The Insider's Guide to Custom Homes

What actually happens behind the scenes once you choose a custom home builder? And more importantly, who is really responsible for bringing your vision to life without costly missteps or delays?In this episode, host Rick Bell pulls back the curtain on what separates a loosely run operation from a disciplined, high-performing custom home building team—and why understanding this early can save you stress, time, and money.Rick breaks down the structure, roles, and communication standards that drive successful custom home projects at Landmark Custom Homes, sharing lessons shaped by 40-years of real-world experience in custom home building.  If you’re interviewing builders or preparing to build, this episode will help you ask smarter questions and set clearer expectations from day one.👉 Tune in, subscribe, and learn how to build your home the Landmark way. Episode Highlights•       What makes a custom home building team truly effective — and why structure matters•       How project management, supervision, and accounting work together to keep builds on track•       Why experience and specialization outperform the “one-person builder” model•       How communication, documentation, and change orders should be handled transparently•       What questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a builder Glossary of TermsProject Management (PM) – Oversees design coordination, budgeting, and client communication from pre-construction through completion.Superintendent – Manages day-to-day construction activities, scheduling, quality control, and site safety.PX (Project Executive) – Senior leader who removes roadblocks, aligns teams, and ensures project health.Change Order – A formal modification to the budget, scope, or schedule.Pay Requisition – A formal request for payment outlining completed work and approved costs. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Custom home builds rarely unravel all at once — it’s often small moments of misalignment that quietly create stress. A delayed timeline, unmet expectations, or communication gaps can leave homeowners feeling uncertain about how to move forward.This episode speaks to homeowners who sense something isn’t quite aligned during their build and are looking for clarity — particularly when expectations around price, quality, and timeline begin to pull in different directions.Using a real client experience, we explore what happens when expectations collide — and how thoughtful communication and patience can help restore alignment and momentum.If this conversation proves useful, you may wish to share it with someone navigating a similar experience. Please leave a review to help others approach the custom home building process with greater clarity and confidence. Episode Highlights•       What can cause expectations to collide during a custom home build•       Why misalignment around price, quality, and timeline is more common than most homeowners expect•       How unresolved concerns can escalate when communication breaks down•       Why addressing issues early is more effective than relying on contractual or legal remedies•       How patience and open dialogue can help restore trust and project momentum Glossary of TermsProject Timeline – The agreed schedule outlining construction phases and milestonesSelections – Homeowner’s material and finish choices.Change Orders – Formal change to budget, scope, or schedule.Litigation – Legal action taken to resolve disputes, often costly and disruptive for all parties  Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Self-performed work is one of the most misunderstood aspects of custom home building — and when handled correctly, it can actually protect your budget, timeline, and peace of mind.In this episode, we break down what self-performed work really means, why it’s often misunderstood, and how it can either protect or jeopardize your project depending on how it’s handled. If you’re concerned about transparency, cost control, or accountability, this conversation brings much-needed clarity.We walk through when self-performed work makes sense, when it doesn’t, how it’s priced, and what homeowners should be asking before construction begins. Tune in to learn how informed decisions lead to smoother builds and better outcomes.👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone planning a custom home. Episode Highlights•       What self-performed work actually means — and common misconceptions around it•       Why builders self-perform certain trades like shell, framing, or drywall•       How self-performed work is priced under cost-plus vs. competitive bid models•       When self-performing reduces risk, delays, and coordination issues•       What homeowners should ask to ensure transparency and accountability Glossary of TermsSelf-Performed Work – Work completed by a builder’s in-house team rather than outsourced subcontractorsCost-Plus – A pricing structure where actual costs are billed plus an agreed feeCritical Path – The sequence of tasks that directly impacts the construction timelineChange Order – A formal adjustment to scope, cost, or scheduleMarkup – Compensation covering overhead, risk, and profit General Contractor (GC) – The main contractor responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a construction project. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Luxury design isn’t just about finishes — it’s about creating emotional harmony the moment you walk through the door. In this episode, Rick Bell sits down with Goli Basiri, co-founder and principal designer of Harmen Design, to explore how thoughtful interior architecture, intuitive discovery, and purposeful design transform a home into a deeply personal living experience. Together, they discuss common design challenges and how early collaboration leads to a more aligned, seamless process.Goli also shares her journey from physics to international award-winning designer, and how she uses technology, creativity, and architectural insight to help clients experience their future home long before it’s built.➡️ Listen now and discover how to create a home that feels as exceptional as it looks — and share this episode with someone designing their dream space.Episode Highlights•       How Goli blends science, architecture, and emotion to create harmonious homes•       What homeowners can do early to avoid rework and costly design changes•       Why some beautifully built homes still feel empty—and how design restores soul•       How 3D walkthrough technology transforms client understanding•       What winning a global SBID Award means for Harmen Design’s evolution Glossary of TermsEnscape: A real-time 3D walkthrough tool that lets clients virtually experience their home’s layout, finishes, and lighting before it’s built.Color Temperature (Kelvin): The warmth or coolness of light that designers use to influence mood, from soft evening ambience to bright task lighting.Interior Architecture: The structural interior framework — like millwork, lighting layouts, and spatial flow—that shapes how a home functions and feels. Explore Goli Basiri’s award-winning projects and design philosophy:Website: https://harmendesign.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/harmen.design Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

