Behind The Build Podcast

Behind The Build Podcast

By Mitchell HomesBusiness
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Behind The Build Podcast episodes

  • What’s Included in Every New Mitchell Home We Build on Your Land?

    What’s included on every new Mitchell Home we build on your land? More than just the finishes you can see. From warranties to inspections to the materials behind your walls, quality and protection are built into every Mitchell Home from the start. 

     

    In this episode of Behind the Build Podcast, we break down Mitchell Homes’ Included Features List and the thinking behind what comes standard one very home. We’ll talk about the continually evolving of our includes features, balancing quality and craftsmanship with affordability, and build value into your home from the very beginning.

     

    We’ll also explain how a included feature for your peace of mind, SimplyMitchell Financing helps make building on your land accessible with zero down, zero closing costs, and no construction loan, plus Mitchell’s 150-day price lock guarantee.

     

    When you’re building a home on your land, it’s important to understand not just what you’re paying for, but what’s already built into the value of your home.

     

    Tune in. Take notes. Let's build your legacy, together.

    New episode available now...

     

    Chapters

    0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    01:25 – What’s included in every new Mitchell Home we build on your land?

    02:00 – Why our Included Features List evokes every year

    03:55 – Balancing quality, craftsmanship, and affordability

    08:00 – New elevations available now 

    08:45 – How we learn from construction to make our homes better

    11:17 – Explore the current Included Features List on our website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/included-features/

    15:50 – What’s coming in 2027? Building more value into your home

    19:36 – How is Mitchell Homes making housing affordable? Offering SimplyMitchell Financing: Zero down, zero closing costs, and no construction loan.

    20:14 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    20:46 – Does Mitchell Homes include a 150-Day price lock guarantee? 

    21:15 – Why do we consistently update our included features?

    34:08 – What does Mitchell Homes include for your peace of mind?

    1:05:00 – Thanks for joining! We’ll see you next time. Message us with questions, topics you want us to cover next, and if you’d like a Mitchell Homies T-shirt!

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/


    Get fast answers to your questions:

    Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    42 min
  • Designing for Longevity: Decisions That Protect Your Home for Generations

    The homes that stand the test of time are designed with longevity.


    In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven are joined by Builders FirstSource's Donnie Frick to explore the engineering processes and materials that help make every Mitchell Home a permanent stake in the ground.

    From custom truss systems and engineered wood products to the ZIP System, windows, doors, and weather-resistant building practices, you'll learn how Mitchell Homes approaches every decision with long-term performance in mind. Discover how our partnership with Builders FirstSource helps deliver stronger structural integrity, improved efficiency, and added protection against common issues like squeaky floors, nail pops, and moisture intrusion.

    Whether you're building today or planning for the future, this episode highlights the value of investing in quality construction from the very beginning - because the decisions made before the drywall goes up can have a lasting impact on your home's performance for years to come.

     

    Tune in. Take notes. Let's build your legacy, together.

    New episode available now...

     

    Chapters

    0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    01:16 – Welcome special guest with our partner from Builder’s First Source, Donnie Frick

    03:58 – Today’s topic, Builder’s First Source Partnership & Products – Who is BFS?

    06:00 – What does BFS do + supply for Mitchell Homes?

    10:00 – BFS structural plans design process to take off

    13:00 – Key benefits of truss systems

    18:30 – Engineered wood product - EWP

    21:15 – How Mitchell Homes strives to go above and beyond on selecting products for your peace of mind to avoid nail pops, floor squeaking, swelling and water resistance, etc.

    26:15 – What’re the benefits of the Zip system product in weatherproofing your new home?

    30:00 – Donnie’s (BFS) ability to value engineering – How can we always work together in our partnership to make the product better?

    33:50 – Included window selections and product efficiency in every new Mitchell Home we build on your land

    41:45 – What’s the difference between GBG (Grills Between Glass) & SDL (Simulated Divided Light)

    46:20 – Exterior doors – what’s included, manufacturing, shipping process, and recommendations for weatherproofing

    57:55 – interior doors and trim – what’s included and recommendations

    1:05:00 – Thanks for joining! Huge thank you to Donnie Frick with Builders First Source for making a special guest appearance. We’ll see you next time. Message us with questions, topics you want us to cover next, and if you’d like a Mitchell Homies T-shirt!

