This question was posed to REEF a few months ago: Can you build a new home for under $100,000? We accepted the challenge, and were able to come up with a design for this customer's lot that we can build, turn-key, for under $100,000.  Over the next few months, we will provide photos and updates from the site, covering daily and weekly progress.  This home is small, but it meets the customers needs and is tastefully designed and well appointed on the inside.  As a custom builder on Cape Cod, we see all types of projects, ranging from basement renovations, additions, new homes and luxury homes.  This challenge was something that we had always wanted to take on, and through smart design, and some innovative planning, our team has come through once again! 

 

Be sure to follow along over the next several weeks and see how we do! 

 

If you are wondering how much your next project might cost, click below to download our construction cost guide!

    The consept of universal design is a relatively new term in the custom home business.  It bridges the gap between standard design and fully handicapped accessable design.  The focus of this design concept is to provide homes that provide functional, and safe spaces across a wide range of needs. The idea that a home could have universal appeal for a young family or a retiring couple is unique in custom home building. Manufacturers have responded with many innovative products that make it easier to achieve this broad design appeal. Here is an article from Housingzone.com describing a few of the key products that builders are using in new home and renovation projects.

Universal Design - Kitchens and Baths

 

If you would like to examine these concepts further for your next new home or remodeling project click below to ask one of our experts.

     There are several key home features that we have found almost all buyers seek... 1st floor bedrooms, open and functional living spaces, room for expansion, and of course value.  As a custom home builder on Cape Cod, we serve a broad marketplace, from young families, to couples seeking to build their retirement home, so it is hard to find a plan that works for everyone.  We came across this article from Housingzone.com which highlights 6 very popular home designs.  The appeal of these plans ranges from smart design, well planned living spaces, and of course curb appeal.  There are some really great ideas here that you may want to work into your next home project. 

 

6 Best Selling Home Plans

 

If you are looking for a custom home on Cape Cod, or if you would like to discuss some of these ideas for your next project.... please click below to ask one of the experts at REEF.

 

   If you are considering building your new custom home on Cape Cod, then there is one critical piece of information that you will want to know... how much will a custom home cost?   REEF is a custom builder on Cape Cod, and offers complete design/build services for new construction, remodeling, and tear-down and re-build projects.   We have recently produced a construction cost guide which will give potential clients a good idea of what their project might cost.  We have tailored the information to suit basic small homes, through highly detailed, well-appointed custom homes, and renovation projects.  This is critical information for potential customers who are planning a project over the next several months.   Click below to download our guide!!!

 

    As a custom home builder on Cape Cod, we are constantly asked when is the right time to invest in new home or major renovation project.  Many of our clients have spent most of their adult life working towards their goal of retiring to the Cape full or part time, and they want to know that investing their life savings will provide a return on the investment.  In response to that we have offered the fact that in general, real estate has always been a sound investment, and we thought the chart below was rather interesting.  It shows that real estate has out-performed the major financial markets by almost 2 to 1 over the last 12 years!  So, if you are thinking of investing in real estate, now might be the best time ever!!!

  The Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards is working on changing the building code yet again!  This pending change involves adoption of the IECC 2012 Energy Code.  Massachusetts has been operating under the 2009 version of the IECC Code for approximately the last two years.  When the 2009 version was implemented, there was a 3-5% increase in building costs.  Based on the available information, custom builders will see at least another 2-4% increase.   The Home Builder's Association of Massachusetts has prepared an article outlining the provisions of the new code. There are dramatic increases in energy efficiency, insulation required to make new homes and major renovations compliant.  As a custom builder on Cape Cod, REEF has prided itself in training its staff on the requirements of these ever-changing regulations. It looks like this new code will be adopted in July 2012.  Here is the full article from the Home Builders Association of Masssachusetts: MA to adopt IECC 2012 Energy Code

 

If you have questions regarding how this change may impact your new custom home, renovation, or remodeling project, click below to contact one of our experts!

   Congress has taken action to promote energy efficiency by banning incandescent lights.  Despite the initial costs, and apprehension towards the new CFL or LED light bulbs, this mandate has caused the market to respond with some incredibly innovative products.  Some of these new light bulbs consume less than 10% of the energy used with incandescent bulbs, and have a working life that is dramatically improved.   Here is an article from Architectural Record and a slide show that highlights some of the new products that meet the energy efficiency standards: http://archrecord.construction.com/products/ProductFocus/2012/1202-Light-Bulbs/

  So you have been waiting for the real estate market to hit rock bottom... well then you now may be your chance!!  Check out this article from Yahoo finance. Home prices are at their lowest point since 2002, and are down 34% from their highs of 2006. Check out the article here: Home Prices Hit New Lows

 

So now is the time to take advantage of the market place and build or renovate your Cape Cod Dream Home!!!!!

   The National Association of Homebuilders created a design collaborative to address smart kitchen design for the modern family.  There are some great ideas here for your next project.  Here is the full article from housingzone.com

Modern Design Concepts

 

If you would like to incorporate these concepts into your next project contact us and let us show you how!

 

  

   Often, due to the historic nature of the Cape Cod area, house designs are sometimes limited to the traditional.   We have often looked to more cutting edge homes to see the latest trends and styles in interior and exterior design.  Below is a home featured on Freshome.com for its unique yet simple styling. Both the exterior and interior of this home display some exceptional features that could inspire your next project... Click here for the full article and more photos: http://freshome.com/2012/03/25/eccentric-details-showcased-by-modern-villa-in-athenes/