CB May 2006

When you discount, you undermine the value of the service you are offering. The way to improve the bottom line and make it more resilient to the ups and downs of the economy and the regulatory market is to increase the value of what you deliver.

The better that custom builders understand their clients' expectations, anticipate possible areas of disappointment, and communicate with them about the realities, the more likely the entire experience will be one that is satisfying and results in referrals.

Custom builders who take the time to understand what their clients want to achieve in the design of their home, who educate themselves on what materials and products are available, and who insist on getting those selections made on schedule and prior to construction are able to please clients while maintaining control of the building process.

Combining two architectural styles can cause either visual delight or a horrific clash. In the end, this blend of craftsman style with the Southwest creates a comfortable environment for all.

The massive center island that dominates the kitchen in this upscale model home north of Tampa is reminiscent of the traditional family table found in classic European kitchens of the past. The challenge was to give the space a charming, eclectic appeal without making it appear cluttered or distracting to the eye.

Matt Plaskoff, president and founder of Plaskoff Construction, identifies the products his firm uses for building homes.

When landscape architects are involved in a project from the beginning and a landscape design is thought-out and well-planned, the result can be a beautiful, functional outdoor environment that excites your customers while adding value to their homes.