by Shelter Associates | Jan 3, 2012 | Building 101
Q: Have building materials followed the downward trend of home prices? A: Unfortunately, no. When the housing downturn first hit in 2008, building materials suppliers were left with a large surplus and production capacities (much like their builders), so they dropped...
by Shelter Associates | Aug 17, 2011 | Design Tips
As a professional builder, we are practiced at taking a client's concepts and ideas and transforming them into three-dimensional reality. It is a skill we have honed over decades. It is our work and our passion. For our clients, translating their vision for their...
by Shelter Associates | Aug 17, 2011 | Building 101
Q: Why do builders sometimes send another company on a service call? A: New-home builders rely on a variety of trade (or specialty) contractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and heating and cooling experts, to help build a new home. Part of their contract is...
by Shelter Associates | Aug 4, 2011 | Uncategorized
Choosing a builder based on the lowest cost per square foot or the lowest sales price is likely not getting the best value. It's buying the cheapest home. No doubt about it, there is some cheap housing out there right now, but is “cheap” the best way...
by Shelter Associates | Aug 4, 2011 | Building 101
Q: What is the difference between markup and profit margin? A: Markup is what a builder adds to the price of a given item, such as an appliance or lumber order, to cover his overhead costs and achieve a reasonable profit margin on the project. The profit margin is...
