Our Meeting with State Homes
Posted on | January 12, 2009 |
Yesterday, we braved the snowy weather, hired a baby sitter and went out to meet who we hoped would be the third builder to bid on our project, Vern Sklaspky of State Homes (note that there is sound on this page).
We explored one of Vern’s houses during the R2000 showcase last year and were impressed with his ability to really put function before form, and create truly useful spaces that had thoughtful design elements. We don’t love the exteriors of his houses, but it’s hard to argue with how he works out the interiors. The flooring treatments are gorgeous, his window choices are amazing and heating system designs are quite ingenious.
Vern and his wife Karen had quite a few questions for us, and suggestions for how we might improve the house and save some cost. He made us very aware of the expense of our standing seam metal roof and treated shingles. While it might kill us to do it, ultimately we *could* give up on this. It’s been suggested that roofing and shingles could add up to a sixth of the cost of the entire house! No wonder people use vinyl siding. We discussed perhaps going with normal siding and upgrading to shingles gradually. It’s not optimal, but if it makes the house possible.
Vern also mentioned that we might want to look into using an electrical hot water system that would qualify for the time of day discount with in-floor heating. This does have potential issues as power usage in peak periods costs triple normal rates, but if properly planned, it could work nicely for us. Also, with the passive slab heating, we believe it wouldn’t need to be used very often and would get us away from the wood stove being determined to be our primary source of heat as far as insurance goes.
At the end of our meeting, we had to convince Vern that we fully understand what’s involved with the process of quoting. We know it’s pretty involved. From writing proposals for my business, I’m very aware that this can end up being a completely useless enterprise if we go with someone else. I wish we didn’t need to ask this of builders, but it would be irresponsible for us to only get a single quote.
Comments
2 Responses to “Our Meeting with State Homes”
Leave a Reply
November 27th, 2009 @ 2:27 pm
Would be interested to know your feedback from Lindal Homes. Had considered going with them myself as I too am keen on a greeen friendly property but was worried about the cost. We are looking at a 3 bedroom house between 1800 and 2100 square feet. Look forward to your feedback.
Thanks,
Charles
November 27th, 2009 @ 4:37 pm
Lindal has great looking stuff and the cost is reasonable. I suggest speaking with Cam from A Cut Above.