Buy or Build: Greensboro, NC Home Builders and the House You Want

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When you’re checking out homes for sale in Greensboro, NC, finding one that meets your exact specifications can be difficult. People in the market for a new home typically have two options: they can either buy one or have one custom-built. Each type of purchases has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a quick review of both to help you with your decision:

Buying a New Home

The primary advantage of buying an already built home is that once the deal is done, you can just move in. Of course, you may want to put a personal stamp on the house by doing renovations or interior decorating, but it can wait for the time when you have more funds. There is also a significant amount of savings when you buy a house that’s already been built; you’ll only pay for the property’s price tag and not worry about construction or material expenses.

There are a few downsides to buying though. One disadvantage is that you will inherit the home’s preexisting quirks like drafty windows or creaking floors, not to mention a decor that may not be to your taste. Repairs or even upgrades may be needed to get the house up to what you desire. Older homes may be unique, but they also were built for another time. A house built in the 80s wouldn’t have all the features of a modern one and may also not meet any of the up-to-date building codes.

Building A Custom Home

Home builders in Greensboro, NC like Don Mills Builders, Inc. would be the first to promote the main advantage of having a custom home built; it can be customized to meet your needs. Most new homes that are constructed follow either pre-designed floor plans or custom plans; both of these options give homeowners the freedom of picking out what they want for their dwelling. Another advantage of having a home built is that everything is new. From the plumbing to the furniture, you can be sure that everything in your house is up-to-date and won’t suddenly break down on you.

Like with any project, building a custom home takes time. Working with an experienced homebuilder like Don Mills Builders, will help make the process of getting the home of your dreams stress-free and rewarding. From initial plans to the final design, building your home that is unique to your style and preferences is worth every step in the journey. Don Mills Builders is an experienced homebuilder with experience and expertise to get the job done right for you.

(Source: Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a House?, GOBankingRates.com)

Greensboro Homebuilders Will Help You Fulfill Your Dreams

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Shopping for homes for sale in Greensboro, NC or elsewhere can be a challenge. You are preparing to make a major investment and commitment. You may have already chosen the area that works best for you. Now you want to find a house that meets your needs and lifestyle.

Before you take the plunge into buying a home, it is good to weigh all the options. While there may be many established homes for sale in the locale you’ve selected, are you sure that it will have everything you are looking for in a home for your family?

Building a Home Offers Many Advantages

The most apparent and arguably the most significant advantage to building a custom home is that it will be designed around your personal preferences. Builders like Don Mills Builders, Inc. offer a number of floor plans or home designs for you to choose from, which you can have modified to your preference. Building your own home gives you the freedom to create a living space that matches your vision. In other words, your house will be precisely what you make it. There aren’t any compromises that have to be made when it comes to building your dream home, you can have exactly what you envision.

Another benefit of building a new home is that it is also advantageous for the environment and your electric bill. A new home is more efficient, particularly with the new energy codes in place today. Plus,with the new Energy Star-rated appliances, new water efficiencies, and electrical fixtures, your home will be a green, sustainable house, along with a much more pleasing electric bill.

Choose Where You Want to Live

Choice of location and layout is a major plus when it comes to building a custom home. Every detail is a reflection of your family, and how you live including the lot on which you choose to build. Custom homes are a one-of-a-kind house built with an endless array of design choices. The neighborhood you choose should also reflect the preferences and needs of your family right down to the landscaping.

There are many pre-existing houses for sale on the market today. But if you are looking to fulfill a dream of a home that encapsulates everything you envision, then building a custom home is the best choice. With the assistance of a reputable builder like Don Mills, who will provide you with communication every step of the process and exceptional craftsmanship, your home will be constructed to match your vision.

