Should I Hire an Independent Building Inspector?
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Should I Hire an Independent Building Inspector? How to Make the Right Call Sometimes homeowners choose to hire an independent building inspector during the building process of their new home, but that decision can be a double-edged sword.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231230224921/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-21.png" alt="independent building inspector" title_text="independent building inspector" _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]A home inspector inspecting a client's custom green-design home.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Pros and Cons of Building Inspection On one hand, if the building inspector’s intent is to genuinely help the process by effectively communicating what he observes, it can really aid in the process of completing a new home. On the other hand, a building inspector who tries to justify his fee by searching for insignificant things can add confusion and even create an adversarial relationship between the builder and the homeowner. When this happens, nobody wins. Understanding Home Inspections We don’t discourage our homeowners from hiring an independent building inspector. We think it’s important for them to be fully comfortable with the building process. After all, they are investing a lot of money in their new home. If the homeowners can clearly define in positive terms what they want the inspector to do, the inspector will know we’re not in an adversarial position. We will all be on the same page, working together to create a beautiful home. Much of what is noted by a private building inspector is already being handled by the builder, energy rater, green inspector, or the required local, county, and municipal building inspectors at code inspections. Hiring the private building inspector may be additional cost without any real value added to the homeowner. The Risks That May Arise Homeowners who live out of town, out of state, or even out of the country from their home building site may want to hire an inspector to watch over the construction process. This is a different assignment, it is also known as Owner’s Representative. We do not recommend this because it is very difficult to stay on the same team when you are paying someone to find problems. Dustin & Catherine hired an Owner’s Representative after some friends visited their site and one of them advised that they thought we has used the wrong type of plywood on the porch floor. The Owner’s Representative claimed that he was a licensed builder and dazzled them with research on YouTube videos showing alternative methods/products for tiling a porch floor. I showed them our research and had them speak with the representatives from the supply houses who recommended the products in the first place. We offered to replace the porch flooring how Catherine wanted it, but Catherine began second guessing her counsel and ended up telling us to use the product we would stand behind. This incident caused undue stress and expense for all involved. Later, it was discovered that the Owner’s Representative license was archived (meaning he wasn’t allowed to practice). Your Goals Should Align with Your Building Inspector’s To achieve the desired results, it will be important to choose a building inspector who understands the difference and does not try to create an adversarial situation. A good choice here can make or break a situation. We look for people who understand the “we’re-all-on-the-same-team” mentality (and a lot of people don’t). We’re all on the same side; we all want the same thing. We all want a beautiful home, built to the highest standards. Our goals are not opposite yours or the inspector’s. Understanding this is crucial. Be sure you are not hiring someone who feels the need to justify his fee. For any homeowner, if you are feeling uneasy about your builder, then you should question why you are hiring that builder in the first place. Your superintendent should be the person to responsibly manage the project. If you hire an independent inspector, make certain he is helping, not in hindering the building process. -Sean Sullivan [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" specialty="on" admin_label="Building a Quality Custom Home" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="39px|||||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_column type="2_3" specialty_columns="2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type="2_3" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" header_font="|||||on|||" header_text_color="rgba(17,32,73,0.79)" header_font_size="54px" header_2_font="||||||||" header_2_font_size="34px" custom_margin="||||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="39px" header_font_size_phone="38px" header_font_size_last_edited="on|desktop" header_2_font_tablet="||||||||" header_2_font_phone="||||||||" header_2_font_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]Building A Quality Custom Home Want to know more? This book by Sean Sullivan is full of helpful information in easy-to-read chapters like this blog post. It is a step-by-step guide to the “must-know” issues of buildingRead More
Why You Shouldn’t Use Friends as Subcontractors
