Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w. d i s t i n c t ly m o n ta n a . c o m 63 coupled with an understanding of long term maintenance requirements is integral to making the right choices. What IS your ChangE orDEr ProCESS, anD hoW Do you IntEgratE It Into thE buIlDIng of thE hoME? MIllS: We have a detailed contract that defines what will be included in the home (Description of Work) and the duties of both the Builder and the Owners (Conditions). Under "Conditions" is a category entitled "Alterations or Changes". The terms laid out here clearly state that any addition, deletion or other revision to our contract must be done in writing with the contracted sum increased or decreased accordingly and with signed approval of both the Owners and Builder. MIllEr: As most builders know, the likelihood of a project going as planned from start to finish is a rarity, rather than the reality. In our case, our change order process is mainly limited to the structural log aspects of the home. Once the log shell and log roof supports are put in place, the job is then handed off to a contractor, who will finish the home according to our client's needs. The planning process in building a log home is the most important part of the build, and it is impera- tive that we be on the same page as the client when the log package goes into production. A change order once the home has been milled, or worse, once it is set on the foundation, could be a huge problem not only with the work load, but monetarily. Again, careful planning with the client and the redlining of drawings are needed. Ultimately there are circumstances when a customer wants to change something while in the construction process, and since they are the paying client, you have to remedy the situation to the client's satisfaction. grangE: Change orders should be minimal if you involve your builder in the planning stages. We like to think we tackle all of the details on a plan before the contract price is set. Change orders however do happen and are agreed to in writing by homeowner and contractor. What WayS Do you rECoMMEnD to CuStoMErS aS thE lEaSt ExPEnSIVE WayS to aDD ValuE to thEIr nEW hoME? gIulIanI: We often find our ranchwood product used for interior wain- scot, wall or ceiling panel material. This selection allows the homeowner to spruce up certain areas to complement their interior design at a controlled cost. grangE: When planning to build a new home, an open floor plan with lots of natural lighting creates an inviting atmosphere without adding much expense. Color selections and curb appeal and an inexpensive touch to all price points. MIllEr: Curb appeal can greatly determine the value of one's home in the eyes of a potential buyer down the road. I've seen some great homes built in the past, but their total lack of attention to a home's exterior make it just another home on the block. Tasteful, yet simple landscape design can make any home stand out among others. Also extending your living area to the outdoors can create a fully functioning home, both inside and out. A simple timber pergola lends itself beautifully to a log home. Combining it with a patio it will offer a shaded retreat for all to enjoy. MIllS: The way a home is positioned insuring views, privacy, and a warm appeal is often an inexpensive way of adding to the home's value. The areas of the home's interior that add to the value are the details and finishes found in the kitchen and bathrooms. "our product category (siding, timbers, and interiors), thorough research into all products coupled with an understanding of long term maintenance requirements, is integral to making the right choices." john Guiliani

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