CB September 2006

I'm a process guy. I like to figure out the best way to do something and develop a way to implement that on a consistent basis. I think many builders like to do that for construction issues, but most custom builders tend to only build a business process after something goes horribly wrong.

With its rich, warm details, fireplace-oriented conversation area and carefully-planned traffic pattern, the great room in this custom residence near Denver serves as the home's inviting social center and its primary hub to congregate.

It's hard to beat Montana's mountain region for beauty. But when you add a private golf community at the base of Big Mountain with views of the Flathead Valley and Whitefish Lake, you get custom builders leaping at the opportunity to practice their craft. Iron Horse is a low-density, year-round residential community that sits on 820 acres of forest.

Everybody loves a parade. And considering the benefits of a parade of homes, custom builders ought to love them more than most. Building a home for exhibition — whether you call it a Homearama, a Parade of Homes or a Street of Dreams — is likely to generate a lot of brand awareness for your company.

Kevin Estes of Estes Builders shares insight to some of the products they put into the homes they build.

Home security and elecronic products are featured this month.

Standard recruiting procedures are great for finding standard-issue employees. But finding great talent requires something better — and the key is to not wait until you have a particular staffing need. Recruitment is an ongoing process of scouting talent, networking and creating a reputation as a great workplace with current employees, trades and subs.

From dedicated home theaters to multi-functional rec rooms, builders are accommodating homeowners who are seeking space for entertainment and in-house fun and games. The going-out-at-home trend essentially means recreating the movie theater experience.