Builder vs. Buyer: Recent Episodes
Adam Steiner
The home building process is often an adversarial one. Buyers don't trust their builders and builders are annoyed by their buyers. I'm here to help mediate. Advice and tips for builders to get better happier clients, and advice to buyers to be better informed during their build.
This podcast is brought to you by Adam Steiner, the owner of Birnam Design Co. a full service residential home design firm.
Get in touch - birnamdesign.com/resources Facebook: @birnamdesignco Instagram: @birnamdesignco LinkedIn: Adam Steiner
In this episode of Builder vs. Buyer, host Adam Steiner (Birnam Design Co.) sits down with Don Duncan from L4M Architecture to discuss the distinct roles of architects and drafters, exploring how each contributes to the design process. They also dive into the key differences between commercial and residential design, offering insights into what sets these two worlds apart. Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or design enthusiast, this episode breaks down the nuances of architectural design, helping you understand which professionals are right for your next project.
Welcome to Builder vs Buyer, the podcast where Adam Steiner, owner of Birnam Design Co, dives deep into the world of home building and design. In this episode, Adam is joined by Dan Kolbert, an experienced builder and co-author of the influential building science book Pretty Good House.Together, they explore the principles behind creating homes that balance efficiency, comfort, and sustainability without breaking the bank. Dan shares insights from his book, highlighting practical approaches to building better homes that prioritize smart design over excessive complexity.Whether you're a builder, buyer, or simply curious about sustainable home design, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to create spaces that are both functional and environmentally friendly. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with expert advice, real-world examples, and a shared passion for improving the places we call home.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Mary Marshall Forrest, President of the FPG Group, as we delve into the world of sales training in home building. In this engaging interview, Mary shares her wealth of experience and knowledge, offering invaluable insights into how home builders can optimize their sales teams for success.Discover the strategies and techniques that can transform a sales team from good to exceptional, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive home building market. Mary discusses the importance of continuous training, effective communication, and understanding the unique needs of home buyers.Furthermore, Mary sheds light on how home buyers can navigate the sales process with confidence, providing practical tips on assessing whether a sales team has their best interests at heart. Learn how to recognize authenticity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction when engaging with home builders' sales representatives.Whether you're a home builder seeking to enhance your sales team's performance or a prospective home buyer looking for guidance in navigating the purchasing journey, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you achieve your goals. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how trust and expertise shape the dynamics of sales in the home building industry.
Do your subs like your builder? How do you even know, how can you tell? We dive into that and much more in today's episode. I'm joined again by special guest Joe Drew of Marathon Craftsmen. Enjoy!
Welcome to "Builder vs. Buyer," the podcast where we break ground on the intricate world of home construction. I'm your host, Adam Steiner, and in each episode, we delve deep into the dynamic relationship between builders and buyers, exploring the nuances that define the construction process.In this episode, I sit down with Joe Drew, a seasoned carpenter, to unravel the mysteries surrounding office to field communication in home building. Together, we navigate the challenges and triumphs of bridging the gap between the planning desk and the construction site.From discussing cutting-edge technologies to time-tested strategies, "Builder vs. Buyer" is your go-to source for insights into the evolving landscape of home construction. Join us as we uncover the keys to effective communication in the field, providing both builders and buyers with the knowledge they need to turn dreams into structures.Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or a homeowner embarking on the journey of building your dream home, "Builder vs. Buyer" is here to demystify the construction process, one episode at a time. Tune in and discover the blueprints for success in the ever-evolving world of home building.
Join us on an insightful journey into the world of home design and construction with Abbe Murray of Murray Design Company and Zach Smith of Smith Mountain Builders. In this engaging podcast, we delve deep into the intricacies of the home building process, discussing the artistry, challenges, and innovation behind a recent project. From initial concepts and design inspirations to the hands-on construction phase, Abbe and Zach share their expertise, stories, and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a homeowner, design enthusiast, or industry professional, this conversation offers a valuable glimpse into the collaborative and creative process of bringing a dream home to life. Tune in for an enriching discussion that unveils the magic behind the walls and beyond the blueprints.
