Shows
Builder vs. BuyerEp86 - How Long Should Drawings Actually Take?In this episode, a home designer/drafter and a licensed architect team up to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the residential design process: how long it really takes to create a full set of drawings. From early concepts to permit-ready plans, we dive into what phases take the most time, what clients can expect at each step, and what factors can slow things down (or speed things up). Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or just curious about how the sausage gets made, this episode pulls back the curtain on the timeline behind the blueprints.2025-07-1559 min
Builder vs. BuyerMajor Announcement - New Show!That's right, I'm starting a new podcast! Check out Small Business Talk on Youtube, Spotify or Apple!2025-03-1906 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp85 Architect Vs. Drafter w/ Don DuncanIn 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.2024-09-1051 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp84 - Building Science Master Dan KolbertWelcome 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...2024-08-0132 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp83 - Mastering Sales in Home Building with Mary Marshall ForrestJoin 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...2024-04-2048 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp82 - Subcontractor vs ContractorDo 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!2024-03-041h 08
Builder vs. BuyerEp81 - Office to Field CommunicationWelcome 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...2023-12-0957 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp80 Murray Smith Birnam Audio InterviewJoin 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...2023-12-0135 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp79 Don't Pick the Wrong BuilderIn 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.2023-08-0956 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp78 - Mistakes We Made in Building Our Homes w/ New Co-HostThat's right! New co-host Tony Cairo! Let us know what you think!2023-08-0348 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp77 - Biggest Changes in Floor Plan TrendsToday I go over the biggest changes I've seen in floor plan trends as well as answer listener questions from TikTok. Enjoy!2023-05-1920 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp76 - High Performance Homes w/ Michael MainesI 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!2023-03-1750 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp75 - 4 Modern Floor Plan Features and More Live Q&AAnother 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!2023-02-1431 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp74 - Most Common Floor Plan MistakesToday 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.2023-01-1938 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp73 - Breaking Down the Design Process w/ Dory AzarIn today's episode I get to chat with Dory Azar, residential Architect. We talk all things design process - enjoy!2022-12-0857 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp72 - Hidden Site Costs!Today I break down the most common hidden site costs I've encountered. Go in to a lot purchase with eyes wide open.2022-10-2127 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp71 - Live Show Talking Open Floor Plans, Pocket Doors and One Restless PupToday's live show was a fun one. Talked some open floor plan layout options, including ceiling height choices, window settings and more.2022-10-0833 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp70 - All the Good Stuff from the Live ShowInteresting bunch of questions from the show this week. It was a fun one - check it out. And hey, thanks for listening. Gold star!2022-09-2039 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp69 - Building Code Rockstar Glenn MathewsonGlenn Mathewson from BuildingCodeCollege.com joins me today to talk about the code process and nuances that builders and buyers need to know.2022-08-3146 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp68 - Getting Build-On-Your-Lot Dialed In with Matt FeiginToday 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.2022-07-2738 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp67 - Common Floor Framing Types - Live Q&AAnother live Q&A from the socials, along with some explanation behind the most common types of framing systems.2022-07-1224 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp66 - Live Q&A From the TikToks and the SocialsOn 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!2022-06-3032 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp65 - Starting a Home Building Company w/ Built By TravisToday 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!2022-06-2737 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp64 - Everyone Hates Change OrdersIn this recording of the live stream, I talk change orders and why everyone hates them. As well as other home design tips.2022-06-1325 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp63 - Soils, Surveys and More Ins and Outs of Home BuildingAnother 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!2022-04-2325 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp62 - When Should You Start Plans & Land SearchToday on the live Q&A I go over listener questions including when to start planning for your new home build!2022-03-3127 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp61 - How to Tell A Builder NoLive 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!2022-03-1029 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp60 - Matt Blomquist w/ Build_Learn_TeachMatt 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_teach2022-02-2441 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp59 - Recap of the 2022 Builder's ShowIn 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.2022-02-1721 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp58 - Home Additions, Zip System and More from the Live Stream!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 @birnamdesignco2022-01-1326 min
Builder vs. BuyerLive Q&A on Home Design, Accessibility, Home Building & MoreLive Q&A session where I hit listener questions. Get your home design advice here.2021-12-2827 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp56 - Home Building Checklist w/ Dennis Comstock of Builder BrigadeDennis 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!2021-12-1727 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp55 - Live Stream with Lance Cayko from Inside the FirmLance and I talk home design, bidding projects, home building, architecture vs. engineering and more! Listen in!2021-10-2944 min
Builder vs. BuyerHome Building and Design Tips - Live from TikTok Facebook & Youtube!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!2021-10-2227 min
The Ben Beard ShowThe Ben Beard Show Season 2 - w/ Adam SteinerBen Beard show is sponsored by Red Cliff Homes! Red Cliff Homes | Home Building Services | Las Cruces@RedCliffHomes Red Cliff Homes | FacebookTiktok/instagram/facebook: @birnamdesigncoLinkedIn: Adam SteinerPodcast: Builder vs. Buyer https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builder-vs-buyer/id1514391605Podcast IG: @buildervsbuyerAdam SteinerOwner(651) 485-4597birnamdesign.com2021-05-2443 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp53 - Site Management w/ Jeff BorleJeff 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.2021-05-0123 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp52 - I'm Back! And Why Your Builder Won't Let You Install Stuff In Your BuildOk, 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.2021-04-2013 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp51 - Empathy in Home Building w/ Byron BrooksToday 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.2021-03-1120 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp50 - Twin Cities Parade of Homes Intro w/ Katie ElfstromToday 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!2021-03-0412 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp49 - Architect to Builder Course w/ The Guys from F9 Productions!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.2021-02-2532 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp48 - Sticking to a Budget - Designing for Real LifeSticking to a budget can be really tough in a custom design. Here's 15 minutes of quick tips for your next build.2021-02-1714 min