    1:11:16 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/


    Get fast answers to your questions:

    Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 12 min
  • From Showroom to Dream Home: Ferguson’s Expert Selection Tips

    The selections you make today will shape how your home looks, feels, and functions for years to come. 

    In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven are joined by Ferguson’s Brock Wiggins and Amy McCarty to share expert insight on navigating the selections process with confidence. 

    From cabinetry and kitchen layouts to lighting, hardware, warranties, and today’s most popular design trends, you’ll learn how thoughtful choices can help create a home that reflects your style, supports your lifestyle, and maximizes your investment.

    Whether you’re preparing for your selections appointment or simply gathering inspiration, this episode offers valuable guidance to help bring your vision to life. Because the best homebuilding decisions are the ones you’re prepared to make.

    Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy, together.

    Chapters

    0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    0:16 – Welcome special guests with our partners from Ferguson, Brock Wiggins, Area Sales Manager and Amy McCarty, Interior Designer.

    02:10 – Today’s topic, Ferguson Partnership & Products – Who is Ferguson?

    05:34 – What Ferguson products are offered in our showroom’s selections for your new home?

    06:58 – Defining cabinetry levels (price point)?

    07:30 – Cabinet construction, quality & craftsmanship

    10:34 – Cabinet styles & colors to personalize your home

    15:07 – Your cabinet warranty

    16:52 – What features are currently trending? 

    18:00 – Mitchell Homes’ selections process - What’s the path for our future homeowners?

    19:00 – Custom price requests - kitchen layout review process dos & don’ts

    30:53 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    31:24 – What’s the most expensive kitchen you’ve ever designed? 

    31:47 – Tell us what you’re comfortable spending and we’ll make sure you fall in love with what’s in your price range

    39:45 – Bathrooms + vanity recommendations 

    45:00 – Hardware “Jewelry for your cabinetry”

    47:25 – Words of wisdom to future homeowners 

    55:00 – Maxim Lighting and Moen quality, craftsmanship, and wide variety of selections in all price points

    1:02:00 – Thanks for joining! We’ll see you next time. Message us with questions, topics you want us to cover next, and if you’d like a Mitchell Homies T-shirt!

     

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/


    Get fast answers to your questions:

    Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 5 min
  • Common Misconceptions

    Building a new home on your land comes with a lot of excitement… and lot of misconceptions.

    In this episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven sit down with special guests, Janet Turner and Tucker Farinholt to unpack questions and concerns that came directly from our team at Mitchell Homes – All to help guide you forward with more clarity, confidence, and realistic expectations as you consider building on your land. 

    If you’re considering building, this episode is full of honest insight that can save you time, stress, and money along the way. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy together.

    Chapters

    0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    0:54 – Welcome special guests, Janet Turner, VP of Customer Lender Relations and Tucker Farinholt, Operations Support Manager

    02:14 – Today’s topic, Common Misconceptions

    05:54 – Money & Financing Realities

    06:08 – What closing costs MH actually pays versus what you’ll be responsible for at closing (prepaids, points, owner’s title, etc.) 

    10:00 – Why your lot equity doesn’t lower the price of the house or your loan amount

    12:20 – Qualifying for maximum financing so you can bring $0 to closing — and why that doesn’t always work 

    14:28 – Why you can’t change your job or finances once your loan is approved 

    17:51 – How placeholder allowances (for lot prep, well, septic, extra foundation, etc.) really work and why they can increase

    20:50 – The realistic cost of basements and why other builders’ advertised prices can be misleading 

    23:00 – Why basement price adjustments due to site conditions are normal (not surprise price hikes)

    25:00 – Site Work & Lot Preparation

    25:24 – What’s actually included in the base price and why lot prep, utilities, sidewalks, and final grade usually aren’t

    28:16 – Why we can help with land prep and utilities, but you have to specifically ask for it

    36:25 – Why “cutting the lot” doesn’t always save you money on the foundation

    43:05 – Final grade, seed, and straw: Who’s responsible and why it matters for county bonds and inspections