In this episode, join us on an exciting journey through the world of home construction as we unravel the intricacies of different builder types. Explore the fascinating spectrum that spans from mass-produced marvels to tailor-made dwellings. We'll dive deep into the distinct qualities of production, semi-custom, and custom builders, shedding light on their unique approaches, design philosophies, and the artistry behind each creation. Whether you're a curious homeowner, a prospective buyer, or simply intrigued by the art of building, this episode will ignite your passion and inspire you to envision your dream home like never before.
Today I go over the biggest changes I've seen in floor plan trends as well as answer listener questions from TikTok. Enjoy!
I recently spoke with Michael Maines of Maines Design and Co-Author of Pretty Good House. We talk high performance homes, cost in design and our shared background as engineers turned designers. Enjoy!
Another live Q&A from the tiktoks! Great discussion today - 4 new floor plan features I'm loving - why are all the floor plans basically the same 5 designs and more!
Today I talk about common floor plan mistakes I saw from reviewing twenty some plans last month. Additionally I take some questions from TikTok and fun was had by all.
In today's episode I get to chat with Dory Azar, residential Architect. We talk all things design process - enjoy!
Today I break down the most common hidden site costs I've encountered. Go in to a lot purchase with eyes wide open.
Today's live show was a fun one. Talked some open floor plan layout options, including ceiling height choices, window settings and more.
Interesting bunch of questions from the show this week. It was a fun one - check it out. And hey, thanks for listening. Gold star!
Glenn Mathewson from BuildingCodeCollege.com joins me today to talk about the code process and nuances that builders and buyers need to know.
Today I'm joined by Matt Feigin of Design Tech Homes. They have an amazing history of on-your-lot building and Matt shares some of the strategies they've used to get there.
Another live Q&A from the socials, along with some explanation behind the most common types of framing systems.
On the live show we talked what I look for in a floor plan, how do you get trades to show up quicker on your site and more questions from the listeners. Enjoy!
Today I was joined by Travis Howard from @BuiltByTravis on TikTok. We had a great discussion into the process he went through to start building new homes!
In this recording of the live stream, I talk change orders and why everyone hates them. As well as other home design tips.
Another live Q&A from with my friends on TikTok. Plenty of great info on todays show. Plus a new special offering from Birnam Design Co!
Today on the live Q&A I go over listener questions including when to start planning for your new home build!
Live Q&A with home design and floor plan tips. I discuss whether or not it's wise to purchase an online floor plan. Why would a contractor push upgrades on you and answer live questions from TikTok. Subscribe for more!
Matt joins me today to talk about his awesome job of teaching a high school shop class where they actually build a real house! Such an awesome story and so cool to see how many professionals are willing to jump in and help with something like this. Get in touch with Matt on Instagram @build_learn_teach
In this episode I recap a few key points that stuck out to me from the 2022 International Builder's show, specifically regarding high performance design.
In this week's episode I answer listener questions live from TikTok. We talk about home additions, Zip System, slab on grade homes and more. For more updates follow along on instagram and tiktok @birnamdesignco
Dennis Comstock from Builder Brigade joins me to discuss the building process, how to pick a builder and the ultimate home building checklist. Check it out!
Lance and I talk home design, bidding projects, home building, architecture vs. engineering and more! Listen in!
Podcast is back baby! Today's episode is a live Q&A from TikTok, Facebook & YouTube. We cover some remodeling tips, home value, design process and more. Enjoy!
Jeff Borle is a pure master at project management. Today he shares some of his insights on the industry. It's a must listen for anyone getting into the industry. Check Jeff out on Instagram @sitesupjeff and his company @kennect_building_and_design out of central Alberta.
Ok, let's talk some about why a builder doesn't like to let you, or your brother-in-law...or your aunt supply or install something to your new home.
