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.
Viewing entries in
Building Process
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.
When it comes to building a custom home, “price per square foot” doesn’t tell the whole story. In fact, it can be one of the most misleading ways to compare builders. In this post, we break down why quality, design, and long-term value matter far more—and how Mark Scott Homes delivers a building experience that goes beyond the numbers.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
When embarking on the exciting journey of building a new home, one of the crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the type of contract to use. At Mark Scott Homes, serving SW Michigan and Northern Indiana, we understand that this choice can significantly impact your building experience and overall satisfaction. Two common types of contracts are Fixed Price Contracts and Cost Plus Contracts. Let's explore the differences and why a Cost Plus Contract might be more beneficial for you in the long run.
Building a new home is an exciting journey that allows you to create a space tailored to your unique needs and preferences. However, it also involves a significant amount of planning, decision-making, and financial investment. Before breaking ground on your dream home, here are the key things you need to know.
Deciding whether to build a new home or buy an existing one is a significant choice that depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Each option has its unique advantages and potential drawbacks. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of building versus buying, allowing you to make an informed decision that suits your needs. [read more]
Building your dream home is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and budgeting to ensure you can bring your vision to life without financial stress. With 2024 introducing new trends, technologies, and economic factors, it’s essential to understand the costs and considerations involved in creating your ideal living space. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you budget for your dream home this year.
Embarking on the journey of building your dream home is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, unexpected changes and additional costs can quickly turn your dream into a nightmare. At Mark Scott Homes, we understand the importance of a smooth and stress-free building process. In this blog post, we'll share valuable insights on how to avoid change orders and ensure a seamless construction experience with our team.
Building your dream home is an exciting journey, and effective communication with your homebuilder is key to ensuring a smooth and successful construction process. Mark Scott Homes understands the importance of clear and transparent communication to bring your vision to life. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 5 tips for fostering a strong and effective line of communication with your homebuilder.
Building your dream home is an exciting journey, and finding the right custom home builder is a crucial step in turning your vision into reality. The interview process is your opportunity to assess the builder's expertise, communication style, and compatibility with your project. To ensure a smooth and successful collaboration, here are the top questions to ask when interviewing a new custom home builder.
Building a custom home is a dream for many, allowing individuals to create their ideal living space tailored to their preferences and lifestyle. While the prospect is exciting, the process can be complex, with numerous decisions and potential pitfalls along the way. To ensure your custom home journey is smooth and successful, it's crucial to be aware of the common mistakes that can arise. Here are the five biggest mistakes to avoid when building a custom home: