General Questions

What is an allowance?
Allowances are given for items that have undeterminable costs at the outset of the contract. Some of these items, like sitework and utilities are construction related and will depend on soil conditions and other factors. Other allowances, like Appliances, Lighting, or Wallpaper are a function of the buyer’s selection. The buyer is charged the overage if they exceed the allowance and credited the difference if they are under.

How do I indicate my decorating selections?
Rounbehler Construction will provide a Decorating and Selections Booklet early in the process. This booklet will identify all the items that require buyer input such as paint colors, carpet selection, tile choices, and more. It also contains information on how to contact the suppliers of each item directly, so that you may view options at their showroom and get help if you need it.

What if I want to make a change during construction?
The process for adding, removing, or changing something in your home while it is being built is called a Change Order. The price for the change will be quoted and if the buyer approves the change, both parties will sign the order. The balance for a change order is paid for at closing.

Can I make a modification to a standard plan or model plan?
Absolutely! One of the services Rounbehler Construction takes pride in is building a home that is uniquely yours. We will work with you to determine your needs and wants and make changes accordingly. However, most changes require our architect to update and seal the plans, which may involve extending the original 8-month timeline and/or add cost.

What is involved in sitework?
Sitework is the part of construction related to the ground the house is built on. It includes excavation (digging the hole), backfill, and grading. Depending on the lot and soil conditions it may also include clearing trees, breaking rock under the soil, hauling rock out, hauling dirt in, installing piers, or other related items.

Do I have to buy the lot?
No. Typically you will select a lot and reserve it. The contract amount will include the price of the lot and Rounbehler Construction will purchase it initially. The lot will then be transferred to you on the closing date.

Can I choose where my outlets and TV/phone jacks are located?
Yes. Within the framework of the residential building code requirements, you can select where you would like to place your electrical outlets throughout the house. The same applies to TV and phone jacks up to the number that is specified in the contract (more can be added with a change order). The locations for these are determined when you meet with the project superintendent on-site shortly after the house is framed.

Can I select my own subcontractor or do some of the work myself?
No. Rounbehler Construction has invested significant effort to build relationships with quality subcontractors that produce the excellent quality and workmanship typical in our homes. To maintain this integrity and prevent any delays in the process, we do not allow outside subcontractors or buyers to work on the home while it is in progress. Additionally, all materials are to be supplied by Rounbehler Construction and can not be substituted by the home owner or third party.

How long does it take to build a house?
Typically Rounbehler Construction can build a house in about 8 months. This allows for some alteration in the schedule so that if things go smoothly, it may be completed sooner. However, it is also possible that unforeseen circumstances may also delay the completion. A closing date will be estimated at the time the contract is signed and Rounbehler Construction will do its best to meet it.

What building materials do you use in your construction?
Click here to see the LINKS page. All building materials are supplied and installed by Rounbehler Construction and/or their designated subcontractors.

How much do I have to pay up front?
Rounbehler Construction’s standard policy is a 10% non-refundable deposit of the total price due at the contract signing.

Do I have to pay real estate commission?
Real estate commission is included in the price of the house.

What is double wall construction?
Double wall construction is used to increase the energy efficiency of your home. On the outside of the exterior wall, a layer of insulating foam board is added. Rounbehler Construction uses high quality, ½” Dow Duramate foam board that adds an efficiency rating of +3.0 to the R-value of the wall. Depending on the location in which the house is built, double wall construction may be standard or offered as an option.

What is the “utilities” allowance for?
The utilities allowance is to cover the cost of bringing local water, sewer, gas, and electric service from the main point of supply to the house. Since the soil conditions are unknown at the time of contract signing, the extent of the cost involved cannot be fully determined. If normal conditions exist, the allowance will typically cover the cost of installing utilities.