If you’re in the market for building a home, choosing a contractor is one of the most important decisions you can make. At Trilogy, we believe the key to turning a house into a home is honesty and transparency. Since we’re in the construction business, one of the best things we can do is to help educate potential homeowners about the building process. Let’s take the mystery out of it! With this in mind, here are some of the top questions we’ve been asked as homebuilders. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the maximum deposit on construction a contractor can require?

A: While the amount contractors ask can vary, in California they should not request more than 10% down of the base price or $1,000 — whichever is less.  

Q: How do you pick a reputable contractor?

A: First, make sure they are licensed. Ask to see their “pocket license” (a small plastic card version of their license) and ID, and make sure their trade matches the work you need to be done. You can go to www.cslb.ca.gov to find out if their license is in good standing. If they have a website, check it for reviews. You can also ask the contractor for past client testimonials and to see a portfolio of their work. 

Q: Can the builder put you on a waitlist if permits come in late?

A: Yes. The permit process can be a long one and can experience delays. (Side note: Trilogy doesn’t do this! We currently don’t have a waiting list, and we don’t move you down the list if there are unavoidable delays. Each project is ready at different times, we start when everything lines up.)

Q: Can a home builder raise the price before the house is completed?

A: It’s important to read your contract carefully before signing. Many builders will include an allowance for unexpected costs. Make sure you understand and agree to those terms before you commit to the builder. Furthermore, when a builder uses a “unilateral contract,” they can find a way out of it and cancel. Luckily for our clients, Trilogy will always be transparent in our True Quote process. 

True Quote

Are you concerned about rising construction costs? Many potential homeowners debate whether or not to build a home due to fluctuating prices. But with Trilogy’s True Quote, you’ll know exactly how much your build will cost long before you break ground. We offer total transparency, so you can feel at ease. We think taking the guesswork out of the construction process helps offer our clients peace of mind.

Building a Higher Value

At Trilogy we focus on “Building a Higher Value.” This motto has been the core of our work since 1967, and we’ve incorporated it into every home we construct. It’s why we’re known as a premium option for building custom homes—and now Palisades Homes—in Butte County. Contact us today to find out more!

Farmhouse sinks are still a hot trend in home design, but the reality is these cute and quaint sinks have been around for centuries. Originally created so they could be comfortably used for hours on end, they were built to wash dishes and even babies in them. Some homeowners are drawn to the sinks for nostalgic reasons, their beautiful design, and their functionality. But before investing in a farmhouse sink, it’s important to know the basics. 

White farmhouse sink in a Trilogy-built home
Benefits

Farmhouse sinks are deeper than the usual varieties, and offer easy access since there is no countertop between the user and the sink. Since the sink sits below the countertop, it’s simple to sweep crumbs and liquid right into the sink. It holds large items like baking sheets with ease, and you can find double-sink models that have even more room. 

Challenges

Depending on the material, some farmhouse sinks can be very heavy and weigh upwards of 200 lbs–which means your cabinet needs to be strong enough to support it. Once installed, put a sealant around the edge so water doesn’t run under your sink. Ensure the apron of the sink is high enough and the faucet is positioned right so you don’t splash water all over your floors. Because a farmhouse sink doesn’t have a countertop around the edge, it’s more likely to do that than conventional styles. 

Materials

If you’ve got your heart set on this Joanna Gaines-beloved style, find out what material suits your needs. They come in stainless steel, clay, firestone, copper, cast iron models, and more. While many love the classic white porcelain look, this material stains easily and is hard enough to crack dropped glasses. 

Find Your Best Match

Just like any major appliance, a farmhouse sink can be a significant investment, so take the material, size, and design into account. With a little research, you can find one that fits your lifestyle and taste.

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