The Insider's Guide to Custom Homes

What would Leonardo da Vinci think if he stepped into the world of modern homebuilding?In this special episode of The Insider’s Guide to Custom Homes, Rick Bell explores the evolution of design and construction through a unique, AI-powered conversation with the Renaissance master.This imaginative discussion bridges the gap between the past and the present, highlighting how tools and techniques have advanced—from parchment sketches and drafting tables to CAD software, 3D modeling, 3D printing, robotics, and smart home automation.Leonardo’s reflections underscore that while technology changes, the fundamentals of symmetry, proportion, and imagination remain central to great design.What You’ll Learn• How design tools advanced from parchment and drafting tables to CAD software and immersive 3D modeling• Why Renaissance principles of symmetry and proportion continue to guide modern design• How 3D printing is changing the way homes are built, layer by layer• The growing role of robotics, drones, and automation in construction projects• How artificial intelligence is being used to generate designs, predict needs, and optimize planning• The ways smart home technology is reshaping comfort, efficiency, and daily living• Why innovation in construction is always tied to imagination and human creativity• How looking back at history can help us understand where homebuilding is headedGlossary of TermsDrafting Tools – Early instruments such as parchment, quills, and later mechanical pencils, used to create architectural drawings.CAD (Computer-Aided Design) – Software programs such as AutoCAD and Revit that allow for precise 2D and 3D design of buildings.3D Printing (Construction) – The process of constructing homes by extruding concrete in layers with large-scale printers.Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Technology that assists in design, flaw detection, and predictive planning in architecture and construction.Smart Home – A residence equipped with systems that automate lighting, climate, appliances, and security through digital or voice control.Building Automation – The use of robotics, drones, and other technologies to streamline and improve construction processes. Resources & Links- Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com/Connect With Rick- Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark/

In this episode, Rick Bell explains how to handle Change Orders in the custom home building process. He covers the importance of documenting changes clearly, types of changes that typically occur, and how those changes are priced, approved, and incorporated into the build. Using real-world examples, Rick explores Owner-Directed Changes, Government Requirements, Errors and Omissions, Unforeseen Conditions, and Allowance Adjustments. The episode emphasizes the role of contingencies and the importance of transparent communication.What You’ll Learn·       What a Change Order is — and when it's needed during construction·       How Owner-Directed Changes are identified, priced, and implemented·       The difference between minor and major changes and how they affect the schedule·       The three other common types of changes: Government Requirements, Errors and Omissions, and Unforeseen Conditions·       How contingencies and allowances are used to manage budget impact·       Why clear documentation and communication of changes is essential for a successful buildGlossary of TermsChange Order: A formal amendment to the construction contract to account for changes in scope, cost, or time.Owner-Directed Change: A change initiated by the homeowner after construction has begun.Contingency: A reserve fund included in the budget to cover unexpected costs or changes.Allowance: A placeholder budget for selections that have not been finalized at the time of contract signing.Errors and Omissions: Items left off or incorrectly specified in the construction documents.Government Requirements: Changes mandated by code officials or inspectors that require adjustments to the plans.Unforeseen Conditions: Unexpected site or construction issues not anticipated during planning.Cost-Plus Contract: A contract where the owner pays the actual costs plus a fixed fee or percentage for the contractor’s services.Egress: A means of exiting a room or structure, often required by building code in bedrooms.Subcontractor: A contractor hired by the general contractor to perform a specific task or trade, such as electrical or plumbing.Resources & Links- Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com/Connect With Rick- Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark/

