Humble, Hungry and Smart

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]
Eight Common Arguments Builders Have with Homeowners

Eight Common Arguments Builders Have with Homeowners

[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="4.23.1" 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="{}"]Eight Common Arguments Builders Have with Homeowners … and How to Avoid Them Define the expectations in writing before construction begins. Save yourself headaches and heartaches by discussing all eight of these issues with your builder and resolve them in advance.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129150114/Black-Orange-Modern-Construction-Presentation-1.jpg" alt="builder and homebuilder delibrating" title_text="builder and homebuilder delibrating" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]You also need to know the Top 12 Mistakes Made by Homeowners[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" 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"]1. Homeowner thinks: You never finished my punch-out, walk-through list.   At closing, the builder and homeowner assemble a walk-through list. You walk through the entire house together to determine if there are any areas or items that still need attention. It’s important to have this list in writing and signed by both the homeowner and the builder. If not, the list will never end. Your builder will become frustrated when items are continually added to the list; homeowners will be frustrated because they will feel as though the builder never completed the original list. Get the list in writing and agree that if any additional items arise beyond the initial walk-through, you will create a new, separate list that will be considered “warranty”.   2. Homeowner thinks: I didn’t think adding two more windows to my new home would be an extra cost. After all, I’m paying a lot of money for this home.   Changes need to be clearly communicated and put in writing to protect both parties and the relationship.   3. Homeowner thinks: This is a shoddy builder. I never would’ve hired him if I had known this.   Builder thinks: These homeowners have completely unrealistic expectations. I can never please them. Before signing a contract, both the builder and homeowner need to clearly outline their expectations. While this may take a little more time, the effort is well worth it. Pen and paper up front can solve a whole host of misunderstandings and “he said/she said” situations down the line.   4. Homeowner thinks: The builder didn’t communicate changes clearly and in a timely manner.   Builder thinks: The homeowner doesn’t have sufficient funds to make changes. Agree in writing regarding any changes that occur after the contract is signed. I also recommend homeowners pay for changes they want at the time of the change, not at the end of a job. This will keep all parties on good terms with each other and the homeowner from having any big financial surprises at the end.   5. Homeowner thinks: My builder is not taking my concerns seriously; they are falling on deaf ears.   Have regularly scheduled meetings with your builder to update the schedule, changes, homeowner concerns, and items that the builder needs in order to complete the home. That way, you don’t have to feel like you are nagging the builder and he doesn’t have to feel like construction is being halted every time he turns around.   6. The homeowner says he spoke to the subcontractor, and the subcontractor said he could do something for the owner without the builder’s knowledge.   All communication must be communicated through the superintendent or interior designer who is running the job. This will avoid “he said/she said” misunderstandings.   7. The homeowner is speaking to everyone but the builder on matters related to the home or its construction.   Open and honest communication with the superintendent or interior designer is vital, not just with anyone who will listen. Let the builder do what you hired him to do.   8.The homeowner is continually second-guessing the builder and the decisions he is making.   Take time at the start of the project to interview and gain a high level of trust with the builder and his abilities. Also, speak to previous homeowners about their homebuilding experience with this builder.   -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"
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Matthew Jones, Project Manager

Matthew Jones, Project Manager

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|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 _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text module_class="chronospro-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" z_index_tablet="0" text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_colors_info="{}"]ABOUT LIVING STONE | MEET OUR TEAM | MATTHEW JONES[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" module_class="custom-columns" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Sean Sullivan" module_class="chronospro-heading" _builder_version="4.24.1" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" hover_enabled="0" z_index_tablet="0" text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Matthew Jones Project Manager[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231208201009/PXL_20231129_1311440712.jpg" alt="Sean Sullivan" title_text="PXL_20231129_131144071~2" align_tablet="center" align_phone="" align_last_edited="on|desktop" disabled_on="off|off|on" admin_label="Mobile Image" module_class="mobile-team-image" _builder_version="4.24.1" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" hover_enabled="0" z_index_tablet="0" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" border_style="solid" animation="off" sticky="off" always_center_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.1" hover_enabled="0" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Matthew Jones brings a wealth of experience to his role of Project Manager at Living Stone Design + Build. Originating from Florida, he has brought his passion for craftsmanship to the beautiful surroundings of North Carolina. Matthew’s journey in the construction industry began at the young age of 17, and over the years, he has honed his skills in various trade fields, ranging from concrete craftsmanship to expert drywall framing. What sets Matthew apart is his unwavering commitment to excellence, showcasing a meticulous attention to even the minutest of details in every project he undertakes. His dedication to precision and quality craftsmanship ensures that each endeavor reaches its fullest potential. Beyond the construction site, Matthew is a true outdoors enthusiast, finding joy in activities ranging from serene fishing excursions to the adrenaline rush of snowboarding. This love for the outdoors not only complements his professional role but also reflects his adventurous spirit and commitment to a well-balanced lifestyle. Joining Living Stone Design + Build has marked an exciting chapter in Matthew’s career, and he is eager to contribute his expertise to the continued success and innovation of the company. With a blend of experience, passion for quality, and a zest for life, Matthew Jones is a valuable asset to the Living Stone team.    What has been your favorite Living Stone project? The Scanlon Residence What are your 3 favorite activities to do outside of work Fishing Snowboarding Cooking What values would you defend to the death? Honesty What is your secret talent? Amazing scratch cook What is your favorite Asheville area restaurant? Red Ginger If you could have one superpower what would it be? Foresight [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231208202903/PXL_20231129_1311440712-1-scaled.jpg" title_text="PXL_20231129_131144071~2 (1)" align_tablet="center" align_phone="" align_last_edited="on|desktop" disabled_on="on|on|off" admin_label="Desktop Image" module_class="desktop-team-image" _builder_version="4.24.1" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" hover_enabled="0" z_index_tablet="0" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Info" _builder_version="4.23.1" background_color="#ede8e5" custom_padding="27px|27px|27px|27px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Information Office 855.720.2435  Cell 561.901.0014  matthew@livingstoneconstruction.com 121 Sweeten Creek Rd. Asheville, NC 28803[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_button button_url="/meet-the-team" button_text="MEET OUR TEAM" button_alignment="center" admin_label="MEET OUR TEAM" _builder_version="4.13.0" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17px" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#62a844" button_border_width="1px" button_border_color="#589a43" button_border_radius="0px" button_icon="9||divi||400" button_icon_color="#ffffff" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" z_index_tablet="500" button_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" button_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" button_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_module="20044" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="0" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
The Terrible Truth About Building Beyond Your Means