What does it take to lead one of the world’s top luxury interior design firms for nearly 40 years?  In this episode, host Rick Bell welcomes Jason Lynn, Partner and Vice President at The Decorators Unlimited, to explore the art of design, leadership, and legacy in a fast-evolving industry.Jason shares his inspiring journey from U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer to global design executive — and how structure, teamwork, and mentorship have shaped the firm’s signature “white-glove” approach. Together, Rick and Jason dive into what makes The Decorators Unlimited a name synonymous with timeless design, precision, and passion, delivering seamless client experiences from blueprint to final reveal.Whether you’re building a dream home or reimagining your space, this conversation reveals how communication, innovation, and craftsmanship come together to create homes that feel as extraordinary as they look.🎧 If you’re dreaming of a home that reflects who you are and how you live, tune in and discover how thoughtful design can turn vision into reality.  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!Episode HighlightsHow Jason’s Coast Guard discipline shaped his design leadershipWhat drives The Decorators Unlimited’s 40-year legacy of excellenceThe power of teamwork, mentorship, and communication in luxury designHow technology and innovation redefine the client experienceWhat it means to create truly timeless interiors Discover more of Jason’s projects:The Decorators Unlimited: https://decoratorsunlimited.comSchematic Designs: https://schematicdesigns.comGlossary of Terms CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Software programs such as AutoCAD and Revit that allow for precise 2D and 3D design of buildings.Renderings: 3D digital visualizations that bring designs to life before construction. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Designing a custom home should feel exciting — but for many homeowners, it quickly becomes overwhelming once hundreds of decisions, finishes, and layouts enter the picture.In this episode, Rick Bell sits down with award-winning interior designer Jennifer Fitzpatrick, founder and principal of Studio J & Co, to bring clarity to the entire process.They unpack Jennifer’s journey from working solo during the early days of COVID to leading a thriving 10-person design team known for sophisticated, hospitality-level designs and photorealistic renderings.🎧 Ready to build a home that feels as good as it looks?Hit play — and don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share the show to support the podcast. Episode Highlights Studio J & Co’s growth from a solo venture to a 10-person luxury design studio How early collaboration between architect, builder, and designer keeps projects cohesive Turning inspiration into reality — concept boards, technical drawings, photorealistic renderings, and built spaces Blending modern Miami aesthetics with warmth and durability for livable luxury Key differences between decorators and licensed interior designers in large custom projects Design trends shaping high-end residential and commercial spaces across Miami, New York, and beyondExplore more of Jennifer's work:Studio J & Co. – https://www.studiojandco.comGlossary of Terms Rendering: A photorealistic, digital visualization that shows clients exactly what a room will look like before it’s built.Technical Drawings: 2D architectural drawings showing dimensions, elevations, lighting, electrical, and all the construction details neededShop Drawings: Highly detailed drawings produced by fabricators (like cabinet makers or millworkers) based on the designer’s technical plans.Maximalism: A design trend focused on layering rich textures, bold materials, and standout statement pieces to create a curated, luxurious look.Design to Budget: A collaborative process ensuring that the homeowner’s vision aligns with a realistic investment Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

In this engaging conversation, award-winning interior designer Perla Lichi shares her journey from her early days as 'Purple Perla' to crafting opulent spaces worldwide. She discusses the essence of luxury—emphasizing texture, materials, and personal style. Perla reveals her unique methods of understanding clients through astrology and body language while highlighting the importance of collaboration with builders and architects. She also dives into current design trends and her innovative approach to creating harmonious, move-in-ready homes.

