Some of our most Frequently Asked Questions:

and answers:

Q. How is Benchmark Fine Homes different?

A.  There are many good contractors out there – and for the most part we all build in a similar manner.  The difference may be in the details – things that probably won’t be apparent to you as a client.  These details can be in the form of framing – does your contractor use energy efficient techniques such as sealing around holes in your interior wall studs?  Do they clean the interior of your walls BEFORE the drywall goes up?  Or does the dust and dirt – and maybe that soda can that the electrician threw away - just get sealed up inside?  Call us for a more extensive list that will surprise you!

Either way, we all build with wood, nails, concrete and drywall.  The REAL difference is in the people.  Our entire staff is excited about your project, inspects the smallest details, and will settle for nothing less than the best.

And, as your home’s construction, we’ll keep you up to date on a weekly basis with pictures of our progress posted here on the web.  It’s a great way to see the changes, and share them with family and friends!

Q.  How much of the construction does Lyle actually do himself?

A.  Lyle and his crew typically do all the site prep work, digging footings, creating foundations and stem walls.  Lyle personally does much of the framing, setting trusses and the roofing, since that’s his specialty as a Master Carpenter.   And, Lyle personally supervises all other trades that follow – both interior and exterior on a daily basis.  Since Lyle knows every aspect of the construction business from start to finish, he knows how to properly control each step, and manage costs as well.  Not many Contractors can actually say that they are proficient in all areas of the business – from site prep to finish painting – and that’s also what sets Benchmark Fine Homes apart from the rest.

Q.  Where does Benchmark Fine Homes build?

A.  Currently, in the “Quad Cities” of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, and Dewey / Humboldt.  We have and will travel outside this area, depending on some conditions that we can discuss.

Q.  Do you build “green?”

A.  Yes!  But, that’s the short answer.  The reality is that there is a wide range of “green” in construction, ranging from every product and method used in the project being a certified green material or process, to ENGERGY STAR specifications located somewhere in the middle, to perhaps just an increase of insulation or window U-factor.  Our typical construction methods usually meet much of the criteria required for green building anyway, because it’s important to us to pass along peace of mind to our clients.

Q. I see mostly residential projects on the web site.  Do you build commercial?

A.  Yes – small commercial such as a dentist office, real estate firms, or other small business types.  We also build townhomes, condominiums, duplexes and triplexes.

Q. Do I have to use a licensed architect to draw my plans?

It generally is not legally required to obtain the services of a licensed architect to draw your plans, HOWEVER, this may not be true in all instances. Some subdivisions do have this requirement, so it’s always wise to check before submitting your plans for consideration.

No matter who draws your plans, make sure they have the knowledge and expertise to be able to offer qualified working drawings that your city or municipality will accept in order to be able to issue construction permits.   In general, if you do use a licensed architect, your plans will be sure to meet code requirements, as well as be functional and “buildable.”

Q.  If I act as my own builder with your Consulting programs, what can I save?

Of course, it varies, depending on many factors. However, in general, you can expect to realize a savings of anywhere from 20% to 40%. This savings will allow you to either keep more of your money, finance a larger home, or even include some of those upgraded features that you otherwise could not afford!

You must ask yourself if you indeed have the time to devote to your home’s construction, since it can be quite time consuming. Consider one of our Consulting programs to help sort it all out.

Q.  How long would it take to build my home myself?

Generally, expect somewhere up to a year or more for the entire process. Designing the floorplan and elevation may be simple if you already have a plan in mind, or it may become quite time consuming, depending on your level of complexity.  That’s also where hiring a licensed architect comes in, and it very well may save you time in the long run.

Once construction begins, usual construction timeframes can range from 4-8 months, depending on your ability to keep the construction process flowing along, if you intend to be your own general supervisor.  But it also depends on how much time you have to devote to your project.  Can you be on site daily?  Or just on weekends?  Consider your personal time availability before committing to building your home yourself.

Q. What kind of warranties can I expect  on your workmanship and products?

You’ll want to make sure you receive the proper warranties on all your appliances, faucets, flooring, fixtures, etc. You should be able to enjoy the same warranties and guaranties afforded to any new homeowner, but don’t make the one critical mistake that will void your warranty on any of these items if you are building your home yourself. It’s easy to avoid this common problem if you know how!
Keep in mind, however, that a licensed general contractor ALWAYS provides a two year warranty on structural items, as mandated by the Registrar of Contractor’s office.

Q. Can I get a list of references?

Certainly!  Just contact us and we’ll be happy to furnish you with name of prior clients and project information.

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