    48:00 – Not every lot is buildable. The extra work and costs you should know about early

    50:45 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    53:29 – The Real Timeline of Building a Home

    53:36 – Why it takes longer than it looks (even if the house seems to go up in about 3 months)

    56:28 – The key meetings that will require you to take time off work

    59:00 – Moving logistics: Why you usually can’t wait until the new house is finished if you’re demolishing your current home

    1:04:30 – Customizations, Plans & Expectations

    1:04:38 – Why just telling your salesperson or superintendent something verbally isn’t enough 

    1:08:26 – Why we can’t copy another builder’s plans exactly 

    1:10:25 – Why online photos can be misleading about what’s included in your base home

    1:12:08 – How room sizes and ceiling heights feel very different in real life than they do on paper 

    1:15:46 – The challenge when customers say “just figure it out” on custom requests 

    1:23:47 – Comparisons & “Do-It-Yourself” Ideas

    1:23:56 – Why you can’t always compare your build to your neighbor’s house or a previous customer’s home 

    1:25:27 – “My husband is in construction and can do some of the work” why that’s often not possible

    1:29:08 – Warranty, Maintenance & After You Move In

    1:29:22 – How warranty walks actually work (and why we need a list of concerns first)

    1:30:09 – What we will and won’t repair after closing (drywall cracks vs. repainting the whole house)

    1:30:57 – Who’s responsible for HVAC filters and long-term yard maintenance 

    1:33:25 – The Sales & Consultation Process

    1:33:32 – A consultation is not a commitment — it’s perfectly fine to just be exploring your options

     

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/


    Get fast answers to your questions:

    Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 39 min
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Building your home should feel exciting, not uncertain. That’s why Behind the Build Podcast exists. From day one, this podcast was created to guide you through the questions that matter so you can move forward feeling confident, not overwhelmed. 

    These questions came directly from you. Just to name a few - we went deep on the ones that shape your experience: 

    -What does the real cost look like?

    -What’s included and what isn’t?
    -How customizable is “fully customizable,” really?
    -What should you be comparing when choosing a builder?
    -What tends to surprise homeowners once the process is underway?
    -How do financing, land, and timing come together?

    This isn’t surface level. It’s the kind of clarity that changes how you approach your entire new home build. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy together.

    Chapters

    0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    05:38 – If I don't own land already, why should I go with Mitchell?

    06:58 – Reference: Purchasing Land 101 episode

    09:01 – What areas do you build in?

    12:19 – What should buyers be paying attention to when comparing on your lot builders in the market?

    17:39 – Do you sell land?

    22:10 – Do you help with deed transfer?
    22:33 – Are you a modular builder? (or stick-built/custom builder?)
    24:38 – What is the average all-in cost?

    25:56 – Reference: Customer Responsibilities episode

    33:43 – What is included? What does the price cover?
    36:42 – Are wells and septic included? / Does the price online include well and septic? / In a scenario where water and sewer connections are needed to public sources, who holds responsibility for connection?
    42:01 – Can you do pools?
    44:07 – Do you do sidewalks? Paved driveways?
    44:34 – Are your homes customizable? / Can I customize my home?
    53:11 – How much can we customize our floor plan?

    54:53 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    55:25 – Can we add an in-law suite?
    56:23 – Do you do duplexes or barndominiums?
    57:40 – What options do you have for age-in-place needs or disability accommodations?
    58:32 – Can I purchase my refrigerator, washer and dryer along with the other appliances?
    1:00:06 – Can we supply appliances, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, etc.? If we supply, would Mitchell Homes install?
    1:05:20 – Are you able to work with HOAs & HOA requirements? Is it going to cost me more to build HOA compliant?
    1:09:40 – What is the build process? How long does it take to build?

    1:11:15 – Reference: Homebuyer Roadmap to Success episode

    1:11:29 – Where do buyers usually get surprised in the build process? What part of building on your own land do people underestimate the most?

    1:15:33 – What am I responsible for in the process? Can you guys just handle everything?