The Terrible Truth About Building Beyond Your Means

[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="4.23.1" 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="{}"]The Terrible Truth About Building Beyond Your Means Balancing Desires and Affordability  Sometimes homeowners want to build a home that doesn’t seem to be affordable for them; it’s well beyond their means.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143014/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-5.png" alt="homeowners tips and tricks 2024" title_text="homeowners tips and tricks" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]A client budgeting for their dream home to avoid unnecessary surprises that could inflate the costs.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" 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="{}"]Builder's Dilemma That’s a tough situation for me because if I build the home the way they want, I know they’ll regret. On the other hand, if I don’t, they won’t be happy with me. In fact, I’ve sometimes lost building opportunities simply because I want to be straight with people when it appears they’re pushing the envelope of costs. Of course, I know I’m not my clients’ keeper regarding how they spend their money. But as a professional who values integrity, I believe I have a responsibility to share the cold, hard facts of the large investment they will be making in building a home. Some people begin the design process with a realistic budget that’s within their means, but as the process moves along, it can begin to get out of hand.   Budget Creep If you’ve purchased a new car recently, you know what I mean. Say for example, you want to get a nice car and you decide your budget is $30,000. Once on the lot, you see the base price on a model you like is $34,000. Well, it’s only a few thousand more, you think. But then you start noticing some of the options. You really like the Bluetooth voice recognition controls (only another $1,000), and it’s just $19.80 a month more on your monthly payment. Of course, then you see other cool things like the GPS Navigation System, the backup camera, and the Premier Audio System— so you add another $6,000. You also decide to upgrade from the standard leather package to the heated and cooled, comfort leather seats. That adds $2,160, but it’s so incredible! Then you discover the Satellite Radio System, and add $486. Finally, you decide to add a sunroof, custom paint, and upgraded tires… You get the picture. In a matter of minutes, your $34,000 car became a $45,000 car. And remember, you started out looking for a car that would cost $30,000. That’s what it’s like for some homeowners who design and build a home. Construction hasn’t even started and already they’ve added options and selections to their home beyond the original plan. Sometimes people stretch and stretch financially to build their new home and by the time construction begins, they’re under so much stress that when we have an opportunity to add a nice feature to their home (something as simple a additional crown molding), they are completely stressed out because of a few hundred dollar decision. That’s often because they didn’t discipline themselves to stick to a reasonable budget. Please don’t build a dream home that you will have to sell before you even move in because you can’t afford it. Be sure you have a builder who will help guide you through this process with honesty and professionalism. If I notice that costs are beginning to exceed the homeowner’s budget, I tell them that it’s my responsibility to communicate this to them. The final choice is up to the homeowner. Ultimately, I want them to be happy and financially healthy with their finished dream home.   Will I Go Over Budget?   If you’re like most people, yes, you will probably go over your budget. On the way home from work, I occasionally stop at the grocery store just to pick up a couple of quick items. As I get out of the car, I’m thinking I’ll be in and out in five minutes. Twenty minutes later, I’m standing in the checkout line, my arms filled with items I never intended to buy. The watermelon was on sale, the blueberries were a two-for-one special, there’s a new brand of chips that looks delicious, and on it goes. Now I’m standing in line with my arms and fingers filled with items wondering what I came here for in the first place. Oh yes, a gallon of milk and bananas! I have to set the items down and run back to the dairy department because I forgot the milk! Does any of this sound familiar? Most likely you’ve been there before. The same thing can happen with the new homebuilding process if
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