Questions
West coast custom build homes
West Coast Custom Build Homes
What does ‘home’ look like for you? For some, it looks like an A-frame cabin or maybe a mansion on a hill. ‘Home’ looks different to everyone based on family, lifestyle, and personal goals. Gamble Homes is here to build what ‘home’ looks like for you. Where do you envision creating your home? What key architectural features do you like the most? Are you making space for families and friends to make memories and share the definition of ‘home’ together?
Home Building Process
The custom home build process is overseen from beginning to end and using contractors who you can trust. Chase is an experienced craftsman and has an in-house team of five apprentices which he trains himself. He has been working in construction for 20+ years. When he isn’t busy training or connecting with clients and contractors, Chase can be found working hands-on pouring concrete, framing, or finishing with his team. He takes great pride in his team members who, he admits, do most of the heavy lifting.
A good custom home builder has the knowledge, experience, and expertise to guide clients through the entire home building process. They can help with every aspect of the project, from choosing the right location and designing the perfect floor plan to selecting the right materials and finishes. They are well-versed in local building codes and regulations, ensuring that the project meets all necessary requirements and passes inspections.
One of the most significant benefits of working with a custom home builder is that they can help you avoid costly mistakes. They have an eye for detail and can catch potential problems before they become major issues. Plus, they work with a team of trusted contractors and apprentices, ensuring that every aspect of the project is completed to the highest standard.
Working with a custom home builder also means that you have a partner throughout the entire process. They will keep you informed every step of the way and ensure that the vision for your dream home is brought to life. They can also provide valuable advice and suggestions based on their experience, helping you make informed decisions that will result in the perfect home for you and your family.
A custom home builder contract is an agreement that the clients and Gamble Homes Inc sign. The contract will be signed once the blueprints have been received and before construction starts. The contract is designed to identify the scope of the project, explain how finances work, and outline the process. Chase makes sure everything is understood and answers any questions you may have.
You can be as involved or uninvolved as you like. Some clients live abroad and initiate contact only when they have questions. Other clients live on the island and visit the development site regularly.
“How long is the string or how deep is the hole?” – Chase Gamble. If the houses built were cookie-cutter, or all looked and functioned the same, this question could be answered. The focus should be on quality rather than expediting your custom home build to fit within a timeline. The custom home is designed to fit you so you should be given all the time you need to know what that looks like.
You can do it yourself or it can be accomplished by hiring an architect or drafts person to develop blueprints of your home! An interior designer can also be hired to help make sure your house is stylish, comfortable, and suited for your lifestyle. Your home is constructed with the instructions from you and the design team.
Not a problem! Design changes happen and once the new blueprints or layout has been developed, the scope of work will be updated. The new work order determines the required materials, and an updated cost estimate and construction schedule. Once you sign off on the new plan, an updated building permit is applied for from the municipality. The team and contractors are then updated about the requested changes.
You will be updated during construction by our “weekly newsletter.” Progress details and pictures will be shared, and any questions answered in person, on calls, or via email. Some clients are not able to be onsite so pictures and videos of the progress are offered as well.
Cost to build a custom home
Builds can start as low as $500,000 (not including the property), but the sky is the limit. Cost varies widely depending on size, engineering, and finishing.
Rather than a fixed budget, a broad estimate of how much the custom build will cost is given. This is based on a cost plus fee model. Contractor and supplier discounts are extended to clients directly. A fee is charged for the contractor to manage the whole project. Charging a fee, rather than a percentage of the cost, is more equitable and fair to the client. The company’s profit is the same regardless of what decisions are made.
A custom home build is $250 to over $350 per square foot; however, the amount is determined by each project.
Home Warranty Insurance which can only be provided by a licensed home builder and is offered for 2, 5, or 10 years. The warranty protects homeowners from construction and material defects, leaks, and plumbing and electrical issues for the length of warranty chosen. Read more about 2-5-10 Year Home Warranty Insurance.
Energy efficient west coast custom build homes
Building energy-efficient homes is Gambles Homes focus and passion. In 2021, Chase completed 20 courses that focused on how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home. The team ensures there are no leaks, drafts, or uncontrolled airflow in your home. Reducing leaks and controlling airflow cuts down cooling and heating costs which typically account for 60% of energy consumption levels. This is done by measuring air exchange per hour with various air exchange tests. Additionally, an energy advisor is can be hired to have input into the design. Using analytics and advanced technologies, they can see the energy efficiency of a home and see if it’s net zero-ready.
Net zero homes are homes that have net zero energy consumption. This means that the amount of energy used by the house is equal to the amount of renewable energy made by the site. Do I need a net zero home? Your home is typically the biggest factor contributing to your ecological footprint. According to the government of BC, all homes need to be net zero ready by 2032. See The BC Energy Step Code for details on how this policy change will take place.
Custom home construction is subject to varying zoning regulations across different municipalities. Allowable location, height limitations, environmental and archaeological factors, property setbacks, the minimum distance between roads, waterways, and property lines are factors considered by zoning authorities. To prevent legal issues and costly mistakes, geotechnical engineers and other professionals are engaged to ensure precise placement of your custom home.
Many different types of sustainable energy features including LED lighting, solar panels, heat pumps, energy-efficient windows, and energy-efficient appliances can be installed. An energy consultant can be brought in, so that you can save money on your utility bill, lessen your ecological footprint, and learn more about sustainable energy options for your home.
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