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Why You Shouldn’t Use Friends as Subcontractors Consider The The Pitfalls First Building or renovating a home is an exciting and challenging endeavor. As you embark on this journey, one crucial decision is selecting the right subcontractors for the job.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231221204721/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-15.png" alt="Subcontractors" title_text="Friendships in Construction" _builder_version="4.23.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Spend your money only where it matters.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Difficulty in Enforcing Standards Professional subcontractors bring a level of expertise and specialized knowledge that's crucial for the success of your project. When hiring friends or family, there's a risk that they may lack the professional experience needed to handle complex tasks. It's essential to prioritize qualifications over personal connections to ensure the work meets industry standards. “I have a friend (or a brother-in-law) who is willing to do the tile work in my new home for a discounted rate. I’d like to use him and save some money.” Most quality custom home builders have learned the hard way that it’s not a good idea to allow homeowners to use friends or relatives for subcontracting work on the house during construction. Frequently it turns out to be a disaster for both the builder and the homeowner. Potential for Unreliable Timelines Here’s one example of why: Scott wanted to use his friend’s custom cabinetry shop. Scott knew the friend well and had spoken to another friend who was pleased with the cabinetry from this particular company. The builder didn’t want to allow it, but also didn’t want to anger his client so he agreed to let Scott use his friend’s cabinet company. The builder was promised the cabinet work would be completed by a specified date, but the cabinets were not installed on time. In fact they were delayed several times and eventually caused a two-month delay in the construction schedule. In the end, Scott and his family moved in without any cabinet doors on the face of the cabinetry in their entire home and then waited an additional two months to have their job complete. That didn’t even take into account the lost momentum or additional cost in interest carry, overhead, and other expenses as a result of the delay from the cabinet shop. Friends and family members may have other commitments and obligations that can interfere with project timelines. Professional subcontractors are more likely to adhere to a set schedule, minimizing delays and ensuring the project stays on track. Reliability is key when it comes to construction projects, and hiring professionals can provide the assurance needed for a successful outcome. Professional Expertise Matters When you hire a builder, I strongly encourage you to allow your builder to do what he does best. When you visit a dentist, you expect him or her to be trained and equipped to do the job efficiently and effectively. You wouldn’t think of bringing your own tools or materials, handing them to your dentist, and asking if you could save money on a filling because your neighbor or friend is in the dental supply business. You wouldn’t take a steak to a restaurant and ask them to cook it for you so you could save a few dollars on the meal. The principle is no different in home building, If you use friends or your own business contacts, it will disrupt the smooth flow of work and communication of what an experienced builder does best. Trust your builder. He has vendors, subcontractors, and a labor force already in place that he works with on a regular basis. BOTTOM LINE Hire a competent builder to do the building; save your friends for the housewarming party. -Sean Sullivan [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" specialty="on" admin_label="Building a Quality Custom Home" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="39px|||||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_column type="2_3" specialty_columns="2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type="2_3" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" header_font="|||||on|||" header_text_color="rgba(17,32,73,0.79)" header_font_size="54px" header_2_font="||||||||" header_2_font_size="34px" custom_margin="||||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="39px" header_font_size_phone="38px" header_font_size_last_edited="on|desktop" header_2_font_tablet="||||||||" header_2_font_phone="||||||||" header_2_font_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]Building A Quality Custom Home Want to know more? This book by Sean Sullivan is full of helpful information in easy-to-read chapters like this blog post. It is a step-by-step guide to the “must-know” issues of building your dream home. Discover the custom-home construction secrets that could save you headaches, heartaches, and thousands (if not tens of thousands) of dollars.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.livingstoneconstruction.com/building-a-quality-custom-home" button_text="Learn More" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129151432/Untitled-design-8.png" alt="Building A Custom Home" title_text="Custom Home Book" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_section]
Humble, Hungry and Smart
