Jack Baldwin: Welcome to By Design, the Reynard Custom Homes Podcast.
Today, we're joined by Jun and Vicky, who are building their dream home in Canton, Georgia. Welcome, Jun and Vicky!
Jun & Vicky: Thank you!
Jack Baldwin: It's great to have you here. Let's dive right into it. What inspired you to embark on the journey of building your own dream home?
Jun & Vicky: Currently, we live in a townhouse, and the motivation for us was the desire for more space. We didn't want to feel trapped anymore and envisioned a place with a yard. The decision to build stemmed from our wish to create a home tailored to our preferences and the excitement of working with an architect.
Jack Baldwin: Interesting. What motivated you to start this project, considering the investment and the time it takes?
Jun & Vicky: The motivation came from our current living situation and the anticipation of leaving our townhouse in a few years. We saw it as an opportunity to build a house that truly reflects our tastes and preferences. The investment aspect was also appealing, especially considering the potential return on investment from buying and selling land.
Jack Baldwin: That's a unique perspective. Please share your background and what led you to this point.
Jun & Vicky: It all began when we attended a land auction without a clear plan. We purchased a piece of land, and as we explored the surrounding lots, we met other builders who encouraged us to pursue our dream. This initial step set the stage for our journey, and here we are, three and a half years later, with the land graded and construction underway.
Jack Baldwin: It's fascinating how these journeys unfold. Now, let's talk about the dos and don'ts. What advice would you give someone looking to build their own home based on your experience?
Jun & Vicky: Dos:
1. Research: Understand the market and consult experts before buying land. This step can save you time and money in the long run.
2. Give Yourself Time: A timeframe and margins are crucial. It allowed us to profit from our first land investment and made the process more manageable.
3. Know Your Non-Negotiables: Clearly define your must-haves and non-negotiables, considering factors like location, proximity to emergency services, and lifestyle preferences.
Jack Baldwin: Those are solid dos. What about the don'ts? What would you caution others against?
Jun & Vicky: Don'ts:
1. Don't Rush into a Big Project: Starting with a smaller project could have been wiser. However, we learned valuable lessons from taking on a larger project.
2. Don't Be Your Own General Contractor (GC) Unless...: Being your own GC requires perseverance, analytical skills, and a realistic outlook. If you lack these qualities, it might be better to rely on a professional.
3. Don't Overlook the Importance of a Support System: Building a home is a significant undertaking, and having a reliable support system, whether a partner, neighbors, or professionals, can make the process smoother.
Jack Baldwin: That's excellent advice. Having a good team and support system is crucial. Now, let's shift gears. What has been the most enjoyable part of this journey for you both?
Jun & Vicky: For Jun, it's the gradual transformation of the land into a buildable site. For Vicky, the joy comes from designing the house on paper. The creative process and envisioning the final result provide motivation and excitement.
Jack Baldwin: It's lovely to hear about the joy you find in the different aspects of this project. We're eager to witness the progress and see your dream home come to life. Thank you, Jun and Vicky, for sharing your insights and experiences on By Design.
Jun & Vicky: Thank you for having us. We appreciate the opportunity.
Jack Baldwin: To our listeners, stay tuned for more captivating stories and insights on the Reynard Custom Homes Podcast. Until next time!