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The Role of Landscaping in New Home Construction

Landscaping Plays an Important Role in New Home Construction

Bring in a Trusted and Experienced Contractor for Your Project

Landscaping in New Home Construction

Your yard is an extension of your home, and the role of landscaping in your new home construction is far more important than you may have imagined. A well-designed landscape that considers the location, lot size, elevation and foundation of your property will add tremendous value, now and into the future.

Take Your New Build from Good to Great with Efficient Landscaping

When it comes to a custom-built home, you must not only plan the interior structure and layout, but also think of the aesthetics and functionality of the space outside. An experienced contractor will conduct a site inventory and prepare the blueprints for planning and executing a landscape of your dreams.

Here are some of the advantages of planned landscaping for new home construction:

  • A thorough analysis of the topography, soil type and micro-climate will help in determining which trees, plants and shrubs will thrive in your yard.
  • A comprehensive site inventory will help generate an accurate blueprint showing power lines, underground utilities, septic tanks, or roof overhangs. This will serve as the foundation for spatial planning while planting trees, creating vegetation beds or hardscaping elements such as driveways, sidewalks and patios.
  • An assessment of your lifestyle and needs will go a long way in designing an aesthetically pleasing and functional landscape. For example:
    • The size of your family, presence of pets and frequency of visitors will help determine a practical layout with easy access to all elements of the yard. It will also allow for better planning of entries and exits for your front and back yard.
    • Based on the age of your children and your entertaining requirements, you could incorporate several additional elements. A pool, a soft-sand play area, a water feature or an outdoor kitchen, these are some options to consider.
    • Do you prefer a hands-on or hands-off style of yard maintenance? This is an important consideration when deciding the amount of turf, type of vegetation, irrigation system, and other aspects of your landscape plan.
  • A well-contoured landscape will have a proper gradient and drainage system that prevents basement flooding or muddy rainwater pools in your yard.

Landscaping for New Home Construction is an Art—Bring in the Experts!

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have decades of experience in building new homes. We believe in a holistic approach to construction and focus on landscaping just as much as we do on building the house. Our landscaping specialists will consider your design aspirations, budget, and current and future needs. These factors will form the basis for planning your yard’s overall style, theme, the link spaces and hardscaping elements. 

Don’t ignore the role of landscaping in new home construction. Our delighted customers across the Bay Area are already experiencing the benefits of planned landscaping.

Want scenic vistas, land contours, lush vegetation and a range of functional landscaping features in your new Bay Area home? Contact us online.

Building a Home in California is Expensive – Part 1

Building a Home in California is as Expensive as Gold!

Factors Affecting Construction in the Golden State

Building a Home in California

Is your dream of a custom-built home facing an unsurmountable cost barrier? Not sure what makes building a home in California so expensive? As premier construction experts in this market, we know that a custom home is a much sought-after opportunity to personalize your living space.

However, the three primary reasons for the high cost of new construction in California are:

  • Labor: Availability and cost, depending on the size and complexity of your project
  • Materials: Your design preferences will define the cost of construction materials
  • Permits: Prices vary by location and the volume / type of work involved

In this 3-part series, we’ll help you understand each cost barrier that stands in the way of building your dream home in California.

Part 1: Insights into Labor Costs for Building a Home in California

Labor is the most significant component of any home building project, and the related costs begin from day zero of commissioning your new construction. Here is a breakdown of the various labor costs that you are likely to incur:

  • Consultation Fees: For the services rendered by the land surveyor, the architect, the construction engineer, and their teams.
  • Foundation and Framing: To cover activities related to excavating, pouring, backfilling, landscaping and setting up the structure’s frame, trusses and metalwork.
  • Exterior Finishing: Building the walls and inserting the doors, windows and roof.
  • Interior finishing: Completing the insulation, drywall, trim, painting, flooring, plumbing, electrical connections and other such sub-projects.
  • Finer Details: Preparing the driveway and patio, building the deck, adding a pool, installing the home’s heating, cooling and ventilation.

Factors that Impact Labor Costs in California

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of construction labor in California is approximately $37.59 per hour, which is 12% higher than the U.S. national average of $33.52 per hour. In addition to costly manpower, there are a few other factors that may influence labor cost:

  • The size and design of your home: The greater the square footage, the higher the costs. Also, complex architectural details, unusual shapes, or an exceptionally high number of corners or rounded edges will add to the scope. Greater effort means higher labor costs. Similarly, features such as a deck, a pool, or an outdoor kitchen will increase the number of man-hours and consequently, your cost.
  • Number of stories: The higher you wish to build, the more design work, excavation, and construction expenses are involved. You may also have to pay a premium for additional construction equipment and the safety of the laborers on site.
  • Materials and systems: If the materials or systems that you select require specialized skills or equipment for installation, that will add to your cost of labor.

Hire a Trusted Contractor to Build Your Dream Home

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have extensive experience in constructing new homes to your exact specifications. Our team of qualified architects and master craftsmen will deliver your new home, on-time and on-budget. You can count on us for stylish, comfortable spaces created with quality materials and flawless execution.

We continue to serve a growing base of happy customers in and around the Bay Area.

Stop wondering why building a home in California is so expensive! Contact us online.

5 Ideas For Building A Custom Home In 2019

Step One: Hire an Experienced Builder!

Buildi A Custom HomeNothing is more satisfying than living in a home you have envisioned. Your creativity and imagination are not limited to decorating the interiors. You can have a say in the overall structure as well. However, from the building materials and orientation to the floor plan, number of rooms, windows and door sizes, there are many decisions to make. Where do you start and how do you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Our construction experts share 5 ideas for successfully building a custom home in 2019.

How to Build the Perfect Home for Your Family

  1. Go green: In keeping with the times, consider making energy efficiency a priority. It helps reduce your utility bills and enhances the durability and value of your property. The first consideration is always the orientation of the building. The right location helps maximize solar heat in winter and reduce heat gain during the summer.Ultra-efficient homes also utilize low U-value and E-value frames, renewable energy systems like solar panels, radiant flooring, efficient whole-house systems, proper insulation and smart landscaping around the building. The comfort and savings you will enjoy over the years far outweigh the initial investment.
  1. Maximize natural light in your design: Abundant daylight provides aesthetic, health and monetary benefits. It makes your home look brighter and more spacious while enhancing your mood and reducing your energy usage. An open floor plan is a good way to start. Incorporating large windows, doors and skylights is the easiest way to flood your house with sunlight. Choose triple pane glass with proper glazing for maximum energy-efficiency. Translucent options allow you to enjoy privacy without obstructing the amount of light that filters through.
  2. Use renewable materials: Building a custom home gives you the opportunity to include sustainable materials and smart technologies. Using renewable materials like reclaimed wood, green insulation, bamboo and cork flooring or natural wool carpeting allows you to create a durable and healthy home. You can also incorporate advanced technology like smart thermostats and voice-activated home assistants. They will make your life easier and reduce expenses by turning off lights, heat or air conditioning when the home is empty.
  3. Conserve water: It is one of the most important resources in our lives but it comes at a high price. Installing low-water use appliances, high-efficiency toilets, low-flow faucet aerators and shower heads can significantly reduce your consumption. With outdoor water use accounting for almost 30 percent of your water bill, consider water-efficient landscaping. Grow native plants and install smart irrigation systems like Evapotranspiration (ET) controllers which adjust water usage according to the weather.
  4. Choose low-maintenance materials: Architectural and metal shingles will generally outlast traditional asphalt, concrete or clay tiles and are also more energy efficient. Brick and stone exteriors require less upkeep than wood. Quartz countertops in your kitchen and bathroom are more stain resistant than natural stone. Choosing materials that require less effort to maintain are easy on your wallet and save time. 

Hire an Experienced Builder to Construct Your Dream Home

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we offer the detailed attention that your custom home requires. Our experienced team of designers, construction experts and tradespeople works closely with you to make your dream home a reality.

With our hallmark quality and customer satisfaction, we continue to serve a growing roster of happy customers across the Bay Area, including in Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Mountain View and Cupertino, CA.

For more ideas on building a custom home in 2019, contact us online.

 

Tearing Down an Existing Home and Building a New Home? It’s A Big Job!

Find the Right Construction Contractor in the Bay Area

new home constructionHave you outgrown your house but still love where you live? Many Bay Area homeowners prefer to rebuild rather than move. Why not build your dream home in the same, familiar neighborhood? Perhaps you want to move but can’t find the ideal home. You could purchase smaller properties, knock them down and start over. Reconstruction is a big job that requires careful planning and a builder with the experience and skills to deliver the results you envision. Here are some useful tips for tearing down an existing home and building a new home you will love.