In this episode, Rick Bell explains the importance of budgeting for unforeseen events when building a custom home. He shares real-world examples of construction surprises — like inadequate engineering or scope gaps between trades — and how a contingency line item in your budget can help resolve these issues efficiently without delaying your project. Whether you're building a high-tech modern home or a traditional estate, this episode will show you how to plan for the unexpected and protect your budget and timeline.What You’ll LearnWhat a contingency is — and why it’s essential in a custom home budgetHow scope gaps, design omissions, and code changes can trigger unexpected costsReal-world examples of contingency use, including structural errors and inspection surprisesHow much money to set aside for contingencies based on project complexityWhy a contingency can save time and stress — even if others are ultimately at faultGlossary of TermsContingency: A budget allowance for unforeseen conditions or events during construction.Scope Gap: A detail or task not clearly assigned to any trade, which can lead to added costs or delays.Change Order: A formal change to the contract that adjusts scope, price, or schedule.Egress Window: A window large enough to allow emergency exit, required in certain rooms by code.Code Changes: Updates or new interpretations of building codes that can add to construction costs.Errors and Omissions: Mistakes or oversights in design documents that impact construction.Resources & Links- Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com/Connect With Rick- Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark/

In this episode, Rick Bell breaks down the process of creating, reviewing, and managing a construction budget for a custom home. Listeners will learn how to build a realistic budget from preliminary allowances to finalized trade bids, and how to maintain control throughout the construction process. Rick shares how transparency, good communication, and proactive planning can make the difference between a dream home and a budget nightmare.What You’ll LearnHow to create a preliminary budget for a custom homeWhat allowances are and why realistic numbers matterThe role of construction documents (CDs) in accurate biddingHow to identify and avoid scope gaps in trade proposalsThe importance of builder oversight in reviewing bidsHow to track changes with allowance adjustments and change ordersWhy monthly draw meetings keep budgets on trackThe value of transparency in financial communicationGlossary of TermsPreliminary Budget: An early estimate of costs based on the homeowner’s vision, square footage, lot conditions, and quality expectations.Allowance: An estimated budget placeholder for selections not yet made, such as appliances, flooring, and lighting.Trade Partner: A subcontractor who performs a specific scope of work, such as plumbing, electrical, or masonry.Construction Documents (CDs): Detailed drawings and specifications that define the scope of the home for bidding and permitting.Scope Gap: A missing or unclear portion of work in a bid that can lead to unexpected costs or delays.Construction Contract Budget: The finalized summary of costs that forms the basis of the contract between the builder and the homeowner.Draw Meeting: A periodic meeting during construction to review completed work, approve invoices, and track costs against the budget.Change Order: A written agreement that modifies the scope, cost, or timeline of the construction project after the contract is signed.Resources & Links- Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com/Connect With Rick- Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark/

Before you buy that dream lot — listen to this.In this episode, Rick shares the true story of a costly mistake he made early in his career that changed how he approaches every homesite today. You'll learn the 15 essential steps to take before purchasing land for your custom home — from wetland determinations and soil tests to title reviews, setbacks, and environmental reports.Whether you’re building your first custom home or advising others who are, this episode will give you the tools to avoid major surprises and move forward with confidence.Download the Due Diligence Checklist here: https://tigtch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Homesite_Due_Diligence_Checklist.pdfVisit the show notes: https://tigtch.com/Subscribe for future episodes on financing, design, scheduling, and more.

In this episode, Rick Bell unpacks one of the most powerful tools in custom homebuilding: the construction schedule. Whether you're building your dream home or managing a team, understanding how a schedule is created—and how it can make or break your build—is essential.You’ll learn:What a CPM (Critical Path Method) schedule is and why it mattersHow trades are sequenced to avoid costly delaysWhat “lead time,” “float,” and “lag” mean in real-world constructionHow homeowner decisions, like cabinet selections, impact the build timelineWhy change orders happen—and how to handle them smartlyRick also shares pro tips on how to stay on track, what tools builders use to create schedules, and what you can do as a homeowner to help keep everything moving forward.🎧 Whether you're just starting your journey or knee-deep in drywall, this episode gives you the knowledge to build smarter.

Discover the ins and outs of financing your custom home, including the pros and cons of paying cash versus taking out a loan. Learn what to ask when picking a lender and the key documents needed for approval. Uncover how construction loan draws work and the distinctions between one-time close loans and refinancing. Get tips for staying organized throughout the loan process, ensuring a smoother journey toward your dream home!

