Services Nova Scotia and Better Business Bureau.