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  • Choosing The Perfect Home Builder

    Building a home requires proper planning, time, resources, and a whole lot more. But more importantly, you want to ensure that the final results will be the perfect home of your dreams in style and functionality. For this to happen, it’s essential to take the time to select a professional custom home designer who can deliver the results you desire.

    Custom Home Designer Tips: Choosing a Builder

    In this blog, you’ll learn the step-by-step process of choosing the right home builder and everything you’ll need to avoid during the process.

    Have a Clear Plan

    The first step to finding the right hands for the job is to know the kind of home you want. Your concept plan should appeal to your style of living and reflect your needs, both present and future. Reputable builders always have a portfolio of blueprints that you can look through to select a style that suits your needs. You can then work with the builder to add your personal touches.

    Have Well-Written Specifications

    When your concept plan is detailed enough with precise specifications, it will be easier to compare home builders. First, have a written list of the fixtures, appliances, accessories, and home finishings that match your taste. Once you put together your list, meet with builders and obtain estimates based on your specifications.

    Get an Estimate

    Meeting with various builders can inspire you with their diverse styling options while reviewing your specifications. Get the estimate in writing. Having multiple estimates helps you compare home builders more easily. Don’t forget to consider the builders’ timeline.

    Insured and Bonded

    Accidents can happen during a building project. To be on the safe side, check that your contractor is insured and bonded – it will prevent any delays on your project in the event of a mishap.

    Making the Final Selection

    After you’ve followed the process above, do the following:

    • Compare the previous work of several builders. Check their references.
    • Make a final budget and include contingency funds (money to deal with unforeseen problems or delays)
    • Discuss the details of the entire project with each builder on your final list
    • Reach a contractual agreement with your preferred builder

    Nubuildz

    Are you searching for a custom home designer and builder? Nubuildz can handle your building project with a touch of excellence from start to finish. Come by and look through our diverse portfolio of completed building projects. Then, take a step towards owning your dream home by contacting us today.

  • Should I Wait To Build My Home?

    Building a home is one of the most challenging and significant financial decisions you will make in life. Recently, different market conditions have caused many potential buyers to question whether this is the right time to invest in a new home. As a custom home builder, our opinion is that it’s hard to say if there’s ever the “right” time to build a new home. You will have to do what works best for you. We have, however, compiled some information we hope will help make your decision.

    Custom Home Builder Tips: When to Build

    What is Causing the Price Increases?

    A storm of events and escalating market reactions occurred and can be traced to when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country. Since then, different things have impacted the cost of raw materials.

    Working from Home: As working from home became the solution to help prevent the spread of the virus, buyer demand jumped. Buyers saw the need for more office space at home and looked for houses with increased square footage, thus raising the price of raw materials.

    Reduced Manufacturing: Manufacturers replenished inventory during winter when the demand was low. Then, COVID hit, and plants didn’t open to full capacity due to COVID restrictions and reduced demand. Then lack of laborers prevented them from returning to full production quickly.

    Reduced Inventory: There is low inventory as most manufacturers aren’t operating at full capacity, and the demand is by far more than the supply driving up prices.

    Foul Weather: In late February, the arctic freeze hit the mid-south, putting Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana into chaos. The cold temperatures and power interruptions caused the manufacturers to shut down operations, losing ground to capacity.

    Will the Prices Continue to Rise?

    No one knows what will happen after the pandemic. However, manufacturers and builders are forecasting a continued increase in cost as the country opens up. As a result, home prices will continue to rise this year but at a slower rate than last year.

    The reason for the price increase is due to the available inventory for new homes to buyers. In addition, the unexpected rise in home sales during the pandemic made the already tight inventory conditions tighter.

    Should I Build or Wait?

    All the available current market conditions show that prices will rise until the end of this year. The pricing situation might change in the next few months or years. No one knows but what is known is that interest rates will continue to be at all-time lows, which increases buying power, helping make up for the increased cost.

    The danger of waiting to build is that you might wait for too long to have the prices go down, and you end up paying higher building costs and interest rates. No one can predict what happens in a year or two from now. As a prudent buyer, consider your budget and whether you plan on staying in that home long enough to build enough equity to give you a profit during resale.

    Nubuildz

    You can track the cost of new homes in the Raleigh area with Nubuildz. Using this search portal for custom home builders, you can see where homes are being built and their listing prices. Check us out today.