    1:17:14 – Can me/my friend/family member do some of the work? (Finishing/cabinets/flooring)

    1:18:32 – Apply For Trade or Vendor Partner

    1:19:15 – Can we make a change after our plans and colors meeting? What is the late change process?
    1:22:15 – What additional fees are going to pop up in the build process?
    1:27:34 – When will I get final numbers on the cost for everything?
    1:29:37 – If my appraisal comes back short, what are my options?

    1:31:16 – Do you have financing options?

    1:31:35 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode

    1:32:06 – What does my credit score have to be at?
    1:33:17 – Do you have a discount for veterans?
    1:33:51 – If I am buying land, do I still get Simply Mitchell benefits?

    1:34:00 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode

    1:35:53 – Why is your quote to add a basement higher than the other builder I talked to?
    1:41:24 – Do you have model homes we can go tour?

     

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/

     

    Get fast answers to your questions:

    Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 45 min
  • Pre-Settlement Orientation & Warranty

    You've closed. You've moved in. Now what? Most homeowners have no idea what matters in the first year - what to watch, what's covered, and what could cost them down the road.


    In our latest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott, Deven, and special guest, Tontanisha, our Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator walk you how protect your investment and keep your home in top shape. We cover:

    - Resources included in your welcome home folder
    - Your pre-settlement orientation
    - How to submit requests the right way
    - The timing that matters most
    - Real maintenance tips

     

    Tune in, take notes, and stay prepared. This isn't just about building a house - it's about building your legacy with confidence from the beginning. Watch the new episode, available now.

     

    Chapters

    00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    01:05 – Bedrock Beliefs: Integrity & Loyalty

    07:43 – Introducing special guest, Tontanisha Hines, Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator

    09:02 – Today’s topic overview: What to expect during your Pre-Settlement Orientation (POS) and what's included Warranty with every new Mitchell Home built on your land

    16:33 – Timeline of generating and correcting punch list items after your closing day

    22:55 – How our warranty process works - partnership with Quality Builders Warranty and what’s included in your Welcome Home folder

    25:13 – How your warranty is registered, how to submit requests correctly, and turnaround time

    33:30 – What are homeowners submitting at their 90-day vs. 11-month vs. What’s considered emergency repair requests?

    43:18 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner

    42:51 – Water filtration systems process and maintenance tips throughout home

    55:17 – Our recommendations on timing your list submission about 10 months into being settled in your home so you don’t fall behind on the 12-month

    1:00:27 – We build homes that last, with the idea that you’re going to help maintain it with us, so it does last
    1:06:20 – National homebuilder association residential performance guidelines 
    1:09:14 – 1-year workmanship, 2-year limited systems, 10-year structural
    1:15:30 – Deven speaks on the most common structural claim he’s seen over 30 years in the industry 
    1:16:50 – Difference between exterior and interior drains
    1:21:25 – Protection and support from your builder partner, Mitchell Homes - Geo tech reports, over excavation, and more
    1:24:08 – Your provided support & resources
    1:26:00 – Like, subscribe, comment and email us at [email protected] if you want a Mitchell Homies T-shirt! Thanks for joining - see you next time.

     

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/

     

    Get Fast Answers to Your Questions

    Email us: [email protected] 

    Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 27 min
  • Pre-Con, Pre-Drywall & Pivot

    Building on your land is a big deal. And we want you to know, you're not doing it alone. Our newest Behind the Build Podcast episode, Pre-Con, Pre-Drywall & Pivot, is in loving memory of Jerry Thomas and rooted in something we believe in deeply: Proactive Partnership Together.

     

    We've seen the pitfalls and learned the lessons. That's exactly why we created this podcast because we care about your experience. We want it to be enjoyable, clear, and confidence.

     

    In this episode, we walk you through: 

     What happens before you break ground

     Why your pre-con meeting matters

     How to avoid delays

     What late changes really mean for time & money

     What to expect from us and how stay ahead internally every week

     

    We're working towards the same destination and when you watch and listen, you become the expert on your own new home build.

     

    Tune in. Take notes. Let's build your legacy, together.