Tips for Rebuilding Your Current Home 

  • Planning is key: This means doing your homework before the sledgehammer comes down and shovels hit the ground. Think about why you are rebuilding. Perhaps your growing family needs more space, you want room to entertain or accommodate frequent overnight guests, etc. Or maybe you want a modern house with all the bells and whistles. Your wish list is the basis for your design plans.
  • Consult building professionals: Discuss your project with an architect, construction consultant or contractor to determine its viability. They can help you make cost-saving decisions as well as advise you on where not to cut corners. An important question to ask is whether your new home will serve your needs and fit in with the character of the neighborhood. A good home design will take adjoining buildings into account. Your city or town will also have regulations and guidelines for what you can and cannot do with your home reconstruction or renovation project. Hence, you also need to be aware of teardown and rebuild permits that might be required.
  • Get a detailed cost estimate: This will help determine what you can afford and what you may have to forego or postpone. However, establishing a detailed budget is just the first step; you need to stay within it. Keep track of expenses at every stage of the rebuild. Get your construction contractors involved from the initial planning stages. They are responsible for managing building and material costs, while the architect is focused on the design.
  • Choose your building contractor carefully: Choose your contractor based on their credentials, experience and reputation. While price is a differentiator, it should not be the biggest influence on your final selection. Check work references to avoid a messy, botched job. The key to a good builder-client relationship is clear and constant communication. Your contractor should be easily reachable and willing to answer all your questions.

Get the Bay Area’s Construction Experts to Build Your New Home

At Flegel’s Construction Co. our have more than 30 years of experience building and renovating homes. Our clients receive expert advice, quality craftsmanship and responsive service. Count on us to make your home rebuilding project stress-free. We welcome the opportunity to make your dream home a reality.

With a firm commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we continue to serve a growing roster of happy customers across the Bay Area, including in Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Mountain View and Cupertino, CA.

If you are tearing down an existing home and building a new home, contact us online.

 

What Does it Take to Be a Trusted Home Builder

Depth of Experience and Customer Satisfaction Count

Trusted Home BuilderBuilding a new house is an important and expensive project; mistakes can be costly and stressful. Choosing the right construction team is critical to realizing your dream home within the stipulated time and budget. Here is some valuable advice on selecting a trusted home builder.

How to Select a Reliable Builder for Your Dream Home

  • Experience: Consult family and friends to create a potential list. Builders with years of experience constructing homes know what works and can help you steer clear of common mistakes. They are also more adept at troubleshooting and resolving issues involving permits, building materials, tradespeople, construction and plan changes.
  • Specialization: When building a custom homeor remodeling an Eichler, you want to be sure your builders know what they are doing, or more importantly, that they have done it successfully in the past. Assessing their company credentials and experience will give you a better idea of their skills and suitability for your project.
  • Customer testimonials: Talk to their recent clients to gauge what you can expect when working with the team. You want to know if the homeowners are happy with the results and if problems were promptly attended to. The critical question to ask is whether they would use this builder’s services again or refer them to family and friends. If possible, visit one of their current construction sites to see work in progress.
  • Communication and transparency: The ideal builder will answer all your queries satisfactorily from the start. Also make sure that your communication styles are in sync (email, phone, etc.) to avoid unnecessary project delays. Trust your instincts and avoid a company if their representatives are evasive or difficult to reach.

Hire the Bay Area’s Most Trusted Home Building Company

Having successfully built hundreds of new homes and performed countless minor and major remodels and additions, we offer an exciting and seamless construction experience. Our clients enjoy quality craftsmanship, exceptional project management, open communication and a stress-free building process. Count on us to make your dreams come true; we treat your home like our own!

With an unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we continue to serve a growing roster of happy customers across the Bay Area, including in Palo Alto and San Jose, CA.

Contact us online to learn more about what it takes to be a trusted home builder.

 

Hiring a Construction Consultant before Building or Renovating

The Importance of Hiring a Construction Consultant before Building or Renovating

Hiring a Construction ConsultantAre you thinking about constructing a new home or remodeling your existing one in Palo Alto or other local cities? There are many critical details to consider which could impact (a) the time taken to complete the project, (b) the overall cost and (c) the quality of results. Let us explain how hiring a construction consultant before building or renovating can help reduce costly problems and give you peace of mind.

How Consulting a Construction Expert Reduces Your Risk and Expense

  1. Expert planning: Construction and renovation can be overwhelming for homeowners as most do not know where to start. The first step in a successful build or remodel project is planning. Your building consultant can guide you through the critical steps and provide you with valuable insights into project feasibility, scope and timelines.
  2. Determine costs: The overall investment is a critical factor when building your dream home or upgrading the existing one to match your lifestyle. Underestimating expenses and spending on unnecessary high-end finishes are common pitfalls, but they can be avoided. With the right professional guidance, you will end up making a more realistic estimate and be able to make the smart decisions that save you money and fetch rewarding returns.
  3. Identify requirements: A sound knowledge of local building codes is critical to obtaining the necessary permissions. Having a knowledgeable professional to guide you through the process can help make it seamless and more satisfying.
  4. Flag the risks: Shoddy workmanship and negligence resulting in property damage, cost overruns and prolonged timelines are not uncommon. If you are unaware of what to look out for, it can hurt you. An experienced professional can help you see the bigger picture and ensure your project goes as planned and stays within your budget.
  5. Recommend professionals: In the end, it all comes down to the architect and builder/renovator you decide to work with. Hours of research can leave you confused and frustrated. How do you decide which one to select? Your construction consultant can point you in the right direction.

