Custom Home Building Frequently Asked Questions

What information do you need from us to get started?

We will sit down and discuss what you hope to accomplish with your future project and what it entails. If you need to be connected with an architect or designer, we will evaluate your project and direct you to the one that best suits your needs.

Do you use your own people?

Yes, we have approximately 50 year-round employees. They include:

• Framing carpenters
• Trim and finish carpenters
• Painters
• Hardwood floor installers and finishers
• Custom cabinet/built-ins craftsmen and installers
• Certified Pella Window installers
• Home Services and maintenance crews
• A certified Green Builder

Having our own employees truly gives us an advantage over the typical contractor in that we are able to closely monitor and guarantee quality craftsmanship and scheduling, while still being competitive in our pricing.

How do you manage the project long distance? How does the communication process work?

Having an open line of communication between the homeowner and the project manager/foreman is what our experienced staff prides itself on most. With all the modern technologies at our disposal, we are now able to take digital photos of the building process to keep our homeowners up-to-date.

Is the price per square foot to build a custom home a valid number to utilize when figuring the cost to build?

It depends. While many customers often have a per square foot number in mind, it is useful to know that this number does not always work as an accurate gauge for the cost or value of a project. When building a custom home, there are many variables that can significantly increase or decrease this number. For instance, two homes with identical floor-plans built on the same lot may have entirely different per square foot numbers due to interior and exterior finish choices made by the customer. 

Also, two homes with the identical square footage may have entirely different layouts, and the complexity of the design varies greatly. These two homes, even with similar interior and exterior finishes, are going to have different per square foot numbers. So don’t put too much into per square foot numbers before fully understanding how they are calculated.    

Can you build in the winter?

Yes, absolutely. We are able to build year-round and always have been. The sandy soils and temperate climates from Lake Michigan make this possible. 

How do schedules work and when can we move in?

The project superintendent always provides a construction schedule for each and every project that we are involved in and sticks to it. Once again, the fact that we use our own people significantly adds to our ability to control the scheduling of all phases of construction. 

Where should we go to get flooring, windows, fixtures, etc.?

We have a substantial list of preferred suppliers and contractors with whom we have built a trusting relationship over the years. However, we are always open to using anyone the homeowner desires.

Do you have a home maintenance program?

We certainly do! Our Paul Maurer Home Services division specializes in all areas of home maintenance and services. Services range from fixing and installing a leaky window, to opening, closing and monitoring your vacation getaway home while you are away. We can also do projects like build a deck, enlarge or create a new closet space, or remodel your kitchen or bathroom. Our technicians are set up with fully equipped vans, and arrive at your door prepared to fix all those nagging little projects on the spot.