Contracts can seem intimidating — but a well-structured agreement is one of the most powerful tools you have when building a custom home. In this episode, Rick Bell breaks down the essential components of a construction contract, what red flags to avoid, and how contracts can actually work in your favor.✅ Learn the 4 core questions every contract should answer✅ Understand change orders, draw schedules, and delay clauses✅ Hear real-world insights from 40+ years in custom homebuilding✅ Discover how Landmark Custom Homes handles General Conditions differentlyWhether you're just starting your custom home journey or already in the thick of it, this episode will help you protect your investment and build with confidence.🎧 Subscribe and share with someone who’s planning to build!Resources & Links Landmark Custom HomesConnect With Rick Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com LinkedIn Instagram

The Insider’s Guide to Custom HomesEpisode 3: Construction Phase – Life in the Fast Lane – Show NotesEpisode SummaryIn this episode, Rick Bell takes you deep inside the construction phase of building a custom home. From the rapid early progress of foundation and framing, to the slower but critical rough mechanical stages, Rick explains what to expect, how selections impact your schedule, why flexibility matters, and how to enjoy the final journey toward move-in day. Packed with real-world advice on communication, punch lists, contingency planning, and furniture timing — this episode prepares you to navigate construction with confidence.What You’ll Learn How the construction phase typically unfolds from groundbreaking to move-in Why construction speeds up early and slows during rough-ins and finishes How your material selections impact the project timeline What 'scope gaps' mean — and how to manage real-world changes How drywall finish levels impact final wall quality Tips for navigating punch list work and final closing stages Mindset tips for staying flexible and positive throughout the journeyGlossary of Terms Shell: The completed structure of the home, including the foundation, exterior walls, and roof framing. Rough Mechanicals: Early installation of plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC ductwork, completed before walls are closed. Scope Gap: An item or task unintentionally left out of the original project scope or budget. Drywall Finish Levels: Standards that define the smoothness of drywall; Level 4 and Level 5 are high-end finishes suitable for custom homes. Punch List: A checklist of minor issues (touchups, adjustments, cleaning) that must be completed before final move-in. Change Order: An official amendment to the construction contract documenting project changes that affect cost, schedule, or specifications. Selections: Homeowner decisions regarding design finishes such as flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and countertops.Resources & Links Landmark Custom HomesConnect With Rick Email: Rick@TIGTCH.com LinkedIn InstagramResources & LinksConnect With Rick-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark/

The Insider’s Guide to Custom HomesEpisode 2: Design to BudgetIn this episode, Rick Bell walks you through one of the most important (and overlooked) concepts in custom home building: Designing to Budget. Discover how to balance dreams and dollars through each phase of the design process—from conceptual drawings to final construction documents. Learn how transparency and teamwork can keep your plans on track and your costs under control. Whether you're dreaming big or keeping it simple, this episode will help you lay a solid financial foundation for your custom home journey.Key Topics Covered: What it means to "Design to Budget" How the design process works (Concept to Construction Documents) The critical role of your builder during the design phase How to avoid over-designing beyond your budget When and how to update budgets as the plans evolveWhat You'll Learn:You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to manage your custom home design process without busting your budget. Rick shares insider tips from over four decades of experience to help you avoid costly pitfalls and make smarter decisions during every step of the design phase.Glossary of Terms: Allowances: Budgeted estimates for selections not yet finalized (like flooring or appliances). Builder: The licensed professional or company responsible for constructing your home. Charette: A collaborative design meeting or session where preliminary ideas are developed. Construction Documents: Final, detailed blueprints used to secure permits and build the home. Design Development: Phase where drawings gain detail like cabinet layouts, electrical plans, etc. Interior Designer: A professional who plans interior spaces, finishes, and furnishings. Preliminary Budget: An early estimate of construction costs used to guide design decisions. Schematic Design: The early phase of design showing room sizes, layout, and general structure. Transparency: Open and honest communication—critical for budget accuracy and trust. Value Engineering: Adjusting design or materials to reduce cost without compromising function or aesthetics.