Today I speak with Byron Brooks of Brookwright Developments. An all around awesome human and great building mind. We discuss how to grow the builder-client relationship through helpful skills like empathy. Also, a few notes about building as a service based business.
Today I have a chat with Katie Elfstrom about one of my favorite events for housing, the Twin Cities parade of homes. Katie is the Director of Communications for Housing First Minnesota and has some great insights to share on hitting the tour!
Yup, you heard right! Today I'm joined by none other than Lance Cayko and Alex Gore of F9 Productions. They have released a course on architects learning the trade of building. In today's episode we discuss the joys and stresses of building, and how to start in the trade. Their course can be found at architectsguideto.com or check out their firm at f9proudctions.com.
Sticking to a budget can be really tough in a custom design. Here's 15 minutes of quick tips for your next build.
Bonus episode for you this week! My buddy Greg Wiley is starting his own podcast. I'm so excited for him to start releasing episodes on the architecture, engineering and construction industry. Enjoy! Check out his podcast Engitecture on Apple or Spotify.
Today I am joined by my sister, Megan Heckard, sales agent extraordinaire from Steiner Homes. Additionally, she is an extremely gracious host and great entertainer. We talk plan and feature details if you're designing a home with hosting guests in mind. Check out Steiner Homes LTD. on facebook or at www.steinerhomesltd.com
Today's podcast I give a few of my top tips to design a great home around your beloved family pet. Ok, not all pets. I honestly haven't included any design feature for an animal other than a dog or cat. So today's episode focuses on those two. Listen in!
Today's episode is the launch of a new mini-series, Designing for Real Life. I'm going to break down things I've seen in floor plans and designs over the years. Today I talk about home offices. In the midst of the pandemic most of us have had a taste of working from home. If that trend continues, here are some helpful things to think about when drawing up your future home. I review where to locate the office, sound proofing, STC ratings, window placement and more.
In today's episode I break down some things to look out for in winter construction. Plus a few bonus notes on concrete and cement.
This being my last podcast of 2020, I'm almost exactly one year into my business. Today's episode is a recap of the top 5 things I learned.
Today Steven Baczek joins me for the podcast! One of the foremost minds on building science in the country, he shares his knowledge and insight into the home building world. You do not want to miss this one!
Dave Pollard, AIA LEED AP is an architect, builder, and co-founder of Liv Companies; a full service residential design-build company in the Chicago suburbs. Dave has worked for several high profile Chicago firms such as Goettsch Partners, and David Hovey’s Architect-led development company, Optima Inc, honing his skills to better understand how to make the process of design more efficient, and therefore more accessible.
Dave started LivCo in 2012 in an effort to provide quality design to suburban homeowners, but with some twists to the traditional architectural services model. Following on the heels of his graduate thesis work stating “to make architecture more accessible, it’s time we stop trying to re-design the building systems, and architects lead the charge in re-thinking the design systems.” This evolved into a design-build model which allows simplified deliverables and a fully integrated and accountable team to deliver “the project”.
LivCo has won numerous awards including fourteen Chicago Remodeling Excellence Awards, four regional remodeling excellence awards, Home of the Year Award, Contractor of the Year Award, five consecutive years Houzz Best in Service, Remodeling Big50, and in 2018, Dave was on ProRemodelers 40 under 40 list.
A home building contract can be a scary beast. I take the episode to break down 12 commonly misunderstood items from contracts. Let's uncover the mystery together.
Today I break down software and hardware needs for home builders. Reviews of common software like BuilderTrend, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Excel and more. Additionally, I dig into hardware needs, Mac vs. PC vs. tablets.
Today I review how to set an elevation for a future build. Also, what to look out for in buying a lot and why some lots cannot be changed from walkouts to lookouts, etc.
Today's episode wraps up the series on energy efficiency. I take a look into plumbing fixtures like faucets, toilets and water heaters. Additionally, a couple quick tips on electrical features. Follow the podcast for more.
In today's episode I circle back to my series on energy efficiency in a home. This episode is dedicated to wall systems, insulation, air barriers and more.