Sources: Should You Buy or Build a Home?, Investopedia.com

What is a Custom Home?, About.com

New Home Builders in Summerfield Find the Best Lots for New Homes

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You’ve found the perfect neighborhood and a wonderful new home builder in Summerfield. Now, it’s time to choose the lot for the location of your new home. Your builder may have a few lots already designated and ready for home building within the neighborhood, so it is your personal choice to decide which lot is the best for you. This decision involves many factors and lifestyle details, which will help you narrow your choices for the perfect lot for your new custom home. Take the time to view the daily traffic patterns, research the land for easements, and review the shape of the lot and sun-facing direction for your ideal location. Don Mills Builders has home lots that work with our custom home designs, offering the best value and natural characteristics for you to enjoy the best views for peaceful and comfortable living. You can be sure you will get the best of both worlds when you chose Don Mills to build your home in one of their premier neighborhoods.

Each Lot Location Has a Different Traffic Pattern

Visit the neighborhood that you are going to build in with your building contractor from Summerfield, and get a feel for the amount of traffic during the peak hours of the day, from 7-9AM and 4-6PM. This will help you to discover which lots provide the best setback and location. You may need to be near an entrance to get to work quickly, or you may prefer to be near the back of the neighborhood where it is quieter. According to an article in www.bhg.com, the various lot locations, such as T-shaped intersection, Cul-de-sac and corner lots, are explained:

“Corner lots have traffic on two sides and are typically larger, requiring more landscaping and yard maintenance. If there are sidewalks on both sides, you’ve got more snow to clear in the winter. On the positive side, corner lots allow a side-load garage. They also bring higher visibility to a home, so you’ll need a design with street appeal on two sides instead of just the facade.

Lots at the end of a T-shaped intersection must contend with oncoming headlights from nighttime traffic. Homes on these lots should be designed to minimize unwanted light in living and sleeping areas.”

Detailed Lot Information Helps Homebuyers to Make Informed Decisions

Prospective homebuyers need to be well-informed about the particulars of their lot. What you physically see on the lot is valuable information, and what is below the lot and surrounding the lot is even better information. As a new home builder in Summerfield, Don Mills Builders provides accurate and updated information on the lots so the homebuyer will know exactly what is included with their individual lot. On www.bhg.com, easement locations help with your decision making:

“Before proceeding, you should have chosen a house plan or have a good idea of the dimensions of the house you plan to build. Make sure the plan fits within the buildable area of the lot. Watch out for lots with rock outcroppings, embankments, or other physical characteristics that will reduce the buildable area. Check for unusual setback lines or utility easements. Easements usually run along one side of the lot, but in some cases there may be more than one easement, or they may be plotted through the middle of the property. Consult with your builder or developer to check the location of easements.”

Landscape Enthusiasts Search for Sunshine

If you would like to grow a garden or have a beautiful landscape design, the direction of the sun is a high priority factor to consider when selecting a lot. Different lots provide various benefits for gardeners, according to www.bhg.com:

“If you’re a gardener, look for lots with maximum sunlight for your backyard gardens. If you want showy landscaping at the front of your home, make sure it gets enough sun. Corner lots often provide a large side yard in addition to a front and back yard and can offer more flexibility for growing plants.”

As an experienced new home builder in Summerfield, Don Mills Builders will work closely with you to help select the lot that will meet all of your needs. All of our lots are located in distinguished neighborhoods offering the best environments for your new dream home. Don Mills understands the importance of location and are here to help you discern the best location for your new home. Your building requirements, outdoor living space plan, and family’s lifestyle are all necessary for creating the optimal home that is specifically for you. When you need a building contractor in Summerfield, contact Don Mills Builders at 336-362-1777 for more information.

(Source: How to Select a Building Lot, bhg.com, 2015)

Experienced Home Builders Share Tips for Designing Your New Kitchen

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The kitchen is regarded as the ‘heart of the home’ and for good reason. It often serves as the gathering place for the entire family. More than a place to prepare meals and dine together, the kitchen is also a place where guests gather; family schedules are discussed and planned, or even where homework is completed. All of these reasons are why designing a kitchen is a vital step when building a new home in North Carolina. This is why properly designing your kitchen is a vital step when building new homes in North Carolina. Integrate these tips when planning your kitchen for a space that is practical and easy to work and live.