Builder vs. BuyerBONUS - EngitectureBonus 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.2021-02-0520 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp47 - Design for Entertaining - Designing for Real Life w/ Megan HeckardToday 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.com2021-01-2719 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp46 - Life with Pets! Designing for Real LifeToday'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!2021-01-2113 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp45 - How to Design for a Home Office - Designing for Real LiveToday'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.2021-01-1415 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp44 - Winter Construction and Concrete vs. CementIn today's episode I break down some things to look out for in winter construction. Plus a few bonus notes on concrete and cement.2021-01-0712 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp43 - Lessons Learned from a Year in BusinessThis 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.2020-12-3013 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp42 - Design for Comfort, Durability and the Rest Will Follow w/ Steven BaczekToday 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!2020-12-2444 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp41 - The Ins and Outs of a Remodeling Company w/ David PollardDave 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...2020-12-1624 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp40 - Home Building Contracts - What to Expect with Your DocsA 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.2020-12-1018 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp39 - Software and Hardware for Home Builders - BuilderTrend, Bluebeam, AutoCAD and moreToday 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.2020-12-0324 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp38 - Walkouts, Lookouts and Setting Elevation on Your New Home BuildToday 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.2020-11-2515 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp37 - Energy Efficient Features - Plumbing and Lighting FixturesToday'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.2020-11-1913 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp36 - Energy Efficient Features - Wall Systems, Insulation and Air BarriersIn 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.2020-11-1215 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp35 - Master Your Numbers w/ Megan DahleFor 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.com2020-10-2827 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp34 - Smart Home Systems, Low Voltage, A/V and More with William DenzerWilliam 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.com2020-10-2119 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp33 - ADU's and What You Need to Know w/ Ben NorkinIn 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/2020-10-1521 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp32 - Home Builder Web Presence and Messaging w/ Bryon McCartneyBryon 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/2020-10-0743 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp31 - Customer Satisfaction (and Using It to Drive Sales) w/ Charlie ScottCharlie 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.2020-09-3026 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp30 - Should You Hire a Realtor?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.2020-09-2419 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp29 - Energy Efficient Features - HVACBack 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.2020-09-1616 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp28 - City Plan Review w/ Lance CaykoFantastic 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/2020-09-1041 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp27 - Energy Efficient Features - WindowsThis 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.2020-09-0111 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp26 - Should You Hire an Architect or Builder First?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.2020-08-2812 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp25 - Building Code Minimums and What You Need to KnowToday 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 Steiner2020-08-2516 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp24 - Fall Parade Preview w/ Steven FroschIn 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/2020-08-2123 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp23 - Navigating the Developer Approval ProcessEver 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.2020-08-1914 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp22 - Diving into Building a Home Building Company w/ Dan SteinerI 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: @steinerhomesltd2020-08-1329 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp21 - Luxury Home Tour HighlightsIn 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.2020-08-0412 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp20 - The Home Building Journey w/ Molly YoungToday 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/2020-07-3021 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp19 - My Biggest Design MistakesToday 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 Design2020-07-2813 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp18 - Home Building Horror Story - Delays and How to Avoid ThemToday 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.2020-07-2318 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp17 - Finalizing Selections Pre-BuildBring 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.2020-07-2216 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp16 - Refining Client Relations w/ Carol SmithCarol 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/2020-07-1619 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp15 - So You Want to Draw Your Own Home?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/resources2020-07-1414 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp14 - The Do's and Don'ts When Designing Market HousingIn 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.2020-07-0914 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp13 - Discovering the Home Design Process Part 2 with Jon Ackley-JelinekPart 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.2020-07-0720 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp12 -Discovering the Home Design Process with Jon Ackley-JelinekToday'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.2020-06-2513 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp11 - Septic Systems with Matt GavelekIn 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.2020-06-2308 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp10 - The Low Down on Floodwater with Matt GavelekNerd 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!2020-06-1816 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp9 - The Ultimate Lot Selection Checklist - SubdivisionPart 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.2020-06-1613 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp8 - The Ultimate Lot Selection Checklist - Raw LandToday'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/resources2020-06-1116 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp7 - Set the Right Expectations w/ Tom GoodnatureOn 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.2020-06-0913 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp6 - What to Expect When You're Building - Custom BuildThe 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!2020-06-0412 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp5 - What to Expect When You're Building - Semi Custom BuildIn today's episode I break down the wild world of semi-custom builders. What you can expect as far as changes, process and selections.2020-06-0213 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp4 - What to Expect When You're Building - Production BuildIn 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.2020-05-2812 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp3 - Home Building Horror Stories - AllowancesIn 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.2020-05-2609 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp2 - Questions to Ask Your BuilderIn 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.com2020-05-2112 min
Builder vs. BuyerEp1 - Be More TransparentMy 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.2020-05-1910 min