by Sarah Thorn | Mar 18, 2024 | Construction & Design, Postings
[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="4.24.2" 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="{}"]Financial Smarts - Part 2 What Loan Is Right For Me? Once you’ve been approved to receive a new loan to build your custom home, the next step is to determine the best loan for your needs. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240314152617/Elk.png" alt="owner financing homes for sale" title_text="owner financing homes for sale" _builder_version="4.24.3" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.3" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Choose the right loan for your custom home so as not to build beyond your means.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.3" 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="{}"]Construction-Permanent Loans There are a variety of loans to choose from, each with their own set of rules and terms. Your loan officer can walk you through all of the options and help you choose the right one. If you’re building a custom home, you’ll want to consider a “Construction-Permanent” loan. A Construction-Permanent (or Construction-Perm) loan has two phases: the construction phase and the permanent phase. The construction portion of the loan funds the construction activities during the building phase of your home. In this phase, you will make monthly payments based on how much money is drawn from the lender. As construction progresses, more money will be drawn from the loan. If you’d like to know just how much money is due and when, your mortgage lender can print out a spreadsheet detailing a fairly accurate estimate. With a Construction-Permanent loan, there is one set of closing costs that are paid at the front end. During the construction phase, builders will typically receive a deposit when the contract is signed and then will draw from the loan monthly. The borrower would only pay interest on payments based on the draws taken by the builder. I find borrowers are very relieved to hear this as the payments are lower during the construction. An independent inspector hired by the lender will come out to the construction site at each of these stages and check on the home’s progress so the lender can release more money to your builder. Keep in mind, they will not check for quality only to see if the builder is on schedule to receive payment. The borrower should always ask if there are any penalties if construction goes longer than 12 months. This is very important for a custom build, as the timeframe for the build is longer than speculative. Transitioning from Construction to Permanent When construction is complete and a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, the loan modifies from a Construction-Permanent loan to a permanent loan. At this time, monies for homeowner’s insurance and property taxes are due into an escrow account. This usually ranges from 1.5 to 2 percent of your loan amount. Your lender will draw up the final papers that confirm the construction phase of the loan has ended and the permanent phase of the loan is beginning. The final check is made out to you and your builder for you to sign and hand over to the builder. However, you don’t have to sign that check over until you are completely satisfied with your builder’s work. Consider Builder Financing For Your Home Loan There are typically no additional closing fees with the permanent loan. Another option to consider for a loan is using your builder’s financing source. Some builders offer special financing packages. Be sure to ask your builder if you qualify for that option. Using a builder’s financing can be just as effective as using a bank loan. Generally speaking, it’s easiest and fastest to go with your builder’s financing source if they are competitive in the market. But what if you’re not building a custom home? What if your builder has a home that’s already done and you’d like to buy it and move in immediately? This is the most common situation for homeowners. You will need an end loan. You can still determine whether you want to have a fixed, adjustable, or interest-only rate with an end loan. Be sure to talk with your mortgage lender about your expectations. Conclusion Determine the best loan for your financial needs after discussing the options with your loan officer. With so many programs and options available, choose the one that is right for you. Be sure to read Financial Smart - Part 1 here. -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"
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by Sarah Thorn | Mar 14, 2024 | Construction & Design, Postings
Should you peruse the Sunday papers looking for the best deal or stop by your neighborhood bank to see their rates? Do you need a mortgage lender or a mortgage broker? When it comes to finding the right home financing plan, it’s really all about dollars and sense.
