Homeowners
Building Your Home and Future
Why Gordon Lumber
Custom Service for Your Build
Answers and efficiency. That’s what Gordon Lumber provides before, during and after your project.
You can count on our team to create custom solutions for your new construction or renovations. We can also help you find local builders who can get your project done right.
What You Need to Know
The Basics
Our team needs to gather information about your vision so we can meet your expectations. We consider who your builder is, the scope of your project, timeline and when you need your supplies.
The Design
We take your concepts and work them into our design software. The software creates a 3D rendering of your home construction project to address potential issues before construction and optimize material usage, reducing construction expenses.
The Logistics
A hands-on approach to building your dream home requires our team to work closely with you and your builder. We communicate regularly with the construction crew, electricians, plumbers and other workers to coordinate product delivery and keep your build on track.
Questions to Start the Process
Gordon Lumber has working relationships with regional builders and architects. We can recommend builders to suit your needs, so contact our team to start the discussion.
We need to know the design of your project, your budget and your selections for aesthetic purposes. It’s best to provide a rough timeline and the name of your builder or architect so we can understand your schedule.
You’ll need to account for the cost of building materials, labor, property expenses and building permits. Once you’ve selected your build site, you’ll have to budget for site prep, grading and trenching for utility lines. Water, gas and electric utilities will need to be paid as well.
Construction expenses include laying the foundation, framing, installing major systems like HVAC, electric and plumbing, and interior and exterior finishes. Landscaping and driveway installation are other potential items to add to your budget.
Your builder may require rental tools and equipment that need additional extension cords and storage space. Allowance overages should be taken into account for any project because it’s not unusual to go over budget.
That depends on where you build, the size of your home, the contractor expenses and the build materials.
It’s important to talk to your builder about which expenses are covered by your loan and which are considered out-of-pocket expenses. Your contractor should explain everything that your home loan will cover. That usually includes major systems, foundation work, finishes and labor.
Site prep and work done outside of the structure can increase out-of-pocket expenses. Closing costs and interest payments aren’t usually included in a loan either.
A vendor, supplier or subcontractor only files a lien if their services are completed and they haven’t received payment. Your title company will not release funds for your build until that individual is compensated. You should receive a notice of furnishing from your vendor indicating they’ve filed a lien and have a right to be paid. In Ohio, a vendor has 75 days from their last day of work to file a lien; Michigan lien laws require 90 days to pass.
Ask your builder about the average cost per square foot of your project, which will vary depending on the type and brand of building materials. It’s also important to discuss potential problems and delays, such as power outages, weather and material availability. Don’t shy away from asking about job site upkeep and general work behavior. Your builder should be able to walk you through the entire process so you feel confident about your project.