You Can Never Have Too Much Kitchen Storage Space

When designing your new kitchen, you’ll want to allow for as much storage space as possible. One of the biggest mistakes often made is underestimating the amount of storage you will need. Use every nook and cranny of your kitchen space to your advantage. Some suggestions are to extend the overhead cabinets right up to the ceiling, consider deep drawers for easier storage and access to pots and pans, and don’t forget to allow ample storage for appliances so they don’t clutter up countertops. Designing the kitchen storage and living space wisely results in a clean, spacious, uncluttered area that you will enjoy spending time with your family.

Proper Lighting in Kitchens Changes Everything

Sufficient lighting in kitchens is important to create an open, bright area to prepare meals and congregate. Many times, the position of the kitchen lighting, which may be similar to other rooms in the house, casts shadows on the workspace making it difficult to see properly. Under-cabinet lights are the best because they shine directly on countertops and illuminate the workspace. Apart from overhead lights, you may want to include a bay window to allow natural light to enter your kitchen.

Design Walkways That Redirect Traffic

Another recommendation is to be sure that there is enough room in the kitchen to accommodate one or two cooks. Pathways throughout a kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide. The cooking zone should have a path area of 42 inches wide for a one-cook kitchen and 48 inches wide for a two-cook configuration. If you have children, designing the kitchen so the cooktop is out of traffic areas is also very important. The placement of the refrigerator is also critical to be sure that both the passerby and the people working in the kitchen have easy access to it.

By following these basic tips, you can have the beautiful, functional kitchen that complements your custom home. Don Mills Builders, Inc., serving Greensboro and surrounding areas will listen carefully to your preferences. Their team of home builders in greensboro nc will guide you throughout the planning process of your new custom home to ensure your kitchen is all you envision and will indeed be the “heart” of your new home.

Sources: Top 10 Kitchen Design Tips, Reader’s Digest

20 Tips for a Better Kitchen, Better Homes and Gardens

Build with a New Home Builder in Summerfield, and Design a Stylish Entryway

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The fundamental purpose of a foyer or entryway is to transition from outside in. However, this space also gives your guests a glimpse of your personal style and welcomes them into your home. Creating a welcoming and beautiful entryway is one of the exciting tasks you will have when building your custom home in Summerfield. There are many options to create this space to be not only functional but also provide a stunning first impression for the rest of your home. When working with a new home builder in Summerfield, be sure to discuss the design features and foyer styles available so you can achieve the distinctive entryway you want to create a positive first impression. Do you prefer wide foyers with wainscoting? How about two-story ceilings with large windows? Whatever your style preference is, Don Mills Builders understands the importance that every detail makes when designing a custom home that is a personal and welcoming place for you and your family.

Decorate with a Focal Point for Entryways

A welcoming entryway is a great way to really feel “at home” in your new custom home. Here are few design ideas for decorating your new entryway after you move in, as mentioned in www.homesandland.com:

“Use a handsome mirror to create the illusion of more space in a foyer. Not only does a mirror make the foyer look more spacious, but it is functional, leaving the option for a final check of your appearance before leaving the house. Just remember, the more ornate the mirror, the more it serves as a piece of art, reducing the need for other decorative accessories.”

The use of a mirror near the entryway not only invites friends and family members to catch a glimpse of other parts of your home but also creates a focal point as well. Putting an attractive mirror at the entryway is a gracious way to welcome friends and family into your home. If the foyer is small, it can add a cozy feeling to your area.

Use Furniture that is Stylish and Functional for the Foyer

The foyer is a popular area of transition for family members coming and going. It is the first “stopping” place when coming in or leaving the house. The average household might want to drop coats, hats, shoes, sports equipment, umbrellas, backpacks and totes in the foyer, so keeping it organized can be a challenge. The entryway to a home can be a very active place even if you don’t have many family members, so a functional piece of furniture that can double as storage is a great option. When deciding on the items for your foyer that adhere to your family’s needs and personality, be sure that the furniture also coincides with your overall decor. How do you decide which type of furniture to add to your foyer? At www.homesandland.com, a piece of art or a side table may be the answer:

“Start with one primary piece of furniture carefully chosen to work with the theme and traffic patterns of your house. For instance, a more upscale, less-trafficked home would do well with a foyer that incorporates a beautiful coffee table or side table with a vase of fresh flowers. A large piece of art on a wall completes this classic and stylish approach. In this scenario, the foyer is not used often and is not meant for storage. It is a display area that ushers in guests, rather than a catch-all spot for a busy family.”

