Decisions, Decisions...

Keith Sawlor, September 12, 2013 | Posted in Build; Tagged Interior Selections, Exterior Selections

Quite often clients building a custom home ask "When do we decide on all the items going into our home?"

Throughout the construction process there will be many choices that you will be required to confirm, which then authorizes your builder to proceed.  These decisions simply confirm the style and color of the many important products selected for your new home. Examples of these items include but are not limited to;

• Windows & Doors
• Exterior Siding and details
• Roof shingles
• Paint Colors
• Staircase details
• Plumbing fixtures
• Cabinet details and layout
• Flooring; Light fixtures
• Deck design 

Your builder, prior to starting construction, should be providing you with a list of all the items that you will be required to choose and authorize, along with the due date for these decisions.  This decision checklist helps keep the project moving towards the closing date.

There may be several items that your Builder is unable to provide an exact cost for, until you actually make your selections. In this case, your Builder should be providing,  in the Contract Specifications, an allowance or budget amount for you to use. One example would be your flooring.  Once you select the type of flooring that you want in each room of your home, a quote will be provided to you for your approval.  This amount shall be deducted from the allowance amount allotted and any adjustments to the allowance will be adjusted on Completion Date. 

The accounting and final billing for your home should be simple and transparent, without any surprises!

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 Past 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 and Better Business Bureau.