     

    Chapters

    00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven

    03:11 –Wilmington Design Studio opening soon

    04:40 – Bedrock Beliefs: Clarity & Humility

    09:18 – Today’s topic overview

    12:42 – Pre-construction meeting timing

    14:51 – Internal prep for your pre-con meeting

    18:15 – What happens during the pre-con meeting

    22:07 – MH customization vs other builders

    30:00 – Addendums: what to expect

    36:33 – Included appliances & features

    47:00 – Customer responsibilities

    50:10 – Setting up propane & avoiding delays

    55:35 – Cost Breakdown Worksheet overview

    58:20 – Construction supervisor & app expectations

    1:01:21 – Projected closing + walkthroughs

    1:14:23 – Late changes: timing & cost impact

    1:25:48 – Building a proactive partnership with you

    1:28:55 – In loving memory of Jerry Thomas

     

    Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes

    Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/

    X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/

     

    Get Fast Answers to Your Questions

    Email us: [email protected] 

    Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

    1 hr 33 min
  • Inside the Mitchell Magic
    Behind every home are people guiding the process, shaping the experience, and showing up long before the foundation is poured.

    In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven introduce four of those people—our in-house team members who walk alongside future homeowners every day.

    As the conversation unfolds, a shared belief becomes clear: building isn't just about the house itself. It's about making families feel confident, comfortable, and supported from day one. 

    These are the voices you'll hear first when you reach out. The people helping you design your home around your land, your lifestyle, and your future. The team making sure nothing feels confusing or out of reach—while keeping the process moving forward.

    And when you're ready to take the next step, knowing who's behind you makes all the difference. We invite you to listen in, get to know more of our team, and see why so many homeowners say the experience simply feels different.
     
    Meet them now in the newest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Inside the Mitchell Magic...
    1 hr 7 min
  • Homebuyer Roadmap to Success

    During the holiday season, it's nice to pause, dream a little, and imagine the next chapter of your family's story.


    What makes a house, a home?

    Some might say it's the laugher around the table, the quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, or the memories made with those you love. We agree, but a true home is also a reflection of your life, your story, and the land it stands on.

    At Mitchell Homes, we bring that vision to life. We study your property, understand your daily rhythms, and help you design a home that fits your lifestyle perfectly. "Standard" doesn't exist in our vocabulary because every detail is tailored to you and your land, from footprint to the finishing touches.

     

    In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven reveal our Homebuyer Roadmap to Success: a step-by-step checklist that keeps your new home build flowing smoothly from contract to keys -- giving you clarity, confidence, and control.

     

    PS - We've got a few surprises for you in this episode...

     

    Take a moment for yourself this season. Your dream home is closer than you think with Mitchell Homes by your side...

    1 hr 19 min
  • Mortgage 101

     New Behind the Build Podcast Episode is Live!

    Featuring Special Guest: Chris Cleveland with CrossCountry Mortgage

    In this episode, Scott and Deven sit down with seasoned lender partner Chris Cleveland, who brings over 15 years of mortgage industry experience to the table. Whether you’re buying your first home or just want to better understand the lending process, this episode is packed with practical insights and tips.

    Here’s what we’ll cover:

     

     Start-to-Finish Process

    Learn what it looks like when you team up with our homebuilding experts and a trusted lending partner. You’ll have support from both sides and the tools to ask the right questions from day one.

     

     Mortgage Lending Expectations

    What level of service should you expect from a lender? Chris shares what really matters when choosing the right partner.

     

     Pre-Qualification Tips

    Why getting pre-qualified early can set you up for success and help you make smarter decisions to protect your home investment.

     

     Key Financial Terms Explained:

    • Credit Scores: Why they matter and how they affect your loan options.
    • Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, VA, and more — what’s the right fit for you?
    • Titles & Appraisals: What they are and why they’re critical to the process.
    • Closing Costs: What are they, who pays them, and how can you prepare?

      •  

       Don’t miss this inside look at the lending side of the build on your land home journey.

      1 hr 48 min

    About Behind The Build Podcast

    From the publisher's feed

    Welcome to Behind the Build, the podcast where Scott Sleeme, President, and Deven Sellers, Executive VP of Mitchell Homes, dive into the essential topics you need to know when building a new home on your land. Join Scott and Deven for informal, insightful discussions that cover everything from the initial planning stages to the final touches of your dream home.