Whatever your family’s lifestyle, Don Mills Builders can integrate your preferences and needs to create a stunning and functional entryway that will welcome your family and friends into your new custom home. As you plan your new home with the home builder in Summerfield, every detail will be taken into account so you will get the home and style you have always wanted. Don Mills Builders builds distinguished and personalized homes that will give you and your family many years of comfortable living and wonderful memories. Contact us today to learn more about our custom home design and discover why we are one of the top building contractors in Summerfield: 336-362-1777.

(Source: Foyer Decorating Ideas to Bring an Entryway to Life, www.homesandland.com, 2015)

Custom Homes in Greensboro

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The adjective of custom is defined by Google as- “made or done to order for a particular customer.” The definition does not indicate any kind of limitations upon what the customer wants. That is exactly the kind of custom homes in Greensboro that Don Mills Builders construct.

Who Builds a Custom Home?

A person who builds a custom home wants to have the choice of all the details. This does not mean choosing between just two or three options. These are not cookie cutter houses where all you get to choose is the color of the walls, or where there is another house just like it three doors down. Each detail is a reflection of your family, and how you live.

If all you want is a run of the mill, then custom building is not for you. If you have the vision to see the space that will encapsulate your family, then building your custom home is the right choice. It can be overwhelming with everything that must be done, but that is why you choose a builder that can help you along the way. Due to the uniqueness of each custom home build, it is important to Don and his team to keep good communication between the buyer and the team.

The Choices Are All Yours When Building Your Dream Home

Custom Homes are a one-of-a-kind house built with an unlimited range of design choices. A buyer who wants to choose most of the details of their new home should work with a custom builder. By no means, are you alone in the process at Don Mills Builders, you can rely on their experience to help you make good design choices.

If you want a deck, you can have it. If you want a music room, you can have it. If you want a gourmet kitchen, you can have it. Your only limitations are your budget, local zoning, and building codes. This is why a person chooses to have their house custom built to get all the features that matters to them. No compromising has to be made to build your dream home.

The Home Plans Are All Yours

You are not usually limited to “select” plans, but allowed to takes a blank slate and make all the choices to design the perfect home for your family’s needs. There is no such thing as an upgrade at a Don Mills Builders home, it is already a part of the plan. They are not tract home builders, but custom dream home builders.

Your imagination is the starting point of your dream home, and if they do not have a design like yours then they will apply all their resources to find or create what you want. You can even bring your own pre-drawn plans to the table to have Don Mills Builders construct it.

Building a completely custom home is not for everyone. Every little decision needs to be made by you. This can be daunting to many but if unique is what you want in a home, then custom homes are the route for you. In Greensboro that means Don Mills Builders. You will have a quality built home that is all designed around the stuff of dreams.

Home Builders in Greensboro, NC: What to Look for

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So you’ve decided to have a new custom home built. Good for you! You will have the home of your dreams to enjoy for years to come. But first you must find a trustworthy custom home builder in the area to bring your dreams to life. There are so many general contractors and home builders in Greensboro, NC. How do you choose one? One option is to look for a builder who is a member of the Greensboro Builders Association. To become a member and maintain membership, a builder has to have an NC General Contractor’s License, adhere to a specific code of ethics, uphold the mission statement, and participate in community service. This requires a certain level of commitment that distinguishes a builder from all others. When you choose a member of the Greensboro Builders Association, you can expect quality.

Custom homes are truly original

When you decide to have a custom home built, you are allowing yourself the freedom to choose every aspect, every detail, and every feature of your new home. There are builders out there that build spec homes, where customers have a choice of a few different floor plans and features. But most of the homes are the same, just different colors. When you custom design a home, you need a builder with the knowledge and experience to create your dream home within the boundaries of sound structure and integrity. You need a builder you can trust to design and build a home that will last, while incorporating your ideas. A member of the Greensboro Builders Association will build your home with quality craftsmanship, while still incorporating your wishes.

