Seeing condensation on your windows? It’s often normal in winter, especially in energy-efficient homes. Learn when it’s harmless—and when it’s a sign to investigate further.
Viewing entries in
Building 101
Most homeowners don’t regret building a custom home—they regret what they didn’t plan early enough. Here are the most common regrets and how to avoid them.
Allowances can make a custom home budget look simple—but they’re often the #1 reason homeowners feel blindsided later. Here’s what allowances really mean and how to protect your budget.
A cost plus contract isn’t about guessing the final price—it’s about transparency. Instead of bundled estimates and hidden contingencies, homeowners pay actual construction costs plus a builder fee, tracked against a clear budget. Through monthly budget reviews and open communication, homeowners stay informed, empowered, and in control of decisions as their custom home takes shape.
A clear, practical breakdown of what it really costs to build a custom home, what impacts pricing, and how to plan realistically for your new build.
Building your first custom home is exciting, but it helps to know what to expect. In this article, we share insights homeowners wish they knew before starting—covering timelines, communication, decision-making, and how to enjoy the process. A must-read for anyone planning a custom home.
Building a custom home is exciting—but surprise costs aren’t. In this article, we reveal the most common hidden expenses homeowners don’t expect and how to plan for them with confidence. Learn how the right builder helps you stay on budget without sacrificing quality.
The #1 cause of stress during custom home builds isn’t cost — it’s communication. Here’s how the right builder keeps your project clear, collaborative, and on course from start to finish.
Not all “green” upgrades deliver equal value. Here’s how to choose energy-efficient features that truly make a difference in your new custom home — from insulation to windows to smart systems.
Building near Lake Michigan offers incredible views — and unique structural challenges. Here’s why foundation and drainage planning are crucial for lasting lake homes in Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana.
Choosing materials and finishes for your new home should be exciting — not overwhelming. Here’s how smart selections planning saves money, time, and sanity during your custom build.
Your dream home deserves the best from the ground up. See how the right materials make all the difference in building a custom home that’s beautiful, durable, and built to last.
Curious how long it really takes to build a custom home? This post breaks down the full timeline—from initial planning to move-in day—so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you're building in Southwest Michigan or Northern Indiana, here’s how to plan with confidence.
Wondering if now is the right time to build a custom home? From interest rates to material costs and personal timing, this post walks you through what to consider before starting your home-building journey—plus why planning ahead can give you the freedom to build on your terms.
Planning to build a custom home? Most homeowners budget for the basics—but overlook key costs like site work, furnishings, landscaping, and selections upgrades. In this post, Mark Scott Homes breaks down what people often forget to include in their budget and how to plan smarter from day one.
Moved into your dream home and noticing small cracks or sticky doors? Don’t worry—many of these changes are completely normal in the first year of a new custom build. In this post, we walk you through what to expect, what’s worth a quick fix, and when to call your builder.
When it comes to building a custom home, “price per square foot” doesn’t tell the whole story. In fact, it can be one of the most misleading ways to compare builders. In this post, we break down why quality, design, and long-term value matter far more—and how Mark Scott Homes delivers a building experience that goes beyond the numbers.
When designing a custom home, most homeowners focus on aesthetics and functionality—but what about the air you breathe? Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in your health, comfort, and overall well-being. Poor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory issues, and long-term health risks.
At Mark Scott Homes, we prioritize healthier homes by integrating advanced ventilation systems, HEPA filtration, low-VOC materials, and humidity control into our custom builds. In this blog, we explore the biggest air pollutants, smart design solutions, and the long-term benefits of better air quality in your home.
Choosing the lowest bid on a custom home might seem like a smart financial move, but cutting corners often leads to costly repairs and inefficiencies down the road. In this blog, we explore why working with a quality builder is an investment that saves you money in the long run—through expert craftsmanship, energy efficiency, and lasting value.
Estimating the cost of your remodel or custom home is like looking through binoculars. At first, the image is blurry, but as we gather more details, everything becomes crystal clear. Here’s how we work with you to go from a rough idea to a precise plan: