5 Things to Consider When Building Your Custom Home


There are lots of decisions to make throughout the process of building a custom home. From location to style, you will make many small decisions that will make your home your own. It’s easy to get lost in the small details from countertops to bathroom fixtures. While doing so, you may miss some of the most important things that will make your home a happier one. Read on to discover 5 often overlooked things homeowners should consider when building a custom home.

Design of Your New Home

Most new home builders in Summerfield offer you a pre-drawn plan and allow you to customize it to your tastes. Don’t feel stuck with the pre-drawn plans. If you find you’d rather have a room in another location, or an additional window; it’s always a good idea to ask your custom home builder if he or she can modify the design to suit your personal style.

Homebuilding Budget

Everyone has one, but how you manage it can make or break your plans for your new home. The budget can be bled dry or kept in check, it’s all up to you because it is based on your decisions. Being a part of every change and approval is the best method to keep your expenses on track. Keep the lines of communication open with your home builder to maintain control of your budget.

Lighting Your New Home: Natural and Artificial

A need list is not a list of everything you could dream of, it should actually precede that list. Making a need list will help determine exactly how much your new home addition project will cost, and how much of the additional ‘wants’ you can afford.

Laundry Room Placement in Your House

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is assuming your existing systems can handle a new addition’s demands. Meeting with your builder initially will help you determine if you need to expand your electrical and HVAC systems, which could cost more than you anticipated.

Landscaping Your Summerfield Home

You’re going to be really busy getting the plans together for the interior of your home, but don’t forget about the exterior: landscaping. Planning grading, landscaping, and irrigation will protect your foundation while helping you create a beautiful space for outdoor living. You won’t spend all your time inside your custom home. Make sure you have a great place to go outside and enjoy the elements.

Start Building Your Ideal Custom Home with New Home Builders in Summerfield

Now that you know some of the secrets of how to make your custom home building process easier, start your project with the best of all new home builders in Summerfield. Don Mills Builders will help you plan and build your custom dream home. Get started today by calling Don Mills at (336) 362-1777.

Top Tips on New Home Addition Construction


A new home addition can be the next best option to moving into a larger house, offering more living space and a new look with increased functionality. Are you looking for some tips from expert building contractors in Greensboro? Don Mills is a premier builder in Greensboro and can ensure your addition project goes smoothly. The following tips can help you get the addition you have dreamed of.

Get Surveyed to Determine Property Lines Before Building

Most homeowners may not be aware there are rules and regulations about adding onto their home. Even if you know precisely where your property line is, you may not know the laws regarding how close your new structure can be to other structures, even if they aren’t on your property. Not checking this first could result in a legal order that your new space be torn down.

Talk to Your Neighbors Before Your Builder Begins Work

While this isn’t a ‘legal’ requirement, it is a good step towards ensuring a smooth project and a well-preserved relationship. Talking to your neighbors and giving them a heads up will make them feel valued. Any concerns they may have could be allayed and help keep the peace.

Make a ‘Need’ List for Your Greensboro Home Addition

A need list is not a list of everything you could dream of, it should actually precede that list. Making a need list will help determine exactly how much your new home addition project will cost, and how much of the additional ‘wants’ you can afford.

Evaluate Utilities with Your Contractor

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is assuming your existing systems can handle a new addition’s demands. Meeting with your builder initially will help you determine if you need to expand your electrical and HVAC systems, which could cost more than you anticipated.

Make a Budget for your New Building Project

Once you finalize your need list and determine if your current systems can handle the new load– determine the cost and if it meets your budget. If you have to remove a few ‘wants’ to get to your budget, that’s ok. Save those updates for a later time and start enjoying a larger living space sooner.

Contact the Premier Building Contractor in Greensboro to Start Your Project Today

Among the building contractors in Greensboro, Don Mills is among the most well-versed in planning and building home additions. Don Mills Builders knows the ins and outs of the unique project of home addition planning and constructing. Call today to get your home addition project off the ground at (336) 362-1777.

Choosing the Right Lot for your Custom Home


Having a custom home built is an amazing experience. An original design made to suit your wants and needs built brand new just for you and your family. But the whole extraordinary process begins with an important choice: your home site. Greensboro builders, like Don Mills, usually work in certain neighborhoods, and can show you available lots in these subdivisions. You also have the option of finding your own lot and hiring a Greensboro contractor to build on it. However you go about it, there are some important things to consider when choosing the right lot for your custom home.

  • Location within the neighborhood. You will need to decide whether you want a lot near the entrance of the neighborhood (more traffic but more convenient), a corner lot (bigger yard, but more landscaping work), or a lot on a cul-de-sac (less traffic, but front yards are often small due to the wedge shape of the lot). Find out what the future plans are for the subdivision so that you will know if further expansion will impact your lot.
  • Direction the lot and your home will face. The lot itself within the neighborhood may dictate which way your home will face. Facing east means the sun will light up the front of your house in the morning and be shady in the afternoon. Facing west means a shady backyard in the hottest part of the day.
  • Characteristics of the site itself. Are you looking for a shaded lot with plenty of trees or an open lot with plenty of sun? Do you want a flat lot or one that is graded? Trees can offer cool shade but can also be a hazard in stormy weather and are expensive to remove if necessary. Homes can be built into unevenly graded lots to take advantage of the landscape, but flat ground means more flexible design options.
  • Lighting. Seriously consider the natural and artificial lighting you will want in your home. The more natural light, the more energy you save. Skylights, large windows, and doors with windows let in natural light that is beneficial to your health.

Don Mills Builders Will Create the Home of your Dreams on your Favorite Lot

Don Mills Inc. will help you find the right lot for your dream home. You can choose your home site first and we will design a home that suits the lot, or you can choose a home design first and a lot can be found that suits the home to be built.

Call Don Mills Builders at (336) 362-1777 to find the right home site for your new home.

Choosing a Home Builder in Greensboro, NC

Thinking about building a new home in Greensboro? Now, may be the perfect time. Sales for new homes in our area showed a nice increase in 2015, and 2016 is off to a strong start. So how do you begin? When building a new home, most people rank lot selection as the top priority, and while location is important, choosing the right builder to handle the job is equally vital. Here are a few key points about home construction along with a few essential tips to guide your decision-making.

New Homes – More than Structures

When you envision your new home, whether here in Greensboro or elsewhere, we are guessing that you focus on more than how the walls, floors and rooflines will look. If you’re like most of us, a home represents your dreams, helps define and enable your lifestyle and embodies your hopes for the future. When envisioning your new home, you will see your family enjoying breakfast in a sunny kitchen, or reading by the fireplace. You may even see your grandchildren at play in a cozy playroom. If you are building a home for the first time, it’s a chance to create spaces that are truly personal and functional for the way your family prefers to live, relax and play. You will want to work with a builder who is comfortable with customizing, and is open to your specific design ideas, or wishes. Most importantly, you will want to find a builder who can share your vision for the final version of your new home and how it fits into the Greensboro community and landscape

More than Blueprints

Constructing a new home is a complex matrix of planning, zoning issues, timing, budgets, materials, permits, subcontractors, approvals and finish work. Everything has to be right, especially the sequencing. A builder who is experienced in managing the details of the different procedures and requirements, and who is proficient in scheduling and directing work flows, is likely to be more time and cost efficient. We like working with good estimators too. There is minimal material waste, fewer cost overruns—and almost no budgetary surprises.

More than a Home Builder

All those multiple steps and processes involved in building a new home require time, and throughout the many processes your builder should be your advocate, and your partner, looking out for your best interests every step of the way. When selecting a builder, remember, you will be working with this individual for up to six months or more, so compatibility and trust should be considered along with general contracting skills. Will you feel comfortable collaborating with this builder over the long term? Can you rely on this builder to consult with you when problems arise, or before making on-the-spot decisions? Does this individual enjoy a positive relationship and show good direction capabilities with subcontractors, vendors and local zoning officials and building inspectors?

New Home Builder’s SOP

SOP refers to Scope of Responsibility, and for the new home builder, that scope is wide. It encompasses hiring, managing and paying subcontractors; ensuring all subcontracted work is up to code; tracking costs, submitting payments, providing lien clearances for all completed work, scheduling inspections and much more. Because each of the responsibilities requires accuracy and timely execution, the builder’s experience can be a plus. Every home builder in Greensboro was once a new home builder, so rather than dismiss someone who is just starting out in the business, look at their overall experience in other areas to evaluate their qualifications for your new home project.

Builder Portfolio

What other new homes has this individual built in the Greensboro area? Take the time to request a portfolio and recommendations from past clients. Ask to preview any projects that are currently in construction, or recently completed. The professionals at Don Mills invite anyone who is looking for homes for sale in Greensboro, to visit the Greensboro new home communities of Birkhaven, Hartman Farm, Stonebridge, and Beacon Hill, as well as other specific new home communities in the Greensboro and Oak Ridge and Summerfield areas.

Whatever your vision for constructing a new home in Greensboro, Don Mills Builders can integrate your preferences and needs to create a quality structure that will endure through the generations. As you plan your new home in the Greensboro area, every detail will be taken into account so you will get the home and style you have always dreamed about. 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 at 336

Best Custom Options for New Homes


You have made a wise decision to have a custom home designed and built just for you. More and more new homes in Greensboro are custom built, and it’s not hard to see why. You get to make all the decisions regarding the design and the final product will be a truly unique home that suits your family. But with so many choices to make, it can become overwhelming. When trying to decide what features you want and which are worth the money, consider the following options.

  • Kitchen features. You and your family likely spend the most time in the kitchen, between eating, preparing, and cleaning up meals, doing homework, having snacks, etc. If you’re going to splurge, this is the place to do it. Kitchen islands are ideal for so many purposes from eating to food prep to entertaining. Get those energy saving appliances, you will be glad when you see your electric bill.
  • Entertainment. Whether it’s the living room, family room, or a separate media room, you’ll want to have a place for entertainment. TV, video games, movies, pool table, wet bar, and whatever else your family and guests would enjoy.
  • Bathroom features. Another place we spend a lot of our time is in the bathroom. Showering, bathing, getting ready for the day, relaxing after a long day—your bathroom time is precious. Make your bathroom spacious with plenty of luxurious features, such as a soaking tub or multi-jet shower.
  • Lighting. Seriously consider the natural and artificial lighting you will want in your home. The more natural light, the more energy you save. Skylights, large windows, and doors with windows let in natural light that is beneficial to your health.

New Homes in Greensboro NC by Don Mills Builders Feature Unlimited Options

When it comes to custom home building, there really are no limitations outside of the local building regulations. You can have whatever features you would like within your own budget. Don Mills can show you options and help you decide what items are a must have for you.

Call Don Mills Builders at (336) 362-1777 to get started planning your own custom home.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Choosing a Home Builder


When you decide to have a home custom built, the next step is to choose a builder. There are many builders out there, and it can be difficult to choose one you can trust. To find the best home builders in Greensboro, avoid these pitfalls.

Going with the cheapest option. It can be tempting to go with the builder who offers the lowest price. But remember, when it comes to home building, good quality is crucial. You want a home that will last and hold its value, and you won’t get that from a builder who cuts corners to save money.

Only getting estimated costs. If the builder shies away from providing definite itemized prices for the building costs, beware. You don’t want to end up paying more than you expected. Insist on definite final costs on the building contract before entering into an agreement.

Falling for promotional deals. You may be enticed by promotional prices and promises of extra features. But remember, you get what you pay for. The builder may try to cut costs in ways that sacrifice quality.

Getting duped by a display home. Builders often show you an impressive display home to gain your business. Then when you start the plans for your home they fail to offer the same features. Ask to see real homes the builder has designed and built for real customers.

Paying extra for energy efficiency. Basic requirements for energy efficiency should be standard. All new homes must meet certain criteria for energy usage. Don’t let a builder charge you extra for this.

Forgetting about the yard. It can be easy to get so caught up in the design of the house that you forget to think about the yard. Make sure your builder has a plan for the lot that will suit your needs and wishes for outdoor space.

Finding the Best Home Builders in Greensboro

When searching for the best home builders in Greensboro, you are sure to be impressed by the quality craftsmanship of Don Mills Builders. A member of the Greensboro Builder’s Association with decades of experience in custom home building, Don Mills is a builder you can trust. Call (336) 362-1777 to get started designing and building your dream home.

5 Top Reasons to Build Your Next Home


Are you trying to decide whether to buy or build your next home? Debating the pros and cons of getting a custom home versus purchasing one that is already complete? Consider the benefits of building a custom home in Greensboro with the elite team at Don Mills Builders.

Here are just a few of the many reasons for you to follow your dream of building a custom home.

  1. You get what you actually want. This is probably the most obvious reason to build your next home, but it is also the most important. By building your own home, you get ‘behind the wheel,’ so to speak, and make the executive calls on design features and amenities. No other home will be exactly like yours so it is truly unique to you.
  2. You can create value within your home. Often, there are little additions you can build into a custom home that you would not be able to do with an existing property. This will allow you to increase its inherent value. This will be very useful to you as a homeowner should you choose to move or sell the property in the future.
  3. The value of real estate is increasing. The big recession in 2009 caused a major economic downturn that lasted several years. However, one of the benefits of the recession was that once the real estate market recovered, homes were due for a big boost economically. A great reason to move forward with building your custom home now is the fact you will almost definitely see an increase on the value of your property in the near future.
  4. Ownership is on the decline in the U.S. At this point in time, we are seeing an unfortunate trend and phenomenon where home ownership and general ownership are on a steep decline. More and more families are opting to rent versus purchasing a home, which puts the renter at a substantial disadvantage and provides some level of insecurity regarding how they will be able to build equity in the future.
  5. Greater Energy Standards. Energy efficiency and saving technologies have increased greatly from year to year over the last decade. Therefore, homes built even just three or four years ago will not have the same quality of energy saving efficiency that a new home will have. By building a custom home in Greensboro with Don Mills Builders, prospective homeowners can ensure they are including features which will lead to greater savings down the road, as well as make the house a great investment.

Don Mills Builders provides numerous locations and floorplans for those wishing to build a custom home in Greensboro and the surrounding area. Don Mills Builders has decades of experience in the industry and is known for providing quality craftmanship with the most desired features and designs. The results are amazing homes in which a family can create a lifetime of memories. The team at Don Mills will ensure the home is designed to meet your particular needs and be one you will be proud of for years to come.

Lot 38 Birkhaven

6 Secrets to Creating the Ideal Home in Which to Raise Your Kids


One of the most important decisions parents can make is choosing which home and neighborhood they would like to live in. Fortunately, Don Mills Builders has numerous custom home lots in Greensboro and surrounding areas to choose from.

Here are six tips for creating the ideal home for you and your kids:

  1. Make sure the home is located in a favorable area with little crime. Often times, homeowners are so enamored with a house they forget to research whether the area is safe. This includes checking the neighborhood crime statistics to make sure your children are safe.

    If you already have a floor plan chosen, then of course the price will be a factor. There may be some alterations necessary to make your favorite features work within your budget.

  2. Check the quality of the schools in the area. One of the most important aspects of your children’s development is the education they receive. Thus, it is of the utmost importance to verify the schools in the area have a rigorous curriculum and a high standard of excellence to ensure your child receives nothing but the best education.
  3. Look to see that there is a recreational area or nearby park space. Children need to have fun, right? Make sure your custom home lot in Greensboro or the surrounding region is located in an area where your children will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy themselves outside and participate in safe and fun activities.
  4. There are other children. Sometimes homeowners are surprised to find that what looks like a very kid friendly neighborhood is actually full of empty nesters. You want to make sure your child is able to enjoy the company of other kids close to their age. Look at the demographics of the area and speak with your builder.
  5. Ask your child what they think about the area you’re moving to. Children are almost never informed about a location or asked to give their candid opinion. While children do not often move the needle in these situations, it is always good to seek their feedback. It also helps with the “buy-in” that is so necessary for a child to get the most out of a new neighborhood.
  6. Evaluate whether you feel the town is a good fit for children of all ages. Your children will not be the same age forever. If they are toddlers now, ask yourself if the area will also be good to raise a teenager in one day.

Don Mills Builders has decades of experience in creating homes for triad residents. The process begins with a consultation so that the Don Mills team can find out exactly what you are looking for and prioritize your needs.

Top 4 Questions to Ask Greensboro Builders on Home Construction

You can get a lot of information about Greensboro builders on their websites. So you should be able to find out about their licensing, experience and maybe even see photos of their home building work.

However, there is a lot more important information you will need before signing a contract. Unfortunately, all of the right questions don’t always occur to you at the time, so it’s helpful to assemble a list beforehand. You can just jot them down as you think of them. Here are some things you won’t want to forget.

Basic Questions You Should Remember to Ask Greensboro Builders

You probably won’t forget to ask the price or how soon you can move in. But you will want to dig a little deeper into both of those.

  1. What floor plan best suits my family needs and lifestyle? This is a big one. The best Greensboro builders will closely question you about your daily routines and what features you will most want to incorporate. It is an enormous help if you already have a floor plan or two in mind to start with.

    If you already have a floor plan chosen, then of course the price will be a factor. There may be some alterations necessary to make your favorite features work within your budget.

  2. Many contractors have a selection of standard features from which you can choose, and more that you can pay extra for. In this case, you will also want to know what the standard offerings are, in the event you might prefer to upgrade.
  3. After the price is determined, you will need to know what the down payment will be.
  4. In order to meet the estimated completion date, when do you have to notify the builder of your selections?

Don Mills Builders Will Answer Your Questions and Put Your Mind at Ease

There will be a lot more questions that pop up during the process of building a home, but these are a good place to start. Don Mills Builders has built a reputation for quality and satisfaction over 27 years. To find out how you can have a fantastic home, without a stressful building experience, call (336) 662-9299 today.