Greensboro Builders Associate Code of Ethics (from the GBA Web site):

“The membership of the Greensboro Builders Association shall be limited to persons and firms who shall subscribe to and pledge allegiance to the following Code of Ethics:

  • Our paramount responsibility is to our customers, our community and our country.
  • Honesty is our guiding business policy.
  • High standards of health, safety and sanitation shall be built into every home.
  • Members shall deal fairly with their respective employees, trade contractors, suppliers and customers.
  • As members of a progressive industry, we encourage research to develop new materials, new building techniques, new building equipment and improved methods of home financing, to the end that every home purchaser may get the greatest value possible for every dollar.
  • All sound legislative proposals effecting our industry and the people we serve shall have our informed and vigorous support.
  • We hold inviolate the free enterprise system and the American Way of Life. We pledge our support to our associates, our local, state and national associations and all related industries concerned with the preservation of legitimate rights and freedoms.

We assume these responsibilities freely and solemnly, mindful that they are part of our obligation as members of the Greensboro Builders Association, the North Carolina Home Builders Association, and the National Association of Home Builders.”

(Greensboro Homebuilders Association: http://greensborobuilders.org/about/code-of-ethics/)

Don Mills Builders Inc. is a custom home builder you can trust

Don Mills is not only a member of the Greensboro Builders Association, he is the second vice president. He believes that a builder should be honest and up front when it comes to working with customers. His Greensboro new homes are built with high quality and top safety and health standards. He will listen to you and design your home to fulfill your dreams. To get started contact us here or call (336) 662-9299.

For more information about the Greensboro Homebuilders Association: http://greensborobuilders.org/about

7615 Braelands Drive, Summerfield, NC – SOLD

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Address 7615 Braelands Drive, Summerfield, NC
Price $629,900
Bedrooms 4
Bathrooms 3.5
Square Feet 4,467
Year Built 2015
Elementary School Oak Ridge Elementary
Middle School Northwest Middle
High School Northwest High

    Front of custom home in Greensboro, NC.

    Greensboro Custom Homes: Design options to make your home more energy efficient

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    The best part about custom home building is the custom part. Being the decision-maker in the largest investment of your life also gives you control to make choices that impact your life and the environment. Choosing design options that are energy efficient not only saves you money, but can help lessen your home’s impact on the environment. It can be as small a decision as choosing a faucet type to as large as choosing your home’s roofing system. But the best home builders in Greensboro, will offer lots of choices and help you choose the right energy efficient option for your new home.

    Home builders in Greensboro can install roofing systems that reduce energy use, utility bills

    Home builders in Greensboro can install roofing systems that reduce energy use, utility bills

    Energy-efficient roofing materials can significantly lower your home’s energy use which in turn shrinks greenhouse gas emissions while trimming your utility bills. A cool roof reflects a large percentage of the sun. If you are seeking an alternative to existing or less expensive shingle options, cool coatings can be applied to your roof to increase reflection and reduce absorption. The best home builders in Greensboro can also provide tiles and painted metals, that are also options to increase sun reflection and reduce greenhouse emissions. Although one of the largest choices to lowering environmental impact, roofs are not the only choices you can make to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

    Inefficient windows cause heat and money to leak right out of your Greensboro custom home

    Single paned, poorly insulated, and ill-fitting windows can increase your energy usage and utility bills dramatically. Choosing energy efficient windows that are double-paned, insulated, tight fitting and come with a heat-resistant coating can reduce your energy consumption and costs. These windows are typically energy rated, so make sure you ask questions and understand the ratings so you can choose the most efficient option for your budget. While you’re asking questions about windows, be sure you ask about energy efficient insulation.

