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Tips to Building Your Dream Home

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Contributed by: John Pugsley on 2/8/2008

Everyone aspires to build their dream home. Very few get the opportunity. Dennis McDonald of the John McDonald Company helps homeowners' realize their dream of building quality homes. As a teenager, while Dennis worked summers alongside his father and uncle developing real estate, he fostered a keen eye for the exquisite detail that goes into luxury homes. Today, Dennis delights in turning clients' dreams into reality. Dennis McDonald recently took time to answer some questions about the intricacies of building a custom luxury home.

I have lots of ideas for my new home. How do I turn those ideas into reality?

It all begins with a great design. Find a builder that will take the time to really listen and understand what you are looking for. Spend a significant amount of time tracking trends in the trade and design magazines.

What style of homes are most homeowners requesting today?

Some trends indicate that designs are leaning towards contemporary; however we continue to see the majority of homeowners choose more traditional styles. The Mediterranean look with more Tuscan influence is popular and we have completed several exquisite Bermuda Classical designs. About thirty percent of homeowners come to us with plans, but honestly, an exceptional builder starts with a style of home and uses subtle variations and distinctive features to create a unique ambiance and rich look for each person. It is refreshing to see homeowners who havea style in mind and allow a builder to create a home that captures their taste in both the interior and exterior.

What are some popular trends that homeowners want integrated into their custom homes?

Roll down screens, outdoor fireplaces, honed stones and corner-less sliding glass doors have been innovative and popular. Part of the "going green" trend is to use renewable products from replenished forests; we are also seeing a resurgence in solar generated power.

How can I be assured that my builder will build a quality home?

Referrals are key. If a builder's previous customers love to show off their homes, that's a huge endorsement. Some builders are only around for the kick-off of a project and then hand it over to the superintendent of the day so that homeowner never knows who is actually building their home.

Do you have any cost-saving tips for consumers?

There are many decisions that a homeowner has to make during the design and building process: it can be overwhelming. Implement a team approach early. When a builder is involved early with the architect, interior designer and landscape designer, the builder can provide realistic costs on the front end, as well as suggest desirable alternatives that may be less expensive. Another tip is: build now. In a down market, subcontractors are significantly more affordable.

John McDonald Company, 561.747.4114, winner of ten 2007 Prism Awards including Best of Show is a high-end custom home builder with the creative vision to turn a homeowner's ideas and lifestyle into an awe-inspiring space of beauty and inspiration. John McDonald Company is a member of www.ReferredHomeServices.com, a website of respected, experienced, dependable businesses who meet or exceed RHS's rigorous review process which requires proof of proper licensing, certifications, insurance and ten verified customer references. Referred Home Service, 561-401-4004, www.ReferredHomeServices.com.

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