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by Sarah Thorn | Mar 8, 2024 | Construction
[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 _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title and subtitle" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||16px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Best in American Living Awards Living Stone Design + Build Takes Home 4 Awards in 2024 We are thrilled and humbled to share our recent success at the Best in American Living Awards (BALA). Winning not just one, but four prestigious awards is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and impeccable design.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="Best in American Living Logo" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="18px||11px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200625/Best-in-American-Living-Logo.png" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200338/best-in-american-living-awards-living-stone.jpg" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" title_text="best-in-american-living-awards-living-stone" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="off|off|off" max_height="463px"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" column_structure="1_2,1_2" custom_padding="||16px|||"][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" 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"]Best Green Entire Home RemodelOur journey began with a vision to transform a home into an eco-friendly sanctuary that promotes wellness and elevates the homeowner's quality of life. Collaborating closely, we poured our collective expertise into every aspect of the project, from conceptualization to execution. Our entry for “Best Green Entire Home Remodel” celebrates our holistic approach to sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and innovative design solutions. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200334/renovation-bala.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="renovation-bala" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200325/best-custom-home-builder.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="on|on|off"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Best Healthy HomeWinning the award for “Best Healthy Home” holds special significance for us, because it was the first home in North Carolina to be Wellness Within Your Walls certified. This home reflects our dedication to creating spaces that prioritize the health and well-being of our clients. Through careful planning and meticulous attention to detail, we crafted a home that not only looks beautiful but also promotes cleaner air, better sleep, and overall wellness.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200325/best-custom-home-builder.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="off|off|on"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="off|off|off"]Best KitchenIn the category of “Best Kitchen between $75,000 and $125,000,” we showcased our ability to deliver exceptional design and functionality in the Homestead Revival kitchen. By leveraging our combined expertise in space planning, material selection, and custom craftsmanship, we transformed an ordinary living space into a culinary masterpiece that seamlessly blends style and practicality.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="1_2"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200328/remodel-kitchen-asheville.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="remodel-kitchen-asheville" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="off|off|off"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200331/remodel-whole-home-asheville.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="remodel-whole-home-asheville" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="on|on|off"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Best Design DetailOne of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the recognition of our attention to detail. Winning “Best Design Detail” for the Homestead Revival stairwell reaffirms our belief that it's the little things that truly make a house a home. By adding contrast in color, an abundance of natural light, and intentional artwork, this stairwell is a focal point in this beautiful home.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240308200331/remodel-whole-home-asheville.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="remodel-whole-home-asheville" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0" disabled_on="off|off|on"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_column _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" type="4_4"][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Creativity and InnovationWe are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to showcase our passion and expertise on a national stage. More than just accolades, these awards serve as a reminder of the impact we can make when we combine creativity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Thank you to BALA for this incredible honor, and to everyone who has supported us on this journey.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Email Subscribe CTA" module_id="email-optin" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="0px||0px||true|false" da_popup_slug="email-optin" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" global_module="31657" saved_tabs="all" locked="off" collapsed="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 column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" disabled_on="on|on|off" admin_label="Newsletter Subscribe Desktop" _builder_version="4.20.0" _module_preset="default" width="100%" max_width="100%" custom_padding="0px||0px||true|false" background_last_edited="on|desktop" collapsed="off" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" background_color="#f2f2f2" custom_padding="6%|8%|6%|8%|true|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Experience the Living Stone Difference" module_class="chronospro-heading home-difference-text green-heading" _builder_version="4.23" text_font_size="24px" header_text_color="#4d5357" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#4d5357" header_2_font_size="58px" custom_padding="||7px|||" header_2_font_size_tablet="49px" header_2_font_size_phone="47px" header_2_font_size_last_edited="on|tablet" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Our Newsletter[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="1f09816e-184e-4ce5-a4cf-b39c52c423ca" custom_margin="||30px||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="55px" header_font_size_last_edited="off|desktop" global_colors_info="{}"]Do you like what you see here? We value our subscribers and invest a lot of time curating a newsletter, here’s what’s to love: Virtual tours of our homes and the stories behind them Quarterly updates on the cost to build and global events that are affecting it Education on topics like how to interview potential builders, or what construction selections could be introducing toxins into your home We won't
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by Sarah Thorn | Feb 28, 2024 | Recognition