  • Choosing The Right Exterior Color For Your Home

    When driving by homes in a neighborhood, it is common to consider and even judge the exterior color a homeowner has chosen. The color of a home says a lot about the style and the character of the house. Choosing one on a whim without careful thought can be disastrous. If choosing a custom home builder, there is a clean slate to work from when picking a color. Below are some tips and steps to making sure you pick the right color.

    Custom Home Builder Tips: Exterior Color Selection

    Harnessing Color Intuition

    The color you choose for a home is a personal decision. So, the first and most important decision is to decide if there is already a color preference that seems to come naturally to you as a homeowner. If a blue, gray, or white catches your eye on other homes, this may be a good sign in which direction to go. Also, remember that the color you choose for roofing will dictate color choice as well. If you decide on your roof color first, you will narrow your exterior color choice. If building new construction, decide which comes first, the roof color or the exterior house color. Creating vision boards online can help to see which combinations you like best.

    Fitting into the Neighborhood

    If you want to paint your new house fuchsia pink, then, by all means, paint it pink. But most homeowners like to make sure their house fits in with the aesthetic of their neighborhood. Therefore, when choosing the exterior color of your new build, it makes sense to take a drive down the adjacent streets and look at the houses on either side of your own. Picking a color that keeps in the style of your neighborhood will lead to a blended cohesive look to the street.

    Weather Matters

    It may seem like something that weather would not make the list of essential factors, but it can play a significant role in your exterior color choice, mainly the heat of the sun. If you live somewhere that gets an intense amount of sun during the day, you may want to consider lighter colors. Colors like white or other light shades will reflect the sun instead of absorbing it. The reflection will lead to less heat inside your home. Light colors also fade much less. Painting a home a dark color in an area exposed to a lot of sunlight can quickly lead to the fading of your home’s exterior color.

    Nubuildz

    When looking for residential home builders, it can be helpful to use a resource like Nubuildz, a custom home builder search portal. It is a great way to look at the gallery of a builder’s work. You can see how they have created homes that fit into neighborhoods seamlessly. Sites like Nubuildz can assist you as you search for or build a new home. Choosing an exterior color does require some planning and vision boarding, but it is a time investment that will be well worth it when you stand back admiring the perfect color on your new home.

  • A Few Design Choices to Make Working from Home Easier

    Working from home can be both a blessing and a curse. We love the freedom it gives us, but sometimes our workspace is in our living room or bedroom. That doesn’t make for a productive work environment in the long term. Working from home can be very nice, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Therefore, it is crucial to make the home workspace as comfortable and ergonomic as possible. Here are five home décor tips that you can make to improve your home office space.

    Home Décor Tips: Home Workspace

    Natural Lighting

    Nothing is more stressful and depressing than working in a poorly lit space. Spending time in indirect sunlight is the best way to boost your mood and productivity. It also reduces your dependency on artificial lighting. When planning your home workspace, think about where you will place the desk to guarantee sunlight in the area. Being able to look out a window is a bonus. Make sure the light doesn’t hit the computer screen or create glare.

    Ventilation

    Poor ventilation and indoor air quality have adverse short-term and long-term health effects. For the best ventilation and air quality, you can invest in a mechanical ventilator. It will exchange indoor air with outdoor to give you the best environment.

    Soundproof

    If you have a big family or pets in your home, you can soundproof your home office to work in peace. It will block out noise, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. Don’t forget to ensure the home office door is also soundproof and blocks noise.

    Storage Needs

    Opt for a storage option such as shelving to ensure ample storage in your home office. After all, you will have to store items such as files, office supplies, and more to ensure your office is clutter-free and have all the necessary supplies at hand to complete your work. You can add a closet with shelving to fulfill all your office storage needs.

    Strong WiFi

    Any office space is incomplete without a strong WiFi signal. Test your home network and check if you receive a robust signal in your home office. If you don’t, be sure to install a booster.

    Nubuildz

    These are the top five home décor tips that will make working from home more accessible than ever. Implement these today and see how your work from home life changes for the better. Nubuildz can help. Our experts can help design the perfect home office for you.

  • How Important Is It To Have An Interior Designer?

    Your home is your final daily destination. It is where you spend most of your time. So naturally, you want it to be a beautiful, appealing, and functional place. But if you are building a custom home, how do you make those visions in your head a reality? An interior designer might be your solution.

    Do You Need an Interior Designer?