Building and Remodeling Experts to Create Your Dream Home

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we pride ourselves on transforming homes into dream spaces. With over 30 years of experience in new home building, renovations and Eichler remodeling, we can guide you every step of the way. Our team will offer useful insights to help you steer clear of costly mistakes. Irrespective of whether we provide pre-construction and renovation advice or complete the entire project for you, our goal is your success.

Our quality workmanship and personalized service has earned us a growing number of customers across Silicon Valley, including in Palo Alto, Los Altos, San Jose, Cupertino, Mountain View and Sunnyvale, CA. 

Let’s discuss your project or contact us online to learn more about hiring a construction consultant before building or renovating.

Latest Trends in Luxury Home Building

What’s the Latest in Luxury Home Building?

Latest Trends in Luxury Home BuildingBuilding a custom home gives you the freedom to design every square foot of space to your taste. From the layout to choosing the building materials and interior finishing, you can select what works best for you and your family. Before your architect finalizes the blueprint, explore the latest trends in luxury home building, so you can decide exactly what you want.

Hot Trends in Silicon Valley Custom Homes

  • Lighter-colored flooring: Washed wood finishes like ash, grey and white as well as stone floors are the newest hot favorites. These lighter shades brighten up the room and also show less dirt. If you prefer dark flooring, consider slightly lighter tones. With specialty designs and multi-tonal colors, engineered wood flooring provides an exotic look.
  • Open concept floor plans: Today’s contemporary homes are moving towards open concept floor plans because they appear more spacious and allow better flow. For example, in an open concept layout, the kitchen, family room and living room flow into each other and are great for large gatherings. A vaulted ceiling will add a dramatic impact and give it a lofty feel.
  • Multi-functional rooms: Many custom home owners want their rooms to work smarter; meaning, they serve multiple purposes. Your living room may be a place for the family to congregate, entertain guests and also be a relaxation area. You can plan your décor and furniture accordingly.
  • Stylish kitchens: Choose your design, materials and appliances carefully. The kitchen is the heart of your home and a big selling point too. Stainless steel and granite are seen in most homes today. You may want to explore more luxurious options like engineered stone counters and glass appliances. As with flooring, lighter-colored and white cabinets are making a comeback.
  • Statement features: Glass and metal are dominant decorating features today. Some homes have replaced walls between the living, dining and family room areas with metal and glass doors that disappear with the press of a button. Others have huge decorative motifs to embellish the staircase. If contemporary is not your style, consider metallic art. You can also make a distinctive statement with color. Use bold shades or furnishings to accent certain walls and areas of a room.
  • Outdoor kitchens: These are almost a standard feature of modern luxury homes. They can be fully equipped with an oven, grill, refrigerator, sink and a bar for barbeques and dinner parties. Some even include large television sets.

Work with a Trusted Luxury Home Builder

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we consider it an honor to build your custom home. By working to understand exactly what you want, we are able to realize your vision. We are happy to work with your designer/architect to ensure your new home construction project is a success. We have customers across Silicon Valley, including in Palo Alto, Los Altos, San Jose, Cupertino, Mountain View and Sunnyvale, CA. 

Contact us online to learn more about the latest trends in luxury home building.

 

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IN THE NEWS

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TESTIMONIALS

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    I would hire Scott again in a heartbeat. He did our Eichler total remodel from roof to radiant. The workmanship is 5-star. Scott understands the uniqueness of Eichlers and modern design.

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  • I am confident that your expectations will be far exceeded…

    “Our home in Palo Alto was in need of help. Built in the early 1950s and barely updated since, there was a lot to do. Over 12 months and two phases, our home was transformed into the perfect mid-century modern oasis for our

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  • As easy for as us as possible…

    “We interviewed at least 7 contractors for our Eichler remodel and decided on Flegel’s construction and I am so glad we did! Working with Scott and his crew was such an pleasant experience. We had heard so many horror stories

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  • Stands by his work…

    “I cannot say enough about Scott Flegel. He is on the ball. He works on the project with his employees. He has very high standards and his employees follow his example. Our architect has come back to look at the project

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