The Intro

It’s been said that barring death and divorce, building a new home can be the most stressful event in a persons life…I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way!

My experience in this realm started approximately 37 years ago when I married into a family home-building business and quickly took on the accounting operations. For these past years I’ve witnessed the business from the perspectives of all involved: builder, architect, customer, interior designer, office coordinator, superintendent, children, supplier, subcontractor, real estate, in-laws, etc. The interaction required to build a home will include some or all of the above.

Building a structure that meets the customer’s desires for a “home” is the ultimate goal; to accomplish this, there is a myriad of relationships that need to work together. In this column, it’s my hope to give you an inside look at the workings of the builder’s office and staff and how various elements can come together harmoniously to make the process a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Some of you have been there and are shaking your heads already. Well, maybe as I go through some of the potential pitfalls, you’ll recognize where you might have gone wrong. Stay tuned for my weekly column, which will address the customer/architect relationship, expectations and final product. In the meantime, have a wonderful week, take one day at a time and count your blessings.

Val (Val’s Email)