    Do you have a clearly defined aesthetic in mind for your home? Do you quickly make decisions, or do you get overwhelmed when faced with many options? Are you confident in choosing colors and materials? Do you enjoy combing through stores or websites looking for the perfect furniture or decorative items? Do you have the time to do any or all of this? If not, an interior designer is right for you.

    When designing the interior of a home, there are three basic things to consider: Functionality, aesthetics, and cost. An interior designer is equipped and experienced to balance these three elements perfectly to suit your needs.

    Why Interior Designers are Worth the Cost

    Although many people think hiring an interior designer is expensive, you can save time and money when you invest in a qualified interior designer.

    After consulting with you and understanding your vision, an interior designer can zero in on the suppliers that cater to your desired styles. This step saves you hours of researching and hunting for items. Most people don’t realize the number of decisions required to complete a custom home project. The color palette, furniture styles, flooring, wall finishes, hardware, wood finishes, window styles, lighting fixtures are just a few of the decisions to be made. There are hundreds more. A designer can narrow the selection to a few choices that will fit your vision, reducing the mental and physical stress that comes with narrowing down and deciding on every detail of your new custom home.

    A designer can also recommend ideas or items that you might never have considered. Designers keep on top of trends and can present these to a client before they are widely known.

    Designers are often given special or warehouse pricing on items because they deal directly with suppliers. These savings can be passed onto clients. They also sometimes have access to items not sold at retail stores giving clients access to unique items.

    Controlling costs is another great reason to use a designer. Given a budget, a designer can deliver the vision without overspending. Many people left to their own devices give a little here and a little there when deciding on item costs. All those little additional costs add up, and soon they are well over budget. A designer is great at determining where to spend more and where to cut back – keeping the whole project on budget.

    Interior designers don’t rest until their clients are satisfied. As a result, they are well worth the expense for many people, and the outcome is your dream home becoming a reality.

    Nubuildz

    Are you looking for the perfect custom home? Nubuildz is a custom home search portal that specializes in showcasing new homes. Check us out today.

  • Fireplace Options – Wood vs. Gas

    Over the past few decades, the desire to have a fireplace in the house has increased. They transform any space, enhancing the ambiance while adding a distinct character to the home’s overall interior design. Fireplaces, especially those in custom-built homes, can be designed to be a focal point, leaving an impact on anyone who steps into the house.

    While the benefits of a fireplace are plenty, one challenge that many people face is deciding whether to get a gas or wood-burning fireplace. Here are a few things to consider before making the final decision on your custom home design.

    Custom Home Design: Fireplaces

    Upkeep

    One of the main advantages that gas fireplaces have over their wood-burning counterparts revolves around the upkeep. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces can be a hassle. Following each use, soot, ashes, and logs that have not entirely burned must be removed. In addition, each year, the chimney needs to be examined and cleaned by a professional. Not performing proper maintenance can lead to a buildup of hazardous materials and the degradation of the chimney, both of which are fire hazards.

    On the other hand, gas fireplaces only require an annual inspection of the vent pipe to ensure no irregularities. This routine makes it easier to keep up with and maintain over time.

    Cost

    When it comes to the cost to install, wood-burning fireplaces have the upper hand. Gas fireplaces require installing gas lines, which can be expensive.

    Despite this, the costs that come along with actually using each one are relatively similar. For example, gas fireplaces can increase the monthly gas bill depending on how frequently the fireplace is used, while wood-burning fireplaces will have recurring wood costs.

    Ease of Use

    Getting a wood-burning fireplace up and running requires several steps. The hearth and chimney must be checked for blockages, the damper opened, and then there’s starting the fire. Additionally, the fire has to be continuously tended to as it burns.

    These steps are non-existent with a gas fireplace. Once the gas line is open and the pilot light ignited (which can remain burning during seasons of heavy use), you just need to flip a switch or turn a dial. Then, when you’re finished, turn it off. No mess, no clean-up.

    Which is the Better Option

    While each has pros and cons, many homeowners usually opt for gas fireplaces for custom home design. Their placement versatility and low maintenance make them a very desirable option. But the traditional fireplace and the smell of burning wood are alluring for many homeowners. What is your preference? The final choice is up to you.

    Nubuildz

    Does your dream custom home design include a fireplace? Nubuildz can help make that dream come true. Contact us today.