For many small business owners (which is most of us in the construction industry) the financial side can be a big scary beast that's drastically underfed. Megan Dahle in a master when it comes to financials. She joins me on the podcast to discuss strategies and tips for small businesses in the construction industry to take control of their numbers.
Get in touch with Megan through her website: megandahle.com
William Denzer has been in the industry over 21 years and currently runs his Minnesota based company, Home Media Innovations. They specialize in tech and low voltage for new builds. William is a great resource when it comes to that and shares his insights with us on today's podcast. Listen up!
If you're building in the twin cities area, check him out at hmiav.com
In today's episode I take a look into the world of Accessory Dwelling Units (or ADU's) with Ben Norkin. These units are becoming very popular in certain markets and may be in your market soon. Ben and I discuss what you need to know and the best things to look for if you're thinking of building one.
Ben is the owner of Ben Norkin Architecture and a fantastic training and development hub, Hyperfine Architecture. Check him out at his websites below.
https://bennorkinarchitecture.com/ https://hyperfinearchitecture.com/
Bryon McCartney is Chief Idea Guy at Archmark a company focused on branding and marketing for the architecture, engineering and construction industries. In today's episode he shares his knowledge to help out home builders with the web presence. Where should you spend your time in regards to social platforms? What's messaging and how should I use it? Listen for more.
Bryon McCartney can be found on LinkedIn at brilliantbryon.com His company, Archmark can be found here: https://www.archmark.co/
Charlie Scott is a giant in the industry, he's spent years as an owner of a home building company and one of the industry’s original customer satisfaction, consulting and referral sales generation firms. He's been inducted to the National Housing Quality Hall of Fame. He was generous enough to share his knowledge base with us, specifically on how to respond to customer satisfaction surveys and how they drive sales.
Trigger warning here, we're diving into the tenuous relationship between builders and realtors. And I wrap up with my thoughts on whether or not you need a realtor in your new construction build.
Back to my mini-series on energy efficiency. Today I tackle the mechanical system of HVAC as well as some thoughts on de-humidification and whole house ventilation.
Fantastic interview with a rockstar in the industry, Lance Cayko. Lance joined me today to share in insight into the city plan review process. We explore that as well as how to develop and maintain a great working relationship with your municipality.
You can reach Lance on LinkedIn - Lance Cayko Listen to their podcast - Inside the Firm Follow along on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/F9ProductionsInc/
This is the start to a mini-series on energy efficiency. Today's episode is on windows, the features and details you need to know when buying them for a high performance home.
On today's episode my thoughts on when to involve a builder and architect in your project. Additionally, how it can save you money when you build.
Today I discuss building code minimums and what you need to know. How to navigate the pros and cons of some of the minimums and more.
Have a question for the show? Contact me at the following, Instagram: @birnamdesignco Facebook: @birnamdesignco LinkedIn: Adam Steiner
In today's episode I interview Steven Frosch, VP of Construction for Kootenia Homes and Michael Lee Homes. We dive into some of the new features they have on their homes, as well as what to look for in the upcoming fall parade.
Check out their websites here: https://kooteniahomes.com/ https://www.michaelleeinc.com/
Ever have issues getting developer or architectural approval for your new build? Today I walk through everything I've learned over the years in how to navigate this tricky process.
I have the joy of bringing my Dad, Dan Steiner, on the podcast! I got my start in the industry through him. It was great to go back to the beginning and talk through building a company in those early days. We hit on site review, early marketing for a building company and more.
Check out Steiner Homes www.steinerhomesltd.com Facebook: @steinerhomesltd Instagram: @steinerhomesltd
In today's episode I break down a few highlights from the first couple homes I walked during the Twin Cities Luxury Home Tour. Listen for some insights to what's coming next to Midwest home trends! More coming soon.
Today I got together with my sister, Molly Young! She and her family are starting the home building journey. This episode we dive in to the common questions and insights regarding the early steps in the process.
