Harrison Homes LLC :: People Are Our Business

Q: Before purchasing a home that needs remodeling or a piece of view/waterfront property, should we talk with a builder?

A: Yes! A builder will help you analyze the "real" possibilities of remodeling or building on the site by taking your budget into account, probability of permitting, approximate cost to build or remodel, and in general, give you an overall opinion of the property's potential. Contact any of Harrison Homes' project managers; they will be more than happy to meet with you and your realtor or architect for an on-site visit. This is complimentary and without obligation.

Q: Do I need a feasibility study on our land or home before purchasing?

A: Yes. We strongly recommend a feasibility study prior to any purchase. It is important to fully understand the use of your land, whether you are buying an existing home with the intent of remodeling it or planning to build a new home. A thorough study should be completed to assure you of an informed decision prior to closing.

Q: When and how would I request a feasibility study?

A: We recommend you include in your Purchase Agreement a general feasibility clause for at least 30 days; more time may be necessary depending on the number of issues. Once your Purchase Agreement is signed off, contact The Residential Source (see Affiliates page). They will meet with you on-site, define the scope of work, prepare a proposal for your review, and coordinate the entire process to insure you have all the necessary questions answered before you purchase the property. This company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Harrison Homes, however, they do work for other builders, developers and private individuals completely independent of Harrison Homes.

Q: Should we find an architect/designer and have plans drawn up before meeting with a builder?

A: Most builders, Harrison Homes included, have architects/designers that they can recommend you consider. However, some homeowners have a particular architect or designer in mind because they have seen and admire their work. Regardless, the following are some guildelines we think lead to exceptional design and effective cost and time management:

Always have your feasability work completed prior to beginning the design phase. Even the very basic design elements may be significantly impacted by this information.
Select a targeted budget that you are financially comfortable with to make sure the design is compatible.
Select a builder as early as possible in the process to "team up" with you and your architect or designer. Better decisions are made with all parties giving their insight into the project.
Just prior to the plans entering the final drafting phase, we suggest you pause and allow the builder to "guesstimate" the construction cost. If changes are necessary to bring the project back on budget it is a good time to make them.

Q: What is the best way to select a builder we can trust?

A: We are amazed at the number of people who choose a builder for a major project without doing the basics. Here are some "must do's":

Ask for a written reference list and make the calls. Ask lots of questions.
Talk with local bankers, lumber yards, plumbers, electricians, architects/designers, painters, etc. Describe your project in detail (i.e. level of quality, location, what you are looking for in a builder). They will suggest some builders. When one or two names consistently pop-up—those are the builders you should contact.
Visit actual building sites under construction. Note cleanliness, attention to detail, etc.
Visit completed homes when the owner is present and ask questions.
Finally, obtain some of the builder's subcontractor names and phone numbers and call them! Does he pay on time? How long have they worked with the builder (the longer the better)? Does this builder do the type of project you are planning to do?

Q: Do we apply for the required permits on our new house or remodel?

A: No. Harrison Homes, with your approval will point you once again to The Residential Source (see Affiliates page); for a very reasonable fee, they will obtain all the necessary permits for your project in a very timely manner. Typically, their well trained staff speed up the permit process which helps meet closing dates, interest rate lock deadlines and gets your project going so you can move in sooner.

If any you have any specific questions that aren't included here, please go to the Contact section. Any of our project managers will be happy to assist you.