Building a custom home is exciting—but surprise costs aren’t. In this article, we reveal the most common hidden expenses homeowners don’t expect and how to plan for them with confidence. Learn how the right builder helps you stay on budget without sacrificing quality.

The #1 cause of stress during custom home builds isn’t cost — it’s communication. Here’s how the right builder keeps your project clear, collaborative, and on course from start to finish.

Not all “green” upgrades deliver equal value. Here’s how to choose energy-efficient features that truly make a difference in your new custom home — from insulation to windows to smart systems.

Building near Lake Michigan offers incredible views — and unique structural challenges. Here’s why foundation and drainage planning are crucial for lasting lake homes in Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana.

Choosing materials and finishes for your new home should be exciting — not overwhelming. Here’s how smart selections planning saves money, time, and sanity during your custom build.

Your dream home deserves the best from the ground up. See how the right materials make all the difference in building a custom home that’s beautiful, durable, and built to last.

Curious how long it really takes to build a custom home? This post breaks down the full timeline—from initial planning to move-in day—so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you're building in Southwest Michigan or Northern Indiana, here’s how to plan with confidence.

Wondering if now is the right time to build a custom home? From interest rates to material costs and personal timing, this post walks you through what to consider before starting your home-building journey—plus why planning ahead can give you the freedom to build on your terms.

Planning to build a custom home? Most homeowners budget for the basics—but overlook key costs like site work, furnishings, landscaping, and selections upgrades. In this post, Mark Scott Homes breaks down what people often forget to include in their budget and how to plan smarter from day one.

Moved into your dream home and noticing small cracks or sticky doors? Don’t worry—many of these changes are completely normal in the first year of a new custom build. In this post, we walk you through what to expect, what’s worth a quick fix, and when to call your builder.

Thinking about building or renovating in New Buffalo, MI? Discover why Mark Scott Homes is the trusted choice for custom homes along the Lake Michigan shoreline. From luxury design-build projects to high-end renovations, we bring award-winning craftsmanship and a seamless process to every project in Harbor Country.

When designing a custom home, most homeowners focus on aesthetics and functionality—but what about the air you breathe? Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in your health, comfort, and overall well-being. Poor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory issues, and long-term health risks.

At Mark Scott Homes, we prioritize healthier homes by integrating advanced ventilation systems, HEPA filtration, low-VOC materials, and humidity control into our custom builds. In this blog, we explore the biggest air pollutants, smart design solutions, and the long-term benefits of better air quality in your home.

Choosing the lowest bid on a custom home might seem like a smart financial move, but cutting corners often leads to costly repairs and inefficiencies down the road. In this blog, we explore why working with a quality builder is an investment that saves you money in the long run—through expert craftsmanship, energy efficiency, and lasting value.

Estimating the cost of your remodel or custom home is like looking through binoculars. At first, the image is blurry, but as we gather more details, everything becomes crystal clear. Here’s how we work with you to go from a rough idea to a precise plan:

When it comes to new homes, especially in areas like South Bend, Indiana, and Southwest Michigan, understanding how to manage condensation is crucial for maintaining your home's health and comfort. Today’s homes are built to be airtight, which makes them energy-efficient but can also create challenges with moisture management. Let’s break it down.

Mark Scott Homes is proud to announce its recognition in the prestigious Michigan Blue Design Awards, earning honors in three categories that celebrate excellence in craftsmanship and design.

We are thrilled to share some incredible news: Mark Scott Homes has been honored with the Indiana Builders Association’s Hoosier Excellence Award for Best Home Over $1,000,000 for 2024! This prestigious award recognizes not only the quality and craftsmanship of our work but also our dedication to creating exceptional homes tailored to our clients' unique visions.

As we approach 2025, custom home design is evolving to meet the demands of modern lifestyles, technological advancements, and timeless aesthetics. At Mark Scott Homes, we’re dedicated to staying ahead of these trends to ensure your dream home not only reflects your unique style but also embraces the latest innovations. Here are the top 10 custom home trends for 2025:

When building a custom home, your budget is one of the most powerful tools you have to shape the final result. With the endless choices available, deciding where to invest and where to save can be overwhelming. Focusing your budget on areas that offer the highest long-term value and enjoyment will help you get the most out of your new home without overspending.

If you’ve been exploring custom home options, you may have come across the term barndominium. While the name might sound a little unusual, barndominiums—often called barndos—are gaining popularity as a stylish, cost-effective, and flexible way to build a home. So, what exactly is a barndominium, and why are so many people choosing to build them? Let’s dive into this unique housing trend.

Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building a custom home. At Mark Scott Homes, we go beyond just building houses—we create homes that reflect your vision, lifestyle, and dreams. Here’s how we stand apart from other builders in the Michiana area.

Building a new home is an exciting journey, but managing costs effectively is crucial to ensure you stay within your budget without compromising on quality. One of the best ways to keep costs under control is to focus on efficiencies that offer long-term value. Whether it's through energy savings, smart design choices, or material selection, here are some key cost efficiencies to consider when building your new home.

For busy professionals, building a second home can be both an exciting prospect and a daunting task. Whether you’re looking to build a vacation retreat or a future retirement residence, Mark Scott Homes understands the unique challenges you face as you juggle your busy schedule and the desire for a custom-designed, high-quality home. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when building your second home.

In today's world, energy efficiency is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity. At Mark Scott Homes, we believe that building energy-efficient homes is about more than just reducing your environmental footprint—it’s about maximizing comfort, ensuring long-term savings, and creating a better living experience for you and your family.

Building a new home in Southwest Michigan offers a unique opportunity to incorporate sustainable features that can significantly reduce environmental impact and increase energy efficiency. As a home builder committed to sustainability, we believe that incorporating the right elements can create a comfortable, eco-friendly living space. Here are key features that make a home sustainable in Southwest Michigan.