You’ve probably walked into a beautiful home that somehow just feels right — balanced, warm, and personal. That kind of magic doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of thoughtful collaboration between architect, builder, and interior designer, working together to bring structure and soul into harmony. As a custom home builder with over 40 years of experience, host Rick Bell has seen how the right interior designer can completely transform a project — and how the wrong choice can create unnecessary stress and compromise your vision. In this episode, Rick shares what to look for, what to expect, and how to choose a designer who truly understands your style and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of your first custom home or already working with a design team, this episode will help you make informed decisions that ensure your space feels as good as it looks. 🎯 Tune in and discover how to build your masterpiece beautifully, intentionally, and the Landmark way.Highlights: The real difference between a decorator and an interior designerHow a designer shapes every detail of your home’s look and feelWhat questions to ask before hiring a designerHow pricing structures and retainers typically workWhy collaboration between builder, architect, and designer matters mostGlossary of Terms Decorator – A professional who focuses on aesthetics such as color, furniture, and finishes, but typically without formal training in spatial design or construction.Interior Designer – A trained and certified professional who plans and executes the functional and aesthetic layout of interior spaces, often coordinating directly with architects and builders.ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) – A leading professional organization for interior designers that upholds design standards, ethics, and continuing education in the field.Retainer – An upfront fee paid to secure a designer’s commitment to a project, ensuring availability and prioritization through completion.Finishes – The visible materials and textures in a home, such as flooring, tile, paint, and hardware, that define its look and feel. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Ever wondered why so many custom home projects go over budget — even with careful planning?When building a luxury home, the smallest decisions can have the biggest impact. From appliances to cabinetry, every choice shapes not just the look of your home, but the final cost as well.In this episode of The Insider's Guide to Custom Homes, Rick Bell explains the vital role of selections and allowances — two tools that help homeowners stay organized, avoid costly surprises, and keep their dream build on track.Rick shares real-world stories from Landmark Custom Homes projects, showing how the right approach to selections can save thousands while still delivering the beauty and quality every homeowner expects.Whether you're just starting your design journey or deep into the build, this episode will help you make confident, informed choices that align your vision with your budget.Tune in to learn how to plan smarter, spend wiser, and build beautifully — the Landmark way. What You’ll LearnWhat "selections and allowances" really mean in a custom home buildHow these tools help you control costs and reduce stressThe real-life $40,000 lesson every homeowner can learn fromWhy timing your selections keeps your build on scheduleHow to make design upgrades without breaking your budget Glossary of TermsSelections: The individual design choices homeowners make during a custom home build — including finishes, fixtures, appliances, and materials.Allowances: Pre-set budget amounts assigned to specific categories (like cabinets, flooring, or lighting) to help manage spending during construction.Selection Schedule: A timeline outlining when each decision must be made to keep the project moving efficiently. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

In this episode, Rick Bell dives into one of the most powerful — but often underappreciated — tools in custom homebuilding: the mockup. Whether built in the field or experienced virtually, mockups help owners, architects, and builders test details, refine designs, and avoid costly mistakes before full-scale construction begins. From unique roof overhangs to stone transitions and virtual walk-throughs, Rick explains how mockups bring creative visions to life while protecting budgets, schedules, and peace of mind. What You’ll Learn Why physical mockups are critical for testing bespoke architectural details. Real-world examples of mockups that revealed design and construction challenges. The rise of virtual mockups and VR walk-throughs, using tools like Revit, Twinmotion, Lumion, Unreal Engine, and Meta Quest headsets. How technology helps owners visualize finishes, lighting, and spatial flow—reducing decision fatigue and avoiding expensive changes later. The future of mockups, including AI-driven design combinations and immersive simulations. Glossary of TermsMockup – A small-scale or partial construction model used to test architectural details, materials, and systemsOil Canning – A visible waviness or rippling effect that occurs in flat metal panels, often seen in roofing or siding. Reglet – A small, often metal channel or groove used to create clean transitions between dissimilar materials such as stone, stucco, or roofing. Cumaru – Also known as Brazilian teak, a dense, durable hardwood often used for exterior decking and cladding. Ashlar Pattern – A masonry layout in which stones are cut into uniform shapes and set in horizontal courses for a clean, structured appearance. Field Mockup – A physical section of a wall, roof, or detail built on-site to test materials, finishes, or construction methods. Virtual Mockup – A digital 3D model of a home that allows owners and designers to preview materials, layouts, and lighting conditions VR Walk-Through – An immersive experience using virtual reality headsets that lets owners explore their future home in a realistic environment.  Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCHConnect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigtchpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...