  • Trimless vs. Cased Windows

    One of the main aspects that affect the aesthetics of a home is its windows. There are two main options for window trim treatment: trimless (aka kerfed) or cased windows. Both styles will integrate differently with the walls and offer a unique aesthetic. Here is everything you need to know about trimless and cased windows for your custom home design.

    Custom Home Design: Window trim Treatments

    Trimless Windows

    Trimless windows offer a modern and transitional design aesthetic in any home. These windows are tucked into the wall, and they seamlessly integrate with the walls of your home. There are different ways to finish trimless windows.

    One way is by utilizing a jamb extension, an interior trim piece that extends to the full depth of the wall. The jamb can be the color of the window frame, the color of the wall, or a contrasting color. This versatility allows for various design options depending on if you want the windows to stand out or blend in. However, using a jamb extension is costly because it uses many materials and requires hours of labor.

    You can also use a drywall return to finish trimless windows. A drywall return gives the window a clean, sleek treatment. This method is less expensive, but drywall is not durable, and corners must be reinforced. Also, you might have to touch up the wall paint from time to time.

    Cased Windows

    Cased windows use aesthetic and functional moldings that frame your windows beautifully. If you want a conventional and classic design aesthetic for your home, cased windows are ideal. In addition, you can match the window casings with the door casings to ensure your house interior looks cohesive.

    These windows require you to spend more on labor and trim material. However, you will save money in terms of drywall detailing. In addition, these windows are set into a wall inside a frame, which is a look many traditional households possess.

    Professional Window Installer

    It would be best if you opted for a professional to install windows. Windows are challenging to install correctly, and since the finishing details add to the aesthetic of the entire house, you’ll want them to look perfect.

    Which Windows Are Better?

    There is no better or worse window. The one that is best for you will depend on the design aesthetic of your home, your budget, and your preferences. That is why it is essential to do thorough research before making the final window selection for your custom home design.

    Nubuildz

    Are you thinking of building a custom home? Nubuildz can help with your custom home design. Our experts can help your vision become a reality.

  • Our Most Frequently Asked Questions As Custom Home Builders

    When it comes to being a homeowner, designing and building a custom home may be one of the most crucial decisions you may make. The first step is choosing the right custom home builder to actualize your dream home. Although we understand the custom home building process can be overwhelming and stressful sometimes, through our custom home search portal, we answer some frequently asked questions about custom homes building.

    Nubuildz Custom Home Search Portal: Frequently Asked Questions

    Is there a difference between a custom home and a spec home?

    A custom home is a house designed and created specifically tailored to the customer. The buyer has a hand in every decision and nuance. The home is designed and built to fit their specific lifestyle everywhere. From the inside out, top to bottom.

    On the other hand, a spec home is where the builder designs and builds using their company designs. The buyer has no input in the home’s design but can select some finishes depending on how far into the house’s building process it is when listed for sale.

    How long does it take to build a custom home?

    Each custom home is unique. No two homes take the same time to build. However, custom homes take longer than spec homes since they are intricate and complex. On average, a custom home can take from 12 to 18 months to finish. Most professional builders can provide customers with a build timeline laying out what to expect and how it will take.

    Can a builder help me find a lot to build my custom home?

    If the client doesn’t have a lot ready for building a custom home, a good builder can help you find one. Clients should look for lots in neighborhoods that fit their criteria and price range.

    Can I take a tour of one of your completed projects?

    When searching for a custom home builder, it’s a good idea to ask to see some of their completed projects. Many builders are more than happy to give a tour of one of their complete custom homes. They also have photos and videos of constructed homes. Also many home builder associations sponsor a “Parade of Homes” once or twice a year. This is a good time to see and walk through completed homes of local builders.

    Can you provide me with your customer list for references?

    Speaking to a satisfied customer is the best way to understand what to expect from a custom home builder. Many custom builders are happy to provide new clients with customer references to speak to directly about their custom home building experience.

    Nubuildz

    Nubuildz holds a strong reputation as a top-tier custom home search portal. We also have a reputation for building one custom home at a time to give it all the attention our professionals have. We are ready to meet with you and give you a quote once you’re ready to build your custom home.

  • Home Design Features To Consider If You Work From Home

    The COVID-19 pandemic hit the world with a bang. Corporate America was highly affected as millions of workers started working from home temporarily. However, now with the vaccine at hand and restrictions easing up, many employees are genuinely interested in permanently working from home, and companies are gradually accepting this new normal.

