Building a Home in the "New Normal"

Keith Sawlor, June 24, 2020 | Posted in Research; Tagged Builders

COVID-19 has changed the way many of us live and work. At Sawlor Built Homes, the health and safety of our customers, contractors and staff is of utmost importance, and so we’ve been adjusting to this “new normal.”

If you’re looking to build a home, what does this mean for you?

We invite you to view our post on The Sawlor Experience to familiarize yourself with our typical process.

As these times are anything but typical, our process might look a little different. We’re still as committed as ever to making your experience as smooth, positive and stress-free as possible.

The Plan

We love to see your ideas and put them into action. Given social distancing guidelines, we’ll work remotely with you and our designer through emails, phone calls and video conferencing, so we can come up with a plan to make your dream home a reality.

The Price

We aim to provide you with a detailed and accurate quote that includes everything you’ve asked for, and change orders to ensure we’re on the same page should changes be requested.  This means no surprises on your final bill.

We’re sticking with that now and always, offering you the opportunity to view, print, sign, scan and return our quotes, changes orders, and any other necessary documents, digitally, or to confirm your acceptance via email.

The Review

This is where we review your house plans with all the key players to make sure everything is as it should be before we proceed with the build. This comprehensive review is unquestionably the most important part of our building process.

We’ve adopted new screen-sharing technology to allow us to easily review your house plans from the comfort of your (current!) home. You can see your plans and specifications, and offer your input, through a virtual meeting.

The Binder

We continue to develop this important reference tool, which we can deliver to you. An electronic version is also available, if you wish.

One of the primary purposes of the binder is to connect you with suppliers to make product selections. Our suppliers have found ways to keep the product selection process convenient for you through the COVID-19 crisis, from delivering samples to scheduling individual showroom appointments.

The Build

At this time, we’re working with a daily limit of one crew inside and one crew outside for each of our projects. We’re closely monitoring and following guidelines set by the Government of Nova Scotia and doing our part to ensure a safe working environment for all.

The Closing

We’re conducting walk-throughs as our customers feel comfortable. You can walk through on you own and submit any questions or concerns for follow up. Or, you can meet the owner of our company, Keith Sawlor, onsite and conduct the walk-through together, while maintaining social distancing.

Face masks and hand sanitizers are available for all our walk throughs, and we ensure a thorough cleaning of your home before you set foot in it.

The Continued Service

Your continued satisfaction is important to us. We are addressing all requests for warranty repairs, while prioritizing those that are urgent and postponing minor repairs until it’s safe to perform them.

We’d like to send a big thank you to our Clients as they adjust to our new procedures, and to our suppliers and trades for accommodating as we put safety first. 

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.