Planning to Move to Nova Scotia?

Keith Sawlor, November 18, 2013 | Posted in Research; Tagged Builders, Moving to Nova Scotia

Whether you are building a summer home, a retirement home or relocating to Nova Scotia, building a home while residing outside of the province may cause some concern and apprehension. I recommend that you carefully investigate and research the best Builder for you in order to protect yourself and your investment.

As you interview potential Builders, ask them if they have any experience building for clients from away. If so, what is their process?  A detailed specification and schedule, along with a detailed documented home building system will ensure you are making the right decisions at the correct time, allowing the project to proceed smoothly and on schedule.

You should plan for 3 site visits during construction. The first as the project is started; the second after the house is weather tight and ready for sub-trades, and the final visit at closing.

During the first visit you should meet you Builder on site to locate the house on the lot, mark the area to be cleared, locate the well and onsite sewage disposal system and define the size and location of the driveway. You must also be prepared to select and confirm the windows and doors, as well as all exterior finish details including; roof shingles, siding and brick.  Your Builder should be willing to accompany you on visits to suppliers to assist with these decisions. It would be an excellent idea to have an Interior Decorator available to you as well.

The second visit will be to select all interior finishes. Your Builder must be willing to help with this phase and the Interior Decorator should be available for you while you are here. Electrical, Plumbing, Flooring, Cabinets, Paint Colors and Staircase should be decided during this trip.

 A site visit and guided tour will give you a much better understanding of your new home as well. Every detail may not be 100% decided during this trip but you will have the opportunity to meet every supplier and trade that is working on your home and it will be simple to follow up by phone and email if required

The third visit will involve a walkthrough of your beautiful and finished home. Your Builder will answer any questions you may have and explain the various systems and products that have been incorporated into the construction of your custom new home. Now you can begin to enjoy your new home!

Priscilla and Sanford have successfully gone through the home building process with Sawlor Built Homes while residing outside of the province. View their thoughts and opinions here.

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.