    Working from home brings flexibility and versatility for workers. It, however, drives the need for appropriate working space in the house. For example, a couch or kitchen table that served as a workspace during the pandemic isn’t a long-term solution. But what features should one consider when considering a custom home design if there are plans to work from home, either part or full time?

    Custom Home Design: Home Office

    The best solution is having a dedicated home office space, if your budget allows. A uniquely designed space serves a person better than putting a desk in the corner of a multi-purpose room. The separate room creates a precise and professional mindset and an appropriate background for meetings and video calls. In addition, a professional space offers a mental separation from your living space, helping ease distractions and making it easy to walk from work to your living space at the end of your working day. Below are features to consider when designing a new home office.

    Soundproofing

    If you share your living space with children or animals, extra soundproofing for your home office helps block noise. The door to the home office should also be rated for sound control.

    Storage

    Install a closet with built-in shelving. This closet provides an out-of-sight space for supply and file storage and helps keep the desk, room, and your head free from clutter. It also adds versatility to the room should it need to be converted to a bedroom later.

    Daylight

    Make sure there is ample natural light entering this space. It helps boost your mood and reduce artificial lighting needs. As you plan the room, ensure that direct sunlight won’t hit the computer screen creating glare.

    Electrical Outlets

    To help keep wires out of your way, have in-the-floor outlets installed. Determine where the desk, computers, printers, and other necessary equipment will be first to determine where to place the outlets. Also, ensure there are ample electrical outlets in your home. You might get tired of sitting in the same chair all day and want to work from another area occasionally.

    Strong Internet

    If you are using Wi-Fi, have a Wi-Fi booster to ensure you get a strong signal in your office, on the couch, or when sitting on the patio.

    Ventilation

    Poor indoor air quality has long-term and short-term health effects. It becomes a big issue as homes become more air-tight and energy-efficient. Consider installing a mechanical ventilation system such as an energy recovery ventilator or heat recovery ventilator that exchanges indoor air with fresh outdoor air.

    Working from home has significant benefits, but it requires a delicate balance between home and office. However, with intelligent design and planning, one can get a professional environment and retain the comfort of home.

    Nubuildz

    Do you want more information on incorporating a home office into your custom home design? Contact Nubuildz. We can help.

  • Wood Burning Or Gas Fireplace?

    Are you wondering whether a wood-burning or gas fireplace will be better suited to your custom home design? There are many designs and options available to install the perfect fireplace for you and your family. Here are some benefits of both wood-burning and gas fireplaces to consider when making your decision.

    Custom Home Design: Fireplaces

    Benefits of a Wood-Burning Fireplace

    Is there anything better than curling up with your loved ones in front of a roaring wood-burning fireplace on a cold winter’s night? Although the installation process of wood-burning fires requires a lot of work, you can enjoy the following benefits:

    • A focal point – A fireplace adds a stunning centerpiece for your living area that provides a truly sensory experience.
    • Added value – wood-burning fireplaces are highly sought after and will increase your home’s value.
    • Cheaper utility bills – During the winter, you can reduce your central heating bills while curled up in front of a fire.

    Benefits of a Gas Fireplace

    Gas fireplaces have come a long way recently, and many even closely resemble a wood-burning fireplace. Here are the benefits you can expect from a gas-burning fire:

    • Easy and hassle-free installation – many gas fireplaces can stand independently from your home’s fittings.
    • Less ongoing maintenance – other than cleaning the vent pipe occasionally, gas fires are a lot easier to maintain than wood-burning fireplaces.
    • Environmentally friendly – gas fireplaces release less harmful particles than a wood-burning fireplace and are therefore better for the environment.

    Which is Better?

    In truth, it’s impossible to say whether a wood-burning or gas fireplace is ‘better.’ Both are appealing and present benefits when you’re putting together your custom home design. However, deciding which to opt for really depends upon the amount of effort you’re willing to put in. Installing and maintaining a wood-burning fireplace requires more time, effort, and money than a gas fireplace. (Don’t forget about having a wood supply to burn.) But for many people, it’s worth it for the sensory qualities and the ability to have a wood-burning feature in their property.

    Ultimately, the choice is yours. But you can rest assured that both wood-burning and gas fireplaces will add value to your custom home and will warm you up on those cold winter nights.

    Nubuildz

    Are you trying to decide on a fireplace for your custom home design? If you want some design ideas, Nubuildz can help. Helping customers develop and execute their design ideas is our top priority. So contact us and see what we can do for you.