In our last blog post, we focused on the five tips for choosing the right builder. This time REA Homes explores the different types of custom homes.
Although there are many different ways you can categorize new homes, in our experience, they generally are built using one of these two construction methods:
Traditional
Houses that are built using traditional methods (homes built to meet only local building codes, a.k.a. “code-built” homes) usually do not take into account the long-term impacts of the home design and materials used in construction. They are built with materials that are more readily available and cost-efficient. This isn’t to say that the durability, quality or luxury aspects of these homes are not good; in fact most “high-end” homes in our area are still built this way.
Homes have been built using traditional construction principles for hundreds of years; it’s just recently that modern house science has shown some builders another way…
High Performance Luxury Homes
High Performance Luxury Homes (some refer to it as “green” building) incorporate features that make it significantly more efficient, sustainable, and healthier to live in. Often times, this building method can be achieved at little or no additional costs, without sacrificing any of the luxury features you desire.
Features of High Performance Homes:
- Renewable & Recycled Building Materials
- Highly efficient HVAC Systems & Insulation
- Smart Home Technology & Controls
- Sustainable Energy Alternatives
- Cleaner Indoor Air & Environmental Quality
- Third Party Verification (LEED or ENERGY STAR Certification)
Benefits Enjoyed by High Performance Luxury Home Owners:
- Healthier home with better indoor air quality
- Superior comfort throughout the home
- Lower monthly operating costs including lower utility bills and less maintenance
- Better potential resale value, higher long-term ROI & lower interest rates
- Less impact on the environment & smaller carbon footprint than traditional construction
NOW GET OUT THERE AND BUILD
Armed with this information, you should now be ready to get out there and begin the process of building your dream home. If you take our advice, you will likely begin by searching the Internet for builders in your area that specialize in the type of home you are looking to build. You will be prepared to have an educated conversation with these builders to determine if they are the right fit for your specific needs.
Once you have chosen your builder, it will finally be time to start the process of actually building your home. This is where the fun really begins!
“REA Homes builds high performance luxury homes with the customer’s entire well-being in mind.” To learn more about our custom built homes in St. Louis, MO, visit our blog or Facebook page.