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="76px||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.4" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]As Team Players, What Does it Mean For Us to be Humble, Hungry, and Smart? In Patrick Lencioni's book "The Ideal Team Player," he introduces the concept of ideal team players possessing three essential virtues: Hungry, Humble, and (emotionally) Smart. These virtues are crucial for effective teamwork, and individuals lacking in any of them may struggle in organizational cultures. Lencioni identifies potential pitfalls in individuals with two out of three virtues, shedding light on the risks they pose to teams.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231222210012/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-18.png" alt="Luxury Custom Home Builder in Asheville" title_text="Luxury Custom Home Builder in Asheville" _builder_version="4.23.4" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.4" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="29px||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]For instance Humble and Hungry, but not Smart: These individuals may unintentionally create issues due to a lack of understanding of others and their impact on them. Humble and Smart, but not Hungry: Termed as the "loveable slacker," these individuals may appear charming but lack the drive to contribute proactively to the team. Hungry and Smart, lacking Humility: Described as "skillful politicians," these individuals may prioritize personal interests over effective teamwork. Lencioni's book provides insights and actions for us as award-winning custom builders to cultivate these virtues and improve teamwork. The notion of being a 'team player' is a constant buzz in discussions surrounding interviews, performance evaluations, and feedback sessions. It's universally acknowledged that possessing this quality is highly desirable in an employee or potential hire. However, despite the widespread use of the term and its recognized importance, finding exceptional team players remains a rare occurrence. Why is that the case? Perhaps it's because, although we all have our subjective views on what defines a team player, there lacks a formal, practical framework to pinpoint the specific qualities that ideal team players should possess. Lencioni asserts that when a team member significantly lacks one or more of these virtues, building a cohesive team becomes challenging, and in some cases, nearly impossible. Leaders should, therefore, prioritize hiring individuals who exhibit these attributes and actively cultivate these qualities within their existing teams. Our Three Core Virtues: Humble: Humility in a team member is evident through a lack of excessive ego or concerns about status. We readily share credit, freely praise others, and sometimes relinquish deserved credit in favor of celebrating the team's collective victory. Humble team players display a strong alignment towards the team's goals, prioritizing collective wins over individual achievements. We are self-confident but not arrogant. Hungry: Hungry team players are intrinsically motivated, diligent, and always seeking more. Our team do not require constant prodding from managers; instead, they actively pursue additional responsibilities and consistently think about the next steps and opportunities for the team. Smart: In this context, 'smart' refers to emotional intelligence and interpersonal awareness. Our emotionally intelligent team ask insightful questions, actively listen to others, and remain fully engaged in conversations. We demonstrate excellent judgment and intuition regarding group dynamics, fully aware of the impact their words can have on the team. Our Leadership Strategies Using this Framework Hiring the Right People We move away from the traditional approach that overemphasizes technical skills and instead, adopt a participatory and conversational interview style to assess a candidate's team player qualities. Utilizing top-grading in the hiring process to evaluate candidates holistically against the "Humble," "Hungry," and "Smart" criteria. We also delve into a candidate's past experiences through probing questions and reference checks to understand their motivations and potential fit within the team. Continual Development of Our Team We recognize that humility, hunger, and smartness are skills that can be consciously developed. Therefore we regularly evaluate team members against these three virtues and identify areas for improvement, creating individual development plans for those needing improvement and implement rigorous performance management follow-up when necessary. The Ultimate Importance Having exceptional team players is not just a preference; it's a prerequisite for effective teamwork. Solid teamwork unlocks the true potential of teams, fostering behaviors such as trust, healthy conflict, commitment, accountability, and a focus on results. Individuals who embody humility, hunger, and smartness contribute to the creation of incredibly successful teams. Our concept of genuine team players possess three critical virtues: Humility, Hunger, and Smartness. We use practical leadership strategies using the three virtues framework, both in hiring the right people and continually developing existing teams. From transforming traditional hiring approaches to fostering continuous development, we can ensure our team embody the essential qualities for unparalleled successful building industry.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
How Do You Avoid a Builder Scam?
How Do You Avoid a Builder Scam? Know the Signs to Watch Out For. Chose The Right Builder for your peace of mind. The Signs are Always There. We hear of new scams all the time. You can hardly pick up a newsp…
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