So you think that new home construction has slowed dramatically? Not so, says Frank D'Angelo of Prideland Homes. Frank said his work has actually picked-up, and thanks to being licensed in other States such as Tennesee, Georgia, Florida, North and South Carolina his business has not felt the effects of the enconomic downturn. Between building new homes and home improvement remodeling, Frank has managed to stay busy throughout the year.
"Your new home is probably the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime", said Frank; "key factors when concidering building a new home are a good relationship, trust, confidence and open communication with your builder".
Frank said most of his customers come from referrals and are either building, remodeling or relocating to other states. Some of which are remodeling or purchasing a second home. When deciding to build your new dream home meet with area builders who construct houses that are similar in size, quality, and features to the home you want. Builders will tell you how much per square foot they usually charge for home construction. They can also give you a ballpark idea of what your dream home might cost. However, it is important to know exactly what is included in the price as the price per square foot is not an accurtate way to price a house, but a guideline to start with. If you ask, some builders will provide you a list showing the materials they will use. 
The most expensive areas in a home are usually the bathrooms and the kitchen. The number of windows and the size and quality of windows can also affect the cost. Vaulted ceilings and high roof pitches can increase the cost of a home. When using other homes to calculate an estimate, be sure the home has a similar style and features of the home you plan to build.
The cost per square foot is often higher for a small home than that of a larger home. When building a larger home, the cost of expensive items (such as plumbing, heating, electrical, baths and kitchens) is spread over more square footage. Consequently, a larger home may have a lower square footage cost than a smaller home. Also, it usually costs less to build a two-story home when compared to a one-story home that has the same square footage. This is because a two-story home will have a smaller roof and foundation. Plumbing and heating are more compact in two-story homes. 
Keep in mind that even small details in the design of your home can make a big difference in the price. Also preparing a site for construction can have a big impact on the cost of a home as well. Building on a flat lot will usually cost less. If you have to haul in lots of dirt, do a lot of grading, clear trees, or blast through large rocks, then site preparations can become more expensive.
Frank and his two sons Nick and Tony are "hands-on" builders from Webster who always on site working and supervising the construction. Understanding that your new home is probably the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime some key factors when deciding to build your dream home is a good relationship, trust, confidence and open communication with your builder. Having confidence in knowing that your builder is involved on site, from the initial ground breaking through job completion.
Prideland Homes is currently building in Lakefront Estates, a new waterfront community.