    Insulation prevents cool air and heat from seeping through the walls of your custom-built home

    Choosing the right insulation before your home is built can reduce future costs of adding to it. While new homes have energy efficient guidelines, there are also different types of special insulation that can save energy usage by preventing air from seeping through your wall cavities. The Department of energy has a useful tool to determine type and placement of insulation should be placed in your new home. Although roofs, windows, and insulation are larger items that can save energy, don’t forget the small stuff.

    Efficient appliances and bathroom fixtures can reduce your Greensboro custom home’s energy usage

    It’s easy to choose style over efficiency if you aren’t aware of energy efficient options for appliances and water heads. Choosing appliances with energy ratings that are environmentally friendly also reduces utility bills through reduced energy consumption. Additionally, you can choose a slower flow rate faucet for your kitchen and bathrooms, and slower flow rate showerheads and toilets to utilize less water. The best home builders in Greensboro will offer a full-range of Energy Star appliances to choose from.

    When designing a new home, you can integrate your style with design options to join your desires with energy efficient choices. Not only will you save money, you will save energy; what a great way to start your future. If you want more information on how you can improve energy efficiency, visit the government’s tool here to input specific information and compare energy rates and usage in your area.

    Once you have the information you need, the next step is finding one of the best homebuilders in Greensboro who understands energy efficient home design.

    Choose Don Mills, One of the best home builders in Greensboro

    When choosing Don Mills to build Greensboro custom homes, you’re choosing one of the best home builders in Greensboro. Since 1988 Don Mills has had a reputation of being one of the finest in the industry. Let Don Mills answer your questions and walk you through how you can easily become an energy-efficient custom home owner.

    Get started on your energy efficient home construction project today by calling Don Mills Builders for a free consultation at (336) 362-1777.

    To learn more about energy efficient homes and home construction, check out these resources:

    http://energy.gov/energysaver/insulation-new-home-construction

    http://hes.lbl.gov/consumer/

    How to Choose the Right Home Builders in Greensboro

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    Once you make the decision to have a custom home built, it is then time to decide who you want to build it. This is the most important decision you will make in the home building process. Choosing the right home builder in Greensboro will set the tone for the entire project. You want to build your dream home and you want to make sure it is done right.Not sure what to look for in a builder? Consider the following list of criteria to help you narrow it down.

    1. Experience. You want to hire a builder who has plenty of experience building homes in the area that fit the style, size, and price range you are considering. The more experience the better, but don’t necessarily discount newer contractors as long as they have previous experience working for an established building company.
    2. Licensed. Be sure to choose a licensed contractor that has completed the necessary education to be fully skilled in home building. When you hire a licensed builder you can count on quality craftsmanship and a structurally sound home.
    3. Warranty. Make sure the builder offers warranties on the structure itself as well as on appliances inside the home. A reputable builder should always guarantee their work, and warranties are a way to be sure that if anything does go wrong, it will be fixed at no cost to you.
    4. Price range. Decide what your budget is for a new home and find a builder who mostly builds homes in that price range. That way you are more likely to be able to stay within your budget
    5. Design. Consider the design you are interested in. Make sure the builder has experience building homes in that style and design. Browse the builder’s photo gallery on their website to get a feel for the look of typical homes built by the contractor.

    Once you have narrowed your search to just a few home builders in Greensboro, here are the next steps to help you make the final decision:

    1. Tour some Greensboro, NC homes that exhibit the work this builder has done both recently and in the past. Look for quality craftsmanship as you tour these homes. Pay attention to detail and ask questions.
    2. Ask for references. Talk to previous customers about their experience using this builder. There’s no better way to get a feel for the customer service you are likely to experience.

    By this time you should have a pretty good idea which home builders in Greensboro are right for you.

    Don Mills Builders in Greensboro custom-builds luxury homes

    When it comes to Greensboro, NC homes, Don Mills Builders custom-designs luxurious homes that are of the highest quality craftsmanship. When you are ready to build your dream home, Don Mills Builders will make your dreams a reality. Don Mills is a licensed contractor with the experience necessary to build long-lasting homes with great resale value. Browse our portfolio photo gallery of homes we have built in the triad and call us today (336) 662-9299.