need builder and architect advice

**nolafamily** · 11-21-2010, 05:57 PM

We are buying a lot in Watercolor phase 3 and have gotten lists of architects and builders from several sources. We, of course, want high quality and a great price. I'd appreciate and comments on the following (or other names that I should look at): Dawn Thurber, Geoff Chick, Paul Geary, Gerald Burwell, Cheryl Troxel -- all architects. Martin Builders, John Brown, Alex Rice, Borges Brooks, Huff Development, Romain Construction, Regal Stephens, Scott Wensel.

**melscuba** · 11-21-2010, 07:12 PM

I can speak to Scott Brooks. We met Scott and his wife Lisa Marie two summers ago through our realtor while looking at lots in Watercolor. We were planning a full time move and looking to build. He continues to offer a fantastic price for a superior product. Our plans for a full time move have not worked out, but we have had the opportunity to get to know Scott and his work. I have walked several of his homes in Watercolor in various stages of development. Everything from the a clean construction site, easy access to Scott, and quality finish work are present. He's one to trust in my book. If our dream ever becomes reality... he's the builder for us.

**SGB** · 11-21-2010, 07:29 PM

I don't really know the others, but Dawn is top notch.

**grace** · 11-21-2010, 08:14 PM

My husband and I have worked with Geoff Chick and Scott Wensel. Would highly recomend both.

**Franny** · 11-22-2010, 08:33 AM

Ralph Gage does extremely quality work at a reasonable cost. He has built several homes in Watercolor. Geoff Chick was the architect and was pleasant to work with. Good luck! Ralph's cell is 850-585-4616 and his website is www.gagecontracting.com

**nolafamily** · 11-22-2010, 10:42 AM

thanks --- and more input is appreciated!!

**thedetailguy** · 11-22-2010, 01:35 PM

Gerald Burwell is a great architect. Also another builder to look at is Compass Builders of Florida. (Master_Document_Home)

**Dmarcht** · 11-23-2010, 04:35 PM

I'd like to throw my hat in the ring. See Daniel M Martin, Architect business listing on this site. I have some referrals there.
My website is www.dmarcht.com.

**scooterbug44** · 11-23-2010, 05:03 PM

I would drive through Watercolor and find houses you like, then ask who the architect is. I would also go to a lot of open houses and find out who designed the houses you don't like.

There are a lot of local architects whose prices, services, and styles vary, so it depends on what kind of house you want.

Obviously price is an issue, but make sure you get the info to properly compare - some will quote a higher price but include more services, others will quote you a lower price then charge you out the wazoo for anything after you get your plans and end up costing more.

**By the Bay** · 12-07-2010, 08:55 AM

Dear Nola Family,
Our architecture firm, Archiscapes, LLC, has designed many homes in Watercolor over the years. We would love to be of service. We offer "Ready to Go" stock home plans that meet the Watercolor design guidelines as well as custom home plans. Please feel free to check us out at www.archiscapes.com.
Many thanks,
Amy

**Smiling JOe** · 12-07-2010, 08:59 AM

"high quality at a great price"

Does that mean Rolls Royce at the price of a Chevy? High Quality usually comes at a premium price, not discount. You have to decide which is most important, price or quality.

**SWGB** · 12-07-2010, 12:56 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

Does that mean Rolls Royce at the price of a Chevy? High Quality usually comes at a premium price, not discount. You have to decide which is most important, price or quality.

Price usually wins and you wind up with a $4 million home that pees on the master bed.

**coondog** · 12-13-2010, 01:09 PM

We are currently building in Watersound. Paul Geary is our architect and John Brown is our builder. We spent months interviewing architects and builders, and while a tough decision at the end of the day, we cannot be more happy.

**scooterbug44** · 12-13-2010, 04:51 PM

One biggie I forgot - check out any architect or builder to see if they have any complaints filed against them or any licensing issues.

And be wary of any builder who is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than others (or who has been banned from other communities).

Some folks learned the hard way not to solely let price be the deciding factor when selecting a builder and the results were epically bad!