You can find Molly's photography on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mollykatephotographyatx/
Today I talk about my three most memorable design mistakes and what I learned from them. If you've ever screwed up royally in your job, this is the podcast for you!
Let me know what your biggest mistake was.
Instagram: @birnamdesignco Facebook: facebook.com/birnamdesignco LinkedIn: Adam Steiner, Birnam Design
Today I review another home building horror story. This one is centered around delays. Delays are much more about avoiding them than they are remedying them. I review the best ways to avoid them. If you are in the unfortunate situation what's the best thing to do about it.
Bring calm to the craziness of your build and figure out everything before you start. It's hard to do and even harder to implement, but it's possible. Finalizing selections in a timely manner can be the key to unlocking a happy, fun and profitable build process. Check it out.
Carol Smith is a consultant in client relations, specially relating to the home building industry. She has such a wealth of knowledge and she shares her thoughts on helping builders get a better relationship with their clients.
Get in touch with Carol here: https://www.cjsmithhomeaddress.com/
Today I walk through the biggest design failures I see when clients bring me hand drawn plans. For people drawing their own home, novice architects and designers this is an episode for you! I discuss a few tips to help you design your dream home.
Also, be sure and check out my Room Sizing Design Guide here: www.birnamdesign.com/resources
In today's episode I hit on a few of the biggest do's and don'ts when designing market ready housing. How to think through the structure, and what little items you need to make sure and include to sell your homes.
Part 2 of my interview with Jon Ackley-Jelinek of Third Coast Design Co. More great info on our process and what to expect when starting a custom design.
Jon can be found at @_thirdcoastdesignco on Instagram.
Today's podcast is the start of a two part mini-series. I talked with Jon Ackley-Jelinek, owner of Third Coast Design Co. and we brought you inside our custom design process. We cover what steps we take, how long the process should be and when you should start with your designer or architect.
Jon can be found at @_thirdcoastdesignco on Instagram.
In today's episode I take another deep dive with my friend and civil engineer Matt Gavelek. He was a former septic regulator and has some extremely helpful advice for anyone looking to build or buy on land that doesn't have access to a public sewer system.
Nerd Alert. This is a deep dive into the world of floodwater and what you need to know before buying a piece of land. A must listen for developers and home buyers. Thanks to Matt Gavelek for joining me!
Part 2 of the Ultimate Lot Selection Checklist! Today I discuss the items you should confirm before buying a piece of land within a subdivision. I review recorded plats, grading plans, covenants and more.
Go to www.birnamdesign.com/resources for the checklist.
Today's episode is a meat and potatoes deep dive into resources to check before buying a lot. I touch on setbacks, easements, flood plains, wetlands & more. If you want to download the checklist, you can find it here: www.birnamdesign.com/resources
On today's episode I interviewed Tom Goodnature, Sales Manager at M/I Homes in the Twin Cities. We discussed the why's behind setting expectations and what it can do for your sales numbers.
The final installment of the 3-part series on what to expect when you're building. This episode breaks down the custom build track, selecting an architect & builder. Stay tuned for more deep dives into designing a custom home and selecting a lot!
In today's episode I break down the wild world of semi-custom builders. What you can expect as far as changes, process and selections.
In today's episode I break down the process of a typical production builder. What you can expect as far as communication goes, process and timeline. I also give some advice on whether or not a production build is right for you.
In today's episode I break down a home building horror story relating to allowances. Allowances can be tricky. This podcast I discuss how to help your clients by anchoring your allowance numbers, as well as advice to clients on digging into their numbers better. If you have your own horror story send a message to Birnam Design Co. on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.
In this episode I tackle questions to ask your builder. Key tips and tricks to finding the right home builder for your next project. Plus a quick break down on the pros and cons of production vs. semi-custom vs. custom builders.
Special thanks to Andrew Michael Meador for the intro music. www.AndrewMichaelMeador.com
My life's mission: to help builders and home buyers come together and live in peace and harmony. This podcast will be advice and tips to both builders and buyers to help them see the whole process better.