[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 and subtitle" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||16px|||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Custom Home Builder of the Year Sean Sullivan Named National Association of Home Builders Custom Home Builder of the Year 2023 LAS VEGAS, NV - In a momentous occasion for Living Stone Design + Build, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) proudly awarded Sean Sullivan the distinguished title of Custom Home Builder of the Year for 2023. This prestigious acknowledgment not only applauds Sullivan's remarkable contributions to the homebuilding industry but also celebrates his unwavering commitment to excellence in custom home construction.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240228160608/best-custom-home-builder-main-scaled.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder-main" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Image Text" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Sean, his wife Laura, and her son Cole pose at the International Builders Show before the award ceremony[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.26.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="30px|30px|30px|30px|true|true" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" text_font="||on||||||" background_color="#eaeaea" header_2_font="||||on||||" header_3_font="||||on|||#4D5357|" header_3_text_color="#4D5357" header_3_font_size="27px" box_shadow_style="preset4" sticky_enabled="0"]NAHB Feature: Saying 'Yes' to Leadership In this article by the NAHB, Sean Sullivan's leadership and dedication to sustainable building practices are explored in detail. The piece delves into how Sean and his wife, Laura, have built a family of companies focused on eco-friendly home design and construction. It also highlights Sean’s significant roles within the home building community and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of builders. Click here for the full interview, where Sean shares insights about his journey in green building, the importance of mentorship, and memorable experiences from the International Builders’ Show.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.26.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="36px||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Client Satisfaction Sean Sullivan's journey as the founder of Living Stone Design + Build spans over a quarter of a century, during which he has solidified his position as a leader in the custom homebuilding sector. His unwavering dedication to quality, meticulous attention to detail, and client-centric approach have not only set him apart but have also established a new standard of excellence within the industry. Sullivan's commitment to innovation is evident in his track record, where he has consistently pushed the boundaries of custom home construction. His portfolio showcases a blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and client satisfaction, making him a standout candidate for the 2023 Custom Home Builder of the Year award. Community Commitment Beyond Construction Sean Sullivan's influence extends beyond the construction site, reflecting a commitment to community well-being. Actively involved in local non-profit initiatives, Sullivan organizes "First Fridays," during which his team donates time and talents to benefit nonprofits. Additionally, his creation of the Asheville Design District has revitalized local neighborhoods, showcasing his dedication to the progress and vitality of the community he serves. Whole Living Philosophy: A Green Approach to Custom Homes At the core of Sean Sullivan's approach is his concept of "Whole Living." This philosophy goes beyond constructing homes; it involves designing green homes, building green homes, and teaching clients how to live green. His commitment to eco-conscious living, sustainability, and creating homes that contribute to the well-being of their inhabitants demonstrates a holistic approach to custom home construction. Quality, Integrity, and Lifelong Relationships Sullivan's unwavering belief in doing things right the first time underscores his commitment to quality and excellence. This approach not only results in homes of the highest standard but also fosters lasting relationships. Clients often become lifelong friends, a testament to the trust and loyalty instilled by Sean Sullivan. Client Bill Sokolis shares, "I found Sean to be a true leader, a visionary in a business that has so many ways to struggle. Sean makes the home building experience/process a pleasurable one. He has taken the home builder business to a new level! I can honestly say that Sean and Laura have become 'good friends'!"[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240228160603/best-custom-home-builder-award-scaled.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder-award" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" 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="{}"]Inspiration and Gratitude: Sean Sullivan's Acceptance Upon receiving the Custom Home Builder of the Year award, Sean Sullivan expressed his gratitude, saying, "It is truly an honor to be recognized by the National Association of Homebuilders as Custom Home Builder of the Year. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, as well as the trust and confidence placed in us by our valued clients." As the recipient of the Custom Home Builder of the Year award, Sean Sullivan continues to inspire and set new benchmarks for excellence in the homebuilding industry. His commitment to innovation, quality, and client satisfaction serves as a beacon of excellence for professionals across the nation. Living Stone Design + Build, under Sullivan's
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by Sarah Thorn | Feb 21, 2024 | Building Green, Construction & Design, Postings
[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="4.24.2" 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"]What About Storage? The Importance of Adequate Storage in Home Design If you are like most Americans, you accumulate stuff. Stuff takes up space, sometimes a lot of space. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240214154619/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-26.png" alt="importance of storage in home design" title_text="importance of storage in home design" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Our builders understand the need for great storage spaces. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" 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"]We know How Stuff Accumulate Over the years, you may have accumulated things with sentimental value, seasonal items (decorations you use once a year), or extra playthings for those wonderful visits from the grandchildren. In the homebuilding process, many people fail to take into account their need for storage or sufficient mechanical space, and if they do, they generally underestimate the amount of storage space they will need. In a new home design, people are generally willing to pay more for a home with adequate storage than a home with more finished space that’s seldom used (e.g., extra bedrooms). Adding storage space can be accomplished in the early design stages if your builder knows this is a priority for you. The additional cost is minimal as long as your builder knows well ahead of time so he can direct the designer accordingly. Storage Solutions for Different Home Types If you live in the north, you know that most homes are built with basements, which are an excellent place for storage. However, for homes built on slabs or with crawl spaces, you don’t have that option; instead, attic spaces are often used. Some people want a separate structure, and storage sheds can be planned if requested. Another common storage solution is to create spacious walk-in storage closets within the home itself. It’s easy to create storage space in a walk-in, easily accessible, partially finished attic. Access is often located on the second story with entry from a common area such as a game room or shared space. If you’re building a one-story home, a common place for storage is the attic space above the garage. Your builder can make changes to roof framing to allow for light storage and easy access above the garage. Safety Considerations and Value-Added Benefits You should consider our country’s demographics of an aging population, and be sensitive to the safety of using a pull-down ladder to access attic space. Upgrading these access ladders to light commercial aluminum ladders is money well spent for the safety and ease of access for you and any future homeowners. You can also design attic spaces above garages that have their own separate set of stairs. The stairs are much safer than pull-down ladders; they are often not carpeted and have a very simple handrail for safety. This is an additional, value-added benefit not only for the homeowners’ safety but also for resale value. It’s important to think through your storage and mechanical needs as you begin to design your new custom home. Conclusion Don't forget about storage. Tell your builder how much of a priority storage is to you and look for opportunities to look for inexpensive storage spaces. -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]